University of San Diego

What you'll study

This master's programme emphasises the theory and practice of communications engineering within a broader electrical and electronic engineering framework. The curriculum typically combines advanced coursework, laboratory work and a capstone or thesis option so students gain both analytical and hands‑on experience.

• Core topics: advanced signals and systems, digital signal processing, information theory and coding, and probability and stochastic processes for engineers.
• Communications specialism: digital communications, wireless and mobile communications, RF and microwave systems, antenna design and propagation, and network protocols for communications.
• Electronics and embedded systems: analog and mixed‑signal circuit design, microcontrollers and FPGA design, low‑power electronics and embedded software for communications devices.
• Supporting subjects: machine learning for communications, communication networks, security and privacy in networked systems, and test and measurement techniques.
• Laboratories and practical work: hands‑on labs in RF test equipment, software‑defined radio, digital signal processors and hardware prototyping platforms; project courses emphasise design, measurement and troubleshooting.
• Project or thesis: students choose between a practicum/capstone design project often industry‑linked, or a research thesis supervised by faculty in areas such as wireless systems, IoT communications, or RF engineering.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics, computer engineering or a closely related quantitative discipline. Typical requirements include:

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a strong foundation in mathematics, signals and systems, circuits and programming.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating good academic performance; some applicants with relevant industry experience may also be considered.
• One or more letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s technical ability and readiness for graduate study.
• A statement of purpose or personal statement outlining technical interests, relevant experience and career goals.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé detailing engineering projects, internships and work experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the university).

Additional requirements may include prerequisite coursework if an applicant’s undergraduate degree did not cover core engineering fundamentals. GRE requirements are determined by the admissions office and may vary; applicants should consult the programme admissions page for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme move into technical and engineering roles across the communications and electronics sectors. Common career paths include:

• RF/communication systems engineer designing wireless, satellite or cellular components and networks.
• Signal processing engineer working on algorithms for audio, image or wireless data transmission.
• Embedded systems engineer developing firmware and hardware for IoT devices, base stations and consumer electronics.
• Network engineer or network architect planning and optimising data and telecommunications networks.
• Test, validation and calibration engineer specialising in measurement of RF and digital systems.
• Product or systems engineer in telecommunications, defence, aerospace, medical devices or semiconductor companies.
• Further research and academic careers: some graduates progress to doctoral study or research positions focusing on advanced communications topics.

The programme’s practical lab work, project options and proximity to a strong local technology ecosystem support internship and employment opportunities in a range of organisations, from large corporations to specialist engineering consultancies and startups.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego provides a learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty interaction, which benefits students in technically demanding topics. The Shiley‑Marcos School of Engineering fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across electrical, mechanical and computer engineering disciplines.

• Industry proximity: San Diego is home to a concentration of telecommunications, semiconductor and defence companies, offering internship and partnership opportunities that complement academic study.
• Applied focus: the programme balances theoretical foundations with hands‑on labs, software‑defined radio platforms and hardware prototyping, preparing students for practical engineering roles.
• Research and faculty expertise: faculty conduct research in wireless communications, signal processing, embedded systems and related areas, providing supervision for thesis projects and research collaborations.
• Career support: university career services and engineering school networks assist with employer engagement, internship placement and professional development.

Overall, the programme is suited to students who seek a technically rigorous master’s qualification with strong practical training and access to a vibrant regional technology sector.