University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The graduate programme offers both thesis-based and course-based routes, allowing students to specialise in areas such as power and energy systems, control and robotics, communications and signal processing, micro-/nano-electronics, embedded systems and computer engineering, and biomedical instrumentation. Typical course modules include advanced power systems and protection, electric drives and power electronics, digital signal processing, wireless communications, control theory and robotics, VLSI design and microelectronics, embedded software and real-time systems, and machine learning for engineering applications.

Thesis students focus on an original research project supervised by a faculty member, developing experimental, computational or theoretical results and producing a formal thesis. Course-based students complete a tailored set of graduate-level classes and may undertake a project or comprehensive examination depending on the specific route. All students gain hands-on experience in laboratory courses and have access to departmental research facilities and computing resources.

Entry requirements

• A four-year bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution. Applicants with a three-year degree plus qualifying coursework or relevant experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• A competitive undergraduate academic record; departments typically expect a strong standing (often represented by a specified minimum GPA or equivalent) in the final years of the bachelor’s programme.
• For the thesis (MSc/MEng thesis) route, identification of a potential supervisor or research area is normally required; applicants are encouraged to contact faculty whose research aligns with their interests prior to application.
• Supporting documents such as academic transcripts, a statement of research interests or purpose, letters of reference, and a curriculum vitae/resume.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, demonstrated through recognised tests or equivalent institutional requirements.
• Additional requirements may apply for international applicants (such as credential assessments) or for candidates seeking funding; prospective students should consult the department’s graduate admissions pages for specific, up-to-date instructions.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of careers in industry, government and academia. Typical roles include design and systems engineer, controls and automation engineer, power systems engineer, embedded systems developer, firmware/software engineer, communications and signal processing specialist, hardware designer, test and validation engineer, and research scientist. Many alumni move into R&D and technical leadership positions in sectors such as energy and utilities, telecommunications, aerospace and defence, medical devices and healthcare technology, manufacturing and automation, and information technology.

Thesis graduates who pursue further study may continue to doctoral programmes or take on research roles in national laboratories and university research groups. The department’s industry collaborations and applied research projects also provide pathways into technology transfer, startups and consulting.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is part of a research-intensive college with interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, health sciences, and the physical and biological sciences. Students benefit from access to modern laboratories, specialised instrumentation and high-performance computing resources, and close supervision from faculty engaged in applied and theoretical research.

The department maintains links with regional and national industry partners, offering opportunities for applied projects, internships and collaborative research. Graduate students can apply for internal and external funding, participate in a vibrant graduate student community, and take advantage of professional development workshops and seminars that prepare them for technical and leadership roles after graduation.