University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The PhD programme is driven by original research and includes coursework to broaden and deepen technical foundations. Core topics commonly studied by doctoral candidates include advanced computer architecture, embedded and real-time systems, digital and mixed-signal design, machine learning for hardware, high-performance and parallel computing, networked and cyber-physical systems, and hardware security.

Programme structure typically comprises a combination of graduate-level coursework, qualifying examinations, a research proposal, and a doctoral dissertation. Coursework is tailored in consultation with an adviser and may include seminars and specialised electives such as VLSI design, FPGA implementation, distributed systems, operating systems for embedded devices, sensors and actuators, and advanced algorithms. Students also participate in research group meetings, teaching or mentoring duties, and professional development activities such as presenting at conferences.

• Advanced coursework in chosen specialisms
• Research rotations or early-stage projects to identify dissertation topics
• Qualifying/comprehensive examinations to demonstrate subject mastery
• Doctoral research leading to a written dissertation and oral defence

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example, MEng, MSc, or MS) in computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a closely related field. Exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may also be considered.

• A strong academic record in undergraduate and graduate study; transcripts are required.
• A research statement describing proposed areas of interest and prior research experience.
• Letters of recommendation (typically two or three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential.
• A CV/resume outlining technical skills, publications, and project experience.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test unless exempted by university policy.
• Some applicants may be asked to submit GRE scores or complete an interview with potential faculty advisers, depending on the department’s current admissions practices.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Computer Engineering pursue a variety of career paths. Many move into faculty positions at universities and colleges, taking on teaching and independent research programmes. Others join industrial research and development groups in sectors such as semiconductor design, embedded systems, telecommunications, autonomous systems, cybersecurity and cloud computing.

Additional career destinations include national and federal research laboratories, start-up companies where doctoral-level technical leadership is needed, and technical management roles that bridge engineering and product development. Typical job titles held by alumni include research scientist, principal engineer, systems architect, machine learning hardware engineer, and university professor.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a research-oriented environment within its engineering college, where doctoral students work closely with faculty on funded projects and interdisciplinary initiatives. Students benefit from access to departmental laboratories, computing resources and opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and government agencies in the region.

UND emphasises mentorship and professional development for graduate students, including teaching experience, conference travel support and assistance in grant writing and publication. The campus location provides a balance of focused academic life and connections to regional technology and aerospace sectors, supporting practical research applications and post-graduation employment networks.

Financial support is frequently available to qualified PhD students in the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships, which help integrate students into the department’s research programmes while providing practical experience in research and instruction.