The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is at the forefront of technological innovation, preparing students to design, analyze, and improve the systems that power modern life. With a curriculum grounded in mathematics, physics, and computing, students gain a strong technical foundation while exploring specialized areas such as artificial intelligence, embedded systems, semiconductor engineering, and renewable energy. Hands-on learning is a key component, with lab courses, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary electives allowing students to develop both technical expertise and problem-solving skills. Whether pursuing careers in industry or advanced research, graduates are equipped to become leaders in their fields.
Electrical engineering focuses on the design and development of systems essential to a wide range of industries. Electrical engineers create technologies such as semiconductor chips, mobile computing systems, wind, solar, and fusion power generators, robotic actuators, medical imaging devices, electric vehicles, and avionics. They also develop algorithms that enable these systems to function efficiently. The curriculum covers fundamental principles, providing students with the ability to analyze, design, and improve these systems throughout their careers. Technical electives allow students to specialize in emerging fields while gaining practical experience through laboratory courses and design projects.
Computer engineering bridges hardware and software, focusing on the design and manufacturing of computing systems that drive modern technology. Computer engineers work with cutting-edge semiconductor technologies to develop hardware for applications ranging from consumer electronics to defense systems. They also design and optimize systems that process, store, and communicate digital information, with applications in wearable technology, cloud computing, embedded systems, and artificial intelligence. The program includes coursework in digital systems, circuits, and programming, enabling students to develop both theoretical and practical expertise. Like electrical engineering, computer engineering offers opportunities for specialization, hands-on learning, and research in rapidly evolving fields.
Technical elective freedom in both curricula makes it possible for students to choose from approximately 50 specialized courses at the junior and senior levels in electrical and computer engineering areas, as well as courses from other departments. In both curricula, students can choose a broad program covering an introductory treatment of a variety of areas or focus in one or two specialized areas. Students in both degrees have the opportunity to pursue transcripted named options in Machine Learning and Data Science or in Semiconductor Engineering.
Resources and Scholarships
Facilities
Facilities available for instruction and research include:
CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) and ECE Laboratory Computers
Center for Plasma Theory and Computation Computers
Cross-Disciplinary Electromagnetics Laboratory
Digital Engineering Lab
Digital Logic and Microprocessor Lab
Electronics Lab
Embedded Systems Lab
Grainger Electric Machines and Power Lab
High-Frequency Engineering Lab
HSX Plasma Laboratory
Integrated Circuit Facility
Lab for Molecular Scale Engineering
Photonics Lab
Plasma Processing & Technology Laboratory
Plexus Collaboratory
Power Electronics Lab
Qualcomm Design Labs
Signal Processing Lab
Vacuum Electronic Devices Lab
Wisconsin Advanced Network Design, Experimentation, and Research (WANDER) Lab