Our PhD program prepares students for a research career in academia or industry. The program consists of formal courses and original research conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor, leading to a thesis. Students admitted to the PhD program with only a bachelors degree complete the Master of Science (MS) degree as part of their program. Our department also offers a stand-alone MS degree, but only on a case-by-case basis.  Most students who have a prior MS degree with a research thesis component can directly move to the PhD program and do not have to complete a Rice MS degree (and will have a reduced coursework requirements as well). Students with a MS degree without a thesis can avail a reduced coursework load (up to 4 course reduction in requirements). 

Learn more about our PhD Program.

A Professional Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MECE) can enhance and strengthen a career in industry. This degree is designed for the student who wishes to expand his or her engineering knowledge without completing a thesis. The degree emphasizes practical aspects of engineering, combined with management and communication coursework.

Learn more about the Professional Master's Program. 

Rice's Jones Graduate School of Business and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offer an MBA/MECE coordinated degree program. Designed to meet the growing demand for managers with technical expertise, this program trains students to apply management strategies that meet the needs of high-technology companies.

Visit the Jones Graduate School to learn more about the Coordinated MBA/MECE Program.