Electrical Engineering at University of Hawaii: What can I expect?

I'm considering studying electrical engineering at the University of Hawaii, but I'm not sure if it's the right fit for me. Can anyone share their experiences or thoughts on the program? What are the professors like, and are there any unique opportunities or challenges studying this major in Hawaii?

As a prospective electrical engineering student at the University of Hawaii, one of the first things you should know is that the program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. This is important because accredited engineering programs follow industry standards, ensuring that you'll receive a quality education and be qualified for jobs after graduation.

The University of Hawaii offers both B.S. and M.S. degrees in electrical engineering, with the undergraduate program focusing on providing a strong foundation in electrical engineering theory, as well as hands-on experience through labs and design projects. Students typically gain experience working with circuits, signal processing, control systems, and electromagnetics.

One of the unique opportunities associated with studying EE in Hawaii is the chance to participate in cutting-edge research, particularly in areas like renewable energy, microgrids, and smart grids, which are especially relevant due to Hawaii's commitment to a clean energy future. Moreover, owing to Hawaii's unique geography, there could be specific research opportunities in oceanic engineering and underwater communication systems.

As far as faculty are concerned, they come from diverse backgrounds with varied research interests. While some students have reported positive experiences with engaging and supportive professors, others have mentioned instances where professors may not be as accessible or focused on teaching, a situation that is not unique to Hawaii and may be encountered in engineering programs elsewhere.

Studying electrical engineering in Hawaii does have a few potential challenges as well. For instance, the cost of living in Hawaii is known to be high, which could impact your budget. As a student, you'll want to plan accordingly and take advantage of on-campus housing and other cost-saving measures where possible.

Additionally, the job market for electrical engineering in Hawaii might be limited due in part to its geographical isolation. This makes internships and co-op experiences especially valuable, as they enable you to build connections with local industry partners that could facilitate job opportunities upon graduation.

In summary, the University of Hawaii offers a reputable electrical engineering program that comes with unique opportunities in research, particularly in renewable energy. You'll want to carefully weigh the potential challenges related to cost of living and the local job market, but by building connections through internships and leveraging the program's resources, you can make the most of your experience in this beautiful location.