Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering at the University of California offers a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for innovative careers in industry, research, and academia. The curriculum combines fundamental principles of electrical and computer engineering with practical applications, fostering a deep understanding of both hardware and software aspects of modern electrical systems. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse fields including electronics, embedded systems, signal processing, telecommunications, power engineering, and control systems.

Throughout their studies, students engage in hands-on projects, laboratories, and research initiatives that enhance their technical skills and problem-solving abilities. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability to meet the evolving demands of technology sectors. Faculty members are leaders in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance on cutting-edge topics such as renewable energy, IoT (Internet of Things), cyber-physical systems, and embedded computing.

The program also offers specialized tracks and electives to tailor the educational experience according to interests and career goals. Students can participate in internships, collaborative research, and industry partnerships to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. UC’s state-of-the-art laboratories and resources support experimentation and innovation, ensuring students are well-equipped for future challenges.

Graduates from the Electrical Engineering program are highly sought after in various sectors including technology, manufacturing, energy, communications, and consulting. They are prepared for roles such as electronics engineers, system designers, research scientists, and technical consultants. The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced degrees or entrepreneurial ventures.

In addition to technical training, the program emphasizes ethical considerations, environmental sustainability, and the societal impact of engineering solutions. This holistic approach cultivates responsible engineers who contribute positively to technological advancement and societal well-being. Overall, the Electrical Engineering program at UC is dedicated to fostering innovation, leadership, and excellence, empowering students to become pioneers in shaping the future of electrical and electronic systems.

Thesis Track

Each student is required to take 45 credits which must consist of:

1. at least 15 credits must be satisfied with courses from the areas of emphasis defined above;

2. at least 25 credits of the total 45 credits must be satisfied through EE graduate courses; and

3. at most 10 credits of independent study (EE 297, EE 299) are counted toward the EE course requirements.

Total credits required for the M.S. degree = 45.

Note that each graduate course satisfying the above requirements typically covers 5 credits.

Thesis

Completion of a master’s thesis is required for the master’s degree. To fulfill this requirement, the student submits a written proposal to a faculty member, usually by the third academic quarter. By accepting the proposal, the faculty member becomes the thesis adviser. In consultation with the adviser, the student forms a master’s thesis reading committee with at least two additional faculty members, each of whom is provided a copy of the proposal. Upon completion of the thesis work, the student presents an expository talk on the thesis research, and the final thesis must be accepted by the review committee before the award of the master of science degree.

M.S. students admitted to continue to the Ph.D. program must pass a preliminary exam covering fundamental undergraduate coursework (see below).

Comprehensive Examination Track

Each student is required to take 40 credits which must consist of:

(1) At least 15 credits must be satisfied with courses from the areas of emphasis defined above.

(2) At least 25 credits of the total 40 credits must be satisfied through EE graduate courses.

Total credits required for the M.S. degree = 40.

Each student must pass the comprehensive examination. Note that each graduate course satisfying the above requirements typically covers 5 credits.

The examination is administered once a year at the end of the spring quarter. The four areas of concentration are: 1. photonics; 2. electronics; 3. signal processing and communications; 4.nanotechnology. Students can choose only one area for the comprehensive examination. The comprehensive examination is in writing with individual problems that the students will solve. The faculty members in the different areas will prepare the examination questions based on the graduate courses in these areas. The examination will be administered in a single day in all four areas of concentration.

Note that Plan II (Comprehensive Examination Track) is the default option and students can select Plan I (Thesis Track) only if they can find a faculty sponsor.

Requirements

• Transcripts. You may upload a scanned copy of your unofficial transcripts to your online application, or send official copies to the Graduate Application Processing address
• Statement of Purpose. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages, single-spaced.
• The Personal History Statement is required of all applicants.This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Please note that the Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose.
• A résumé is required for some applications and optional for others.
• All recommendation letters are required to be submitted electronically through the online application.  You must register a minimum of three recommenders, and as many as five, via the Recommendations page of the online application.
• The application fee for the 2016-17 academic year is $105 for domestic applicants and $125 for international applicants. This fee can be paid by credit card or e-check (the e-check option is only available if you have a U.S. bank account). 
• Official GRE scores must be sent from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860 (no department code necessary).  Official scores must be received prior to the application deadline.
• If you are a non-native English speaker you will be required to take an English language competency exam.  UC Santa Cruz accepts the TOEFL or IELTS test.  Official scores must also be sent from the testing service to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860

Scholarships

• Regents Fellowships. A limited number of these fellowships are awarded to first-year graduate students in master's and doctoral programs. These awards provide a stipend and/or payment of university fees except non-resident tuition.
• Global Education

The Electrical Engineering program at the University of California provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with foundational and advanced knowledge in electrical systems, electronics, and digital communication. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application through coursework, laboratories, and research opportunities. Students can expect to study core subjects such as circuit analysis, signal processing, electromagnetics, control systems, and integrated circuit design. The program also offers specializations including microelectronics, power systems, communications, and robotics, allowing students to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals.

Being part of the university’s engineering school, the program encourages collaboration across disciplines, fostering innovation and technical excellence. It incorporates modern technology and industry standards, preparing graduates for careers in industries such as electronics manufacturing, telecommunications, aerospace, renewable energy, and software development. The curriculum includes opportunities for internships, industry projects, and participation in cutting-edge research conducted by faculty and graduate students.

The program is supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, providing hands-on experience with the latest tools and equipment used in electrical engineering. Throughout their studies, students develop critical skills in problem-solving, design, and analysis, alongside strong communication and teamwork abilities. The program also promotes ethical practices and professional responsibility, aligning with the university’s mission to prepare students to contribute positively to society.

Graduates of the Electrical Engineering program at UC are well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees in engineering or related fields, or to enter the workforce with a solid foundation to succeed in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The program’s reputation, combined with UC’s extensive alumni network and industry connections, offers valuable opportunities for mentorship, job placement, and career development, ensuring that students are supported throughout their educational journey and beyond.