Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering at the University of Kansas offers a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for careers in designing, developing, and innovating in the fields of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. The curriculum covers fundamental areas such as circuit analysis, digital systems, signals and systems, electromagnetics, control systems, and power engineering, providing students with a solid theoretical foundation and practical skills. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities that enable hands-on learning and experimentation. The program emphasizes both hardware and software aspects of electrical engineering, fostering versatility and problem-solving capabilities essential in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, internships, and cooperative education opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. The faculty comprises experienced educators and active researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge in areas like communications, microelectronics, renewable energy, and embedded systems. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in industries such as telecommunications, robotics, power generation, aerospace, and information technology, or for pursuing graduate studies. The University of Kansas’s electrical engineering program is designed to instill not only technical expertise but also critical thinking, teamwork, and ethical considerations necessary for leadership in engineering fields. With a strong emphasis on innovation and community engagement, the program aims to contribute meaningfully to technological advancements and societal development. Facilities such as specialized laboratories for electronics, circuits, power systems, and communications support an active learning environment. The program also offers pathways for specialization in areas including digital signal processing, embedded hardware design, and renewable energy systems, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Overall, the electrical engineering program at the University of Kansas provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in a competitive and ever-changing global market.

The Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department has many associated research clusters, each of which is conducting cutting edge research in its area of study.

Students pursuing a Master's degree are encoraged to choose an academic focus area which is aligned with one of these departmental research clusters.

Fortune 500 companies to start-ups hire KU Electrical Engineering Ph.D. graduates for their abilities to invent, engineer, and deliver innovations. Many EECS Ph.D. students are supported through graduate research or teaching assistantships. The breadth and depth of the curriculum, the wide range of research projects, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and mentoring by experienced faculty produce Ph.D. graduates ready to make immediate contributions to their field. Employers value our graduates for their specialization and skills. EECS graduates work in communication, healthcare, defense, and numerous other industries.

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Admission Requirements

Applicants for the Dotorate of Philosophy degree in Electrical Engineering (Ph.D.EE) normally possess a degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering. Students with good preparation in another engineering field, mathematics, or science may qualify for the program by taking appropriate additional undergraduate courses. Such courses normally do not count toward the graduate degree. Lists of specific prerequisite courses can be located here.

• GPA: at or above 3.5 on a 4 point scale (mean GPA: 3.6).
• GRE: 146+ verbal, 155+ quantitative (mean GRE: 152 verbal, 163 quantitative).
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• TOEFL: (International Only) scores at or above 90 on internet-based exam (mean TOEFL 100).

The Doctoral Student Research Fund is designed to support KU doctoral students on the Lawrence Campus who need assistance to carry out research that advances progress toward the degree. A doctoral student is eligible to apply for up to two awards during their graduate program, one before doctoral candidacy (up to $1500) and one as a candidate (up to $2000).

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Kansas offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of fields related to electrical systems, electronics, and electromagnetism. The program's curriculum includes foundational courses in mathematics, physics, and core electrical engineering principles, such as circuit analysis, digital systems, electromagnetics, signals and systems, control systems, and power systems. Students also have opportunities to specialize through electives in areas like communications, microelectronics, and renewable energy, allowing for a tailored educational experience aligned with their career goals.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratories, design projects, and cooperative education opportunities that integrate classroom knowledge with practical skills. This approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to solve real-world engineering problems and adapt to rapidly evolving technological landscapes. The university's facilities feature modern laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment, promoting active engagement and experimentation.

Research is an integral part of the Electrical Engineering program at the University of Kansas, with many faculty members involved in cutting-edge projects in areas such as photonics, wireless communication, embedded systems, power electronics, and sustainable energy. Undergraduate students are encouraged to participate in research initiatives, often leading to conference presentations and journal publications.

The program also integrates professional development components, including ethics, teamwork, communication skills, and preparation for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination, which is a stepping stone toward Professional Engineer licensure. The university’s strong ties with industry partners facilitate internships and co-op placements that provide students with invaluable industry experience before graduation.

Graduates of the Electrical Engineering program at the University of Kansas are well-positioned to pursue various career paths in industry, government, and academia or to continue their education through master's and doctoral programs. The strong alumni network and career services support student placement and career advancement.

In summary, the Electrical Engineering program at the University of Kansas combines rigorous academic coursework, practical laboratory and project experiences, research opportunities, and industry engagement, all aimed at producing highly skilled engineers ready to address global technological challenges and innovate in their fields.