Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership and innovation in the rapidly evolving field of electrical and electronic systems. The program emphasizes fundamental principles in circuits, signals, systems, electromagnetics, and control, combined with cutting-edge research and applications in areas such as telecommunications, microelectronics, photonics, quantum information, and energy systems. Students engaged in this program gain a deep understanding of how electrical devices operate, as well as how to design, analyze, and optimize complex electronic systems.

The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical laboratory experiences, fostering skills essential for pioneering advancements in technology. Undergraduates have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and are encouraged to participate in projects that span from developing new semiconductor devices to exploring AI integration and renewable energy solutions. The program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing on the university’s strengths in applied physics, computer science, and materials science, enabling students to approach engineering challenges holistically.

Throughout the program, students are supported by a distinguished faculty renowned for their research contributions and industry impact. They are offered a range of specialized courses in areas such as digital and analog circuit design, signal processing, communications, control systems, power electronics, and nanotechnology. Additionally, students may pursue research opportunities, internships, and multidisciplinary projects that prepare them for careers in academia, industry, entrepreneurship, or advanced graduate studies.

The California Institute of Technology's Electrical Engineering program is committed to fostering innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. Graduates emerge equipped with the technical expertise, creative problem-solving abilities, and ethical awareness necessary to address global challenges and drive technological progress. Whether students aspire to develop next-generation electronics, contribute to sustainable energy systems, or lead technological innovation, this program provides a strong foundation and a vibrant academic community to support their ambitions.

1 See Institute requirements for specific rules regarding humanities and social sciences.
2 See option requirements 4 and 5.

Suggested Electives

First-year students interested in electrical engineering should take APh/EE 9 ab, which is an EE option requirement (though it need not be taken freshman year). Suggested elective courses for the second, third, and fourth year for various specializations within electrical engineering are given below. Students interested in other areas of specialization or interdisciplinary areas are encouraged to develop their own elective program in consultation with their faculty adviser.

Bioengineering

Second Year: Bi 9, Bi 10, APh 17 abc.
Third and Fourth Year: Bi/Ch 110, Bi/Ch 113, BE 141, EE/BE/MedE 166, EE/BE/MedE 185, CNS/Bi/EE/CS/NB 186, CNS/CS/EE 188, BE/EE/MedE 189 ab.

Communications and Signal Processing

Second Year: Selected from APh 17 abc, APh 23, APh 24, EE/CS 53. 
Third and Fourth Year: EE 112, EE/Ma 126 ab, 127 ab, EE 128 ab, 161, 163 ab, 164, 167, EE/APh 131, APh/EE 130, 132, Ma 112 a.

Control

Second Year: APh 17 abc.
Third and Fourth Year: CDS 110 ab, and selections from EE 112, EE 128 ab, EE 164.

Electronic Circuits

Second Year: EE 113, CDS 101, APh/EE 183.
Third and Fourth Year: EE/MedE 114 ab, 124, EE 125, 153, 119 ab, CS/EE 181 abc, and selections from EE 112, CS 185 abc, EE/APh 180, EE 119, EE 160, EE 128 ab.

Microwave and Radio Engineering

Second Year: APh 23, APh 24, APh 17 abc.
Third and Fourth Year: EE 153, EE/Ae 157 ab, EE/MedE 114 ab, EE/APh 131, APh/EE 130, 132, APh/EE 183.

Optoelectronics

Second Year: APh 23, APh 24, APh 17 abc.
Third and Fourth Year: APh/EE 130, 132, APh 105 abc, APh 114 abc, APh/EE 183, APh 190 abc, EE/APh 131, EE 153.

Solid-State Electronics and Devices

Second Year: APh 17 abc.
Third and Fourth Year: APh/EE 183, and selections from APh 105 abc, APh 114 ab, EE 153, EE/BE 185, EE/MedE 187

Requirements

• Common Application or the Coalition Application with Caltech Questions - Caltech does not have a preference between the Common Application or the Coalition Application. We advise that you use the best platform for your application process.
  • Note: Caltech is also a QuestBridge Partner. Students may apply for Caltech through the QuestBridge College Match Program.
• $75 application fee or fee waiver (Common App waiver, Coalition Application waiver, or Caltech-specific waiver)
• SAT with Optional Essay or ACT with Writing (official scores from testing agency)
• SAT Subject Test in Mathematics Level 2 (official scores from testing agency)
• 1 SAT science subject test: biology (ecological), biology (molecular), chemistry, or physics (official scores from testing agency)
• 1 math or science teacher evaluation
• 1 humanities or social sciences teacher evaluation
• Secondary School Report
• Academic transcripts
• TOEFL scores - Required of all international citizens unless 1) your native language is English; or 2) you have had school instruction for two or more years in English. The two years of school instruction must be completed prior to the application deadline). We do not accept the IELTS or any other substitute for the TOEFL requirement.
• International Financial Aid Statement of Intent - When an international citizen applies for freshman admission, the application prompts questions to confirm his/her understanding of our financial aid policy and thus confirm his/her financial aid intent towards Caltech. Caltech is need-sensitive for international citizens because the total amount of financial aid funds is limited for these students, and we remain committed to meeting the demonstrated need of all admitted students.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Need-based scholarships 
• Caltech Scholarships

Electrical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a distinguished undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of electrical engineering. The program emphasizes a rigorous curriculum that covers core areas such as circuit analysis, digital systems, control systems, signal processing, communications, and electromagnetics. Students are encouraged to engage in research opportunities alongside world-renowned faculty, fostering innovation and a deep understanding of current technological challenges.

Caltech's Electrical Engineering program integrates classroom learning with hands-on laboratory work, allowing students to develop essential skills in designing, analyzing, and implementing electrical systems. The curriculum is flexible, accommodating individual interests through a variety of electives in areas like quantum electronics, photonics, integrated circuits, and energy systems. Interdisciplinary collaboration is a key component, with students often working on projects that combine electrical engineering with computer science, physics, and applied mathematics.

The program aims to prepare students for careers in academia, industry, and entrepreneurial ventures. Graduates are well-equipped to contribute to advancements in telecommunications, electronics, computer hardware, robotics, renewable energy, and emerging technologies such as quantum computing and nanotechnology. Caltech also encourages an entrepreneurial mindset, supporting students in translating their innovations into impactful solutions.

Caltech’s small student body and intimate learning environment foster close interaction between students and faculty. The department offers unique research centers and laboratories, providing access to cutting-edge technology and resources. Students have the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research programs, tech transfer initiatives, and industry collaborations, gaining valuable practical experience.

Academic advising and career services assist students in navigating their educational paths and professional development, ensuring they are prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape. With a focus on foundational knowledge, experimental skills, and innovative research, the Electrical Engineering program at Caltech strives to produce leaders and pioneers in the field.