2020-2021 Electrical and Computer Engineering Scope and Objectives

Electrical and computer engineers are responsible for inventions that have revolutionized our society, such as the electrical grid, telecommunications, and automated computing and control. The profession continues to make vital contributions in many domains, such as the infusion of information technology into all aspects of daily life. To further these ends, the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering fosters a dynamic academic environment that is committed to a tradition of excellence in teaching, research, and service and has state-of-the-art research programs and facilities in a variety of fields. Departmental faculty members are engaged in research efforts across several disciplines in order to serve the needs of industry, government, society, and the scientific community. Interactions with other disciplines are strong. Faculty members regularly conduct collaborative research projects with colleagues in the Geffen School of Medicine; Graduate School of Education and Information Studies; School of Theater, Film, and Television; and College of Letters and Science.

There are three primary research areas in the department: circuits and embedded systems, physical and wave electronics, and signals and systems. These areas cover a broad spectrum of specializations in, for example, communications and telecommunications, control systems, signal processing, data science, electromagnetics, embedded computing systems, engineering optimization, integrated circuits and systems, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), nanotechnology, photonics and optoelectronics, plasma electronics, and solid-state electronics.

The program grants two undergraduate degrees (Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering) and two graduate degrees (Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering). The graduate program provides students with an opportunity to pursue advanced coursework, In-depth training, and research investigations in several fields.

Department Mission

The education and research activities in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department are aligned with its mission statement. In partnership with its constituents, consisting of students, alumni, industry, and faculty members, the mission of the department is to (1) produce highly qualified, well-rounded, and motivated students with fundamental knowledge of electrical engineering who can provide leadership and service to California, the nation, and the world, (2) pursue creative research and new technologies in electrical engineering and across disciplines in order to serve the needs of industry, government, society, and the scientific community, (3) develop partnerships with industrial and government agencies, (4) achieve visibility by active participation in conferences and technical and community activities, and (5) publish enduring scientific articles and books.

Electrical Engineering Undergraduate Program Educational Objectives

The electrical engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

The electrical engineering curriculum provides an excellent background for either graduate study or employment. Undergraduate education in the department provides students with (1) fundamental knowledge in mathematics, physical sciences, and electrical engineering, (2) the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of interest or career aspiration, (3) intensive training in problem solving, laboratory skills, and design skills, and (4) a well-rounded education that includes communication skills, the ability to function well on a team, an appreciation for ethical behavior, and the ability to engage in lifelong learning. This education is meant to prepare students to thrive and to lead. It also prepares them to achieve the following two program educational objectives: (1) that graduates of the program have successful technical or professional careers and (2) that graduates of the program continue to learn and to adapt in a world of constantly evolving technology.

Computer Engineering Undergraduate Program Educational Objectives

The undergraduate computer engineering program prepares students to be able to (1) understand fundamental computing concepts and make valuable contributions to the practice of computer engineering; (2) design, analyze, and implement complex computer systems for a variety of application areas and cyberphysical domains; (3) demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a team and communicate their ideas; (4) continue to learn as part of a graduate program or otherwise in the world of constantly evolving technology.