Electrical engineering

The B.S.E.E. in electrical engineering is a 128-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

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Explore program courses in the University Catalog

Learning outcomes

Graduates of this electrical engineering program will be prepared to design, analyze and test electrical and computer systems across a range of applications. You will develop skills in circuit design, microelectronics, power systems, digital logic, signals, control systems and embedded technologies. Through laboratory experiences and senior design projects, students will apply engineering principles to solve real-world challenges, communicate technical solutions and prepare for careers in electrical engineering or advanced study. 

Program format

This electrical engineering bachelor’s program combines classroom instruction, laboratory experiences and hands-on design projects to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Students build a strong foundation in mathematics, science and engineering while developing expertise in circuits, electronics, power systems, digital systems, microcontrollers, signals and embedded technologies. The program emphasizes problem-solving, collaboration and innovation through technical coursework, major electives and a senior design experience that prepares graduates for professional practice or advanced study.

Faculty expertise  

You’ll collaborate with faculty experts in:

• Semiconductor devices and microelectronics
• Advanced microelectronics fabrication
• VLSI design and manufacturing
• Electronic packaging and materials
• Quantum and solid-state electronics
• Electromagnetics and RF systems
• Power systems and energy technologies
• Cybersecurity and dependable systems
• Embedded systems and computer architecture

Find a faculty advisor

Advising  

• First-year undergraduates — Our professional advisors can help you learn more about degree options, select a major, identify required and elective courses and build a plan toward graduation. As you progress through your degree, you’ll transition to a faculty advisor.  
• Transfer students — If you have 13 or less transfer credits, email Student Services or call 208-885-6470. If you have more than 13 credits, contact the department you're transferring into.  

Hands-on learning  

All U of I College of Engineering students participate in hands-on activities through:  

• Nationally ranked Senior Capstone Design Program—Emphasizing the engineering design process and the development of a fully engineered, tested and validated outcome or prototype. Interdisciplinary student teams present their industry-sponsored projects at the annual Engineering Design EXPO.  
• Cooperative Education Program (Co-op)—Get paid up to $20,000 alternating semesters of academic study with paid full-time employment in your field.    

• Earn funding to explore areas that interest you—Customize your college experience through opportunities that support academic, professional and personal development in the College of Engineering Professional Skills Academy.

  
  Pursue technical certificates in engineering and computer science, build professional networks with faculty and industry partners and engage in hands-on research and project-based learning.  

• Internships and summer programs—Gain real-world experience through paid internships, fellowships and research mentorship programs. Work with leading companies, national laboratories and research centers to apply classroom knowledge, develop technical and professional skills and build industry connections. 

Our college offers 20+ clubs and organizations tied to international and national engineering organizations, including national competition teams.

Learn about clubs related to your major:

• Association for Computer Machinery (ACM)
• Humanitarian Engineering Corps (HEC)
• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
• International Microelectronics And Packaging Society (IMAPS)
• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
• Power and Energy Society (PES)
• Robotics Club
• Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
• Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
• Tau Beta Pi - Engineering Honor Society (TBP)
• Vandal Atmospheric Science Team (VAST) 

While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:

• Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
• Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
• Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
  • Engineering students receive more than $1 million in scholarships annually.  
  • Earn more than $64,000 in scholarships over the course of four years through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). Eligible first-year and transfer students are considered simply by filling out their U of I admission application. There’s no separate application or deadline.  
• Merit- and need-based scholarships – All first-time students and first-time transfer students in the College of Engineering are automatically considered for merit- and need-based scholarships and financial aid when filling out the admissions application and FAFSA. There are no separate scholarship applications required to be considered. Continuing students are also automatically considered after filling out the FAFSA each year.  
• Additional College of Engineering scholarships – Additional scholarships are available based on major and interest areas. Browse engineering scholarships and application processes.

If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance. 

Idaho LAUNCH

This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.

Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.

Recognized STEM Program

This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.

Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes

Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.

Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.