PhD in Computer Engineering

Our PhD programs in electrical engineering and computer engineering provide both post-bachelor’s and post-master’s applicants the opportunity for study in a broad range of areas, many of which overlap with other disciplines within the College and the University.

As an electrical or computer engineering PhD student, you will pursue theoretical and empirical studies in a topic area determined by your interests and those of your faculty research advisor. As a student in Boston, you will be in the midst of a vibrant high-tech research community where external collaborations with industry, government, and other universities are common. However, your experience will likely not be limited to Boston; PhD students are supported by the department to present their work at many key conferences around the world.

Completion of the PhD establishes a student’s ability to conduct independent basic or applied research, and prepares him or her for a career in academia, industry, or government. Students pursue theoretical and empirical studies in a topic area determined by their interests, faculty research areas, and departmental research facilities.

Doctoral program candidates should contact faculty members in the department to discuss their research plans (for contact information, email ecegrad@bu.edu or visit the Electrical & Computer Engineering website). Students admitted to the PhD program must first complete the department’s MS degree requirements.

In addition to fulfilling the MS degree program requirements, all PhD students must enroll for an additional 32 units (eight courses) at the graduate level (500 level or above). Post-master’s PhD students are required to complete 32 graduate units (eight courses) beyond their MS work. In addition to an oral prospectus defense and final dissertation defense, students must pass a written comprehensive examination covering basic knowledge in electrical and computer engineering and fulfill the department’s mathematics requirement.

All PhD students are required to fulfill their math requirement no later than the end of their fourth academic semester. The guidelines are as follows.

For post-BS students: complete with a grade of B+ or better one of the following:

• EE or CE: EK 501
• EE: EC 501, EC 505, EC 515, EC 516, EC 574
• CE: EC 504, EC 533, EC 534, EC 541, EC 561

For post-MS students: post-BS requirement or submit evidence of successful completion of B+ or better of equivalent course as determined by the ECE Graduate Committee.

More information:

• Admissions
• Degree requirements
• Financial aid