Electrical and Computer Engineering

Program Overview

The Electrical and Computer Engineering graduate program at UIC offers MS and PhD degrees in various areas, including power grids, data science, robotics, and quantum computing. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in theoretical concepts combined with practical applications and hands-on experience. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, industry, and academia, and benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration, state-of-the-art facilities, and financial assistance opportunities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UIC offers graduate programs leading to Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The department boasts a comprehensive range of courses and research opportunities in various areas, including:

• Power and smart grids
• Electromagnetics
• Hardware security
• Smart devices
• Data science and machine learning
• Robotics
• Signal processing
• Wireless communications
• Networking and Internet of Things
• Quantum computing
The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful researchers, engineers, and leaders in their chosen field. The Master's program typically requires the completion of 30 credit hours, including coursework and a thesis. The Doctoral program typically requires the completion of 72 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation.

Coursework:

Students are required to take a set of core courses covering fundamental concepts in various areas of electrical and computer engineering. Additionally, they can choose elective courses to specialize in their chosen area of research.

Thesis/Dissertation:

The thesis/dissertation project is a significant component of the program, allowing students to demonstrate their research skills and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen field.

Research:

The department offers a vibrant research environment with numerous faculty members actively engaged in research projects. Students have the opportunity to participate in ongoing research projects and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.

Assessment:

Student performance in the program is evaluated through various methods, including:

• Coursework: Assessment may include exams, assignments, projects, and presentations.
• Thesis/Dissertation: The thesis/dissertation is evaluated by a committee of faculty members based on its originality, depth of research, and quality of writing.
• Qualifying Exams: PhD students are required to pass qualifying exams, which assess their understanding of fundamental concepts and their ability to conduct research.
• Comprehensive Exams: PhD students are required to pass comprehensive exams, which assess their mastery of the chosen field of specialization.

Teaching:

The program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These methods include:

• Lectures: Traditional lectures are used to introduce fundamental concepts and theoretical frameworks.
• Discussions: Interactive discussions allow students to delve deeper into specific topics and engage in critical thinking.
• Labs: Hands-on labs provide students with practical experience and allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
The faculty members in the department are experts in their respective fields and are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality educational experience. They are actively involved in research and bring their expertise and insights into the classroom.

Careers:

Graduates of the Electrical and Computer Engineering program at UIC are well-prepared for successful careers in various fields, including:

• Research and Development: Many graduates pursue careers in research and development, working for universities, government agencies, and private companies.
• Industry: Graduates are highly sought after by companies in various industries, including electronics, telecommunications, software, energy, and healthcare.
• Academia: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in academia, teaching and conducting research at universities and colleges.
The program provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in various career paths and contribute to the advancement of technology and society.

Other:

The program offers several unique features, including:

• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Students have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty and students from other departments and colleges, fostering a cross-disciplinary learning environment.
• State-of-the-art facilities: The department provides access to cutting-edge laboratories and equipment, allowing students to conduct research and gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies.
• Professional development opportunities: The program offers various workshops, seminars, and career fairs to help students develop professional skills and prepare for their future careers.
• Financial assistance: The department offers a variety of financial assistance options, including scholarships, fellowships, and teaching assistantships, to help students offset the cost of their education.