Program Overview

Electrical & Computer Engineering Master's Program

The Electrical & Computer Engineering Master's Program at the University of Colorado Boulder is designed to position students as leaders in the high-demand fields of electrical and computer engineering. The program offers two exciting tracks: a professional master's and a traditional master's.

Program Tracks

• Professional Master's: This industry-focused track prepares students for careers in high-demand fields such as AI, sustainable energy, quantum engineering, power electronics, and more. It is ideal for working engineers or students aiming to advance in industry through a coursework-only path.
• Traditional Master's: This track provides broader course options and is suitable for students interested in building their degree from specific interests or pursuing a research-based thesis.

Career Outcomes

• 90% of students obtain employment within six months of graduation.
• The program has a strong reputation, ranking #15 in Computer Engineering and #22 in Electrical Engineering among public graduate programs.

Curriculum

The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing students to tackle complex engineering challenges. Courses provide laboratory opportunities and emphasize project-based outcomes in a challenging but supportive environment, guided by world-renowned faculty. The program covers core competencies such as:

• Photonics and quantum engineering
• Learning, information, network, communication, and data sciences
• Computer engineering
• Systems and controls
• Electromagnetics, RF, and microwaves
• Power electronics
• Embedded systems engineering
• High-speed digital engineering
• Next-generation power & energy systems

Professional Specializations

The program offers several professional specializations:

• Embedded Systems Engineering: Develops a strong foundation in embedded systems design and architecture, IoT embedded firmware, compiler construction, computer-aided verification, and more.
• Power Electronics: Addresses the ongoing demand for skilled power electronics design engineers, covering power electronics fundamentals, resonant and soft switching techniques, digital controls, adjustable-speed AC design, grid integration of renewables, and more.
• Next-Generation Power & Energy Systems: Focuses on the integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid, covering power systems analysis and operations, renewable energy optimizations, data-driven decision making, photovoltaics, adjustable AC drives, and more.
• High-Speed Digital Engineering (HSDE): Focuses on signal integrity, power integrity, and electromagnetic compatibility, developing a strong foundation in the principles of HSDE and computational electromagnetics, signal integrity measurement, PCB design, S-parameters, and more.
• Quantum Engineering: Addresses the growing demand for engineers with expertise across quantum hardware and software systems, covering quantum computing architecture, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum information and communications.

Admissions Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related STEM field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (work experience and strong recommendations may offset a lower GPA).
• Statement of purpose outlining goals and interests.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Resume/CV highlighting relevant experience.

Application Deadlines

• Fall admission: February 15
• Spring admission: September 1

Costs & Financial Information

The program represents a valuable investment in career potential. While costs vary by program, residency status, and enrollment type, the university is committed to transparency in helping students plan for this important step.

• Tuition structure: Engineering master's programs have different rate structures based on program type, delivery method, and course load.
• ROI consideration: Most graduates recoup their educational investment within 2.5 years of completing their degree.
• Flexible options: Many programs offer part-time enrollment, allowing students to distribute costs while maintaining employment.

Faculty Spotlights

The program features renowned faculty members, including:

• Scott Diddams: Professor and Robert H. Davis Endowed Chair in Discovery Learning.
• Tamara Lehman: Assistant Professor, recognized for her work in strengthening hardware security.
• Juliet Gopinath: Alfred T. and Betty E. Look Endowed Professor, leading efforts in marine carbon dioxide removal and quantum remote sensing.
• Dragan Maksimovic: Distinguished Professor, Co-Director of CoPEC, and Charles Victor Schelke Endowed Professor, focusing on power electronics and its applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Program duration: Full-time students typically complete the master's degree in two years or less.
• Online options: Yes, for embedded systems engineering, power electronics, and next-generation power & energy systems subplans.
• TA, RA, GA, or GPTI opportunities: Professional master's students are eligible for hourly paid university roles but are not eligible for teaching assistant, resident advisor, graduate assistant, or graduate part-time instructorship roles that include tuition waivers.
• Switching between traditional MS and professional MS: Yes, students may apply to switch their master's degree program once during their time as a student.