Compare Research-Oriented Graduate Degree Programs
The Master’s program usually lays the groundwork for the pursuit of a Ph.D. These programs focus on specialized research, rigorous coursework, and superb faculty mentorship. A graduate degree from Berkeley EECS ensures that you have cultivated the necessary skills to succeed in a career in industry or teaching.
Master of Science (M.S.) Only
Semester Admitted: Fall (August)
Application deadline: mid-December
Full-time Commitment: ~2 years
Location: On-Campus
Focus: Leads to a career in industrial R&D or Ph.D.
The 2-year M.S. degree in EECS is intended primarily for registered UC Berkeley Ph.D. students who want to add the degree. Other students interested in a research-oriented degree should consider applying directly to the M.S./Ph.D. or Ph.D. program. If you are planning to immediately join the engineering profession without pursuing a Ph.D., the Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) program is specifically designed as a professional master’s degree.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Only
Semester Admitted: Fall (August)
Application deadline: mid-December
Full-time Commitment: 5-6 years (starting with a Bachelor’s), 3-5 years (starting with a Master’s)
Location: On-Campus
Focus: Research + teaching experience
A Ph.D. in EECS combines coursework and original research with exceptional faculty mentoring to prepare for a career in academia or industry.
Both (M.S./Ph.D.)
Semester Admitted: Fall (August)
Application deadline: mid-December
Full-time Commitment: 5-6 years
Location: On-Campus
Focus: Research preparation for the Ph.D.
A full program for those who know they would like to pursue a Ph.D at Berkeley.