COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) at the University of Alabama is a 30-credit-hour graduate program designed to provide advanced technical and research training in electrical and computer engineering through two structured pathways: a thesis option (Plan I) and a non-thesis option (Plan II). Both plans require students to build depth in a chosen area of concentration, complete supporting coursework in an elective area, and strengthen their analytical foundation through mathematics or science courses at the 500 level or above. In the thesis option, students complete a minimum of 24 hours of graduate coursework, including at least 12 hours in an Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) concentration area defined with their advisory committee, 9 hours of approved electives, and 3 hours of mathematics or science coursework. In addition, students must complete ECE 695 Graduate Research Seminar and at least 6 hours of ECE 599 Thesis Research, bringing the total to 30 credit hours. This pathway emphasizes independent research, and students must complete a formal thesis that is defended before a faculty committee, which typically includes three departmental members responsible for evaluating the student’s research and final defense. A minimum number of courses must be at the 600 level, and limits apply to 400-level coursework, which requires prior approval. The non-thesis option also requires 30 credit hours, including 12 hours in an ECE concentration, 12 hours of electives, 3 hours of mathematics or science, and ECE 695 seminar participation, along with at least 3 hours of ECE 598 Non-Thesis Research as a culminating experience. Instead of a thesis, students must complete either a publishable research manuscript or a written report approved by their advisor. Both options require careful program planning with a faculty advisor or advisory committee, and students must select an advisor early in their program to guide course selection and ensure degree completion. Overall, the MSEE program is designed to balance advanced coursework, specialization, and either research or applied culminating experiences to prepare graduates for professional engineering careers or further doctoral study.