Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has grown into one of the leading international programs in electrical and computer engineering. Faculty are experts in wind energy, smart grid technology, nanotechnology, medical devices, wireless communications, VLSI, computer systems, sensors, and magnetic materials.

Tradition of excellence

Established in 1891, the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering was one of the first in the country, preceding MIT and Stanford. Prominent alumni include the co-founder of Medtronic, Cheerios inventor, an early television research pioneer, and the “father” of the supercomputer.

World-class academics

Academic programs provide a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and computer systems and encompassing advancements in electronics that are enabling new telecommunications, smart grid technology, and interplanetary robotic missions.

The Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (BEE) and Bachelor of Computer Engineering (BCompE) are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET

The department also offers an integrated degree program, which allow students to complete both a bachelor's and master's degree in 5 years.

Cutting-edge research

Faculty and students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities including the Minnesota Nano Center, Digital Technology Center, Medical Devices Center, and additional University facilities. Research is focused on these areas:

  • Biomedical and biological computational methods, devices, and systems
  • Communications, signal processing, and networking
  • Computer engineering, VLSI, and circuits
  • Energy systems and power electronics
  • Fields, photonics, and magnetics
  • Micro and nanostructures
  • Systems and control

Business and industry connections

The department has connections with companies including Medtronic, 3M, Xcel Energy, and IBM. Researchers receive funding from the Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institutes of Health.

National rankings

  • In the most recent National Research Council rankings, the program ranked 18 in the nation in public universities.
  • The graduate program was ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top programs in the nation, ranking in the top 25.