What kind of credentials for EE PhD program?

In summary, the speaker is a junior electrical engineering major at the University of Delaware and plans to pursue a PhD after graduation. They are unsure about which schools to apply to but want to stay in the northeast region. They have a current GPA of 3.65 and hope to raise it to 3.75 by next fall, along with 3 semesters of research experience and 1 semester of TA experience. They also have some leadership positions at school. They have not taken the GRE yet and are wondering about their chances of getting into competitive grad schools with their credentials. The conversation then shifts to discussing the importance of the GRE for EE programs and the speaker's opinion on the competitiveness of EE programs. Overall, the speaker is seeking advice
  • #1
unhorizon
17
0
Hi, I am a junior electrical engineering major at University of Delaware. I want to get my PhD right after I graduate, and I'm not really sure what kind of schools I should apply to. I want to go to school in the northeast and not stray too far from that. Here are the credentials I will have by next fall (the time when I will be applying)

-3.65 (current GPA) (will hopefully be raised to 3.75ish by next fall)
-3 semesters research experience with 2 different professors
-both biomedical imaging research
-1 semester TA experience
-a few leadership positions at school (not sure if this is relevant)

I haven't taken the GRE yet.
With these credentials can anyone tell me what kind of shot I have at competitive grad schools? Thank you! Do you have any other tips for me for applying?

-Matt
 
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  • #2
A lot will hinge on your GRE score.

Get above about 750 quant and 550 verbal and you'll get into a top 10 easily. EE programs aren't very competitive compared to say the hard sciences.
 
  • #3
jhicks said:
A lot will hinge on your GRE score.

Get above about 750 quant and 550 verbal and you'll get into a top 10 easily. EE programs aren't very competitive compared to say the hard sciences.

I couldn't disagree more. From what I understand, since there is no subject test, the GRE means very little to EEs. Any EE should get an 800 on the quantitative section, and how well you do on the verbal section is spread all over the map thanks to the fact that English isn't a first language for many students.
 
  • #4
Why aren't EE programs very competitive?
 
  • #5
I couldn't disagree more. From what I understand, since there is no subject test, the GRE means very little to EEs.

It doesn't get you into a school but it will get you rejected if you blow it off. You should score around the average for the school you want to get into.

Any EE should get an 800 on the quantitative section

An 800 is 80%-ile for EE's. This means it's all the more important to get an 800 because schools will be able to fill most of their student body with people who scored 800 on the quant. Those kind of statistics weigh in rankings.
 
  • #6
EE not competitive? you kidding me. EE is where the core of physics lies in. Of course, microe are easy but think of optics and photonics. to figure out the theory takes you years! EE , especially quantum EE is the hardest of all subject on earth! because they are fastest from general common sense and daily definition.
 

FAQ: What kind of credentials for EE PhD program?

What undergraduate degree is required for an EE PhD program?

Most EE PhD programs require applicants to have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field, such as Computer Engineering or Physics. Some programs may also accept applicants with a Bachelor's degree in a different engineering discipline, as long as they have a strong background in mathematics and physics.

What GPA is necessary for admission into an EE PhD program?

The required GPA for an EE PhD program may vary depending on the specific program and institution. However, most programs typically require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some highly competitive programs may have a higher GPA requirement.

Is work experience required for an EE PhD program?

While some EE PhD programs may prefer applicants with work experience in the field, it is generally not a requirement for admission. However, relevant work experience can strengthen an applicant's application and may also be beneficial for securing research assistantships or fellowships.

Do I need to have research experience for an EE PhD program?

Research experience is not always required for admission into an EE PhD program, but it is highly recommended. Most programs value applicants who have a strong research background and have demonstrated an ability to conduct independent research. This can be achieved through undergraduate research projects, internships, or relevant work experience.

Are there any specific standardized tests required for an EE PhD program?

The most commonly required standardized test for EE PhD programs is the GRE (Graduate Record Examination). Some programs may also require applicants to take the GRE Subject Test in Physics. However, the specific tests and scores required may vary between programs, so it is important to check the requirements of each individual program.

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