Program Overview
Last updated: Spring 2021
The Graduate Certificate in Microwave Engineering is designed to provide a coherent foundation for graduate students, both on-campus and off-campus, interested in learning the fundamental analysis and design of the microwave components and systems in many of the wireless and high-bandwidth wired communication and sensing systems that we use every day. This includes cellular and satellite communications, wireless networks and radar systems. Certificate topics relate to the design of microwave circuits, systems, and antennas, as well as the principles that govern these technologies.
To earn the Certificate, students need to complete four of the following courses (minimum 12 credits):
- ECE 584: Microwave Engineering I
- ECE 687: Antenna Theory and Design
- ECE 606: Electromagnetic Theory
- ECE 683: Active Microwave Circuits
- ECE 697L: Phased Arrays
- ECE686: Radar
ECE 584 has a laboratory component. Off campus students can satisfy this component several ways depending on circumstances. Note that ECE 584 is not required for the certificate; an alternative course can be chosen from the above list.
Purpose
By completing the courses associated with this certificate, students will become familiar with the state-of-the-art in the design, characterization, and use of microwave technologies. Wireless communications and sensing systems are fundamental to modern society. Understanding the real-time operation of these systems is key to their design, development, and deployment.
Admission and Eligibility Requirements
Current ECE Masters of Science (MS) students and non-degree graduate (post-BS) students may apply for the certificate program. Students should have sufficient technical background, as determined by the ECE Graduate Program Director, to join the certificate program. This certificate will be transitional. All credits received as part of the certificate can be applied to an MS degree in ECE. Acceptance into the certificate program does not automatically qualify a student for the ECE MS program, although the student may attempt to join such a program at any time. Completion of the certificate does not imply admission to the University in a specific academic program. All courses associated with the certificate will be on-line on a regular basis. Students will be given the opportunity to complete the certificate within a reasonable time period.