INDIAN INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE · INDIA
Ph.D. in Electrical Communication Engineering
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
72 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4-6 yearsTypical Program Duration
- Dissertation based on original researchProgram Focus
- Collaboration with other universitiesInternational Opportunities
- Internship and placement assistanceCareer Support
- Financial support for conferencesResearch Funding
- Entrepreneurship support via SID and ARTPARKInnovation Opportunities
The Ph.D. program in Electrical Communication Engineering at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and extensive research experience in a specialized field. The core of the program involves conducting original research that culminates in a dissertation. Throughout the program, students participate in a Research Training Programme (RTP), which includes coursework and seminars designed to deepen their understanding of their chosen field. This rigorous training, combined with independent research, aims to produce peer-reviewed publications, patents, and innovative technologies with societal impact. Students also have opportunities for collaboration, international visits, internships, and financial support for attending conferences.
Curriculum
The Research Training Programme (RTP) is a mandatory component of the Ph.D. program. The number of course credits required varies based on the applicant's prior qualifications. This coursework is typically completed within the first two to three semesters, in consultation with an advisor. After completing the coursework, students must pass a comprehensive examination.
- Coursework
- Core and Elective Courses
- RTP Seminars
- Research
- Dissertation Research
- Comprehensive Examination
Careers
A Ph.D. from IISc's ECE department provides rigorous training for innovation in advanced fields, essential for academic positions and high-level industrial research. It enhances the ability to analyze the state-of-the-art and develop novel solutions for societal impact.
- Academic Positions
- Industrial Research Scientist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the typical program duration and focus for the Ph.D. in Electrical Communication Engineering?
- The Ph.D. program in Electrical Communication Engineering typically lasts 4-6 years and is based on original dissertation research. Students participate in a Research Training Programme (RTP) involving coursework and seminars before focusing on their research.
- What are the academic qualifications required to apply for this Ph.D. program?
- You need a minimum second-class Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Electronics Communication, Telecommunication, Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering, or Electrical Engineering. Alternatively, a Master's degree in Physics, Mathematics, Electronics, Computer Science, Statistics, or a Master's in Computer Applications is acceptable.
- How do I apply for the Ph.D. program and what is the application deadline?
- Applications are submitted through the IISc online admissions portal. The application submission deadline for the Autumn Intake is April 06, 2026. Shortlisted candidates are invited for a technical interview.
- Are there any scholarships or financial support available for Ph.D. students?
- Yes, several fellowships such as PMRF, Cisco CNI PhD Fellowship, Qualcomm Innovation Fellowship, and Intel India Research Fellowship are available. Some ECE PhD students were awarded PMRF in 2023, and other fellowships can be applied for after admission.
- What are the career prospects after completing this Ph.D. program?
- Graduates are prepared for academic positions and high-level industrial research scientist roles. The program also offers internship opportunities and placement assistance through OCCAP.
- Where can I find detailed information about tuition fees and living costs?
- Detailed fee structure and scholarship information, including tuition and living costs, are available on the official IISc website's Fees and Scholarships webpage.
Entry requirements
B.E./B.Tech. or equivalentMinimum second class in Electrical/Electronics Communication, Telecommunication, Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering.
M.Sc.Minimum second class in Physics, Mathematics, Electronics, Computer Science, or Statistics.
Master’s in Computer ApplicationsMinimum second class.
Candidates must also qualify for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) or other applicable tests. This qualification is desirable but not mandatory for candidates with a Master's degree in Engineering/Technology or an M.Sc. (Engg.). The GATE requirement is waived for students with a Bachelor's degree from a Centrally Funded Technical Institution (CFTI) with a CGPA of 8.0 or above.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the institute Fees and Scholarships webpage.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the institute Fees and Scholarships webpage.
LivingPlease refer to the institute Fees and Scholarships webpage.
Detailed fee structure and scholarship information are available on the official IISc website.
How to apply
1. Register and ApplyRegister and complete the application form on the IISc Online Admissions Application Portal.
2. Qualify in Entrance ExamsAppear for GATE or other relevant qualifying examinations. (Note: GATE is desirable but not mandatory for Master's degree holders. It is waived for CFTI Bachelor's graduates with a CGPA of 8.0+).
3. ShortlistingThe Department of ECE will shortlist candidates for a technical interview based on their cumulative academic performance.
4. Technical InterviewShortlisted candidates will be invited for an online technical video interview. Admission offers are based on interview performance.
5. Accept OfferOffers will be communicated via the Common Offer Admissions Portal (COAP).
Scholarships
PMRF (Prime Minister's Research Fellowship)—
Cisco CNI PhD Fellowship—
Qualcomm Innovation Fellowship—
Intel India Research Fellowship—
Frequently asked questions
What are the typical program duration and focus for the Ph.D. in Electrical Communication Engineering?
+
The Ph.D. program in Electrical Communication Engineering typically lasts 4-6 years and is based on original dissertation research. Students participate in a Research Training Programme (RTP) involving coursework and seminars before focusing on their research.
What are the academic qualifications required to apply for this Ph.D. program?
+
You need a minimum second-class Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Electronics Communication, Telecommunication, Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering, or Electrical Engineering. Alternatively, a Master's degree in Physics, Mathematics, Electronics, Computer Science, Statistics, or a Master's in Computer Applications is acceptable.
How do I apply for the Ph.D. program and what is the application deadline?
+
Applications are submitted through the IISc online admissions portal. The application submission deadline for the Autumn Intake is April 06, 2026. Shortlisted candidates are invited for a technical interview.
Are there any scholarships or financial support available for Ph.D. students?
+
Yes, several fellowships such as PMRF, Cisco CNI PhD Fellowship, Qualcomm Innovation Fellowship, and Intel India Research Fellowship are available. Some ECE PhD students were awarded PMRF in 2023, and other fellowships can be applied for after admission.
What are the career prospects after completing this Ph.D. program?
+
Graduates are prepared for academic positions and high-level industrial research scientist roles. The program also offers internship opportunities and placement assistance through OCCAP.
Where can I find detailed information about tuition fees and living costs?
+
Detailed fee structure and scholarship information, including tuition and living costs, are available on the official IISc website's Fees and Scholarships webpage.