University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines theoretical foundations with hands-on laboratory and research experience. Students follow a blend of core and elective courses that typically cover digital communications, information theory and coding, wireless networks, radio-frequency and microwave engineering, antennas and propagation, and digital signal processing. Supporting modules often include probability and stochastic processes for engineers, advanced electromagnetics, embedded systems and hardware implementation, and communication system design.

Programme structures commonly offer both thesis and non-thesis (coursework/project) routes. The thesis route emphasises independent research under faculty supervision and culminates in a written thesis and defence. The non-thesis route emphasises advanced coursework and a capstone design or applied project. Laboratory work and project modules provide practical experience with RF test equipment, software-defined radio, FPGA/DSP prototyping and antenna measurement systems. Students may also take specialised topics or seminars reflecting active faculty research areas.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A strong foundation in mathematics, circuits, signals and systems, and basic communications is typically required. Applicants who lack some prerequisites may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete specified undergraduate courses.

Admission normally requires academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career objectives, and letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or other university-accepted evidence. The department considers prior academic performance, relevant coursework, and any practical experience or research when making offers. Financial support in the form of research or teaching assistantships may require a separate application or faculty match.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for technical and engineering roles in telecommunications, wireless and mobile systems, satellite and space communications, radar and defence electronics, Internet-of-Things (IoT) device development, and signal-processing applications. Typical job titles include communications engineer, RF/microwave engineer, systems engineer, design engineer, embedded systems engineer and network engineer. The programme also provides a solid foundation for students who wish to continue to doctoral research or to move into engineering management, technical consultancy or product development roles.

Alumni find employment with commercial telecommunications firms, electronics manufacturers, aerospace and defence contractors, research laboratories, and government agencies, as well as in start-ups and technology consultancies. The programme’s combination of practical laboratory experience and research supervision helps students develop a portfolio of projects and technical depth valued by employers.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota’s Electrical and Computer Engineering faculty offer focused expertise across communications, RF/microwave systems and signal processing, enabling close student–faculty collaboration. The department provides access to modern teaching and research facilities, including RF test laboratories, software-defined radio platforms and embedded systems labs, allowing students to turn theory into practical systems.

Small cohort sizes and an emphasis on applied research create opportunities for individual supervision, interdisciplinary collaboration and industry engagement. UND’s regional partnerships with aerospace, energy and telecommunications organisations, together with on-campus research centres, support internships and project placements. For students seeking graduate assistantships, UND routinely advertises research and teaching positions that provide financial support while developing teaching and research skills.