Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The MS in Electrical & Computer Engineering is structured to balance core theory, elective specialisation and a substantial culminating experience. Students normally complete advanced courses in subjects such as digital signal processing, microelectronics and VLSI design, embedded systems, control theory, communications and networking, power electronics and renewable energy systems, and machine learning for signal and image processing.

Programme pathways typically include a coursework-only option with a substantial design/project requirement, or a thesis option focused on original research under faculty supervision. Degree credit requirements are satisfied through a mix of graduate-level lectures, laboratory work, graduate seminars and either a research thesis or an applied master’s project. Many students also take electives that draw on neighbouring areas such as computer science, robotics, or systems engineering.

Hands-on learning is emphasised: students have access to departmental laboratories and research facilities for PCB design and fabrication, RF and photonics testing, power systems and motor drives, embedded and cyber-physical systems, and FPGA/ASIC prototyping. Opportunities to participate in sponsored research projects and industry collaborations are available throughout the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a closely related technical discipline from a recognised institution. Admissions typically consider the strength of the undergraduate transcript, relevance of prior coursework (such as signals and systems, circuits, programming and mathematics), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current CV or resume.

Some applicants with strong quantitative preparation but from different engineering or science backgrounds may be admitted with conditionally prescribed preparatory coursework. GRE scores may be submitted where available but are not universally required; check the department for current testing policies. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless previously educated in an English-medium institution.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a wide range of technical and engineering roles. Typical positions include embedded systems engineer, hardware or firmware engineer, control systems engineer, communications and network engineer, power systems engineer, signal processing specialist, and design engineer for semiconductor or photonics companies. The programme also prepares students for continued academic research and PhD study.

Because of WPI’s project-focused culture and industry connections, many students secure internships, co-op experiences or employment with technology companies, research labs and utilities in the greater New England region and beyond. The skill set developed—advanced circuit and system design, software-hardware integration, modelling and experimentation—translates to roles in aerospace, automotive, telecommunications, renewable energy, medical devices and consumer electronics.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute combines rigorous technical instruction with an applied, project-based approach to education. The Electrical & Computer Engineering department is research-active across multiple subfields, offering students the chance to work directly with faculty on funded projects and to gain practical laboratory experience.

WPI’s campus in central Massachusetts provides proximity to a vibrant ecosystem of technology companies, research institutions and hospitals, supporting internships and industry collaboration. The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary work, small-class instruction and close faculty mentoring helps students tailor their studies to specific career goals or research interests.

Overall, the MS programme is well suited to students seeking hands-on technical training, applied research experience, and a pathway into engineering practice or doctoral study in electrical and computer engineering.