Our PhD program prepares students for a research career in academia or industry. The program consists of formal courses and original research conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor, leading to a thesis. Students admitted to the PhD program with only a bachelors degree complete the Master of Science (MS) degree as part of their program. Our department also offers a stand-alone MS degree, but only on a case-by-case basis.  Most students who have a prior MS degree with a research thesis component can directly move to the PhD program and do not have to complete a Rice MS degree (and will have a reduced coursework requirement as well). Students with a prior MS degree without a thesis may be waived from Rice MS degree in some cases. 

Learn more about our PhD Program.

A Professional Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MECE) can enhance and strengthen a career in industry. This degree is designed for the student who wishes to expand his or her engineering knowledge without completing a thesis. The degree emphasizes practical aspects of engineering, combined with management and communication coursework.

Learn more about the Professional Master's Program.