Electrical engineering is a diverse field focused on designing, developing, and applying electrical
systems, devices, and technologies. It encompasses electronics, power engineering, computer systems, and robotics and control systems.
Electrical engineering is a major that focuses on the study of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Students learn to design, analyze, and implement electrical systems, devices, and technologies. The curriculum covers areas such as circuit analysis, power engineering, digital systems, and control systems. Electrical engineering majors develop essential problem-solving and critical thinking skills through hands-on projects and real-world applications.
What do Electrical Engineers do?Â
Electrical engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the production of electrical systems, devices, and technologies. Their work spans various industries and applications, and their expertise is crucial for advancing technology and improving our daily lives.
Here are some of the key electrical engineering careers:
RF Design and Electronics Engineer: Design and develop electronic circuits and devices, including consumer electronics, medical equipment, and telecommunications systems.
Power Engineer: Work on power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, ensuring a reliable and efficient supply of electricity.
Instrumentation and Control Engineer: Specialize in designing and maintaining instrumentation and control systems used in industrial processes and automation.Â
Communication Engineer: Focus on designing and improving communication systems, including wireless networks, satellite communication, and fiber optics.
Computer Engineer: Develop computer hardware, microprocessors, and embedded systems, contributing to advancements in computing and artificial intelligence.
Power Electronics Engineer: Design and develop power electronic systems used in motor drives, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicles.
Signal Processing Engineer: Analyze and manipulate signals for various applications, including audio, video, and sensor data.
Systems Engineer: Work on integrating complex systems and ensuring their proper functionality and performance.
Renewable Energy Engineer: Work on integrating and optimizing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to address environmental concerns.
Research and Development Engineer: Conduct innovative research to explore new technologies and improve existing systems.
In summary, Electrical engineers play a crucial role in various industries, contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies, improving energy efficiency, and advancing communication systems. Their work is essential for modern society and drives innovation across a wide range of fields.
Career opportunities
Electrical engineering offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities across various industries to make a significant impact on society by driving technological advancements and solving real-world problems.
Electrical Engineering graduates UMD are qualified for employment in a wide variety of organizations, both public and private. For example, recent graduates have taken positions with Allete, IBM, Krech and Ojard, OSI, Saginaw Industrial Services, Starkey Hearing Technologies and XCEL Energy.Â
Our students have no problems in finding jobs and many secure jobs before graduation with handsome salary packages. UMD's most recent graduate follow-up report for electrical engineering shows a 100% placement rate for our graduates with 91% employed and 9% continuing education. Among the employed the salary ranges from $52,000 to $94,000 with median salary of $71,075. A more detailed report on recent graduates can be found here.