Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering at the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced careers and innovative research in the field of electrical and computer engineering. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in core principles such as circuit analysis, digital systems, electromagnetics, signal processing, control systems, and power electronics, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the technological challenges of today and tomorrow. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning through state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities that foster practical skills and innovation.

The undergraduate program aims to develop students’ analytical and problem-solving abilities, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and real-world application. They learn to design, analyze, and evaluate electrical systems used in a broad range of industries, including telecommunications, renewable energy, robotics, embedded systems, and aerospace. The curriculum is regularly updated to incorporate the latest advancements in technology and industry standards, reflecting the rapidly evolving nature of electrical engineering.

Students can choose to pursue specialized electives in areas such as biomedical engineering, embedded systems, power systems, or cybersecurity, allowing for tailored educational paths aligned with their interests and career goals. The program also encourages participation in research projects, internships, and industry collaborations, offering valuable experience and networking opportunities with leading experts and organizations.

Graduates of the Electrical Engineering program are highly sought after by employers across multiple sectors. They are prepared to work as design engineers, system analysts, research scientists, and technical consultants, or to continue their education in graduate studies. The program’s emphasis on innovation, critical thinking, and technical competence ensures that alumni are well-positioned to contribute to technological advancements and to solve complex engineering problems in a global context.

The faculty comprises renowned scholars and industry practitioners dedicated to delivering high-quality education and mentoring students through a dynamic academic environment. With a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence, the University at Buffalo’s Electrical Engineering program provides a rigorous yet supportive setting for students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. Graduates leave equipped with a solid technical foundation, practical experience, and the innovative mindset necessary to excel in a competitive and ever-changing field.

Program Educational Objectives: Electrical Engineering Graduates are prepared to attain the following PEOs within a few years of graduation:

• PEO #1 (Successful Careers): Graduates of the program will successfully contribute to the profession while advancing in their careers.
• PEO #2 (Life Long Learning): Graduates of the program will continue to learn through advanced study or engagement in professional development activities.

In addition, the curriculum provides opportunities for students to develop the following knowledge, skills and behaviors by the time of graduation:

1. an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
2. an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data
3. an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability
4. an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams
5. an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
6. an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
7. an ability to communicate effectively
8. the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
9. a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
10. a knowledge of contemporary issues
11. an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice

Admission to UB is highly competitive. For the 2016 incoming freshman class, UB reported an average ACT score of 24-30 and an average SAT (CR+M) score of 1100-1300. 90 percent of admitted students are in the top 50 percent of their class.

Admission to UB is based on a holistic review. We consider high school average, class rank, SAT (critical reading and math) or ACT scores, and strength of the high school academic record. A personal essay, recommendations, documented creative talent, demonstrated leadership, community service and special circumstances are also considered.

The following is not required for admission, but is suggested as adequate preparation for university-level coursework:

• Four years of English (with a substantial writing component)
• Four years of social studies
• Three years of college-preparatory science
• Three years of a second language
• Three years of college-preparatory mathematics

UB requires a minimum TOEFL score of 79 (Internet-based) or 550 (paper-based) in order to be considered for admission. Students scoring between 70 and 78 or 523 and 547 on the TOEFL may be admitted to the university on the condition that they register for and successfully complete additional English courses in their first semester.

There are many scholarships, fellowships and other funding opportunities available for students accepted into the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. These include recruitment scholarships and annual scholarships/awards for current students. There are both merit and need-based scholarships.

A number of EE students are awarded scholarships annually. Some of the scholarships are nationally competitive, such as the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, IEEE Power & Energy Society Scholarships, etc. Other scholarships are department specific. These include:

• the David M. Benenson Memorial Scholarship.
• the Joan G. Bennett Memorial Scholarship.
• the D. Richard Ferguson Memorial Scholarship.
• and the James J. Whalen Memorial Scholarship.

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in various fields of electrical engineering. This program offers rigorous coursework that covers fundamental principles such as circuit analysis, digital systems, electromagnetics, signal processing, control systems, and power electronics. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through laboratory work, projects, and collaborative research opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes the development of problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, and innovative thinking necessary for the rapidly evolving field of electrical engineering.

Throughout the program, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, which enable hands-on learning in areas like microelectronics, communications, robotics, renewable energy systems, and computer engineering. The faculty comprises experienced academics and industry professionals who contribute to a dynamic learning environment, mentoring students in their academic and professional growth. The program also encourages participation in internships, co-op placements, and research projects, providing valuable industry experience and fostering connections with leading technology companies.

Students who graduate from the Electrical Engineering program at the University at Buffalo are well-prepared for diverse career paths in sectors such as telecommunications, electrical power systems, semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace, automotive electronics, and research and development. Many alumni advance to graduate studies or obtain professional engineering licensure, further specializing in areas like control systems, embedded systems, or renewable energy. The program aims to develop graduates who are technically competent, ethically responsible, and ready to innovate in the electrical engineering industry.