Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The curriculum builds a foundation in mathematics, physics and engineering fundamentals before moving to core electrical and electronic engineering topics. Early years emphasise calculus, linear algebra and introductory circuit theory. Core modules and learning activities typically include:

• Circuits and Electronics: analogue and digital circuit analysis, semiconductor devices, operational amplifiers and power electronics.
• Signals and Systems: continuous and discrete signals, Fourier methods, filtering and communication fundamentals.
• Electromagnetics: fields and waves, transmission lines and antennas for electronic systems.
• Digital Systems and Microprocessors: logic design, HDL, embedded systems, microcontroller programming and interfacing.
• Control Systems: feedback theory, modelling and design of control loops.
• Laboratory and Design: extensive lab work in circuit fabrication, PCB design, test and measurement, and hands‑on prototyping using instrumentation and rapid prototyping tools.
• Capstone Design Project: team‑based multidisciplinary project that integrates design, testing, documentation and presentation, often with industry sponsors.
• Electives and Technical Options: communications, power systems, robotics, semiconductor devices, photonics, machine learning for signal processing and other specialised topics.

Students also complete general education requirements to develop communication, ethics and business skills, and may choose minors or interdisciplinary courses in computer science, entrepreneurship or systems engineering. Co‑operative education placements and internships are strongly supported and commonly integrated into the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in mathematics and science. Typical academic preparation includes high‑level mathematics (including calculus) and physics; chemistry is also useful. Admissions assesses overall academic record, teacher recommendations and evidence of problem‑solving aptitude.

International applicants must present an equivalent secondary school diploma and demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or approved pathway. Applicants whose programmes differ in content or structure may be considered with appropriate preparatory coursework. Prospective transfer students should provide records of completed college coursework in calculus, physics and introductory engineering or technology subjects.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and engineering roles across sectors that rely on electronic and electrical systems. Common career paths include:

• Design and development engineer for consumer electronics, industrial controls or embedded systems
• Communications and signal processing engineer in telecommunications and networking
• Power and energy systems engineer in utilities or renewable energy firms
• Control systems and automation engineer for manufacturing and robotics
• Semiconductor and hardware test engineer in microelectronics
• Systems engineer, test and validation specialist, and technical project manager

Many graduates also pursue graduate study in electrical engineering, computer engineering or related fields, or move into product management and technical consulting roles. The programme’s co‑op and internship emphasis helps students build industry contacts and practical experience prior to graduation.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT emphasises experiential learning and industry collaboration, making it well suited for students who want practical engineering experience. The Kate Gleason College of Engineering provides modern teaching and research laboratories, maker spaces and access to instrumentation for electronics and embedded systems work. RIT’s established cooperative education programme offers extended, paid industry placements that integrate into the academic plan and help graduates transition into the workforce.

Students benefit from career services, active industry partnerships in regional and global technology sectors, and opportunities to participate in multidisciplinary projects, student design teams and entrepreneurship initiatives. The campus environment supports applied learning, with pathways to internships, undergraduate research and interdisciplinary study across computing, business and imaging sciences.