Indiana University

What you'll study

The programme combines core electrical engineering fundamentals with specialisation options in electronic engineering topics. Typical coursework covers advanced circuit analysis, analogue and digital electronics, signal processing, communications systems, control theory, power electronics and embedded systems design. Students may also choose electives in VLSI and microelectronics, RF and microwave engineering, photonics, semiconductor devices, machine learning for signal processing, and hardware description languages and FPGA design.

Most students follow either a thesis (research) track or a project/coursework (non-thesis) track. The thesis track emphasises independent research under faculty supervision and culminates in a written thesis and defence. The coursework track emphasises advanced technical breadth and usually includes a substantial capstone project or practicum with industry or a lab group.

• Core modules: advanced circuits, signals and systems, digital design and embedded systems, control systems.
• Elective modules: VLSI design, RF and wireless communications, power electronics, photonics, semiconductor devices, machine learning for ECE.
• Research/project experience: laboratory rotations, individual research projects, or industry-focused capstone.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a relevant bachelor’s degree (for example in electrical engineering, electronic engineering, computer engineering, physics or a closely related discipline) with strong academic performance. Candidates whose undergraduate background lacks certain prerequisites may be admitted provisionally and asked to complete prerequisite courses in areas such as circuit theory, signals and systems, calculus and linear algebra.

Required application materials generally include an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining research or career goals, letters of recommendation, and an up-to-date CV. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence where required. Some applicants may be invited to interview or to discuss previous research or project experience with faculty.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of technical roles in industry, government and academia. Typical career paths include electronic/hardware engineer, embedded systems developer, FPGA/ASIC designer, communications systems engineer, control and automation engineer, power electronics engineer, and RF/microwave engineer. Many alumni also enter roles in product development, test and validation, systems integration, and technical project management.

For those interested in research or teaching, the master’s provides a pathway to PhD study. Graduates are employed across sectors such as consumer electronics, telecommunications, semiconductor manufacturing, automotive and aerospace, renewable energy and industrial automation, as well as start-ups and research laboratories.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University’s engineering programmes are delivered through a school that emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration between electrical engineering, computer science and informatics. Students benefit from access to dedicated research laboratories, modern electronics and fabrication facilities, and faculty active in areas such as communications, embedded systems, microelectronics and power systems.

The university maintains partnerships with regional and national industry, which support internships, capstone projects and technology transfer opportunities. Support services include career development, graduate advising and access to campus resources such as computing clusters and maker spaces. The programme’s combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on lab experience and research options prepares graduates for technical leadership in both industry and academia.