If you want to work on the technologies that will define the next century — from the clean energy grid to intelligent systems to the next generation of communications — Electrical Engineering at Pitt is where that journey begins. Our program traces its roots to 1893, when George Westinghouse and radio pioneer Reginald Fessenden helped establish the department as one of the earliest in the country. More than 130 years later, that founding spirit of innovation is still very much alive — and the challenges ahead have never been more compelling.
You'll build a strong foundation in power systems, electromagnetics, semiconductor devices, electronic circuit design, signal processing, and control theory, then shape your degree around what excites you most. Interested in the future of energy? The Electric Power concentration gives you deep expertise across all aspects of the electric power system — from generation and distribution to smart grid technologies and renewables — backed by hands-on experience in the Electric Power Systems Lab, a one-of-a-kind industry-grade facility sponsored by Eaton where students work alongside faculty on the real problems facing the grid today. You can also explore other concentrations and certificate programs to personalize your path. Earn while you learn through our co-op program, alternating semesters of coursework with paid, full-time engineering positions at leading companies. Whatever direction you choose — a career in industry or government, graduate school, entrepreneurship, or beyond — a Pitt EE degree gives you the foundation to lead.
The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at Pitt is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET — a mark of quality that signals to employers and graduate programs worldwide that your degree meets the highest standards in engineering education. Our program is designed with clear outcomes in mind: graduates leave Pitt equipped to solve complex engineering problems, communicate and collaborate effectively, navigate ethical and professional responsibilities, and pursue lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving field. Whether you go on to a career in industry, launch your own venture, or continue to graduate school, you'll have the foundation to lead and make an impact.
The Electrical Engineering program at Pitt is designed to take you from a strong engineering foundation to a specialized, career-ready skill set — preparing you to succeed whether you pursue a career in industry or government, launch a startup, go on to graduate school, or move into fields like law, business, or management. The curriculum builds year over year with intention: sophomore year delivers a comprehensive common curriculum shared with Computer Engineering, covering analog hardware, digital hardware, software, and applied mathematics. Junior year dives into six EE-specific core courses — electric power, electromagnetics, linear control systems, digital signal processing, semiconductor devices, and advanced analog design — giving you the depth that defines the discipline.
Senior year is where the curriculum opens up. With four advanced ECE electives, three technical electives, and an open elective, you have dozens of options to explore the specializations that align with your interests and goals. Our graduates leave Pitt among the best-prepared electrical engineers in the nation — ready to make an impact from day one.
