College of Engineering
Electrical Engineering (Ph.D.)
College of Engineering
Electrical Engineering (Ph.D.)
Lead Innovation. Shape Technology. Earn Your Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering at New Mexico State University prepares visionary engineers and researchers to lead at the forefront of technological innovation and scientific discovery. This research-intensive doctoral program combines advanced coursework with original dissertation work in areas such as communications, control systems, signal processing, electromagnetics, photonics, microelectronics/VLSI, electric energy systems, and computer engineering — preparing you to tackle complex challenges across dynamic and high-impact fields.
As a Ph.D. candidate, you’ll work closely with faculty mentors within the Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, engage deeply in independent research, and contribute new knowledge to the discipline. Whether your goal is to lead research teams in industry, innovate breakthrough technologies, or pursue an academic career, this program builds the advanced skills, rigorous analytical thinking, and professional credentials needed to excel at the highest levels.
Admission Deadlines
March 1 (fall), October 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 33-42
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from NMSU advance into leadership roles in academia, advanced research institutions, national laboratories, and global technology companies, applying deep expertise to drive innovation in areas such as wireless communications, integrated circuits, optical systems, intelligent controls, and energy systems — solving real-world problems and shaping the future of engineering and technology.
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering at NMSU?
Choosing the Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering at New Mexico State University means joining a program that emphasizes research excellence, professional preparation, and real-world impact:- Research at the Frontier of Technology: You’ll engage in original research supported by faculty expertise in key areas such as communications, signal processing, controls, electromagnetics, photonics, microelectronics, and energy systems — fields that are central to emerging technology and industry growth.
- Rigorous, Individualized Doctoral Training: The program’s structure blends advanced coursework with qualifying and comprehensive exams, culminating in a dissertation supported by publications in recognized journals and conference venues — preparing you for intellectual leadership and scholarly contribution.
- Faculty Mentorship & Collaboration: Work closely with faculty mentors who are active in research, industry collaborations, and scholarly publication, gaining guidance that empowers your research trajectory and professional growth.
- Flexible Entry Pathways: The program is open to students with a master’s degree in electrical engineering or related fields, and exceptionally qualified candidates may enter directly with a bachelor’s degree. Coursework can be tailored to your research focus, and parts of the program may be taken remotely if appropriate.
- Impact Beyond the Classroom: Graduates are positioned to influence the future of technology through roles in academic institutions, government research labs, and industry R&D groups — driving innovation in communication systems, power and energy technologies, computing, and beyond.
Carnegie R1 Institution
The R1 designation represents the highest level of research excellence placing NMSU among the top 5% of universities nationwide.
No GRE Required*
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
The Ph.D. program is open to students with a master's degree. There are two options for coursework depending on existing credentials.
- Option 1 - Ph.D. with Completed Master's Degree - If the student has both master's and bachelor's degrees in fields other than electrical engineering, they must complete undergraduate deficiency coursework, consisting of completion of the BSEE core courses. If the student has a master's degree in a field other than electrical engineering, they must complete graduate deficiency coursework, which consists of three graduate core courses from three different areas of emphasis as well as pass qualifying exam, 18 Graduate Electives, Pass Comprehensive Exam and Complete and defend doctoral dissertation.
- Option 2 - Direct Ph.D. with BSEE or Equivalent, but no Master's Degree - If the student has the equivalent of a BSEE degree, but no master's degree, they must fulfil the following requirements: 10 credits in Area of Specialization (beyond the bachelor's degree, 450 or higher), Pass Qualifying Exam, 33 Graduate Electives, Pass Comprehensive Exam, Complete and Defend Doctoral Dissertation
Take classes like:
- E E 515 - Electromagnetic Theory I
- E E 523 - Analog VLSI Design
- E E 551 - Control Systems Synthesis
- E 528 - Fundamentals of Photonics
Application: The application includes transcripts, three letter of recommendation, and resume.
GRE Requirements*: Not mandatory but strongly recommended, with expected scores of 146 (Verbal) and 155 (Quantitative).
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.