University of Michigan

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework with sustained, original research under faculty supervision. Typical research areas include computer architecture and systems, embedded and cyber-physical systems, integrated circuit and VLSI design, hardware–software co‑design, computer networks, security and privacy, robotics and perception, and machine learning for systems. Students take graduate-level seminars and core courses to deepen theory and technical skills, then move into long-term research leading to a dissertation.

Programme structure commonly includes:

• Advanced coursework in topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, digital design, embedded systems, VLSI/IC design, networking, security, and machine learning.
• Research rotations or early-stage research projects to identify a dissertation advisor and research area.
• Qualifying or preliminary examinations to assess readiness for independent research.
• An approved dissertation proposal followed by sustained original research and a written thesis defended in an oral examination.
• Opportunities to teach or serve as a graduate instructor, and to collaborate across departments and interdisciplinary research centres.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science or a closely related discipline; many successful applicants also hold a relevant master’s degree. A strong academic record with substantial coursework in systems, electronics, programming, and mathematics (signal processing, discrete mathematics, probability and linear algebra) is important.

Typical application materials include:

• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong preparation in relevant undergraduate and/or graduate coursework.
• A research-focused statement of purpose outlining research interests and potential faculty matches.
• Letters of recommendation from academics or industrial supervisors who can speak to research potential.
• A CV listing research experience, publications, relevant projects and programming/hardware skills.
• Proof of English language proficiency where required.

Admissions committees place strong emphasis on research potential demonstrated through prior projects, publications, internships or close alignment with faculty research. Specific standardised test requirements and minimum grade expectations are set by the department and may vary; applicants should consult the department for current policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Computer Engineering pursue careers across academia, industry and government research. Common career paths include tenure‑track faculty positions, research scientist roles in corporate R&D labs, systems architect or lead engineer roles in semiconductor and hardware companies, senior positions in robotics and autonomous systems, and technical leadership in cloud, networking and machine‑learning infrastructure teams.

Other opportunities include founding or joining deep‑tech startups, working in national laboratories and research institutes, or taking interdisciplinary roles that bridge hardware and software in applied research and product development. The programme’s strong emphasis on original research and collaboration prepares graduates to lead complex technical projects and to translate research into deployable systems.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a highly collaborative research environment with a large and diverse faculty whose expertise spans core and emerging areas of computer engineering. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations across electrical engineering, computer science, robotics, data science and applied physics, with access to specialised laboratories, fabrication facilities and high‑performance computing resources.

Located in a vibrant research campus, the department maintains strong links with industry and government, providing students with internship and collaboration opportunities and exposure to real‑world problems. Doctoral students typically receive structured mentorship, competitive funding support through research and teaching assistantships or fellowships, and a supportive community that encourages publishing, conference participation and professional development.

Overall, the programme is designed to give doctoral candidates the technical depth, research experience and professional connectedness needed to become leaders in computer engineering research and innovation.