Graduate Degree Options

Master of Engineering

Electrical and Computer Engineering (MEng ECE)

This degree program is designed without required courses to allow for maximum technical specialization. Classes are kept small to encourage interaction with your student cohort, your professors and your industry collaborators. These networks are reinforced through career advising and placement, access to alumni and industry connections, and other support. Upon completion, you earn the Master of Engineering degree in ECE, reflecting an integrated understanding of technology, practice, and leadership.

To complete the MEng ECE degree, students must earn a C or better in 30 electrical and computer engineering course credits and pass a comprehensive exam.

Course Number and Title	Credits
Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Courses	18-30
Other Graduate Courses (Graduate courses in electrical and computer engineering or a related field)	0-12
ECE 690 Master’s Comprehensive Examination (P/F)	1
Total	31

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woman holding a paper and pen in a classroom

2 people in an electrical and computer engineering lab

A Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS ECE) is an excellent choice for students seeking research experience with their graduate credentials. Designed for maximum flexibility, the MS ECE requires 24 graduate course credits in electrical and computer engineering (and related disciplines such as computer science or mathematics), culminating with a written thesis and oral presentation.

Master of Science

Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS ECE)

Course Number and Title	Credits
Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Courses	15-24
Other Graduate Courses (Graduate courses in electrical and computer engineering or a related field)	0-9
ECE 593 Thesis (P/F)	6
Total	30

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woman in an electrical and computer engineering classroom

As the terminal degree in the discipline, a doctor of philosophy in electrical and computer engineering (PhD ECE) requires coursework, a comprehensive examination, written dissertation, and oral presentation. Successful candidates will conduct independent research leading to a contribution that enhances state-of-the-art ECE research and knowledge.

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Doctor of Philosophy

Electrical and Computer Engineering (PhD ECE)

Course Number and Title	Credits
Core Sequence – choose 3 courses from the following: ECE 500 Applied Electromagnetics ECE 510 Digital Integrated Circuit Physical Design ECE 520 Advanced Device Design and Simulation ECE 530 Digital Hardware Design ECE 540/L Intro to Integrated Circuit Processing ECE 572 Power Electronics ECE 650 Stochastic Signals and Systems ECE 660 Linear Systems	9
Major Area	12-15
Minor Area	6-9
Electives	7
ECE 691 Doctoral Comprehensive Examination	1
ECE 689 Dissertation Proposal	1
ECE 693 Dissertation	24-30
Total	66

Admission Standards

Admissions are competitive and based on each applicant’s academic merit and potential. These qualifications are determined from the application materials, including official transcripts, GRE and TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable), personal statement, resume or curriculum vita, and letters of recommendation. Students applying to the Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy programs must also have confirmed research advisor(s).

Minimum Requirements

All applicants are required to have earned a baccalaureate degree or master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university, or a degree from a non-U.S. institution of higher education that is judged equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree or master’s degree by the International Admissions Office.
A GPA of 3.0/4.0 computed for all undergraduate credits from the applicant’s most relevant baccalaureate degree
GRE scores submitted directly to Boise State
- Minimum GRE performance > 70th percentile. In general, successful applicants will have a total score of at least 300 and a score of 150 in the quantitative portion.
- Applicants who have received their master’s degree may submit their previous official GRE scores if they are still valid. Scores must be sent by ETS directly to Boise State.
- School code: R4018
International graduate applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to be considered for admission to Boise State. There are several approved ways for applicants to demonstrate English proficiency. Please refer to the International Admissions Office website for current test score requirements.

Recommended Qualifications

A GPA greater than 3.50/4.0 in the last two years of undergraduate course work.
Quantitative (GRE-Q) above the 70th percentile, and verbal and analytical writing (GRE-V and GRE-W) both above the 30th percentile. For example, a score of 330 total and 165 quantitative, or better, is considered excellent.
Strong letters of recommendation and consistent ratings of the applicant in the “top 10%” of the listed categories.
A well-written personal statement that identifies a potential mentor(s) and the desired area of research or track of specialization. In addition, the personal statement should clearly explain the applicant’s motivation and commitment to acquiring a Ph.D. and the character traits they feel they possess which will allow them to complete a doctoral degree (e.g. grit/perseverance, work ethic, self-discipline, curiosity, confidence, time management).
A resume or curriculum vita that conveys relevant previous research experience, including publications or other projects that require the technical skills necessary to work effectively in their research area of interest.

Application & Transcript Status

Review this guide from the Graduate College to learn how to check the status of your graduate application, check on your transcripts, and log in to manage outstanding tasks: boisestate.edu/graduatecollege/howtoapply/application-status

Graduate Programs

Electrical and Computer Engineering