Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in electrical engineering with particular emphasis on electronics and communications. Core study areas include circuit analysis, digital and analogue electronics, electromagnetics, signals and systems, and control theory. Students typically follow a sequence from foundational mathematics and physics into specialised topics such as:

• Digital logic and microprocessors — combinational and sequential logic, microcontroller architecture and embedded programming.
• Analogue electronics — transistor circuits, amplifiers, filters and power electronics basics.
• Signals and systems — time- and frequency-domain analysis, Fourier transforms and linear systems.
• Communication systems — modulation/demodulation, wireless communications, RF fundamentals and information theory concepts.
• Electromagnetics and RF engineering — wave propagation, antenna theory and transmission lines.
• Control systems — feedback, stability, PID control and applications to mechatronics and robotics.
• Networked and embedded systems — sensor networks, IoT concepts and data acquisition.
• Laboratory and design projects — circuit fabrication, FPGA/DSP work, RF labs and a multi-semester senior capstone design project involving team-based development from requirements to prototype.

Students are encouraged to take elective courses in areas such as signal processing, optical communications, machine learning for communications, power systems, or cybersecurity, and to participate in undergraduate research and internships to apply theory to real-world problems.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements include a secondary school diploma with strong performance in mathematics (calculus or pre-calculus) and physics. Successful applicants usually demonstrate proficiency in algebra, trigonometry and basic physics; coursework in computer science or engineering is advantageous. Admissions review may consider overall academic record, relevant extracurricular activities, and any engineering camp, competition or project experience.

International applicants must meet university English-language proficiency standards. Transfer applicants from community colleges are often considered; appropriate college-level calculus, physics and introductory engineering or computer science courses help with smooth progression into the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across telecommunications, electronics manufacturing, defence and aerospace, utilities, and technology companies. Typical job titles include electronics engineer, RF/communications engineer, systems engineer, embedded systems developer, network engineer and control systems engineer. Graduates also work in industries such as mobile and broadband services, satellite and wireless communications, semiconductor and hardware companies, robotics and automation firms, and power utilities.

The degree also provides a pathway to graduate study (master’s or PhD) in specialised areas such as telecommunications engineering, signal processing, electrical power, or computer engineering. Many students strengthen employability through internships, co-ops and the senior capstone project.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State combines a focus on applied learning with opportunities for hands-on experience in modern labs and project spaces. The university maintains industry partnerships in the region and beyond, which support internships and collaborative projects that help students gain practical experience and professional connections. Class sizes in the engineering programmes are structured to allow direct access to faculty, and there are opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty in areas including communications, embedded systems and signal processing.

Students benefit from engagement with campus career services, engineering student organisations and design teams that provide experience in team-based design, competition and professional development. The programme’s emphasis on lab work, capstone design and industry-relevant electives prepares graduates to meet employer needs in communications and electronic systems engineering.