The Master of Science (M.S.) program in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at UC Santa Cruz offers advanced study and research opportunities. The program is structured around four core areas: Electronic Circuits and Energy Systems, Photonic and Electronic Devices, Robotics, Control, and Cyber-Physical Systems, and Signals, Image Processing, and Communication Systems. Students select a core area that aligns with their research interests. The curriculum allows for specialization within a chosen area while also encouraging breadth of knowledge across related fields. The program offers three completion options: a thesis (Plan I), a comprehensive examination (Plan II A), or a project (Plan II B). Students are admitted to the comprehensive examination track by default but can opt for the thesis or project track by nominating a faculty advisor within their first academic year.
The M.S. program requires 45 credits, with specific requirements for core area courses, ECE graduate courses, and courses from other departments. Up to 25 credits can be taken outside of the Baskin Engineering school with authorization. Independent study and seminar credits have limitations on how they count towards the total ECE course requirements.
Graduates of the Electrical and Computer Engineering M.S. program are prepared for diverse career paths in technical fields. The program's core areas provide specialized knowledge applicable to various industries.
Residency for tuition purposes is determined by completing the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR). Deadlines apply for SLR submission and document submission to ensure accurate fee assessment. Failure to submit the SLR may result in nonresident status and ineligibility for retroactive fee adjustments. International students may qualify for a Nonresident Tuition Exemption if they meet specific criteria.
The program is structured around four core areas: Electronic Circuits and Energy Systems, Photonic and Electronic Devices, Robotics, Control, and Cyber-Physical Systems, and Signals, Image Processing, and Communication Systems.
Students can choose between a thesis (Plan I), a comprehensive examination (Plan II A), or a project (Plan II B) for program completion.
The M.S. program requires a total of 45 credits. Specific requirements include core area courses, ECE graduate courses, and courses from other departments.
International students should refer to the Graduate Student Costs & Budget page on the university website for the most current tuition and fee information.
The deadline for graduate students to submit the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) is July 1.
Students pursuing the Thesis (Plan I) or Project (Plan II B) track must nominate a faculty advisor no later than the end of their first academic year.