The Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering at Johns Hopkins University (offered through the Whiting School of Engineering’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering) prepares students in foundational electrical engineering together with specialised study in communications, signal processing and electronics. It suits students who want a rigorous, research-led undergraduate education that combines theory, hands-on laboratory experience and opportunities to work on real-world communications systems.
What you'll study
This undergraduate programme combines core electrical engineering fundamentals with focused coursework and laboratory work in electronics, communications and signal processing. Typical topics and modules include:
- Mathematics for engineers: calculus, linear algebra, differential equations and probability for signals and communications.
- Circuit theory and electronics: analogue and digital circuits, semiconductor devices, microelectronics and laboratory design projects.
- Signals and systems: continuous and discrete-time signal analysis, Fourier and Laplace transforms, and system modelling.
- Communications: information theory basics, digital communications, wireless communications, modulation and coding techniques.
- Control and embedded systems: feedback control, microcontrollers, real-time systems and embedded software development.
- Electromagnetics and RF: electromagnetics fundamentals, antennas and radio-frequency circuit design.
- Computer engineering and networking: computer architecture, networking principles, and software for communications systems.
- Laboratory and project work: hands-on labs in electronics and communications, capstone design projects, and team-based system integration.
- Electives and interdisciplinary options: machine learning for signal processing, optical communications, cybersecurity, or courses from related departments such as biomedical engineering or computer science.
Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research, summer projects and design clinics; many take elective seminars or technical writing courses to strengthen communication and professional skills.
Entry requirements
Admission to the Whiting School of Engineering is selective and is based on a holistic review of academic preparation and extracurricular achievement. Prospective students are expected to demonstrate strong performance in high-school mathematics (including calculus) and physics, and solid preparation in laboratory science and computer programming.
- Completed secondary school qualification appropriate for university entrance in your country.
- Strong coursework in calculus, physics and mathematics; programming experience is highly recommended.
- Application materials typically include a personal statement, teacher or counsellor recommendations, and a résumé or list of activities showing technical engagement (competitions, research, internships, clubs).
- Standardised tests: Johns Hopkins evaluates applications holistically; check the university’s current policy on SAT/ACT availability and submission. International applicants will need to meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests unless exempt.
- Transfer applicants should present college-level coursework in mathematics, calculus-based physics and introductory engineering or computer science; credit evaluation is carried out on an individual basis.
Career prospects
Graduates from this programme are prepared for a wide range of technical careers and further study. Common career paths include:
- Design and development roles in telecommunications and wireless systems (e.g. RF engineer, systems engineer).
- Positions in signal processing, audio and image processing, and data communications.
- Embedded systems and firmware development for electronics products and IoT devices.
- Network engineering, optical communications and infrastructure roles with service providers and equipment manufacturers.
- Roles in aerospace, defence and government labs working on advanced communications and sensing systems.
- Progression to research or advanced study: many graduates continue to master’s or PhD programmes in electrical engineering, computer science or related fields.
Strong employer links, internships and the emphasis on hands-on projects help graduates move into industry, research labs or entrepreneurial ventures.
Why study at Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins is known for its strong research culture and for integrating undergraduates into active research programmes. The Whiting School of Engineering provides access to faculty who specialise in communications, signal processing, microelectronics and related areas, plus state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and maker spaces.
- Research opportunities: undergraduates can participate in research alongside faculty and in partnership with centres such as the Applied Physics Laboratory, gaining experience on practical communications and systems projects.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: easy access to complementary fields—computer science, biomedical engineering, and materials science—supports interdisciplinary projects and electives.
- Practical learning: the curriculum emphasises laboratory courses, team design projects and capstone experiences that mirror industry workflows.
- Career support: dedicated engineering advising, employer engagement, internship pipelines and a global alumni network help students secure placements and launch careers.
Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a rigorous engineering education with strong ties to advanced research and practical, real-world applications in communications and electronics.
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