University of Missouri-Kansas City

What you'll study

The programme combines core engineering fundamentals with specialised courses in electronics and communications. In early years you will build a foundation in calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, physics and introductory engineering principles. Core electrical and electronic topics typically include circuit analysis, analogue and digital electronics, electronic devices, and laboratory practicum.

• Signals and systems: continuous and discrete signals, Fourier and Laplace analysis, sampling and filtering
• Communications: analogue and digital modulation, information theory basics, wireless communications concepts
• Digital systems and microprocessors: digital logic design, embedded systems, microcontroller programming
• Electromagnetics and RF: transmission lines, wave propagation, antennas and RF components
• Control and power fundamentals: feedback control systems, power electronics and basic power systems
• Probability and signal processing: statistical methods for engineering, digital signal processing algorithms
• Design sequence and capstone: multi‑semester senior design project with team-based system development and a formal project deliverable

Throughout the degree there are laboratory classes and project work emphasising practical design, test and measurement. Students also take humanities and social science general education requirements and can choose technical electives to tailor their degree toward communications, embedded systems, RF, or power electronics. Internship and co‑op opportunities with regional employers are encouraged to gain industry experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in mathematics (including precalculus or calculus) and physics. Successful candidates typically present a solid record in STEM subjects and evidence of problem‑solving skills.

• Required academic background: high school mathematics (calculus strongly recommended) and physics; chemistry is useful but not always required.
• Academic performance: competitive grades in relevant courses; exact GPA or grade thresholds are set by the university admissions office and the school of engineering.
• Standardised tests and placement: the university’s admissions policy determines any standardised test submission requirements; department placement or preparatory coursework may be required for mathematics readiness.
• Additional materials: a personal statement describing interest in engineering and any relevant project, lab or extracurricular experience is helpful; letters of recommendation may be requested for competitive applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical roles across a wide range of industries. Typical entry and early‑career positions include:

• Electronics design engineer and hardware engineer
• Communications or network engineer in telecoms and wireless companies
• Embedded systems developer and firmware engineer
• Signal processing engineer for audio, radar, medical devices or imaging
• Test, validation and systems integration engineer
• Power and energy systems engineer (with appropriate electives)

Graduates also move into related fields such as controls, robotics, and cybersecurity, enter graduate programmes (MSc, PhD) or pursue professional engineering licensure after acquiring the required work experience. The programme’s emphasis on laboratory work and a senior design project helps build practical skills valued by employers.

Why study at University of Missouri-Kansas City

UMKC offers an engineering education with a balance of theory and hands‑on practice on an urban campus embedded in a midwestern metropolitan economy. The university maintains laboratories and maker spaces for circuit, embedded and communications projects, and encourages industry engagement through internships, cooperative education and local partnerships.

• Industry connections: proximity to regional employers in telecommunications, utilities, defence and startups provides internship and employment pathways.
• Applied learning: emphasis on laboratory classes, team design projects and a multi‑semester capstone ensures graduates have practical design and testing experience.
• Support services: access to academic advising, career services, and faculty mentoring helps students plan technical electives and professional development.

Students who want a career designing and implementing electronic and communication systems will find a practical, career‑oriented curriculum at UMKC that can be tailored to their interests through electives and project work.