COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Colorado Denver requires a total of 30 credit hours of graduate-level academic work and is designed to be completed within five years, offering students a structured yet flexible pathway to advanced study in electrical engineering. A key requirement is that at least 21 of the 30 credit hours must be completed within the CU Denver Department of Electrical Engineering, ensuring that students gain substantial depth in discipline-specific coursework while still allowing some flexibility for interdisciplinary study or electives. The program is divided into two primary completion plans, allowing students to choose between a research-intensive or coursework-focused academic path depending on their career goals. Plan 1, the Master’s Thesis option, requires a minimum of 24 credit hours of coursework along with 6 credit hours dedicated to supervised research, culminating in the preparation and defense of a published master’s thesis that demonstrates original scholarly or technical contribution. This option is typically suited for students intending to pursue research careers or doctoral-level study. Plan 2, the Course-Only option, requires completion of 30 credit hours of graduate coursework and includes mandatory enrollment in a zero-credit seminar course for one semester, which is intended to support professional development, exposure to current research topics, and engagement with the academic community. Both plans are designed to ensure strong technical preparation while allowing students to tailor their learning experience toward either research or industry-oriented outcomes. Additionally, the program participates in the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP), which may allow eligible students from participating WICHE states to pay in-state tuition rates, making the degree more financially accessible. Overall, the program balances academic rigor, flexibility, and professional relevance for students aiming to advance in electrical engineering fields.