Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering program provides students with rigorous training in the foundational concepts and methodologies of electrical and computer engineering for specialized research areas. It aims to empower graduates with the skills to independently conduct significant research and effectively communicate their findings and research proposals, ensuring they can contribute to the advancement of their field with clarity and precision.

Program Overview

Students can delve into a variety of study areas, including:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Communications
• Computer Engineering
• Control Systems
• Nanoscale and Quantum Electronics
• Electromagnetics
• VLSI
• Networks
• Optics and Photonics
• Power Systems
• Signal Processing

Degree Requirements

The program is meticulously structured to ensure an in-depth postgraduate experience.

• For those entering with a Master's degree, the journey involves 50 credit hours post-Master's, including 26 credit hours from advanced (500/400 level) courses and 24 from dissertation work.
• Essential to this path are 12 credit hours of specialized 500-level ECE courses, 3 credit hours in math, science, or engineering, and an ECE seminar.
• For direct-entry or accelerated PhD candidates, the requirement is 80 credit hours beyond the Bachelor's degree, with a similar distribution of advanced coursework and dissertation credits, including 18 credit hours of 500-level ECE courses.
• In both tracks, selections from outside the ECE domain are welcomed upon approval, with a cap on online courses.
• Core courses from a Master's program may count towards these requirements, ensuring that every student builds a robust foundation to advance in their chosen research area, in line with Graduate School standards.

Qualifying Examinations

Once the foundational coursework is complete, PhD candidates are eligible to attempt the qualifying examination. This pivotal assessment has both a written and oral segment.

• Candidates must first assemble an examining committee, which includes ECBE faculty members and potentially the School Director.
• The written test spans three key ECBE areas, with committee members contributing questions.
• Following this, within a fortnight, the oral examination is conducted.
• A minimum score of 75% is required in each area of the written test, and the oral responses must be satisfactory.
• Candidates have a maximum of two opportunities to pass the exam, held typically in early February and September by the ECBE Graduate Studies Committee.

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.