About the PhD Program
Our PhD program consists of formal courses and original research
conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor (or advisors). The
first academic year concentrates on foundation coursework and focuses
on a research area. Each student must successfully complete a project
in his or her chosen area of research. This project is in lieu of an
oral or written "qualifying exam." In addition to enabling the faculty
to evaluate the student's research potential, the project will
encourage timely completion of the MS degree. After the first year,
research occupies the majority of the student's time and is conducted
on a full-time basis. The ECE department does NOT offer a terminal MS
degree.
The student must complete a master's thesis and successfully defend it
in an oral examination. This examination, along with satisfactory
performance in coursework and a statement from the prospective PhD
advisor, determines selection for PhD candidacy. Students who have
already acquired a master's degree elsewhere are still required to
complete a first-year project. A candidate for the PhD degree must
demonstrate independent, original research in electrical and computer
engineering. After successfully presenting a PhD research proposal and completion of all coursework, a student is eligible for PhD candidacy. The student engages in full-time research, culminating in
the public defense and completion of the PhD dissertation.