Electrical & Computer Engineering: Machine Learning & Signal Processing MS

Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

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Is this program right for you?

Fast-track into the data science workforce with an accelerated MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Machine Learning and Signal Processing. Learn quantitative thinking, coding, and practical problem-solving through a course-only curriculum with a hands-on project. Focused on data science, machine learning, and signal processing, the program prepares you for immediate industry contribution.

  • Accelerated, course-based curriculum allowing you to graduate in 12-16 months, no thesis required
  • Coursework draws upon foundational and cutting-edge methods and is taught by faculty conducting pioneering research in the field
  • Pursue professional development opportunities in the form of an internship or independent study

Education that works for you

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department offers the Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Machine Learning and Signal Processing (MLSP) program which is intended for students looking for an advanced entry into a data science career in industry.

Program type

Master’s degree

Graduate education in a specific area of expertise

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Degree awarded

Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Commitment

12–16 months

Tuition

$1,200 per credit

Format

Accelerated

Fast-paced program with higher course load

Face-to-face

On-campus, in-person courses

Credits

30 graduate credits

Admission terms

Program only admits for fall term

STEM opt eligible

Yes

Supports F-1 Visa

Application deadlines

Fall 2027

  • Deadline: February 15, 2027

Fall 2028

  • Deadline: February 15, 2028
View UW–Madison’s Guide

Your questions, answered

Have questions? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

Admissions and events

Program requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have a Bachelor of Science in electrical or computer engineering. The department also welcomes other relevant scientific, engineering, and mathematical disciplines.
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credits of degree
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. See the Graduate School Requirements for more information

Application materials required

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation

For complete application details visit UW–Madison’s Guide →

June 16, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Program Pop-In: Pre-Application Course Planning

Didn’t study engineering at UW-Madison as an undergrad? Learn what courses engineering students typically take and how to compare that with your own background so you can identify what you already know and any areas to strengthen before applying.

Register now →

June 23, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Ask Me Anything: International Student Edition

Have questions about studying as an international student? Bring them! This live Q&A covers UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs, the application process, and the student experience. No registration required.

Register now →

July 7, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Ask Me Anything: International Student Edition

Have questions about studying as an international student? Bring them! This live Q&A covers UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs, the application process, and the student experience. No registration required.

Register now →

July 15, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Ask Me Anything: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Bring your questions and learn more about UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs in a casual virtual session. No registration required.

Register now →

July 28, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Career Outlook: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Explore career outcomes for graduates of UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs, including top employers, common job titles, salary ranges, and hiring locations.

Register now →

August 4, 2026 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Ask Me Anything: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Have questions about studying as an international student? Bring them! This live Q&A covers UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs, the application process, and the student experience. No registration required.

Register now →

August 6, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Ask Me Anything: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Bring your questions and learn more about UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs in a casual virtual session. No registration required.

Register now →

August 18, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Application Assistance: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Learn about the College of Engineering accelerated master’s programs and application best practices. You’ll leave knowing what you need, and how to successfully apply.

Register now →

August 20, 2026 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Application Assistance: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Learn about the College of Engineering accelerated master’s programs and application best practices. You’ll leave knowing what you need, and how to successfully apply.

Register now →

August 25, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Ask Me Anything: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Bring your questions and learn more about UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs in a casual virtual session. No registration required.

Register now →

August 26, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Ask Me Anything: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Bring your questions and learn more about UW’s Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs in a casual virtual session. No registration required.

Register now →

August 27, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Application Assistance: Accelerated Engineering Master’s Programs

Learn about the College of Engineering accelerated master’s programs and application best practices. You’ll leave knowing what you need, and how to successfully apply.

Register now →

Results that work for you

Electrical & Computer Engineering: Machine Learning & Signal Processing MS

$133,078

Median annual salary in 2024, Lightcast™

Job titles

  • Software engineers
  • Solutions architects
  • Software developers
  • DeOps engineers
  • Software development engineers
  • Java developers
  • Full stack developers
  • Principle software engineers

Top industries

  • Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services
  • Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services
  • Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services

Top employers

  • Amazon
  • Accenture
  • Cognizant Technology Solutions
  • Deloitte
  • Randstad
  • Ford
  • JP Morgan
  • Chase
  • Apple

11.4%

Projected growth for electrical engineers from 2024-2034. Source: Lightcast™ 2024

#9

graduate ranking for electrical engineering among U.S. public universities

U.S. News & World Report, 2025

What you’ll learn

In the Electrical & Computer Engineering: Machine Learning & Signal Processing MS program, you’ll delve into topics that help you tackle real-world problems in information processing and apply data-driven innovation to cutting-edge technology.
For complete curricular details visit UW-Madison's Guide →
  • Machine learning
  • Signal processing
  • Artificial neural networks
  • Information processing

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