University of Hartford

What you'll study

The programme balances core theory with applied engineering practice in communications and related electrical and electronic disciplines. Students study advanced topics in signal processing, digital and analogue communications, wireless systems, radio-frequency (RF) engineering, antennas and propagation, and networked communications. Typical modules and subject areas include:

• Digital Signal Processing: multirate processing, spectral analysis, adaptive filtering and applications to communications.
• Digital and Analogue Communications: modulation and demodulation techniques, error-control coding, information theory and channel modelling.
• Wireless and Mobile Communications: cellular systems, OFDM, MIMO techniques, and standards-driven design considerations.
• RF and Microwave Engineering: transmission lines, RF circuit design, antenna fundamentals and propagation effects.
• Networking and Protocols: network architectures, routing, congestion control and performance analysis for wired and wireless networks.
• Embedded Systems and VLSI for Communications: hardware-software co-design, FPGA prototyping, and low-power circuit techniques.
• Advanced Electromagnetics and Antenna Theory: for students pursuing RF and antenna specialisations.
• Capstone Project or Thesis: a substantial design, experimental or research project applying the coursework to a practical communications problem, often involving laboratory measurements, software-defined radio, or simulation-based studies.

The programme typically offers a mix of lecture courses, laboratory sessions and project work. Students can often choose between a thesis route for research-oriented study and a project/capstone route focused on practical, industry-relevant outcomes.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Relevant practical experience, such as undergraduate projects, internships or work in communications or electronics, strengthens an application.

International applicants whose prior education was not in English are required to demonstrate English language proficiency via recognised tests or prior study in English. Some applicants may be asked to provide a résumé/CV and, in select cases, a portfolio of technical work. Admission decisions take into account academic preparation in mathematics, circuits and signals; applicants lacking background in specific prerequisite areas may be admitted with recommended preparatory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles across telecommunications, wireless and networked systems, defence and aerospace, consumer electronics and related sectors. Common job titles include:

• Communications Engineer / Systems Engineer
• RF Engineer / Antenna Engineer
• Wireless Systems Engineer
• Signal Processing Engineer
• Network Engineer / Network Architect
• Embedded Systems Designer
• Test & Validation Engineer

Alumni also move into roles in product development, systems integration, project management, and R&D. The programme provides a foundation for those wishing to continue to doctoral study or to transition into industry positions that require advanced technical expertise in communications technologies.

Why study at University of Hartford

The University of Hartford offers a focused, professionally oriented graduate engineering environment with relatively small class sizes that enable close interaction with faculty. The College supports hands-on learning through laboratory classes, project spaces and opportunities to work with real measurement and prototyping equipment such as software-defined radio and FPGA platforms.

Students benefit from connections with regional industry and internship opportunities, as well as a campus culture that emphasises applied learning and career preparation. Faculty bring a combination of academic research and industry experience in communications and electronics, which helps align coursework and capstone projects with current engineering practice. Flexible scheduling options and support services make the programme accessible to both full-time students and working professionals seeking to upgrade their skills in communications engineering.