University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework, laboratory work and a substantial design or research project. Students study advanced topics in computer architecture, digital system design, embedded and real‑time systems, VLSI and integrated circuit design, hardware description languages (HDLs) and FPGA development, as well as peripherals and interface design.

• Core subjects: computer architecture, digital logic and system design, microprocessor and microcontroller systems, and embedded software development.
• Advanced topics: VLSI design and CAD for integrated circuits, hardware verification and validation, high‑performance and parallel architectures, low‑power design techniques, and mixed‑signal circuit topics.
• Practical labs and tools: hands‑on FPGA prototyping, hardware description languages (VHDL/Verilog), embedded Linux and real‑time OSs, board‑level design, and use of industry standard CAD/EDA tools.
• Electives and cross‑disciplinary options: courses in computer networking, machine learning for systems, security for embedded devices, robotics, sensors and IoT systems, and advanced signal processing.
• Project or thesis: students may choose a thesis route focused on original research under faculty supervision or a project/non‑thesis option that emphasises applied design, often culminating in a capstone prototype or technical report.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science or a closely related discipline. Strong preparation in calculus, linear algebra, digital logic and programming is expected. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement describing goals and relevant experience, and a CV.

Applicants for whom English is not a first language must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or an equivalent institutional exemption. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores if needed to support their application, particularly when coursework does not clearly demonstrate technical preparation.

Relevant industry experience, prior research, or undergraduate project work in hardware or embedded systems strengthens an application. Specific documentation and any additional requirements should be confirmed with the department before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical roles designing and building computing systems at both hardware and firmware levels. Typical career paths include:

• Hardware engineer or digital design engineer (FPGA/ASIC development)
• Embedded systems or firmware engineer
• Systems architect for IoT, automotive or aerospace applications
• Chip design and verification engineer in semiconductor and electronics companies
• Systems engineer in robotics, medical devices or telecommunications
• Researcher or doctoral study in computer engineering, microelectronics or related fields

Graduates work across industry sectors including semiconductor firms, consumer electronics, defence and aerospace contractors, automotive suppliers, medical device companies, start‑ups, and national laboratories. The combination of practical lab experience and advanced theory equips students to take on roles that require rapid prototyping, system integration and performance optimisation.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona's programme is housed in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering within a research‑intensive college that emphasises hands‑on learning and faculty mentorship. Students benefit from access to modern electronics laboratories, FPGA and ASIC design resources, and collaborative projects with faculty active in microelectronics, embedded systems and computer architecture research.

The university’s location and institutional links foster partnerships with regional technology companies and research organisations, providing internship and industry collaboration opportunities. Small class sizes at the graduate level, opportunities to work on funded research projects and the option to pursue either thesis or practicum paths make the programme flexible for students aiming for industry leadership or further academic study.