Are you a curious person? Do you like to ask questions about the world around you? If so, perhaps electrical engineering is the right field for you! On this page, we review the Best Specialization In MS Electrical Engineering, best specialization in electrical engineering, areas of specialization in electrical and electronics engineering, masters in electrical engineering best universities and electrical engineering specialization courses.

The work of an electrical engineer involves combining a love of physical sciences with a love of technical, mathematical, and logical aspects of electronics, engineering, and computer science. A graduate program in electrical engineering will allow you to do everything from operating, programming and repairing electronic devices to designing, developing and fabricating computers, networks and complex electronic systems.

If this sounds like your dream job to you, then click here to learn more about our Electrical Engineering Master’s Degree Program!

Electrical engineering and electronics systems have transformed modern life, with electric cars, smartphones, wireless communication and television just some of the electrical advances that have been turned from ideas into reality, with the field set to continue to evolve and develop.

Collegelearners will gives you information you are looking for about Best Specialization In MS Electrical Engineering, Requirements for Best Specialization In MS Electrical Engineering, Best Specialization In MS Electrical Engineering Programs.

Best Specialization In MS Electrical Engineering

We begin with Best Specialization In MS Electrical Engineering, then best specialization in electrical engineering, areas of specialization in electrical and electronics engineering, masters in electrical engineering best universities and electrical engineering specialization courses.

In some countries, electrical engineering may be more focused on instrumentation, power system designs, with other departments such as Electronics and communication engineering focusing on telecommunication, integrated circuits, computer hardware, networking and signal processing, etc.https://www.youtube.com/embed/8R4XmoyNC_M?feature=oembed

In the developed markets such as the US, Canada, UK, Australia, etc., Electrical Engineering departments and courses focus on a multitude of hardware and system design and development courses, including a few in embedded systems, low-level programming languages, and coding.

Job Prospects after MS Electrical Engineering

There are more than half a million jobs for electrical engineers, and it is projected to grow as there has been an increase in the number of students opting for this career. As more and more of our systems become digital, including electric cars, the jobs and career prospects for electrical engineers continue to grow exponentially.

For example, cars that primarily required a lot of mechanical engineering before are moving more and more towards becoming computers on wheels with electric batteries, etc. This future in the automotive industry is a mix of mechanical, electrical, computers and software.

The term “Electrical Engineer” in itself is very broad, when you go for an MS degree you will be introduced to various specializations that you can choose from. Further, we’ve described the top specializations to help you get a general idea of what’s in front. 

Job Scopes Abroad

Let’s first take you through the scope of electrical engineering in foreign countries before moving on to the financial worth of higher education abroad. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects only a 2% growth (slower than the average) in EE jobs till 2028.

The Canadian government data indicates a fair job growth over the next couple of years (till 2020) for electrical engineering professionals. A moderate number of new positions are projected to fill the gap created by retirements. There will be about 1800 job openings annually until 2025.

For Germany, the trends suggest that by 2025, an increasing percentage of the workforce (25% by 2025) will comprise of high skill level (science, engineering, teaching, etc.) professionals, which is slightly higher than the EU average. The Australian government’s data indicates that there are likely to be 6000 job openings for graduates from this discipline for over 5 years.

Top Trends in Electrical Engineering

• Smart Grids
• Electric Vehicles
• Wireless Power Transfer
• Wireless Wearable Tech
• Artificial Intelligence
• Robotics
• Energy-Saving Tech & Sustainable Energy
• The Internet of Things (IoT)
• Drones
• Energy Storage and Better Batteries

Top Electrical Engineering Specializations

An MS degree makes you highly specialized in a particular area of this field. Masters courses in electrical engineering are likely to be taught as classroom-based teaching and involving laboratory work. 

Below we have explained in brief about the top specializations, but here are the areas in which you will have the opportunity to specialize in Computer Networks, Computer Vision and Biometrics, Dependable Integrated Systems, Micro Sensors, and Systems or Embedded Systems, Semiconductor technology, Circuit Design, Optical Systems, NanoElectronics, and Power Electronics. Checking the availability of a specific specialization is essential if you plan to study in a certain country or university.

Communications and Signal Processing 

The specialization of Communications and Signal Processing deals with the discovery of solutions to transfer information effectively by making use of electrical systems. Communications and networking, and signal and image processing are two strands of the broader field.

The former focuses on optimal delivery of information, a few examples being the Internet, cellular and satellite communications, and WiFi, while the latter focuses on building algorithms and designing architectures to represent signals. The subjects of study in this specialization are information theory, wireless networking, coding, media processing, and information forensics. 

Communications and signal processing together provide the basis of modern information engineering. Within communication, you may be able to be more focused on analog system design, digital system design, or mixed-signal designer. 

Power Systems

Power Systems can be found in almost all systems involving electricity, prime examples being transportation, communication, and computing. This speciation primarily deals with the production, administration, and distribution of power systems.

A few important challenges in this field are ensuring the stability and safety of current power systems, a constant search for new power sources, and the innovation of new technologies. After completion of the degree, you will most likely find yourself working in a power plant or in a lab for an academic institute.

Computer Engineering

Computer engineering gets its roots from electrical engineering and computer science. Computer systems are now almost an inseparable part of our modern life, automobile systems to air traffic control systems, missile guidance systems, and compact devices.

What job a person does is difficult to describe due to the broad career prospects available, one can be working as a software engineer programming apps or designing systems that hardware engineers maintain. One thing is common, professionals in this field need to have good experience in systems, networks, and software. 

Computer engineers focus more on the hardware architecture and system design of all of the latest gadgets, electronics, including Apple Watch, Mobile Phones, IoT-connected devices, etc.

They also work on the design of integrated chips (ICs) and are in high demand given the usage of ICs in every device we have in our household today. They are often known as chip designers in the industry and all of them have a background in the study of computer engineering.

Microelectronics

Circuits containing numerous micro-components have revolutionized technology, creating an impact on our lives and the tools we use. Microelectronics is mainly concerned with designing and manufacturing electric components of microscopic size.

Now under this specialization, intelligent sensors and Microsystems are being developed, such as the sensors responsible to trigger airbags. These components can be integrated into making devices increasing the advancements by many folds. This area is more focused on silicon wafers, micro-electronic systems, and engineering behind them

Robotics

The need for Robotics expertise is starting to follow the exponential curve. Innovation needs and demands new talent, self-driving cars, and brain-machine interfaces being good examples. Robotics in itself is interdisciplinary, sharing its scope with mechanical, electrical, computer, and biomedical engineering.

A few topics that you will be very familiar with after the completion of the course are modeling and simulation of physical systems, intelligent control, robotic actuators, and embedded control systems.

Electromagnetics

In the specialization of Electromagnetics, you will learn about electromagnetic fields, digital antennas, wave propagation, and communication through microwaves. The coursework you will go through in this program will set the foundation for working in the development of electromagnetic technology(radio and computer networks) and hardware.

Many MS students can take a wide variety of courses or courses from 1-2 areas instead of just one specialization. There is significant overlap between areas so good to have a balanced view of system design, architecture and specialize in your research in 1 deep area.

Jobs and Salaries for MS Electrical Engineering Specializations

Electrical Engineering is a wide domain, involving numerous specializations and even more career prospects. The average salary an Electric Engineer earns in the US, Canada, and the UK are around $75,000, which can go up to $120,000 for people with high specialization and work experience. 

Below we’ve listed down various career prospects in this field across the countries mentioned above and also the salary details. 

Electrical Engineers:

Electrical Engineers use their knowledge of electronics and apply it to develop products and systems. Their work stretches across implementation, production, and development. They are also involved in the research and creation of new applications. The average salary of an electrical engineer in the US, Canada, and the UK are $90,000; $70,000, and $50,000 respectively. 

Power Engineers:

The job of a Power Engineer is to design, develop and oversee the installation of electronic components and equipment(such as transformers, power electronics, generators, motors) in both industrial and commercial areas. The average salary of a Power engineer in the US, Canada, and the UK are $80,000; $90,000, and $60,000 respectively. 

Instrumentation Engineers:

They are mainly responsible for determining the engineering requirements. They prepare documents, ensure system requirements and perform system evaluations. They also manage the equipment used to monitor and control machinery in industries. The average salary of an Instrumentation engineer in the US, Canada, and the UK are $95,000; $75,000, and $50,000 respectively. 

Telecommunications Engineer:

A telecommunication engineer is responsible for the design, performance, and security of computer networks, and also carries the task of integrating telecom devices and services. The average salary of a Telecommunications engineer in the US, Canada, and the UK are $100,000; $72,000, and $50,000 respectively. 

Electrical Design Engineer:

Electrical Design Engineers develop electrical systems for various applications. They are responsible for developing system specifications, layouts, and researching system ideas and plans using computer software. The average salary of a Telecommunications engineer in the US, Canada, and the UK are $96,000; $90,000, and $40,000 respectively. 

best specialization in electrical engineering

Now we consider, best specialization in electrical engineering, areas of specialization in electrical and electronics engineering, masters in electrical engineering best universities and electrical engineering specialization courses.

1. Control systems

A control systems engineer organizes and regulates many components of production processes. Computer programming, mathematical programming, and computer algorithms can all be learned through specialization in this discipline. It also helps engineers to learn diverse skills, including electrical, mechanical, and computer software systems.

Electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and other related disciplines typically require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in control systems engineering. They earn $38.7 per hour on average. That works up to $80,489 each year. Between 2018 and 2028, the profession is predicted to generate 8,000 employment openings in the United States.

As a control system engineer, you can get a job as are:

•  Petroleum Systems Engineer
• Industrial Systems Engineer
• Environmental Systems Engineer
• Software Systems Engineer
• Electronic Systems Engineer.

2. Communication and Signal Processing System

A signal processing engineer is a specialist in information technology who examines and modifies digital signals to improve accuracy and reliability. They create algorithms to improve the efficiency of digital signals by developing, managing, and updating them.

You need to get a degree or complete a recognized engineering fundamentals course in electrical, electronics and communication, mathematics, or related fields instrumentation engineering which provides Signal Processing courses. 

Many sophisticated technology organizations are always on the lookout for signal processing professionals who can assist in developing current products or platforms.

Signal processing is one of the fastest-growing electrical engineering specialization fields.

In the United States, the average signal processing engineer’s income is $127,775/year or $65.53/hour. The starting salary for entry-level job positions is $112,395/year, with most experienced individuals earning up to $175,161/year.

Job positions that can be occupied as a signal processing engineer are:

• Space Scientist
• Defense Engineer
• Machine learning Engineer
• Computer Vision Engineer
• Research scientist
•  Digital Signal Processing Engineer.

3. Power Systems

Power system engineers are in charge of assessing interconnection standards and transmission feasibility, conducting system impact and facility studies, and testing new electrical components for wind turbine designs.

To work as a power systems engineer, you’ll require a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a similar subject. Power engineering is a less demanding and stressful career than other engineering areas. It is also secure and generally well-paying employment, making it a viable career choice for people who do not want a high-profile engineering post.

As of March 2022, the average Power Systems Engineering salary in the United States is $80,548. However, salaries frequently range from $68,119 – $94,533.

Their job types can be:

•  Power System Analytics
•  Switchgear Controls and Automation
• Generator Paralleling
•  Relay Protection and Automation
• Power System Assessments

4. Electromagnetics

Electromagnetic engineers create electromagnetic systems, technologies, and components such as loudspeaker electromagnets, electromagnetic locks, MRI, etc. The courses for this specialization will prepare you to work in electromagnetic technology (radio and computer networks) and hardware development. 

The base salary for Electromagnetic engineers ranges from $77,16 to $97,052, with an average base salary of $85,694. There is also increasing demand for electromagnetics in the future.

 Some of the jobs for electromagnetic engineers are listed below:

• Electromagnetic Compatibility Test Engineer
• Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineer
• Motor Electromagnetic Design Engineer
• RF Hardware Electromagnetic Modeling Engineer
• Electromagnetic Environmental Effects Engineer
• Systems Modeling
•  Simulation Analysis Engineer.

5. Microelectronics

Electronic circuit chips, circuit boards, and semiconductors are designed and prototyped by microelectronics engineers. They build prototypes of novel ideas using their expertise in mechanical systems, new materials, and electronics. To write semiconductor reports, they need a specific understanding of technical writing, material science, and interpretive abilities to read, prepare, and compile progress reports.

The sector continues to flourish as demand for compact, low-cost devices rises. Research, reliability, and manufacturing are the three critical areas of attention. According to a report sent by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected growth for electrical and electronics engineers was expected to increase by 1% from 2019-to 2029. 

As of March 2022, the average Microelectronics Engineer’s pay in the United States is $77,747, with a salary range of $72,396 – $84,221.

Some jobs which microelectronic engineers can get are:

• Development Engineer
• Device Engineer, Equipment Engineer
• Manufacturing Yield Engineer
• Photolithography Engineer
• Process Engineer
• Process Integration Engineer
• Product Engineer
• Research Engineer

areas of specialization in electrical and electronics engineering

Next, areas of specialization in electrical and electronics engineering, masters in electrical engineering best universities and electrical engineering specialization courses.

Electrical Engineering Specializations

As our students pursue their Electrical Engineering degree, they can choose to specialize in one of the six areas. Students are required to take at least two courses within their chosen specialization. The Undergraduate Office keeps a list of specialized courses for your convenience. The specialization areas are as follow:

• Communications and Signal Processing
• Computer Engineering
• Controls
• Electrophysics
• Microelectronics
• Power Systems

Below you will find information on courses for each specialization, including course availability information.  Please be sure to cross-reference this information with the Schedule of Classes on Testudo for up-to-date course availaibility.

Communications and Signal Processing

Communications and Signal Processing consists of two main aspects. The first is communications and networking, which primarily addresses the challenge of how to efficiently and effectively deliver information from one place to the other. Typical examples are high-speed networks, Internet, cellular and satellite communications, and WiFi or wireless area networks. Representative technical subjects are information theory, digital communications, wireless networking, compression and coding, network protocol design, performance analysis, and security.

The second aspect is signal and image processing, where the main challenge is to design efficient and effective algorithms, architectures, and systems to describe and represent signals, extract information, reconstruct or recover content, and process or fuse signals and information. Representative technical subjects are signal/image/video/speech/audio processing, radar and sonar, wireless communications, computer vision, and information forensics and assurance.

Courses in Communication and Signal Processing:

• ENEE408G Multimedia Signal Processing  (Capstone; Spring Only)
• ENEE420 Communication Systems (Fall Only)
• ENEE425 Digital Signal Processing  (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE426 Communication Networks (Spring Only)
• ENEE428 Communication Design Lab (Lab; Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE436 Foundations of Machine Learning (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE439D Design Experience in Machine Learning (Spring Only)

Computer Engineering

Computers and computing systems pervade nearly every aspect of modern life, from automobile systems to air traffic control systems, missile guidance systems, surgical equipment, and portable devices. Computer chips are enhancing systems that previously were completely mechanical or electromechanical. With the continuing cost reductions of digital hardware this trend can only accelerate. Coursework below is part of the computer engineering specialization within Electrical Engineering.

Courses in Computer Engineering area:

• ENEE408A Microprocessor-Based Design (Capstone; Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE408C Modern Digital System Design (Capstone; Fall Only)
• ENEE408D Mixed Signal VLSI Design (Capstone; Spring Only)
• ENEE408M Embedded Software Design (Capstone: Spring Only)
• ENEE436 Machine Learning (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE439D Design Experience in Machine Learning (Spring Only)
• ENEE440 Microprocessors (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE445 Microcomputer Lab (Lab; Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE446 Digital Computer Design (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE456 Cryptography (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE457 Computer System Security (Fall Only)
• ENEE459A CAD Tools (1-credit course; Fall Only)
• ENEE459B  Reverse Engineering and Hardware Security Laboratory (Lab; Fall Only)
• ENEE459C Topics in Computer Engineering; Digital CMOS VLSI Design Methods (Spring Only)
• ENEE459D Advanced Laboratory of Digital Signal Systems Using SystemVerilog (3) – (Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE459V Embedded Systems (Spring Only)

Controls

The area of controls is devoted to the principles and technical means for ensuring that a physical quantity, such as temperature, altitude or speed, must be made to behave in a specified way over time. From the simple thermostat in a home furnace, to the cruise and emission controls in a car, to the autopilot in modern jet aircraft and space vehicles, to control of prosthetics in biomedical applications, a control device measures the behavior of a system to determine the discrepancy from some desired behavior, and then alters/adjusts the system’s inputs to bring the actual behavior closer to the desired one.

This fundamental process of feedback is key to the successful operation of an immense variety of both engineered and natural systems. Emerging advances in the creation of intelligent machines, including robots in the factory and in service industry, as well as autonomous vehicles, are driven by advances in control science and technology. Control engineers also explore ways to continually adapt and modify such feedback loops to enhance the effectiveness of control systems.

The area of controls is challenging and rewarding as our world faces increasingly complex control problems that need to be solved. Immediate needs include control of emissions for a cleaner environment, automation in factories, unmanned space and underwater exploration, and control of communication networks. Control is challenging since it takes strong foundations in engineering and mathematics, uses computer software and hardware extensively, and requires the ability to address and solve new problems in a variety of disciplines, ranging from aeronautical to electrical and chemical engineering, to chemistry, biology and economics.

Courses in Controls area:

• ENEE408I Building Autonomous Robots (Capstone: Fall/Spring Course)
• ENEE408R Electric Bikes (Capstone: Spring Only)
• ENEE460 Control Systems (Fall Only)
• ENEE461 Control Systems Lab (Lab; Spring Only)
• ENEE463 Digital Control Systems (Spring Only)
• ENEE469O Topics in Controls; Introduction to Optimization (Spring Only)

Electrophysics

“Scientists have ideas; engineers make them work,” said Nobel Prize winner Jack Kilby. Electrophysics is a key part of this concept. Engineers concentrating in the area of Electrophysics bring ideas that emerge from basic physics, and work to develop them into practical reality. Electrophysics represents the overlap between physics and electrical and computer engineering, and the products of Electrophysics ultimately fit into other areas of electrical and computer engineering such as: communications and signal processing, computer engineering, microelectronics, and controls. Electrophysics is an essential component to bring concepts grounded in the principles of physics together with systems engineering to create complex systems that work in real life. Devices that emerge from Electro physics are embedded in almost all modern electronics.

Electrophysics education and research deals with optics, lasers, detectors, microwaves, particle beams, nanotechnology, magnetics, and electromagnetic phenomena at all wavelengths, from x-rays, to radio waves. Creating light where there is darkness is part of what Electrophysicists do, in order to improve how we see things both large and small; communicate information of all sorts; and process materials, whether by cooking with microwaves or even performing laser surgery.

Courses in the Electrophysics area:

• ENEE408E Optical System Design (Capstone; Fall Only)
• ENEE408T Accelerator Physics – Building the Maryland 5 MeV Cyclotron (Capstone; Spring Only)
• ENEE486 Optoelectronics Lab (Lab; Fall Only)
• ENEE489I Solar Energy Conversion (Fall Only)
• ENEE489J Topics in Electrophysics; Microwave Devices Design & Testing Laboratory (Fall Only)
• ENEE489Q Quantum Phenomena in Electrical Engineering (Spring Only)
• ENEE490 Physical Principles of Wireless Communications (Fall Only)
• ENEE496 Lasers and Optics (Spring Only)

Microelectronics

Integrated circuits containing millions, soon billions, of transistors with ever increasing capability have revolutionized almost every area of technology – from computers and communications to automobiles and appliances. The area of microelectronics traditionally encompasses studying the physics of semiconductor devices, and the design and fabrication of such integrated circuits, making it fundamental to electrical engineering. More broadly however, microelectronics is increasingly viewed at the system level, where multiple devices with varying functionality are combined to create intelligent sensors and “Microsystems.” A single microchip containing electronic circuits and acceleration sensors is already responsible for deploying automobile airbags during a crash. Such microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) offer the potential to integrate numerous electronic and physical functions into a single tiny device, enabling advances in microelectronics to touch nearly every discipline imaginable.

Courses in Microelectronics area:

• ENEE408D Mixed Signal VLSI Design (Capstone; Spring Only)
• ENEE408R Electric Bikes (Capstone; Spring Only)
• ENEE411 Analog and Digital Electronics II (formerly ENEE419A) (Fall Only)
• ENEE413 Fundamentals of Solid State Electronic (formerly ENEE480) (Spring Only)
• ENEE416 Integrated Circuit Fabrications Lab (Lab; Fall Only)

Power Systems

This area encompasses the generation, distribution and control of electric power. Power systems include electromechanical transducers, motors, generators and transformers. Key technical challenges are the stability of power systems, possible new sources of power (e.g., fusion energy) and emerging technologies such as magnetically levitated trains and the use of high-temperature superconductors in electrical machinery.

Courses in Power Systems area:

• ENEE408K Electric Cars (Capstone, Fall Only)
• ENEE408R Electric Bikes (Capstone, Fall Only)
• ENEE473 Electric Machines Lab (Lab; Spring Only)
• ENEE474 Power Systems (Fall Only)
• ENEE475 Power Electronics (Spring Only)
• ENEE476 Renewable Energy (Fall Only)
• ENEE489I Solar Energy Conversion (Fall Only)
• ENEE498K Electric Cars (Spring Only)

masters in electrical engineering best universities

MSc in Electrical Engineering

Saint Petersburg, Russia

Master program (MSc) in electrical engineering aims to educate students with the competencies in both theoretical and practical problems solving in the field of electric power complex operations based on intelligent automation systems and up-to-date electric power equipment of both high and low voltage levels.

Master of Science – Electrical Engineering – Residential

Auburn, USA

The Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering degree will equip students with the knowledge and experience needed in diverse industries, from power distribution to biomedical research. Our program is available to on-campus students and supports graduate study in control systems and robotics, digital signal processing, and communications, wireless engineering, electromagnetics modeling and analysis, microelectronics and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), power systems, digital systems, and computer engineering.

Hoboken, USA

Become a sought-after expert with cutting-edge knowledge and strong professional connections.

electrical engineering specialization courses

BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING

At the intersection between healthcare and technology rests electrical engineering with a biomedical focus. Electrical engineers who specialize in biomedical technology are responsible for developing the technology needed for efficient, accurate, and effective healthcare, including instrumentation technology, diagnostic technology, bio-instrumentation and informatics, biometric data and readout system, signal & image analysis, computing devices, display devices, and more.

University of Illinois

Many electrical engineering programs offer a biomedical specialization at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, much like the University of Illinois. There are several sub-specializations within this track, so the courses that electrical engineering students take throughout their education vary but include a core set of electrical and computer engineering courses followed by subspecialty courses.

The university offers several programs such as an MEng in bioengineering (available online as well as on-campus), an MS in bioengineering, and a Ph.D. in bioengineering.

The MEng program comprises 32 credits including courses in biological measurement, innovation & introduction to financial decision making, managing business operations, and seminars in bioinstrumentation. The MS program includes courses such as computational bioengineering, analytical methods in bioengineering, bioengineering professionalism, and biomedical computed imaging systems, among others.

For admission to the MEng program, students will require at least a bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or related discipline, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, and proof of English language proficiency for international students.

• Location: Urbana, IL
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Expected Time to Completion: 24 months
• Estimated Tuition: Residents ($18,998); Nonresidents ($36,150); Online students ($1110 per credit)

While there are no official certifications in biomedical engineering, those hoping to practice independently or be a principal engineer in research can become professional engineers (PEs) by taking the National Council of Examiners for Engineering (NCEES) PE exam in electrical and computer engineering.

Careers for electrical engineers with a biomedical focus include those in research and development, analysis, field service engineering, validation engineering, and consulting.

COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING

Electrical engineers who specialize in communications are responsible for determining how to transfer data at high speeds. Electrical engineers with a specialty in communications can work with wired and wireless telephone systems, satellite systems, email, internet, and broadband technology, and more.

Electrical engineering students hoping to specialize in communications can find a variety of programs available at all academic levels, both on-campus and online. Some programs offer communications as a specialization or concentration of an electrical engineering degree, while others offer telecommunications as a part of the degree title (e.g., Drexel University).

Drexel University

Drexel University offers a master of science in electrical and telecommunications engineering degree program preparing students to contribute to advances in this rapidly changing field of telecommunications.

Admission requirements include a four-year bachelor’s degree in a STEM or related field from an accredited institution in the US or an equivalent international institution, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, a completed graduate admission application, official transcripts, a 500 words essay, a current resume, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores for international applicants.

Generally, students earning a master’s level degree in telecommunications engineering take core courses in electrical engineering and electrical computer engineering, and then complete elective coursework focused specifically on communications engineering. Comprising 45 credits, the program includes coursework in fundamentals of communications engineering, physical foundations of telecommunications networks, physical principles of electrical engineering, principles of data analysis, and research in telecommunications.

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Expected Time to Completion: 24 months
• Estimated Tuition: $1,342 per credit

In addition to becoming a PE in electrical engineering, telecommunications engineers can find a wide variety of telecommunications certifications available. Some certifications are based on specific companies or technologies, while others are general telecommunications engineering certifications. Examples of telecommunications engineering certifications can be found on the following websites:

• Telecommunications Certification Organization (T.C.O.)
• International Association for Radio, Telecommunications, and Electromagnetics (iNARTE)
• Society of Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE)
• Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI)
• Nokia

Telecommunications engineers can find careers working with telecommunication service providers, communications software developers, governmental agencies, public center agencies, equipment manufacturers, infrastructure manufacturers, and transportation organizations.

COMPUTATIONS, DATA & INFORMATICS

A highly multidisciplinary specialty of electrical engineering, those pursuing work in computations, data, and informatics work to use the power of computers to collect and analyze large amounts of data and information in an attempt to understand real-life phenomena and engineer their solutions. Electrical engineers with a focus on computations, data, and informatics work with advanced-level computers to create algorithms, modeling software, and more.

Those hoping to pursue higher education in computations, data, and informatics can find bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and post-graduate certificate programs available. Some programs have a specific focus on computations, data, or informatics, while others provide an educational blend of all three.

Some universities also offer a degree in electrical engineering with a choice to focus on these disciplines as a subspecialty, while others (e.g., City College of New York) offer degrees where electrical and data, computational, and informatics are in the title of the degree.

City College of New York

City College of New York’s master’s degree in data science and engineering provides students with a strong foundation in core engineering and data science skills, which allows them to apply, analyze, visualize, and process computational statistics and machine learning to problems in science, engineering, and other related disciplines.

The major admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, science, or engineering from an accredited institution of higher education with a minimum GPA of 3.0, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL or IELTS test scores for students who have earned their baccalaureate degrees from non-English-speaking countries. GRE scores are optional.

The program is made up of 30 credits. Examples of coursework include an introduction to data science, applied statistics, applied machine learning & data mining, big data & scalable computation, computer graphics, advanced algorithms, image processing, and introduction to robotics.

• Location: New York, NY
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 24 months
• Estimated Tuition: $945 per credit

Because computations, data, and informatics make up such a multidisciplinary field, electrical engineers with one of these specialties can pursue a range of professional certifications. Examples of certifications can be found at the Data Science Council of America (DASCA), the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS), and IBM.

Those pursuing a career in electrical engineering with a focus in computations, data, and informatics can work in virtually any industry that uses big data to make decisions, including healthcare, space, transportation, logistics, government, and more.

ENERGY & POWER

Electrical engineers who specialize in energy and power are responsible for determining how to make power and energy systems efficient, effective, and environmentally responsible. Concerned with the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric power, energy and power engineers can work with devices, processes, and analysis and the design of systems, technologies, and infrastructure.

Similar to other electrical engineering disciplines, power & energy tracks can be found at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Programs are offered online, on-campus, or as a hybrid. Some programs offer power and energy as a subspecialty of an electrical engineering degree, while other institutions offer energy-specific titles like the master of science in energy systems (e.g., Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering at Clarkson University).

Clarkson University

Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering at Clarkson University offers a master of science degree in energy systems enabling students to integrate electrical or mechanical energy-related courses, electrical and mechanical fundamental discipline courses, and non-technical courses regarding the impact of economic, regulatory, and environmental issues on energy. The faculty of the program includes accomplished researchers, industry practitioners, and educators.

To get accepted into the program, applicants must have a bachelor of science degree in engineering, physics, or equivalent field, a completed online application form, a current resume, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and an English proficiency test for international applicants.

The program requires a total of eleven courses. Sample some of the coursework: fuel cell science and hydrogen engineering, photovoltaic engineering, linear control systems, turbine engineering, wind energy engineering, solar energy engineering, synchronous electrical generators, and nuclear engineering, among others.

• Location: Schenectady, NY
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Expected Time to Completion: Full-time (18 to 24 months); Part-time (30 to 36 months)
• Estimated Tuition: $1,488 per credit

While a certification is not required to work as an energy and power engineer, there are many certifications available for those wishing to establish professional competence, and connect to a network of highly skilled energy and power professionals.

The Association of Energy Engineers provides a large list of energy-related certifications available to power and energy engineers. Careers for energy and power engineers can be found in any field concerned with power systems, including storage, renewables, transportation, conservation, and more.

NANOENGINEERING & MICROENGINEERING

Nanoengineers and micro-engineers work to create power solutions at the size of 0.1 to 100 nanometers. Studying and applying knowledge of phenomena, processes, and materials at the nanoscale involves learning both inside and outside the standard electrical engineering canon. With disciplinary overlap with physics, chemistry, materials science, and biology, electrical engineers who focus on nano- or micro-technology can apply their knowledge to almost any industry.

Programs in electrical engineering with a nanotechnology focus exist at all levels of higher education, though nanotechnology at the bachelor’s level is still limited. Degrees in electrical engineering with a concentration in nanotechnology are available in on-campus, hybrid, and online formats. Some programs offer a broad concentration in nanotechnology, while other programs offer a specific realm of nanotechnology. University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Science has an MS in electrical engineering focusing on physical devices & nanosystems.

University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania’s M.S.E. program in electrical engineering provides students with the theoretical foundation and the interdisciplinary skills required for dealing with the new ideas and applications that are the hallmarks of modern electro science.

The program’s focus on physical devices & nanosystems requires successful completion of 10-course units. The curriculum includes courses such as electromagnetic & optical theory, nanoscale science & engineering, nanofabrication & nano-characterization, principles & practice of microfabrication technology, photovoltaic systems engineering, and quantum engineering.

Applicants for this program must have obtained a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school or university. Application requirements include a current resume, a compelled application, a personal statement, two official letters of recommendation, one transcript from each university or college attended, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students. GRE scores are optional.

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months
• Estimated Tuition: $7,884 per course-unit

Because of the novelty of the field, there is no specific PE exam for nanotechnology yet. Due to the broad range of applications, those hoping to work as a PE can take a PE exam in the engineering field most closely related to the field in which the engineer is working. Those pursuing nanotechnology can find themselves in various careers, including application engineering, research and development, product marketing, sales, and program management.

SYSTEMS & CONTROL ENGINEERING

Electrical engineers who concentrate on systems and control, design complex systems that have both human and non-human inputs to ensure that they work predictably and efficiently. Another multidisciplinary engineering specialization, systems and control engineers are generalists who can work from a big-picture perspective to bring together the work output of differentiated engineers.

Electrical engineers who pursue systems and control can work anywhere where there are large, complex systems to be analyzed and optimized including biological systems, industrial systems, environmental systems, transportation systems, computer systems, and more.

Students can pursue concentrations in systems and control at all levels of higher education both online and on-campus. While some programs offer systems and control as a specialization of electrical engineering, other programs (e.g., Case Western Reserve University) offer a degree specifically in systems and control engineering.

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers an online master of science in systems & control engineering preparing students for rewarding careers in multiple engineering fields. The program features multidisciplinary research and coursework in design, control, and systems analysis. Blending research with practical applications, this user-friendly online program enables students to connect with professors and classmates instantly.

For admission to the program, students require a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, a current resume, two letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency for international applicants.

The program’s structure requires students to complete 30 credits featuring coursework in leadership and interpersonal skills, digital signal processing, engineering economics & financial analysis, introduction to linear systems, digital control systems, advanced engineering analysis, and convex optimization for engineering.

• Location: Cleveland, OH
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Expected Time to Completion: 18 months
• Estimated Tuition: $39,000

For those hoping to attain status as a PE, there is an NCEES PE exam specifically in control systems engineering. Those hoping to increase credibility, expand their networks, or become more competitive in the job market can seek certification in systems and control engineering from the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE). Control engineers can find careers in a vast array of industries including energy and power, utilities, manufacturing, healthcare, information tech, and transportation, among others.

You’ll explore the physical and mathematical principles behind a wide variety of electrical engineering technologies, including electronics, transmission lines, communications, and computer engineering. You’ll gain a portfolio of highly marketable skills and earn your academic credentials for future licensing. Our students rank among the top in the nation on licensing exams given by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, and go on to design electronic products and develop communication networks for companies nationwide. Successful candidates enjoy employment in various industries including telecommunications and computer hardware manufacture. Some employers provide internships while others need volunteer work.