Electrical Engineering Major
Electrical Engineering is the study of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic systems. It is a major within Engineering & Technology.
Electrical Engineering is the study of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic systems. The major explores how electrical energy is generated, transmitted, and used, as well as how electronic devices and circuits function. Students learn to analyze and design systems that power homes and cities, control machines, and enable communication and computing. The field addresses practical questions: How do we move electrical power efficiently? How do circuits work? What are the limits of a given design? Students develop skills in problem-solving, mathematical modeling, and understanding how abstract physical principles translate into real-world applications.
Students drawn to electrical engineering typically enjoy physics and mathematics and are curious about how technology works. The major usually begins with foundational courses in circuit theory, electromagnetics, and signal processing that build core understanding. As students progress, they move toward more specialized topics and hands-on laboratory work, often selecting areas of focus based on their interests. This structure allows learners to grasp underlying principles before applying them to specific technologies or systems, with increasing emphasis on design and independent problem-solving as they advance.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Electrical Engineering program commonly includes topics such as:
- Circuit analysis
- Electronics
- Signals and systems
- Electromagnetics
- Control systems
- Power systems
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Electrical Engineering is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Electrical Engineering background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Electrical engineer
- Electronics engineer
- Power systems engineer
- Hardware engineer
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Electrical Engineering major?
Electrical Engineering is the study of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic systems. It is part of engineering & technology, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Electrical Engineering majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as circuit analysis, electronics, signals and systems, electromagnetics, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Electrical Engineering major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as electrical engineer, electronics engineer, power systems engineer. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Electrical Engineering offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.