What is Electrical Engineering?

Electrical Engineering focuses on creating, designing, and managing electricity in many forms to help power the world. Electrical Engineering applies the physics and mathematics of electricity, electromagnetism, and electronics to both large and small scale systems to process information and transmit energy.

Electrical Engineers work with devices, circuits, power, continuous time signals (analog) and discrete time signals (digital), controls, electronics, digital and analog electronics, electromagnetism, microprocessors, digital design, radio frequency - wireless communications, and satellite communications.

What does a Electrical Engineering graduate do?

Electrical Engineers work in a wide variety of industries. Popular sub disciplines include electronic engineering, microelectronics engineering, signal processing engineering, power engineering, control engineering, telecommunications engineering, instrumentation engineering, and computer engineering. Common tasks include:

  • Inventing, designing and building hardware and computer devices (some too small to see)
  • Using CAD systems for creation of schematics and to lay out circuits
  • Using computers to simulate how electrical devices and systems will function
  • Controlling algorithms, sensors, and AI processors
  • Designing, building, improving, and testing printed circuits, microprocessors, and other small components
  • Analyzing and altering digital signals to make them more accurate and reliable
  • Designing and developing equipment and systems for efficient and safe manufacturing operations
  • Constructing, operating, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment

Concentrations

Although not required, MSU Electrical Engineering majors can add a concentration to align with a specific academic or career interest. Concentrations include:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Digital Systems & IoT
  • Electromagnetics, Acoustics & Optics
  • Microelectronics
  • Radio Frequency & Wireless
  • Robotics & Automation
  • Smart Devices

Graduate Outcome Data

Below you will find data collected from graduates for the period 2023 – 2025. The data provides a sampling of industries, companies, and jobs that Electrical Engineering graduates pursue. However, this data set is not the only story. Electrical Engineering graduates work within a variety of industries and jobs. This information is meant to encourage your exploration. It’s your journey and we’re here to help. Connect with a career coach to discuss options and possibilities.