Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

This master's programme focuses on the theory and practice of modern communications systems, combining coursework and optional research or project work. Core topics commonly covered include digital communications, information theory, wireless and cellular systems, signal processing for communications, RF and microwave engineering, antenna design and electromagnetic compatibility.

• Digital Communications and Modulation Techniques
• Wireless Networks and Cellular Systems (including 4G/5G/next‑generation concepts)
• Signal Processing for Communications (filtering, estimation, detection)
• Information Theory and Channel Coding
• RF/Microwave Circuits and Antenna Design
• MIMO, OFDM and advanced multi‑antenna techniques
• Software‑Defined Radio and Embedded Communications Systems
• Elective topics: machine learning for communications, optical communications, networked control systems, and cybersecurity for communication networks

Students typically choose between a coursework (non‑thesis) option, a project option or a research‑oriented thesis, with opportunities to work alongside faculty in laboratory environments. Hands‑on experience is emphasised through laboratory courses and capstone projects using software‑defined radio platforms, RF test equipment and signal‑processing toolchains.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics, computer engineering or a closely related discipline. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, curriculum background in mathematics, signals and systems, and electromagnetics, plus supporting documents.

• Academic transcripts showing completion of foundational undergraduate coursework
• Statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant experience
• Evidence of English language proficiency for international applicants (such as TOEFL or IELTS) when applicable

The programme is competitive and applicants with relevant research experience, internships in communications or demonstrated project work in signal processing or RF design strengthen their applications. Some applicants may be advised to take prerequisite undergraduate courses before full matriculation if gaps in core preparation are identified.

Career prospects

Graduates from the communications stream find roles across telecommunications, semiconductor companies, defence and aerospace, networking equipment vendors, and startups focused on IoT and wireless systems. Typical job titles include:

• RF/Systems Engineer
• Wireless Communications Engineer
• Signal Processing Engineer
• Network Architect or Systems Integrator
• Test and Validation Engineer for communications hardware
• Algorithm Engineer (coding, MIMO, channel estimation)

Many graduates also continue to doctoral study or move into R&D roles where they contribute to standards development, advanced wireless research and product development. The programme’s technical depth prepares students for both hands‑on engineering positions and roles that bridge engineering and product development.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University houses a focused electrical and computer engineering community that emphasises both fundamental research and applied engineering. Students benefit from working with faculty who have active research programmes in communications, signal processing, RF/microwave systems and related areas, and from access to well‑equipped laboratories for hands‑on experimentation.

• Close faculty mentorship and opportunities to participate in research projects.
• Access to specialised labs and test facilities for RF, antenna and wireless systems development.
• Connections to regional industry and research partners in telecommunications, semiconductors and defence, facilitating internships and collaborative projects.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities across departments (for example, computer science, systems engineering and applied mathematics).

These strengths make the programme suitable for students seeking rigorous technical training that is tightly connected to contemporary communications engineering challenges and industry practice.