PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Pursue advanced research, expand your expertise and prepare for leadership in academia, industry or government with Rowan’s PhD in electrical and computer engineering.
Why choose Rowan's Electrical and Computer Engineering Program?
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in electrical and computer engineering (ECE) degree program at Rowan University prepares researchers, scholars and scientists like you for high-impact career opportunities. It emphasizes the development of independent investigators—engineers who not only can master complex systems but also ask original questions, design rigorous studies and produce work that advances the field. From day one, you'll learn in a research environment that mirrors the expectations of professional scientists and engineers.
This is a highly flexible, interdisciplinary degree that supports specialization across traditional and emerging areas of electrical and computer engineering. You can focus on a single topic or work across multiple subfields, such as machine learning, power engineering, robotics, cybersecurity and signal processing. The curriculum reflects the realities of modern engineering, technical skills and the potential to contribute meaningfully in academic departments, electrical and computer engineering firms and other research institutions.
Key Considerations
Find ECE program details, including degree length, credit requirements, cost and admission deadlines.
Quick Facts
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Studying Electrical and Computer Engineering at Rowan
At Rowan, the PhD in electrical and computer engineering is hands-on, high-level and deeply personalized. Explore the program curriculum, learning experiences, admission requirements and financial aid resources.
What You'll Learn
Rowan’s electrical and computer engineering PhD degree is a customizable, research-centered program that ranges from 42 to 72 credits (four to six years) based on your academic background. Students entering with a bachelor’s degree complete a minimum of 72 credit hours, while those with a relevant master’s degree must take 42 credits of graduate-level coursework. Learn more about transferring credits from your master’s degree.
All program courses are delivered in person on Rowan’s Glassboro campus, with opportunities for both full- and part-time study. To earn your PhD in electrical and computer engineering, you'll take core and elective coursework, complete a research requirement, pass a qualifying exam and fulfill a dissertation and defense requirement based on original research. A distinctive element of the program is the Career Preparation and Readiness Experience (CPRE), a structured model focused on developing your skills in teaching, grant writing, publishing and professional service.
Additionally, you can deepen your expertise in areas of electrical and computer engineering such as machine learning, signal processing, robotics, power systems, control and cybersecurity. The program’s interdisciplinary design allows you to tailor your research to the evolving challenges and opportunities within the field. You’ll work closely with faculty and your advisory committee to design a customized path that supports your professional goals.
Note: The course information above is not official and is subject to change. For an official list of available courses, please review the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
Transfer credit evaluation policy
If a student admitted to the electrical and computer engineering PhD degree program already has a master’s degree, up to 30 credits from relevant and appropriate courses taken during the master’s degree studies may be transferred—typically 21 course credits and nine research credits. The student’s Advisory Committee (or the advisor) will decide which credits will be transferred into the PhD in electrical and computer engineering program.
How You'll Learn
As a PhD in electrical and computer engineering student, you’ll engage in applied research, contribute to peer-reviewed publications and gain real-world experience through partnerships with industry, research institutions and government agencies—many based right here in New Jersey. You’ll also complete research requirements and a culminating dissertation and defense. Recent student research has included projects in smart grid systems, autonomous robotics and AI-powered signal analysis.
Here, you'll work side by side with faculty in advanced research labs, developing hands-on skills and refining your research focus through meaningful collaboration. This environment helps you grow not only as a technical expert but also as a scholar, communicator and leader. By the time you defend your dissertation, you’ll have the practical experience and academic preparation to become an expert in your chosen field.
Admission Requirements
Begin your application to Rowan’s PhD in electrical and computer engineering degree program by submitting these items. Once we receive your application, a representative from Rowan University's Office of Admissions will reach out to confirm your application status or request any missing items. There may be additional actions or materials required for admission to the program. We encourage you to complete your application and begin uploading your materials at least one month before the application deadline.
- Completed application
- $65 nonrefundable application fee
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field from an accredited institution of higher learning
- Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended (regardless of number of credits earned)
- Current professional résumé that includes a statement verifying evidence of applied skills and research proficiency
- Typewritten statement of professional objectives and research interests
- Three letters of recommendation
- While the official recommendation form is required, an actual letter from the recommender is also preferred.
- Applicants who have completed a master’s degree within the past five years should include an instructor from their master’s program as one of their recommenders.
- Interview
- The Faculty Admission Committee will directly contact applicants regarding this interview. The interview can take place in person or via telephone.
- TOEFL test (international students only)
- WES evaluation (international students only)
Note: Applicants who possess a BS in engineering degree from Rowan University with a GPA of 3.5 or higher or who have completed Rowan’s MS in engineering Track 1 (research option with thesis) with a GPA of 3.3 or higher will automatically qualify for this program.
Tuition and Aid
While funding is not guaranteed, most full-time electrical and computer engineering PhD candidates receive financial support through faculty-sponsored research fellowships, which may include tuition coverage and a competitive stipend.
Review cost information, financial assistance and additional funding opportunities.
Careers and Outcomes
A PhD in electrical and computer engineering from Rowan University positions you for career advancement and long-term impact in research, teaching and development. Whether you want to lead projects in a national lab, publish cutting-edge work or shape future engineers in the classroom, we equip you with the skills to accomplish your professional goals. Graduates have pursued careers in academia, energy systems, tech firms and government agencies, with some of our recent alumni working for organizations like California Independent System Operator and National Research Council Canada.
Upcoming virtual information sessions and events
We know that pursuing an electrical and computer engineering PhD degree is a big commitment. Our virtual information sessions give you the chance to learn what to expect—from day-to-day life in the lab to dissertation timelines, funding and faculty mentorship. Bring your questions and discover your future at Rowan!
Related Programs
Interested in other engineering doctoral degrees? Explore Rowan’s offerings.
Ready to learn more about Rowan?
Drive your career forward in electrical and computer engineering
Whether your path leads to a university, research lab or tech firm, Rowan University’s Doctor of Philosophy in electrical and computer engineering degree program prepares you to complete original research, publish impactful work and solve complex problems that shape the future of technology. Ready to get started? Apply or contact us today!