Ph.D. Program
The Holcombe Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Clemson University offers a 60-credit hour Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or Ph.D. in Computer Engineering. Our Ph.D. degrees allow students to work with their advisor and committee to select coursework and a plan of study tailored to their research interests. Applicants are encouraged to review departmental research specializations prior to applying in order to identify alignments with research interests and potential faculty advisors.
Students may elect to complete their coursework and research based on our main campus or at the Zucker Family Graduate Education Center in Charleston, SC. Many courses are offered in hybrid or online formats, offering graduate students flexibility and the opportunity to continue coursework while engaged in research off-campus. The GRE is required for admission to both the Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Ph.D. in Computer Engineering programs, and costs can be obtained by visiting the Tuition and Fees section of the Clemson Graduate School website.
Degree Programs
Computer Engineering, Ph.D.
Clemson's Computer Engineering doctoral program is designed for researchers and innovators seeking to push technological boundaries. Doctoral candidates engage in advanced research exploring emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, and advanced computational systems. Students work closely with renowned faculty on groundbreaking research projects, developing novel technologies and theoretical frameworks that contribute significantly to the field.
The program prepares graduates for leadership roles in academic research, industrial R&D departments, and cutting-edge technology companies, emphasizing original research, publication, and technological innovation.
Electrical Engineering, Ph.D.
Clemson's Electrical Engineering doctoral program is a research-intensive pathway for engineers seeking to expand technological frontiers. Doctoral candidates conduct innovative research in areas such as advanced electronics, electromagnetic systems, renewable energy technologies, and sophisticated signal processing.
The program emphasizes original research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technological innovation, preparing graduates for high-level research positions in academia, national laboratories, and advanced technology corporations. Students work alongside world-class faculty, developing expertise that drives technological advancement and addresses complex global challenges.
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Degree Requirements
Requirements
Ph.D. students select a major advisor, who, in consultation with the student, chooses additional advisory committee members. The student’s advisory committee must include at least four tenure-track faculty members; three of the members must be from within the ECE department, and one must be from outside the department.
Ph.D. students without an M.S. Degree
Direct entry to our Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering Ph.D. programs is available for specially qualified candidates with a B.S. degree. Before applying for direct entry, contact us to determine your eligibility. The Ph.D. degree, without a prior M.S. degree, must include a minimum of 60 credit hours of graduate-level coursework at the 6000-level, 8000-level, or 9000-level, including the following:
- 18 credits exactly of dissertation research (ECE 9910)
- 9 credits minimum of letter-graded coursework from non-ECE courses.
- 33 credits minimum remaining of letter-graded coursework
- No more than 9 credit hours of the letter-graded coursework can be at the 6000 level.
- No credit for coursework at the 7000 level can be applied toward the degree requirements.
- No credit for MATH 6000 can be applied toward the degree requirements.
60 credits minimum beyond the master's degree
Ph.D. students with an M.S. Degree
For applicants who hold an M.S. degree, the Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Ph.D. in Computer Engineering requires a final examination, defense of the dissertation, and a minimum of 42 credit hours of graduate-level coursework at the 6000-level, 8000-level, or 9000-level, including the following:
- 18 credits exactly of dissertation research (ECE 9910)
- 24 credits minimum of letter-graded coursework
- No credit for coursework at the 7000 level can be applied toward the degree requirements.
- No credit for MATH 6000 can be applied toward the degree requirements.
42 credits minimum beyond the bachelor's degree
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Applying to the Ph.D. 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)
Language Proficiency Exams for International Students: Only official scores will be reviewed, Clemson Institution Code = 5111. For more information, see the Clemson Graduate School's page on English Language Proficiency for Graduate Admissions.
How to Apply
Students interested in applying to the ECE doctoral 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.
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