Electrical and Electronic Engineering

The Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the fields of electricity and electronics. This programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating fundamental principles of physics, mathematics, and computer science to prepare students for innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Throughout their studies, students engage with core topics such as circuit design, digital and analog electronics, electromagnetism, signal processing, control systems, and power engineering, fostering a deep understanding of how electrical systems operate and are optimized.

The curriculum is structured to promote critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and hands-on experience. Students participate in laboratory work, design projects, and internships that bridge classroom learning with real-world applications. Courses are delivered by leading experts and researchers, ensuring exposure to the latest advancements and industry standards. Additionally, the programme encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, inspiring students to develop new technologies and contribute to sustainable development through electrical and electronic solutions.

EPFL’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities provide an ideal environment for experimentation and applied research. Students have access to modern equipment and tools necessary for testing and prototyping electronic devices, power systems, and embedded systems. Moreover, the programme nurtures a collaborative and multicultural community, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for international engineering projects.

Graduates from the Electrical and Electronic Engineering programme are well-prepared for diverse career paths in industries such as telecommunications, energy, automation, robotics, and consumer electronics. They are also equipped to pursue advanced studies and research, contributing to innovations in sustainable energy, smart grids, IoT (Internet of Things), and next-generation electronic devices. With a strong foundation and an emphasis on practical skills, the programme aims to produce versatile engineers capable of addressing current challenges and shaping future technological developments in the electrical and electronic sectors.

Labs and Projects 20

• Lab in Acoustics 4
• Lab in EDA based design 4
• Lab in Electrical Energy Systems 4
• Lab in Microelectronics 4
• Lab in Microwaves 4
• Lab in Signal and Image Processing 4
• Lab on Apps Development for Tablets and Smartphones 4
• Project in Electrical Energy Systems 10
• Project in Information Technologies 10
• Project in Micro and Nanoelectronics 10
• Project in human and social sciences 6

Possible specializations

• A Digital Design and Computer Engineering
• B Analog, Mixed-Signal and RF Design
• C Data, Signal & Image Science
• D Communication Technologies
• E Optoelectronics and Optics
• F Advanced Control and Communication for Power Systems Operation
• G Renewables and Energy Conversion Systems

Core courses (one track to be chosen)

Micro and Nanoelectronics 20

• Analog circuits design I, II 4
• Hardware systems modeling I, II 4
• HF and VHF circuits and techniques I 4
• VLSI design Fundamentals and advanced

Information Technologies 20

• Image analysis and pattern recognition 4
• Mathematics of Data: From Theory to Computation 4
• Microwaves 4
• Photonic Systems and Technology 4
• Wireless Receivers: Algorithms and Architectures 

Smart Grids Science and Technology 20

• Industrial electronics I 4
• Mathematics of Data: From Theory to Computation 4
• Multivariable Control and Coordination Systems 4
• Power systems dynamics 4
• Smart grids technologies

Optional courses

• Advanced analog and RF integrated circuits design I B 2
• Advanced analog and RF integrated circuits design II B 2
• Advanced computer architecture A 4
• Advanced lab in Electrical Energy Systems F G 4
• Advanced lab in Electrical Engineering A B C D 4
• Advanced multiprocessor architecture A 6
• Advanced signal processing A C 3
• Advanced Wireless Communications: Algorithms and Architectures D 3
• Analog Circuits for Biochip B 3
• A network tour of data science C 3
• Applied machine learning C 4
• Audio B C 3
• Automatic speech processing C 3
• Bioelectronics and implantable biomedical microelectronics B 3
• Biological modeling of neural networks 4
• Biomedical signal procesing 6
• Biomicroscopy I E 3
• Biomicroscopy II E 4
• Bio-nano-chip design 3
• Brain computer interaction 3
• Compound semiconductor electronic devices E G 3
• Data converter circuits and systems A B 3
• Design technologies for integrated systems A 6
• Discrete optimization F 4
• Distributed information systems F 4
• Electrical filters B 3
• Electromagnetic compatibility G 2
• Embedded systems A 4
• Energy conversion and Renewable Energy G 3
• Energy storage systems G 3
• Flexible bioelectronics B 3
• Fundamentals and processes for photovoltaic devices G 3
• Fundamentals of biosensors and electronic biochips B 3
• HF and VHF circuits and techniques II B 2
• Hydropower plants : generating and pumping units G 2
• Image and video processing C 6
• Image communication D 4
• Image optics 3
• Industrial automation G 3
• Industrial electronics II G 4
• Information theory and coding A B C D 7
• Integrated circuits technology B 2
• Introduction to computer graphics C 6
• Lasers: theory and modern applications E 3
• Media security 6 Mobile networks D 4
• Model predictive control F 3
• Modeling of emerging electron devices B 3
• Nanoelectronics A B 2
• Optical communication D E 3
• Optical detectors E 3
• Optical waves propagation E 3
• Optics III E 4
• Optimal decision making F 4
• Physical models for micro and nanosystems B 2
• Physics of photonic semiconductors devices E 4
• Power system restructuring and deregulation F 3
• Propagation of acoustic waves D 3
• Propagation of electromagnetic waves D 2
• Quantum Electrodynamics and Quantum Optics E 4
• Quantum optics and quantum information E 4
• Real-time embedded systems 4
• Réseaux hydrauliques et énergétiques G 3
• Selected topics in advanced optics E 3
• Semiconductor physics and fundamentals of electronic devices E 4
• Seminar in physiology and instrumentation 2
• Sensors in medical instrumentation 3
• Signal processing for functional brain imaging 3
• Space mission design and operations 2
• Speech processing 3
• Systems and architectures for signal processing A 2
• TCP/IP Networking D F 5
• Test of VLSI systems A 2
• Wave propagation along transmission lines D F 2

• Candidates should have excellent academic records and a Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics, telecommunications, computer science, physics, microengineering or any related field from a recognized university.
• Your resumé (curriculum vitae)
• Copy of your University degree(s) or Bachelor's degree. If you don't have your degree yet, you will bring it to the Registrar's Office upon registration at EPFL*.
• Legalized transcripts from each university you have attended.
• A statement of purpose. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Three recommendations (except holders of any EPFL Bachelor's degree applying in another field than their original field and except for candidates from another Swiss university applying to a Master in the same field of study as their Bachelor).
  During the electronic application process, you will have to give the details of three referees, who will then be requested to produce recommendation letters for you directly to EPFL. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Your identity card or passport.
• For foreigners who already live in Switzerland: your residence permit.
• Extra documents such as TOEFL or GRE scores, research publications or other portfolios of your previous work, are welcome but not compulsory. We will only consider documents uploaded in your online application form. (No documents sent by postal mail).

• Application fee CHF 150.

The Electrical and Electronic Engineering programme at EPFL offers a comprehensive financing structure designed to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees are relatively moderate compared to international standards, with annual tuition rates set by the university. For the academic year 2023–2024, the tuition fee for degree-seeking students is approximately CHF 1,310 per year for Swiss and EU/EFTA nationals, and about CHF 1,660 per year for non-EU/EFTA students. These fees are subject to annual adjustments and can vary slightly each academic year.

In addition to tuition, students are responsible for living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs. Lausanne is considered one of the more expensive Swiss cities, and students typically budget around CHF 15,000 to CHF 20,000 annually for living costs. To assist students financially, EPFL provides several scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and can cover a portion or the entirety of tuition fees. These scholarships do not usually cover living expenses but significantly reduce the financial burden of studies.

Furthermore, EPFL participates in Swiss national and regional grant programs, which students can apply for via government portals or through university administration. International students may also be eligible for specific scholarships designed to promote international mobility and diversity. Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, part-time work, and scholarships. EPFL also encourages students to seek part-time employment within Lausanne, though students should balance work hours with academic commitments to ensure successful completion of their programme.

Additionally, students can explore student loans available through Swiss or their home country financial institutions if applicable. The university offers guidance and counseling for students seeking financial assistance, including information on external funding opportunities. It is advisable for students to plan their finances well in advance, considering both tuition fees and living expenses, and to actively seek scholarships or bursaries early in the application process. Overall, the financial structure at EPFL aims to make high-quality engineering education accessible while providing diverse opportunities for financial support.

Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) is a comprehensive and highly regarded programme designed to equip students with fundamental and advanced knowledge in the fields of electrical and electronic systems, microelectronics, integrated circuits, control systems, telecommunications, and power engineering. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, emphasizing innovation, research, and development in cutting-edge technology. Students will explore topics such as digital and analog circuit design, signal processing, embedded systems, renewable energy systems, and communication networks, preparing them to address current and future challenges in the electronics industry.

The programme typically spans three years for a Bachelor's degree and includes a rigorous selection of coursework, laboratory work, and project-based learning. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers, fostering an environment conducive to experimentation and innovation. Collaborations with industry partners and participation in internships provide valuable real-world experience, enhancing employability upon graduation. The faculty comprises renowned experts in the field, guiding students through evolving technological landscapes and encouraging interdisciplinary approaches.

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in designing innovative electronic products, managing technological projects, or pursuing advanced studies and research at the Master's and doctoral levels. EPFL also offers opportunities for international exchange, allowing students to broaden their perspectives and engage with global leaders in electrical and electronic engineering. Given the university's reputation for excellence and its proximity to technological hubs, graduates are highly sought after in industries such as telecommunications, semiconductor manufacturing, energy, automation, and robotics.

The programme emphasizes sustainability and responsible innovation, encouraging students to develop solutions that are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible. Skills in teamwork, communication, and project management are integral to the curriculum, supporting the development of well-rounded engineers capable of leading multidisciplinary projects. Overall, the Electrical and Electronic Engineering programme at EPFL provides a solid foundation in electrical and electronic principles while fostering creativity and critical thinking to advance the field and contribute to technological progress worldwide.