Program Overview

MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering

The MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering (EECE) at Western Washington University is a flexible, high-impact program designed for engineers who want to deepen their technical expertise, collaborate with faculty experts, and prepare for leadership in industry, research, or academia.

At a Glance

Degree Type

Master of Science

Total Credits

45

Degree Requirements

University Catalog

Why pursue an MS in EECE at WWU?

• Flexible Pathways – Designed for both full-time students and working professionals, with part-time enrollment options.
• Accessible Courses – Most classes offered in-person and remotely, offering the flexibility of a low-residency program without losing the benefits of face-to-face connection.
• Convenient Schedule – Courses are offered in small, interactive classes that meet in the evenings, so you can balance graduate study with work and family commitments.
• Research Project – Every student completes a faculty-supervised research project, which may be integrated with your employer's work.
• Expert Faculty & Close Mentorship – Learn directly from professors with expertise across diverse areas of electrical and computer engineering.
• Funding Opportunities – Limited TA positions each term and possible RA positions with faculty grants.
• Community & Mentorship – Small cohorts, close faculty engagement, and a collaborative learning environment.
• Location – Join a collaborative learning environment rooted in the Pacific Northwest.

Curriculum Overview

• Core Courses (12 credits). Take three graduate-level EECE courses alongside your cohort, exploring advanced fundamentals that form the foundation of electrical and computer engineering practice and research.
• Elective EECE Courses (12 credits). Choose three graduate-level electives in your areas of interest.
• Graduate Seminar (3 credits). Participate in three quarters of seminar designed to sharpen professional skills and research readiness.
• Graduate Research Project (10 credits). Work closely with faculty mentors on a substantial research project that integrates theory and practice.
• Technical Electives (8 credits). Customize your path with electives from EECE, computer science, mathematics, or related disciplines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a thesis-based Master's program? Can I pursue a Ph.D. after completing this master's program?

The MS in EECE is officially a non-thesis program, but every student completes a master's research project that closely parallels the thesis experience. This process provides rigorous research training and professional communication experience. Many graduates go directly into industry, but the skills gained through the research project also prepare students to continue on to a Ph.D. program if they choose.

Since many of the courses are offered remotely, is it possible to complete the MS program entirely remotely?

While most of the EECE graduate courses are offered in remote-friendly formats in the evening, the MS program is not a fully online or distance-delivered program. Requirements such as exams in some courses, use of specialized instrumentation, presentations, or certain elective courses may require occasional on-campus attendance.

Are TA positions available? What benefits do TAs receive, and what is the workload?

Yes, for full-time on-campus students, there are a limited number of teaching assistantships available. TA positions include a quarterly stipend and a full tuition waiver for each quarter of the academic year. The workload for each TA is approximately 20 hours per week. TAs receive valuable experience working closely with students in lab settings.