| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-12-15 | - |
Program Overview
The Electrical and Computer Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares students to become researchers, innovators, and leaders in the field. The program emphasizes creative and original approaches to problem-solving through research activity in cross-cutting themes such as data science, healthcare, and sustainability. Students typically complete the program in five years, with a focus on coursework, research, and dissertation completion. Graduates are employed in a wide range of industries and research institutions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Ph.D. degree program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison emphasizes creative and original approaches to solving problems through research activity. The department offers cross-cutting themes: data science, healthcare, mobile computing, security and infrastructure resilience, sensors and sensing, sustainability, applied electromagnetics and acoustics, communications, networks, privacy and security, solid state electronics and quantum technologies, machine learning, signal processing and information theory, computer systems and architecture, plasma science and fusion energy, energy systems, optics and photonics, optimization and control.
Objective
The objective of the program is to prepare students to become researchers, innovators, and leaders. They will be able to contribute to the advancement of knowledge, create new technologies, and solve challenging problems in the field of electrical and computer engineering.
Outline:
The program typically follows a five-year structure. In their first year, students take coursework in foundational areas of electrical and computer engineering. They also begin working on research projects with their faculty advisors. In their second and third years, students continue to take coursework and conduct research. They also prepare for their qualifying exams, which assess their readiness for the dissertation process. In their fourth and fifth years, students focus on completing their dissertations. They write a dissertation proposal, conduct original research, and defend their dissertations before a committee of faculty members.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods including:
- Coursework: Students must earn a B or better in all of their coursework.
- Research: Students must conduct original research and write a dissertation that is approved by their faculty advisor and the dissertation committee.
- Qualifying exams: Students must pass qualifying exams in two areas of electrical and computer engineering.
- Oral defense: Students must defend their dissertation before a committee of faculty members.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a team of highly qualified faculty members who are active in research and teaching. The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, labs, and project-based learning.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are employed in a wide range of industries and research institutions. They work as:
- Researchers
- Engineers
- Scientists
- Teachers
- Project managers
- Business analysts
- Consultants
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
Students with a bachelor's degree may apply directly to the ECE Ph.D. program.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements (https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/#english-proficiency).
