PhD in Electrical Engineering

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As a rule, applicants who wish to undertake research work leading to a degree of Doctor of Philosophy in electrical engineering are admitted initially only for the MSEE. They are, however, evaluated according to additional criteria, the most important of which is the applicant's interest in and potential for research in one of the areas described below. The statement of purpose required as part of the application should clearly address this match. Considerable weight is also given to the opinions expressed in the applicant's letters of recommendation. During the Ph.D. applicant's master's degree year, evaluation continues. It is based in part on performance in courses and in part on a qualifying oral examination scheduled early in the second quarter. As the year progresses, the electrical engineering faculty get to know the student, and the student makes contact with the professor in his or her area of research interest. Upon acceptance into a research group, the student begins research work and defers receiving the master's degree until formal admission into the Ph.D. program. If the Adviser is not an EE faculty member, the student should meet with the EE Option Representative and develop an oversight plan to monitor progress. Before the end of his or her third academic year of graduate study, the student takes the Ph.D. oral candidacy examination.