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The Bachelor of Science program in Electrical and Computer Engineering in the College of Engineering provides students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge fields like robotics, physical electronics, integrated circuits, computer architecture, nanotechnology, semiconductors, signal processing, and more.
ECE plays a crucial role in technological advancements across interdisciplinary areas that include neurotechnology, integrated circuits, microelectronics, nanotechnology, computer architecture, sensing and communication, robotics and sustainable energy systems. ECE is behind many of today’s most exciting innovations—from smartphones and self-driving cars to medical devices and clean energy solutions. Whether you want to design the next generation of tech or tackle real-world challenges, ECE gives you the tools to make a real impact.
Highlights
- Get involved with one of the many ECE student organizations.
- Conduct research with EECS faculty through SUPERB.
- Learn about research and emerging trends in the EECS Colloquium.
Curriculum
Due to the rapid pace of change, UC Berkeley’s academic program is flexible and emphasizes fundamentals. You will use up-to-date undergraduate computer and laboratory facilities. Distinguished teachers from the Berkeley campus will be your lecturers, advisors, and mentors. You can participate in undergraduate research projects.
Students are required to complete core technical classes during their first few semesters. They then have the opportunity to explore various topics from computer science theory to networking and physical systems.
Learn more at eecs.berkeley.edu/academics/undergraduate/ece-bs/.
One Department, Three Programs
The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences offers three different undergraduate degrees from two different colleges: the BS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences and the BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering, both offered by the College of Engineering, and the BA in Computer Science from the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society. The CS major offers greater flexibility to explore other fields with breadth coursework. If you are more interested in engineering, the EECS or ECE majors may better suit you.
Admission to the Major
First-year and transfer students accepted to UC Berkeley and who selected Electrical and Computer Engineering on their undergraduate admissions application will be admitted directly to the College of Engineering and the ECE major.
It is rare but possible for students within the College of Engineering to transfer into the ECE program from another Engineering major, or add ECE as a second major. For students not within the College of Engineering, we also offer a minor program in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences. For more information on admission to the major, visit eecs.berkeley.edu/academics/undergraduate/ece-bs/.
Electrical and Computer Engineers apply math, science and engineering to develop technology that has a direct impact on our daily lives. As our world becomes more connected and digital, the demand for engineers with Electrical and Computer Engineering skills is growing fast. A bachelor’s degree in ECE prepares students to enter industry, federal government organizations, and academia with a balanced combination of breadth and depth. From solving the global chip shortage to building smarter systems, ECE professionals are at the forefront of change.
UC Berkeley offers a number of career resources for students studying Electrical and Computer Engineering. The EECS Department hosts internship and career fairs, while Engineering Student Services in the College of Engineering assists students with career and job-search planning and advises students interested in applying to graduate school. ESS also connects students with employers as well as graduate and professional schools. Additionally, Berkeley Career Engagement provides career and graduate school advising, job and internship listings, and events such as career and graduate school fairs.
Employment
Alumni find employment in a variety of fields and industries after graduation. Examples include:
- Analog Design Engineer
- Audio Test Engineer
- Computing Technician
- Controls Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Embedded Systems Engineer
- Firmware Engineer
- Hardware Engineer
- Power Systems Engineer
- Product Designer
- Researcher
- Signal Processing Engineer
- Solutions Engineer
- Technology Associate
Graduate Study
Alumni pursue graduate education to gain more depth of knowledge in their field as well as prepare for jobs that require advanced degrees. Examples include:
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
- Computer Engineering
- Control Systems
- Electrical Engineering
- Embedded Systems
- Hardware Systems
- Materials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Power Systems
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Robotics
- Signal Processing
Leyla, class of 2021
Leyla Kabuli graduated UC Berkeley with bachelor degrees in Music and EECS, and is currently a PhD student in the EECS Department. During her time as an undergraduate, Kabuli received the University Medal and Top Graduating Senior award, played solo and ensemble shows at venues across the country, and was head lab teaching assistant in EECS courses.
“I might be biased, but Berkeley has the best electrical engineering program in the country….It was one of the best places where I could do both music and be at a top engineering program.”
First Year
Plan Your Studies
- Familiarize yourself with the Undergraduate Guide and ECE requirements and program plans,
- Meet with your ESS advisor to discuss your academic plans; begin lower division requirements in math, computer science and physics; enroll in a science elective.
- Discover new interests in a Freshman Seminar, Berkeley Changemaker, or DeCal course.
- Sign up for the ESS podcast and newsletter, and ENGIN 98 The Insider’s Guide to Berkeley Engineering.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Explore the Grimes Engineering Center.
- Sign up for the Engineering Mentorship Program.
- Join an EECS student group or other Engineering student organization.
- Find academic support at the CAEE and Student Learning Center; check out EECS tutoring resources.
- Learn how to prepare for office hours and build relationships with faculty.
- Explore design programs and resources at the Jacobs Institute.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Visit UHS Career Counseling and Berkeley Career Engagement.
- Start exploring career paths for the major; check out career resources on the Engineering website.Begin making a plan to get career ready.
- Create or update your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Use Handshake to start connecting with career events and opportunities.
- Look into UC LEADS and the Goldwater Scholarship.
Second Year
Plan Your Studies
- Continue lower division requirements in math and physics; enroll in humanities/social sciences, probability, and ethics courses, along with free electives.
- Continue exploring with a Sophomore Seminar or Big Ideas course.
- Look into study abroad and learning a foreign language; see guidelines from the department and options for Electrical Engineering abroad.
- Enrich your studies with a certificate or minor such as CalTeach or Science, Technology, and Society.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Attend Engineering and EECS events such as the EECS Colloquium.
- Visit Berkeley Discovery to get started with research, entrepreneurship, public service, and creative projects.
- Explore research opportunities from Engineering, EECS and OURS; apply to URAP or Bakar Ignite Scholars to work on a faculty project.
- Introduce youth to STEM through the Lawrence Hall of Science or student groups BEAM and PiE.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Meet with a BCE career educator to discuss career options and goals.
- Build your network and explore career fields via job shadowing and informational interviews.
- Pursue an internship to build skills and explore fields; check out the EECS Internship Fair.
- Browse graduate school resources from the Graduate Division, EECS, and BCE.
- Sign up for an ESS workshop on grad school preparation, resume review, or other career topics.
Third Year
Plan Your Studies
- Complete ELENG foundation courses and any remaining lower division requirements.
- Enroll in an Engineering ethics course and upper division requirements in the major, including ECE breadth courses and technical electives.
- Review your degree progress with your ESS advisor.
- Consider applying to the EECS Honors Program; look into Haas Scholars.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Share your voice in an Engineering college committee.
- Help other students as an ESS or EECS Peer Advisor, or EMP Mentor.
- Develop your skills in the Berkeley Student Leadership Academy.
- Address real-world problems in the Fung Fellowship or Big Ideas Contest.
- Interested in entrepreneurship? Check out the Sutardja Center, Accel Scholars, and Berkeley SkyDeck.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Speak with faculty, advisors, and career educators about post-graduate options such as the 5th Year MS program.
- Join a professional association such as IEEE.
- Interested in public service careers? Look into the US Digital Corps, John Gardner Fellowship, Huntington Award, and Truman Scholarship.
- Connect with alumni groups such as Berkeley Engineering.
Fourth Year
Plan Your Studies
- Lighten your course load as much as possible to allow time for job and graduate school applications.
- Finish upper division technical electives, ECE breadth coursework, and free electives.
- Complete any remaining degree requirements and prepare for graduation.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Welcome new students to Berkeley as a Golden Bear Orientation Leader.
- Interested in teaching? Give it a try by facilitating ENGIN 98 or your own DeCal course.
- Pursue a special project after graduation with the Stronach Prize.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Check in with a BCE career educator.
- Apply to graduate school or post-graduate programs; consider the Hertz Fellowship or NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program.
- Meet employers at info sessions, on-campus recruiting, and career fairs such as the EECS Career Fair.
- Utilize job search tools from BCE and apply for job opportunities.
- Learn about alumni career services; check out info for Engineering and EECS alumni.
Summer
- Make progress on degree requirements with a Summer Sessions course like COMPSCI 61A.
- Learn the art of STEM communication in ENGIN 185 Science Writing.
- Participate in EECS or Berkeley Lab summer research, an NSF research experience, or DOE lab internship.
- Get immersed in design innovation with the Berkeley Engineering Design Scholars Program.
- Pursue a summer minor or certificate such as Cognitive Science and the Future of Tech, Global Digital Infrastructure, or Sustainability.
- Consider a summer internship or study abroad; explore scholarships and study trips through the GLOBE Center.
- Apply to the GiGS program to learn about graduate school.
First Semester
Plan Your Studies
- Familiarize yourself with the Undergraduate Guide and ECE requirements and program plans.
- Meet with your ESS Advisor to discuss your academic plans.
- Enroll in COMPSCI 61A and ELENG 64, as well as an upper division humanities/social science course.
- Sign up for the ESS podcast and newsletter.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Explore the Grimes Engineering Center and Engineering Transfer Center.
- Sign up for the Engineering Mentorship Program.
- Join an EECS student group or other Engineering student organization.
- Find academic support at the CAEE and Student Learning Center; take advantage of EECS tutoring resources.
- Learn how to prepare for office hours and build relationships with faculty.
- Explore design programs and resources at the Jacobs Institute.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Visit UHS Career Counseling and Berkeley Career Engagement.
- Start exploring career paths for the major; check out career resources on the Engineering website.
- Create or update your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Use Handshake to start connecting with career events and opportunities.
- Meet with a BCE career educator to discuss career options and goals.
- Look into UC LEADS and the Goldwater Scholarship.
Second Semester
Plan Your Studies
- Complete COMPSCI 61C, ELENG 66, and upper division coursework in humanities/social science and probability.
- Look into study abroad and learning a foreign language; see guidelines from the department and options for Electrical Engineering abroad.
- Enrich your studies with a certificate or minor such as CalTeach or Science, Technology, and Society.
- Consider applying to the EECS Honors Program; look into Haas Scholars.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Attend Engineering and EECS events such as the EECS Colloquium.
- Visit Berkeley Discovery to get started with research, entrepreneurship, public service, and creative projects.
- Explore research opportunities from Engineering, EECS and OURS; apply to URAP or Bakar Ignite Scholars to work on a faculty project.
- Interested in entrepreneurship? Check out the Sutardja Center, Accel Scholars, and Berkeley SkyDeck.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Build your network and explore career fields via job shadowing and informational interviews.
- Pursue an internship to build skills and explore fields; check out the EECS Internship Fair.
- Browse graduate school resources from the Graduate Division, EECS, and BCE.
- Speak with faculty, advisors, and career educators about post-graduate options such as the 5th Year MS program.
- Sign up for an ESS workshop on grad school preparation, resume review, or other career topics.
Third Semester
Plan Your Studies
- Enroll in ECE breadth courses and an Engineering ethics course.
- Review your degree progress with your ESS advisor.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Share your voice in an Engineering college committee.
- Develop your skills in the Berkeley Student Leadership Academy.
- Help other students as an ESS or EECS Peer Advisor, or EMP Mentor.
- Address real-world problems in the Fung Fellowship or Big Ideas Contest.
- Introduce youth to STEM through the Lawrence Hall of Science or student groups BEAM and PiE.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Check in with a BCE career educator.
- Join a professional association such as IEEE.
- Interested in public service careers? Look into the US Digital Corps, John Gardner Fellowship, Huntington Award, and Truman Scholarship.
- Apply to graduate school or post-graduate programs; consider the Hertz Fellowship or NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program.
Fourth + Fifth Semester
Plan Your Studies
- Lighten your course load as much as possible to allow time for job and graduate school applications.
- Focus on upper division EECS courses including a Design course.
- Complete any remaining degree requirements and prepare for graduation.
Engage Outside the Classroom
- Interested in teaching? Give it a try by facilitating your own DeCal course.
- Welcome new students to Berkeley as a Golden Bear Orientation Leader.
- Pursue a special project after graduation with the Stronach Prize.
Pursue Your Career Goals
- Connect with alumni groups such as Berkeley Engineering.
- Meet employers at info sessions, on-campus recruiting, and career fairs.
- Utilize job search tools from BCE and apply for job opportunities.
- Learn about alumni career services; check out info for Engineering and EECS alumni.
Summer
- Make progress on degree requirements with a Summer Sessions course like COMPSCI 61C.
- Learn the art of STEM communication in ENGIN 185 Science Writing.
- Participate in EECS or Berkeley Lab summer research, an NSF research experience, or DOE lab internship.
- Get immersed in design innovation with the Berkeley Engineering Design Scholars Program.
- Pursue a summer minor or certificate such as Cognitive Science and the Future of Tech, Global Digital Infrastructure, or Sustainability.
- Consider a summer internship or study abroad; explore scholarships and study trips through the GLOBE Center.
- Apply to the GiGS program to learn about graduate school.
Undergraduate Advising
Have questions about Electrical and Computer Engineering or the College of Engineering?
The Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences offers undergraduate advising for CS, ECE, and EECS majors. EECS Student Advisors are available on a drop-in and appointment basis for help with program planning, undergraduate research, internship guidance, EECS enrollment and waitlists, and the EECS Honors Program. Students can also meet with a Faculty Advisor about course recommendations, undergraduate research, and how to prepare for graduate school or a job in industry. For advising hours and contacts, visit eecs.berkeley.edu or email ece-advising@berkeley.edu.
Engineering Student Services in the College of Engineering offers extensive programs and support services to help you navigate your academic path. Your ESS Advisor assists with degree requirements, academic policies and procedures, course selection, enrichment opportunities, and campus resources. ESS Peer Advisors are available to discuss life in the college, navigating the University, and other topics. For additional information, visit engineering.berkeley.edu.
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