Welcome! We are excited to share the graduate study opportunities that our department offers. MSU is among the top 3 percent of colleges and universities in the nation for research expenditures, and has Carnegie classification for very high research activity.

To explore all graduate degrees offered at MSU, visit the Programs and Degree portal.

Degrees Offered

The Ph.D. is a research-intensive degree that emphasizes discovery and creation of new knowledge and technology, preparing graduates for careers in industry, government, and academic research and development.  

The Master of Engineering degree offers a shortened master's track for students concentrating in an area of study. Rather than completing a research thesis or professional paper, students in this program focus on completing 30 course credits, typically within 18 months. This program is well suited for students continuing directly from a bachelor's degree who want less focus on research, as well as practicing engineers seeking additional credits and toward professional licensure.

Students in this program are often employed in local industry.

The Master of Science in Electrical Engineering is a research-focused degree in any of the department research areas, combining coursework with a research project that is reported in a thesis or professional paper.

The Master of Science in Optics and Photonics is a research-focused degree that emphasizes optical engineering and science, with coursework and a research project that is reported in a thesis or professional paper.

MS Optics and Photonics home

Research Opportunities

See our department's research webpage to learn about our research focus areas, research facilities, faculty research interests, and new developments.

We also invite you to fill out our department's graduate program information request form, which can help us provide information about faculty who share your research interests.

Funding Opportunities

Most of our incoming graduate students are funded with teaching assistantships for at least their first year. During that period, they connect with faculty and typically receive research assistantships for the remainder of their graduate studies.

For a list of available assistantships and what can be expected at a TA or GRA, see the department's assistantships webpage.

MSU's Graduate School provides information about additional funding and fellowship opportunities at MSU.

Life in Bozeman

Known for its high quality of life and regularly featured on national "Best Places" lists, Bozeman combines a vibrant downtown, walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, and easy access to nearby mountains and rivers. Learn more.

Admissions

Note: As of Fall 2021, GRE scores are not required for admission consideration. Applicants who have already taken these tests may submit scores with their application, but such scores are not required.

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering requires the following for admission to its graduate programs:

  1. Official Transcripts. Minimum 3.0 GPA (out of 4.0) in undergraduate program in electrical enginering or closely related.
  2. Letters of recommendation (3)
  3. Statement of Research Interest: Describe the primary research areas you are interested in pursuing as a graduate student in an essay approximately one page in length. The essay should discuss specific research interests shared with our faculty.
  4. International students:

Priority deadline for domestic and international students wanting to be considered for funded assistantships:

  • Fall Semester: January 15
  • Spring Semester: September 15

Regular application for domestic applicants:

  • Fall Semester: July 15
  • Spring Semester: December 1
  • Summer Semester: April 1

Regular application for international applicants

  • Fall Semester: May 15
  • Spring Semester: October 1
  • Summer Semester: February 1

The Graduate School at MSU handles all graduate admissions. If you are ready to apply, visit the Graduate School's online application.

Additional Information