UCLA General Catalog 2007-08: Electrical Engineering Scope and Objectives

The Electrical Engineering Department emphasizes teaching and research in the areas of circuits and embedded systems, physical and wave electronics, and signals and systems. Faculty members are actively engaged in educational and research activities in a variety of fields related to communications and telecommunications, control systems, electromagnetics, embedded computing systems, engineering optimization and operations research, integrated circuits and systems, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and nanotechnology (MEMS/nano), photonics and optoelectronics, plasma electronics, signal processing, and solid-state electronics. The department maintains state-of-the-art research programs, laboratories, and facilities exploring new concepts and developments. The program grants one undergraduate degree (Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering) and two graduate degrees (Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering). The graduate program provides students with an opportunity to pursue advanced coursework and in-depth training that are tailored to their professional needs.

Department Mission

The education and research activities in the Electrical Engineering Department are strongly aligned with its mission statement. In partnership with its constituents, consisting of students, alumni, industry, and faculty members, the mission of the department is to (1) produce highly qualified, well-rounded, and motivated students with fundamental knowledge in electrical engineering who can provide leadership and service to California, the nation, and the world, (2) pursue creative research and new technologies in electrical engineering and across disciplines in order to serve the needs of industry, government, society, and the scientific community by expanding the body of knowledge in the field, (3) develop partnerships with industrial and government agencies, (4) achieve visibility by active participation in conferences and technical and community activities, and (5) publish enduring scientific articles and books.

Undergraduate Program Objectives

The ABET-accredited electrical engineering curriculum provides an excellent background for either graduate study or employment. Undergraduate education in the department provides students with fundamental knowledge in mathematics, physical sciences, and electrical engineering, the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of interest or career aspiration, intensive training in problem solving, laboratory skills, and design skills, and a well-rounded education that includes communication skills, the ability to function well on a team, an appreciation for ethical behavior, and the ability to engage in lifelong learning. This education is meant to prepare students to thrive and to lead. It also prepares them to achieve the following two program educational objectives: (1) that graduates of the program have successful technical or professional careers and (2) that graduates of the program continue to learn and to adapt in a world of constantly evolving technology.