PRINCETON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Electrical and Computer Engineering Programs
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
—
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
Princeton University's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) offers advanced graduate studies, focusing on a Ph.D. program. While specific undergraduate courses are listed, the primary graduate admission is for doctoral candidates. The department encourages applications from students with diverse academic backgrounds who are interested in research and innovation in fields such as robotics, machine learning, quantum engineering, and communication systems. International students are welcome and encouraged to apply. The university provides significant financial support to admitted graduate students, covering tuition, health insurance, and a stipend. The Ph.D. program emphasizes a strong foundation in fundamental engineering principles, coupled with cutting-edge research opportunities. Students engage with faculty on state-of-the-art projects, contributing to advancements in areas critical to modern technology and science. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for impactful careers in academia, research, and industry.
Curriculum
The ECE department offers a wide range of courses covering fundamental and advanced topics. Undergraduate courses are typically numbered from 100 to 400, while graduate-level courses start from 400 and go up to 500. Not all courses are offered every year. Below is a sample of courses offered, categorized by level.
- 100 Level (Introductory)
- Introduction to Computing: Programming Autonomous VehiclesECE 115
- 200 Level (Undergraduate Core)
- Information SignalsECE 201
- Electronic Circuit Design Analysis and ImplementationECE 203
- Contemporary Logic DesignECE 206
- Renewable Engergy and Smart GridsECE 273
- Sophomore Independent WorkECE 297
- Sophomore Independent WorkECE 298
- 300 Level (Advanced Undergraduate/Graduate)
- Designing Real SystemsECE 301
- Robotic and Autonomous Systems LabECE 302
- Electronic Circuits: Devices to ICsECE 304
- Mathematics for Numerical Computing and Machine LearningECE 305
- Electronic and Photonic DevicesECE 308
- Solid-State DevicesECE 341
- Principles of Quantum EngineeringECE 342
- Introduction to RoboticsECE 345
- Intelligent Robotic SystemsECE 346
- Foundations of PhotonicsECE 351
- Machine Learning for Predictive Data AnalyticsECE 364
- Computer Architecture and OrganizationECE 375
- Introduction to Wireless Communication SystemsECE 368
- Networks: Friends, Money and BytesECE 381
- Statistical Signal ProcessingECE 382
- Introduction to Quantum ComputingECE 396
Careers
Graduates of the ECE Ph.D. program are prepared for leading roles in various sectors.
- Academic Research
- Industry Research and Development
- Engineering Leadership
- Scientific Innovation
Frequently asked questions
- What financial support is available for international PhD students in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Princeton?
- All admitted PhD students, including international students, receive full tuition, health insurance, and a generous stipend to cover living expenses. The stipend for the 2025-2026 academic year is $54,216.
- What are the application deadlines for the Electrical and Computer Engineering PhD program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1, 2025. Admission notifications are typically sent out by late February or early March.
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants may need to provide official scores from TOEFL (Institution Code 2672), IELTS, or DET if required by Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy.
- What qualifications are needed to apply for the PhD program in Electrical and Computer Engineering?
- A strong academic background in a relevant field like chemistry, physics, mathematics, or engineering is expected. The Admission Committee holistically reviews applications, considering previous coursework and research experience.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing the ECE PhD program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in academic research, industry research and development, engineering leadership, and scientific innovation.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeWhile no rigid prerequisites are stated, a strong academic background in a relevant field (such as chemistry, physics, mathematics, or engineering) is expected. The Admission Committee evaluates all aspects of an application, including previous coursework and research experience.
TOEFLOfficial scores required if applicable, use Institution Code 2672.
IELTSOfficial scores required if applicable.
DETOfficial scores required if applicable.
Applications are reviewed holistically. Promising applicants may be invited for an interview. Spring admission is not available; applications are only accepted for the fall term.
Fees
Tuition (international)Covered by financial support.
Tuition (home)Covered by financial support.
LivingA generous stipend is provided to cover living expenses.
All admitted Ph.D. students receive full tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.
How to apply
1. Complete the Application FormFill out the online web-based application for graduate admission.
2. Submit TranscriptsProvide scanned copies of transcripts from your college or university.
3. Obtain Letters of RecommendationArrange for three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
4. Provide English Proficiency ScoresSubmit official scores from TOEFL (Institution Code 2672), IELTS, or DET, if required by Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy.
5. Submit ApplicationSubmit the completed application by the deadline.
Scholarships
University Stipend$54,216 (for 2025-2026 academic year)
External FellowshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What financial support is available for international PhD students in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Princeton?
+
All admitted PhD students, including international students, receive full tuition, health insurance, and a generous stipend to cover living expenses. The stipend for the 2025-2026 academic year is $54,216.
What are the application deadlines for the Electrical and Computer Engineering PhD program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1, 2025. Admission notifications are typically sent out by late February or early March.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants may need to provide official scores from TOEFL (Institution Code 2672), IELTS, or DET if required by Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy.
What qualifications are needed to apply for the PhD program in Electrical and Computer Engineering?
+
A strong academic background in a relevant field like chemistry, physics, mathematics, or engineering is expected. The Admission Committee holistically reviews applications, considering previous coursework and research experience.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing the ECE PhD program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in academic research, industry research and development, engineering leadership, and scientific innovation.