PhD in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (PhD)

The University of Denver connects academic study with professional preparation through internships, hands-on research, faculty mentorship, career coaching, and an extensive alumni network. Undergraduate students can choose from more than 100 majors and programs, add minors or concentrations, and pursue dual degrees that combine undergraduate and graduate study. Graduate options span business, engineering and computer science, international affairs, psychology, social work, education, law, natural sciences, mathematics, and other fields. Research engages students and faculty in areas including environmental challenges, mental health, childhood well-being, aging, public education, and sport.

DU’s urban campus sits near downtown Denver, with five residence halls, dining options, libraries, academic support, fitness facilities, arts venues, and more than 100 student-run clubs and organizations. The Newman Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and talks. Students also have access to the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus, a 720-acre site near Red Feather Lakes adjacent to the Roosevelt National Forest. Activities there include hiking, climbing, reflection, and programs connected to the university’s 4D Experience.

International students join a university where global learning is integrated into undergraduate and graduate education. The Office of International Education supports students through program selection, applications, and health and safety preparation. More than 100 DU Partner Programs offer study options in locations such as Kyoto, Italy, Tanzania, France, and Morocco. Undergraduate students commonly study abroad during the fall of their junior year, while short-term and faculty-led programs provide additional formats. Eligible students may receive help with study-abroad costs through the Cherrington Global Scholars benefit.

This doctoral programme prepares students to become independent researchers in electrical and computer engineering. The programme emphasizes original research in areas such as signal processing, embedded systems, and power electronics. Students work closely with faculty on projects that contribute new knowledge to the field. The degree leads to advanced research and academic positions in engineering.

Focus areas include Signal Processing, Embedded Systems, Power Electronics, Communication Systems, VLSI Design, Control Systems.

The programme requires a total of 72 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree, distributed across coursework, qualifying exams, dissertation research, and dissertation defense. Coursework must include core engineering subjects and advanced electives aligned with the student's research focus.

Graduates pursue careers as university faculty, research scientists in industry, and senior engineers in technology development.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or its international equivalent. A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required, or a 3.0 GPA in graduate coursework if a master's degree is held. International applicants must submit TOEFL, IELTS, C1 Advanced, or Duolingo English Test scores meeting the programme's minimum thresholds.

The programme totals about 72 credit hours. On-campus, full-time, typically four to six years. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 71% of applicants.