Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at Worcester Polytechnic Institute blends traditional electrical engineering topics with computer engineering and software, delivered through lecture, laboratory work and team-based projects. The curriculum builds from foundational mathematics, physics and computing into specialised subjects and design experiences.

• Core foundations: calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, physics for engineers, and introductory programming to ensure strong analytical and computational skills.
• Electrical engineering fundamentals: circuit analysis, electronic devices and circuits, signals and systems, electromagnetics, control systems and power fundamentals.
• Computer engineering and systems: digital logic and computer organization, microprocessors and embedded systems, operating systems, computer networks, and digital signal processing.
• Laboratories and practical work: extensive lab courses supporting circuits, electronics, digital design, microcontroller/FPGA development and communications; emphasis on measurement, instrumentation and hardware–software integration.
• Design sequence and capstone: WPI’s hallmark project-based learning includes early team design work and culminates in a Major Qualifying Project (MQP) where students propose, design and implement an engineering solution, often for an external sponsor or industry partner.
• Electives and concentrations: students can choose electives to emphasise areas such as embedded systems, robotics and autonomous systems, VLSI/ASIC design, communications and networking, power and energy systems, or controls.
• Complementary skills: courses and projects also develop professional skills in technical communication, project management, ethics and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to present a strong secondary-school academic record with particular strength in mathematics and physics. Successful applicants typically have preparation in calculus (or precalculus ready for calculus), algebra, and high‑school physics; prior exposure to programming is advantageous but not mandatory.

WPI evaluates applicants holistically, considering transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements and any relevant project or extracurricular experience (such as robotics clubs, coding projects or electronics tinkering). International applicants should demonstrate equivalent secondary credentials and English language proficiency as required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering from WPI are prepared for roles across industry, government and research. Typical entry-level and career paths include embedded systems engineer, hardware design engineer, firmware or software engineer, systems engineer, control systems engineer, communications and networking engineer, power systems engineer and test/validation engineer.

Many graduates also pursue graduate study (MS or PhD) in electrical engineering, computer engineering, robotics, computer science or related disciplines. WPI’s strong employer connections and project portfolio often lead to internships, co‑ops and full‑time positions with technology firms, manufacturers, defence and aerospace companies, utilities, and start-ups.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is distinctive for its project-based curriculum that integrates classroom learning with hands-on design experiences and interdisciplinary teamwork. The ECE programme benefits from well-equipped electronics and computer engineering laboratories, research-active faculty, and opportunities to work on real-world projects through the MQP and WPI’s Global Projects Program.

Students gain practical experience through industry-sponsored projects, internship and co‑op opportunities, and access to collaborative research centres. The programme is designed to meet professional accreditation standards and to develop both technical depth and the professional skills employers seek, such as communication, problem‑solving and project leadership.