Electrical Engineering PhD

Degree Awarded: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Minimum Required Credits: 30.0
Co-op Option: None
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 14.1001
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 17-2071

About the Program

The PhD in Electrical Engineering prepares students to become innovators in advanced research and development across multiple technological domains.

Students design a personalized plan of study that integrates coursework, hands-on research, and interdisciplinary exploration. Courses are drawn from the department’s graduate offerings and may include approved electives from related fields such as physics, mathematics, and other engineering disciplines.

Doctoral candidates engage in faculty-guided research through laboratory work, sponsored projects, and collaborations with industry and government partners. Opportunities for applied learning include robotics testbeds, advanced computing facilities, and cybersecurity labs. The culminating doctoral dissertation allows students to contribute novel insights to high-impact areas, developing both deep expertise and leadership skills.

Graduates of the program pursue successful careers across academia, industry, and government. The program’s strong focus on technical rigor, scholarly research, and innovation prepares students for leadership in fields that drive societal and technological progress.

Drexel’s PhD in Electrical Engineering stands out for its integration of cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and commitment to experiential learning. Situated in a nationally recognized research university, the program provides access to world-class research centers and partnerships with leading technology firms and research institutions. Drexel’s legacy of cooperative education and applied research ensures that doctoral students graduate as both scholars and practitioners—ready to translate discovery into real-world impact.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact the School of Engineering

Admission Requirements

Applicants must satisfy general requirements for graduate admission, including a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for the last two years of undergraduate studies, as well as for any subsequent graduate work, and hold a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or the equivalent from an accredited college or university. A degree in science (physics, mathematics, computer science, etc.) is also acceptable. Applicants with degrees in sciences may be required to take a number of undergraduate engineering courses. An undergraduate degree earned abroad must be deemed equivalent to a US bachelor's.

Applicants for full-time PhD programs must take the GRE general test. Students whose native language is not English and who do not hold a degree from a US institution must take the TOEFL within two years before application.

For additional information on how to apply, visit Drexel's Admissions page for Electrical Engineering.

Degree Requirements

Post-Bachelor's PhD Student

Post-Master's PhD Student

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

• Demonstrate mastery of fundamental and emerging concepts in varied areas, including electrical engineering, robotics and autonomy, machine learning engineering, and cybersecurity.
• Apply analytical, computational, and experimental methods to identify, model, and solve complex technical challenges.
• Design and conduct original research that expands scientific knowledge and technological capability.
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences, working collaboratively across disciplines to address societal and industrial needs.
• Uphold ethical standards in research and professional practice, showing intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to lifelong learning.