Electrical Engineering (B.S. in Engineering)

Does identifying and solving practical problems spark your curiosity? In the electrical engineering major, your powerful imagination and abstract thinking will explore the forces that significantly affect the universe. You will learn to apply those skills to your interests. Perhaps renewable energy solutions, electric vehicles, robotics or power grids interest you.

Pride Points

100%

of electrical and computer engineering graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

$70K-$80K

median starting salary for recent College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduates working full time

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

98%

of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences undergraduates participated in experience-driven learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

Pursue your bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, operate and apply a wide range of electrical and electronic system components and concepts to real-world applications. In this program, you'll learn about electric power, circuits, digital logic, digital signal processing, electromagnetics, electronic components and devices, energy conversion, computers and microcomputers, communications, instrumentation and control systems. 

When you graduate, you will readily find internships and full-time employment throughout the world—in fact 9 out 10 Broncos are employed quickly, working in their fields in jobs they like.

You will participate in hands-on projects with local industry and engage in research. With professors who are leaders in their fields and academic advisors who guide your progress, your time at WMU culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project where you will be part of a team completing a project for industry.

And if graduate school is in your future, you can save time and money with our accelerated master's program.

What you'll learn

As an electrical engineering student, you learn to design, develop, test, operate and apply a wide range of electrical and electronic system components and concepts to real-world applications.

Your courses will stress hands-on experiences for solving complex problems and providing practical solutions.

You will have the opportunity to qualify for departmental scholarships and become a member of one of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences student organizations. WMU's student branch of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) features guest speakers, technical films, industry trips and social gatherings. 

McKenna Bowerman

The electrical engineering program has challenged me to think critically and solve problems in practical ways. The professors have been supportive, always willing to explain concepts, offer guidance, and share advice.
— McKenna Bowerman, electrical engineering student

Where you'll be after graduation

Electrical engineers work in aerospace, automotive components, communication systems, defense systems, electric vehicles, healthcare, research and development and more.

Recent WMU graduates with degrees in electrical engineering are working in roles such as electrical engineer, programmer analyst, infotainment test engineer and product development engineer. They work in local and global companies including Black and Veatch, Eaton, Stryker, General Motors, Denso and Ford Motor Company.

Making the most of your learning experience

  • Professors and advisors will support your participation in real-world experiences that will set you apart when you launch your professional career.
  • You'll make lifelong friends and apply your skills by joining student organizations such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Eta Kappa Nu, electrical and computer engineering honor society, and Sunseeker.
  • Internships and co-ops will all boost the knowledge you build in your coursework.
  • Your time at Western culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project, where you will team you up with peers and industry to apply your knowledge to a real world project.
A professor helping an electrical engineering student.

What scholarships are available to electrical engineering students

A number of scholarships are available for students enrolled in the electrical engineering program at Western. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs.

Frequently asked questions

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from WMU pursue careers in fields such as electric vehicle design and medical manufacturing and engineering. They also design, develop, test, operate and apply a wide range of electrical and electronic system components and concepts to real-world applications. Graduates have job titles such as controls engineer, design technician and power distribution engineer.

Yes, in the electrical engineering program you will learn through hands-on opportunities.

  • Professors incorporate hands-on learning into your coursework, including projects in academic labs.
  • WMU’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences has more than 25 student organizations, including WMU's student branch of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. These organizations allow you to compete and network with peers at other institutions while extending your learning.
  • Many students also complete internships or co-ops during their time in the program.
  • All students complete a Senior Engineering Design capstone project, where you work as a team to address real-world projects.

Yes, there are a number of scholarships available for students enrolled in the electrical engineering program at Western. You may also be eligible for additional scholarships from WMU. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs. 

View scholarship information.

As an engineering and applied sciences student, you should enjoy solving problems using math and science and possess a strong desire to make a difference in the world. Once you successfully complete pre-engineering requirements, you’ll apply to the upper-level professional program where you’ll dive deeper into your specific major.

View admissions information for first-year students

View admissions information for transfer students

Yes, we welcome students who are interested in transferring to WMU from a community college or other college or university. View transfer information and set-up an appointment to meet with an advisor.

Yes, we offer an accelerated degree program that allows you to complete a master’s degree in electrical engineering in just one additional year. Weave graduate courses (up to 12 credits) into your WMU undergraduate degree in electrical engineering, and earn both your bachelor's and master's degrees. Learn more about accelerated master’s degrees at WMU and view the requirements for the accelerated master’s degree in electrical engineering.

Many students in the electrical engineering program participate in internships or co-ops during their time at WMU. Check with a faculty member or your academic advisor for more information.

Western gives you options for receiving academic support in electrical engineering. Check with your professors or instructors during office hours to ask questions about your courses or find tutoring via the Bronco Study Zone.