Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering (ECE) developed its undergraduate program following Outcome-Based Education (OBE). The curriculum design is based on being rewarding, relevant and fun while allowing for depth, breath and flexibility. We aim to enable students to learn fundamental ECE concepts and have balanced exposure to both engineering design and analysis, and help students develop an engineering problem solving mindset. We want to produce students who are life-long learners, effective engineers, critical thinkers and global citizens.

One major goal of our undergraduate (UG) curriculum is to encourage students to become more curious. For example, we offer an introductory course on building a wireless communications system and another on creating a robot. The aim is to first motivate and engage students in finding out more about electronic and computer engineering. More in depth theories will be explored later once students are aware of the purpose of studying them.

In adopting this approach, we are seeking to produce the innovators and creators of tomorrow who will ask questions that no one else has asked before and in answering them go on to generate new products, devices and developments. As one of the largest departments in the University, we are responsible for nurturing many students each year and strive to create a fostering environment that encourages people to make the most of their potential.

Our Intended Learning Outcomes

An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and Electronic and Computer Engineering.
An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyse and interpret data.
An ability to design efficient and economical Electronic and Computer Engineering systems, components or process subject to practical constraints.
An ability to function in a multi-disciplinary environment through teamwork.
An ability to identify, formulate and solve Electronic and Computer Engineering problems.
An ability to understand professional practices and ethical responsibilities.
An ability to communicate effectively.
An ability to understand contemporary global, regional, economic, environmental, and social issues, and the corresponding role and the impact of Electronic and Computer engineers.
An ability to recognize the need for, and to engage in life-long learning. An ability to use current techniques, skills and engineering tools necessary for solving Electronic and Computer Engineering problems.
An ability to use the computer/IT tools relevant to the Electronic and Computer Engineering along with an understanding of their processes and limitations.

Our Educational Objectives

Our undergraduate major program aims to provide modern and high-quality education in electronic and computer engineering, so that our graduates will possess:

The technical knowledge, skill, and training required to conduct research and development, including post-graduate studies in ECE or related disciplines;
An ability to apply fundamental knowledge in mathematics, science and ECE in finding efficient technological solutions to important problems;
Solid preparation to launch their career, and eventually to become leaders within their chosen profession, and nurture the development of their peers; and
An appreciation of the roles and responsibilities of Electronic and Computer Engineers within the wider community, especially as entrepreneurs and innovators.

University Core Education

University education is more than just professional training. The Common Core Program aspires to bring students a balanced and broad education that nurtures them to be responsible citizens and independent thinkers with the heart and aspiration to excel in their endeavors. Undergraduate students are required to take a number of common core credits in order to meet graduation requirements.

ECE Major Program

The ECE major program offers courses in four levels. A common focus in our curriculum is that in all four levels we strive to enhance our UG students’ inquisitive learning via interactive, collaborative and lab-based approach. The following are brief descriptions of each level:

Introductory courses to show students the big picture of ECE through two lab-based courses that all UGs in ECE must take early in their studies.
Foundation courses to provide students the core knowledge of ECE through four courses that all UGs in ECE must take as prerequisites for higher-level courses.
Area courses to broaden students’ horizon in ECE through at least three out of six courses. These six courses are designed with the objectives of showing students the big picture of the ECE areas thus allowing for breath, while equipping students with the necessary tools to proceed to advanced courses within the area.
Depth courses and Final-Year Projects/Theses to deepen students’ knowledge through at least two advanced courses and conducting a two-semester Final-Year Project/Thesis under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Study Areas

The major programs cover a wide range of modern technologies that are critical to the growth of our information-based society and open up vast career opportunities. These include the following study areas:

Electromagnetics: From wireless to photonic applications is important in a wide scope of applications using electromagnetic waves including photonics and wireless.
Embedded systems are computer systems designed for specific control functions within larger systems, which are embedded as part of a complete device that often includes hardware and mechanical parts.
Integrated Circuits and Systems focuses on advanced digital and analog IC designs and their applications that are vital for product development in the electronics industry.
Microelectronic Devices and Technology focuses on the fundamentals and applications of semiconductor devices and technology at the micro- and nano-scale.
Signal Processing and Communications involves the processing, storage and transmission of multimedia data and next-generation wireless multimedia communications and broadband networks.
System Modeling, Analysis and Control focuses on various areas in robotics, computer aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM), and control, such as the design, manufacturing, and control techniques of robotic systems.

Minor Program

Undergraduate students may enroll in a minor program in addition to their disciplinary major if they meet the enrollment conditions specified. On successful completion of both major and minor programs, the student will receive a degree in their major subject with a minor in their selected program. Students may also enroll in minor programs offered by other Schools in the university.

Research Option

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) is one of HKUST’s signature programs designed to provide a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in academic research and help them develop a broad and insightful perspective of their areas of interest through various tailor-made research projects.

Enrichment

Students are also encouraged to participate in other enrichment programs during the course of their studies, such as exchange programs, internship programs, and student competitions.

Course Descriptions

The courses cover a wide range of modern technologies including wireless communications, signal and information, microelectronics, IC design, photonics, system and automation, bioelectronics, and computer engineering, to name a few. For more information on these courses, please click on the links below.