M.S. Program
The Holcombe Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Clemson University offers 30-credit hour MS-thesis and non-thesis degrees for both Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering programs. Our M.S. degrees allow students to select coursework and a plan of study tailored to their research interests and career goals. M.S. degree courses are offered in-person, online, and in a hybrid format, available at our main campus in Clemson, SC or the Zucker Family Graduate Education Center in Charleston, SC.
All students admitted to either the Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering programs work with their advisor to identify and fulfill the focus area requirements. Focus areas include:
- Computing and Communications
- Energy Systems
- Intelligent Systems
- Photonics, Electronics, and Quantum Systems
Through our Bachelor-to-Graduate program, eligible undergraduates can use select courses to satisfy some of the requirements of a graduate degree program while completing their B.S. degree.
Additionally, M.S. degree students have the option to minor in math, physics, computer science, or industrial engineering by completing as few as six additional credit hours.
Degree Programs
Computer Engineering, M.S.
The Master of Science in Computer Engineering at Clemson University prepares professionals for advanced roles in technology development and innovation. Students dive deep into advanced topics like embedded systems, computer architecture, network design, and cybersecurity. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling graduates to design complex computing systems, develop cutting-edge software and hardware solutions, and address real-world technological challenges. Industry-focused research opportunities and collaborations with technology partners provide students with hands-on experience that directly translates to high-demand career paths in technology companies, research institutions, and emerging tech sectors.
Electrical Engineering, M.S.
The Master of Science in Electrical Engineering at Clemson provides a comprehensive, advanced education focusing on signal processing, power systems, telecommunications, and electronic design. Students develop sophisticated technical skills through advanced coursework and research projects, learning to solve complex engineering challenges across multiple domains. The program offers specialized tracks in areas like renewable energy systems, advanced communications, and electronic design, enabling graduates to become technical leaders in industries ranging from telecommunications and energy to aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
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Degree Requirements
It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of and complete all ECE Department and Graduate School requirements for the M.S. degree. Students graduating should refer to the deadlines listed on the Graduate School website.
Masters Degree, Thesis option
Students en route to a Ph.D. in electrical or computer engineering or who are supported as research assistants will pursue the M.S. thesis degree. Students interested in the M.S. thesis program will pursue research in one of four focus areas. The M.S. thesis option is 30 credit hours, wherein students must complete 12 credit hours at the 8000 level in addition to six credits of ECE 8910: Master's Thesis Research.
The M.S. thesis degree differs from the non-thesis option in terms of the required thesis research report and oral defense prior to graduation.
Masters Degree, Non-Thesis option
The M.S. non-thesis degree is recommended for recent B.S. graduates in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering who are interested in an advanced degree and then pursuing a career in industry. Many top firms, including Meta, Google, Apple, and Lockheed Martin, require graduate degrees for senior engineering positions. Our M.S. non-thesis program is designed for students interested in these professional positions and allows students to earn a graduate degree in as little as 12 months.
The M.S. non-thesis option requires a minimum of 30 credit hours (at least 18 of which must be at the 8000 level), and student can tailor their focus area to build skills in preparation for their career goals.
Masters Degree, Engineer (MEng) option
Aimed at professional engineers, the MEng degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours consisting of 24 credit hours of letter-graded graduate-level coursework where at least 12 credit hours must be ECE courses and 12 credit hours must be at the 8000 level.
The student must also complete six hours of ECE 7010 and submit an Engineering Report in lieu of a conventional master’s thesis. The engineering report is fundamentally the same as a thesis but is required to conform to College formatting standards as opposed to University thesis standards.
Forms | Graduate School -
Pre-Master's Boot Camp (International)
The Holcombe Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has teamed up with HYP Global Limited to provide the ECE Pre-Master's Boot Camp (PMBC). This collaboration aims to support international students aspiring to pursue a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering (MSEE and MSCpE) at Clemson University.
The program offers courses to streamline students’ admission into a Master’s in Engineering. PMBC is a cohort-based 10-12 week online accelerated program with Spring and Fall intakes each year. Students will take 3~4 foundation courses and participate in 3 to 5 live class sessions every week during their time in PMBC.
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Applying to the M.S Program
The GRE is not required for Ph.D. or M.S. applications. Please note that you may include unofficial or official GRE scores in your application file if you believe it will strengthen your application. Please note that your chances for admissions or assistantships will not be impacted by not including GRE scores.
Admission is based on the applicant’s record of academic performance, standardized test scores, and letters of reference. Each applicant should highlight relevant work experience and detail academic goals and research interests in a written statement of purpose. Information on required undergraduate prerequisite courses can be found on the UG Course Requirements page.
Required Documents
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- Online Application
- Unofficial Transcripts - Official Transcripts are required upon acceptance. Do not send official transcripts until you have received your letter of acceptance.
- Letters of Recommendation (3 are required)
International Students only: TOEFL - Only official scores will be reviewed, Clemson Institution Code = 5111
How to Apply
Students interested in applying to the ECE master program must be accepted to the Clemson University Graduate School. Application information and forms can be found on the Graduate School website. International students are welcome to apply and must meet Graduate School requirements for TOEFL and GRE scores.
Additional information concerning deadlines and program contacts can be found in the ECE Admissions FAQ. Enrollment is open to graduates in any branch of engineering, computer science, or applied mathematics who have an appropriate engineering or science background.
Apply | Graduate School
