Besides emphasizing computer hardware and software, the ECE curriculum also emphasizes design, integration, implementation and application of computer systems, as well as experience in software development. This is achieved through a sequence of required courses in these areas, culminating in a major design project incorporating realistic engineering constraints. The curriculum also provides opportunities for specialization in areas such as compiler design, embedded systems, software engineering, and VLSI design, as well as in the electrical engineering specialties. ECE graduates will have attained other professional skills that will be useful throughout their careers, including verbal and written communication, and the ability to function on multidisciplinary teams. The ECE curriculum is rich in laboratory work. ECE graduates will have achieved extensive practical experience in the laboratory techniques, tools and skills that provide a bridge between theory and practice.
ECE graduates experience a curriculum that contains a broad core of classes focused on mathematical and physical principles that are fundamental to the fields of electrical and computer engineering. Hence, they understand the physical and mathematical principles underlying electrical and electronic technology, and computer systems, and are able to analyze and solve electrical and computer engineering problems using this knowledge. In addition to basic classes in mathematics, science, and computing, the ECE curriculum includes a sequence of courses in analog and digital electronic circuits and systems, electromagnetic fields, probability, computer software, and computer design and architecture.