University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in communications theory and practice with hands-on laboratory and project work. Students typically study topics such as digital and analog communications, information theory and coding, signal processing, wireless networks, RF and microwave engineering, antenna design, optical communications, and embedded systems for communications.

Study paths usually include a coursework-only option, a project option and a thesis option. Common core and elective modules include:

• Advanced Communication Systems – modulation, demodulation, multi‑carrier systems and practical system design.
• Digital Signal Processing – discrete-time systems, filter design, spectral analysis and real-time implementation.
• Information Theory and Coding – channel capacity, source and channel coding, error control techniques.
• Wireless Networks and Protocols – cellular systems, ad hoc and sensor networks, cross‑layer design.
• RF and Microwave Engineering – transmission lines, S‑parameters, circuit design and measurement techniques.
• Antennas and Propagation – antenna theory, array design and propagation effects for terrestrial and indoor environments.
• Optical Communications – fibre systems, multiplexing and photonic device fundamentals (elective).
• Communications Lab and Capstone – practical experiments, hardware-in-the-loop testing and a final project or thesis demonstrating design and analysis skills.

Students engage with laboratory modules and have access to research facilities to support prototyping and measurement work. Interdisciplinary electives from computer science, control systems and applied mathematics are commonly taken to support specialisation areas such as wireless networking, signal processing, or hardware design.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics, telecommunications, or a closely related field. Strong preparation in mathematics (calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics), circuits and signals is essential.

Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from undergraduate study demonstrating relevant coursework.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé summarising academic and relevant industrial experience.
• Statement of purpose outlining academic objectives and research or career interests.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and minimum scores follow university guidance).

Some applicants with strong industry experience in place of formal prerequisites may be considered; bridging courses can be required for those lacking core undergraduate preparation. Prospective research‑degree students are advised to identify faculty with matching research interests when applying.

Career prospects

Graduates move into technical roles across telecommunications, wireless infrastructure, semiconductor and RF industries, defence and aerospace, and networked systems for industry and smart cities. Typical job titles include communications engineer, RF/microwave engineer, signal processing engineer, systems or network engineer, and embedded systems designer.

Other graduates pursue research and development positions in corporate labs, product development teams at equipment vendors, startups in IoT and wireless services, or continue to doctoral study in areas such as wireless communications, machine learning for signal processing, or photonics.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers this programme within an engineering school known for strong experiential learning and engineering design. The university’s cooperative education tradition and industry engagement provide opportunities to gain practical experience alongside academic study.

Students benefit from access to departmental laboratories and instrumentation for RF, microwave and signal processing experimentation, as well as collaborative projects with faculty across electrical engineering, computer science and related disciplines. Local and regional industry partnerships create avenues for internships, capstone projects and applied research collaborations. The programme emphasises translating theoretical knowledge into practical systems, preparing graduates for immediate technical impact in industry or a smooth transition into research careers.