Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Top Universities, Requirements, Costs & More for MS in Embedded Systems in USA

A Master's in embedded systems in the USA is ideal for students interested in computer science or electrical engineering academic background who wish to go into aerospace, automotive, and consumer products. Besides, the job scope of embedded systems in the USA for fresh graduates is good. Some of the reasons to study a Master's in embedded systems are 

Top Universities

The  US is popular and known across the world for its top-recognized universities and quality of education. The country is also top in the list of every international student when it comes to pursuing engineering degree programs. Pursuing a Master's in the USA will provide top-notch infrastructure and facilities. 

Applicability

The field of embedded systems is vast and immense. You don't get the opportunity in a limited number of sectors. Embedded systems are wide and it is applicable to a variety of sectors such as defense, aerospace, security, automotive, communication, medicine, industrial automation, networking, energy, and more.

Demand

The ubiquity of devices with built-in microprocessors means businesses everywhere are hiring engineers who can work on embedded systems. The job opportunities in the USA after an MS in embedded systems engineering are expected to keep growing by 10% over the next 10 years.

Embedded systems engineering has a big scope in the USA. Many new things, like electric cars, smart homes, and medical devices, need tiny computers inside them. These tiny computers are called embedded systems. Because of this, many companies in the USA look for engineers who know how to work with embedded systems.

Here’s what makes the scope of embedded systems strong in the USA:

• High Demand for Jobs: Many companies need engineers who can build and fix embedded systems. Jobs are growing in industries like automotive, healthcare, telecom, and electronics.
• Good Salaries: Engineers in this field earn good pay. Some reports say the average salary can be around USD 90,000 to 120,000 per year.
• New Technologies: The USA is leading in new tech like electric vehicles, robotics, and smart devices. All these use embedded systems.
• Research and Innovation: Universities and tech companies in the USA do a lot of research in embedded systems. This creates more chances for learning and jobs.
• Opportunities for Growth: Engineers can grow into roles like system architects, project managers, or researchers.

The USA has some of the world’s top engineering schools, such as MIT, Stanford, Caltech, etc. These universities teach students how to design and build smart systems used in cars, machines, robots, and many other devices. Students also get to do research and work on some actual impactful projects.

Here is a list of the top 10 universities in the USA for a Master’s in Embedded Systems, along with their QS World Ranking for 2026. The fees shown are for one year of study and may change based on the university and course details.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT is famous worldwide for its strong research in engineering and technology. MIT offers deep learning in both hardware and software when it comes to an MS in embedded systems. Why students choose MIT for MEng EECS or SM EECS course is because of the way it mixes computer science, electrical engineering, and system design into one strong program. 

Students often work on projects with big names like NASA, Intel, and Tesla. Labs like the Microsystems Technology Laboratories (MTL) and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) give students a chance to work on hardware-software co-design. One unique thing about MIT’s embedded systems track is how it connects machine learning and embedded hardware. 

Some courses teach how to design chips that run AI faster. This focus helps students get ready for new tech like autonomous vehicles and smart devices. Even though the fees are high, many students say MIT’s resources and networking make the cost worth it.

MIT’s MEng program allows students to finish faster, sometimes in just 1.5 years, which saves the living costs. Many courses focus on designing chips for AI and low-power systems, a rare combination in other universities.

Here’s key information about studying Embedded Systems at MIT:

Stanford University

Stanford University gives students huge advantages because many top tech companies are ready to hire students from here. At Stanford, the master’s program in embedded systems blends hardware design, software systems, and new trends like machine learning at the edge. Stanford has close ties with companies like NVIDIA, Apple, and Google.

Students at Stanford get the freedom to choose courses across departments like digital system design, wireless systems, robotics, or Internet of Things (IoT). Unlike some schools that have fixed tracks, Stanford’s program lets students create their own study plan. 

This helps them focus on areas they enjoy most. Many students also work in labs like the Stanford Embedded Systems Lab or the Center for Integrated Systems, which have strong industry funding. The program is flexible, which is good for students who like to mix hardware and software subjects.

Courses often cover low-power systems and embedded AI, which are big areas in modern tech. Many graduates go into fields like autonomous driving, IoT devices, or AI chips.

Here’s important data about Stanford’s Embedded Systems programs:

University of California, Berkeley

UC Berkeley (Cal) is known for strong engineering and research. Many students pick Berkeley because it mixes tough courses with chances to work on big research projects. The campus is filled with start-ups, student groups, and events that focus on new tech.

One thing that makes Berkeley’s embedded systems programs stand out is the focus on both hardware and advanced software topics. Students learn basics like how to design chips or write code. They also learn advanced things like how these systems fit into larger things like smart cities, medical tools, or clean energy devices.

Berkeley’s professors often work on research funded by groups like DARPA and the National Science Foundation. This means students might join projects dealing with making faster chips or safer cars. Berkeley’s MEng program packs the degree into one year, which helps students save money and time.

Students can work on advanced tech projects like low-power sensors for smart buildings in the Berkeley Wireless Research Center, Berkley lab. Berkeley’s fees are definitely lower than many private schools, making it a good value for high-quality teaching.

Graduates often stay in the Bay Area, where there’s strong demand for embedded systems engineers in tech and clean energy companies.

Here’s key info about UC Berkeley’s programs in embedded systems:

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Caltech can be a small university, but it definitely has a huge impact on science and engineering. It is located in Pasadena, California. What makes Caltech different is its low student-to-faculty ratio, which leads to more personal guidance from professors. 

Caltech offers a research-heavy environment with a strong focus on robotics, microelectronics, and real-time computing. Caltech doesn’t offer too many program tracks, but its core MS in Electrical Engineering lets students dive deep into embedded system design, computer architecture, and sensor networks. 

Students often build and test systems that go into space or are used in earthquake sensors. Many research projects at Caltech are done through the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). You will be amazed to know this lab is managed by NASA. Access to JPL gives students chances to design systems used in space missions and deep-space robots.

The program is more theoretical in the first year, but shifts to practical, project-based work later. Caltech graduates often move into R&D roles or pursue PhDs. Since the intake is small, admission is highly selective, and applicants need strong research or academic backgrounds.

Here’s the key information about Caltech’s embedded systems offerings:

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is famous for its embedded systems program. Because of its mix of deep technical training and flexible course options. Michigan offers many elective courses in control systems, IoT, and embedded software. This lets students shape the degree to match their career goals.

Students studying embedded systems at Michigan often join large research centres like the Michigan Integrated Circuits Lab (MICL) or the Embedded Systems Lab. These centres have big technological research work, like how to make medical devices smarter or build safer systems for self-driving cars. Michigan also works closely with auto companies like Ford and General Motors. This creates job opportunities in the growing field of embedded systems in vehicles.

The university’s ties with the automotive industry make it ideal for students interested in embedded systems for vehicles. Labs at Michigan uni often receive funding from both the US government and large private companies.

Michigan offers both MS and MEng options. MEng is more project-based and suits those looking to join industry soon after graduation. Students have access to the Michigan Engineering Zone, where they can work on personal or start-up projects.

Here are the main details about Michigan’s master’s program in embedded systems:

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. CMU is famous for embedded systems; this mix is powerful because it lets students work on both sides of technology. This gives students a broader perspective and experience.

At CMU, students get involved in projects linked to robotics, autonomous vehicles, and edge computing. One big advantage at CMU is the chance to work in places like the Embedded Systems Lab or the Institute for Software Research. These labs often partner with big names such as Intel, Google, or Uber Advanced Technologies Group.

CMU spreads embedded systems courses across several master’s programs. This helps students pick the exact path they want. Some choose hardware security, while others focus on systems software or machine learning on embedded devices.

CMU’s program is a top choice for students aiming for robotics or autonomous vehicle industries. Students can mix courses from both the ECE and Computer Science departments, giving broad technical skills.

CMU’s close ties with tech companies mean students often get summer internships that lead to full-time jobs. The campus hosts plenty of tech fairs where students showcase projects directly to employers.

Here’s the key data about CMU’s embedded systems options:

Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech has a friendly atmosphere and lower costs than many private schools, which makes it popular with both American and international students. Georgia Tech’s MS programs in embedded systems focus on areas like digital signal processing, real-time systems, low-power electronics, and embedded software. 

One thing that makes Georgia Tech stand out is its close work with industries in the southern USA. Texas Instruments, Cisco, Lockheed Martin, and other tech companies do partner with Georgia Tech for research.

Students at Georgia Tech often take part in projects through labs such as the Georgia Tech Embedded Systems Lab and the Center for Signal and Image Processing. The campus also has the Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC). This helps students launch start-ups. 

Many students choose Georgia Tech because they can study embedded systems and also get support to turn ideas into products. Students get many chances to join industry research projects in the aerospace and defence fields.

The university is very strong in signal processing and embedded software. It is really good for students interested in multimedia or communications systems. The ATDC helps students who want to start their own tech businesses in embedded systems or IoT.

Georgia Tech’s location in Atlanta gives students access to a growing tech scene with lower living costs compared to Silicon Valley.

Here’s the important data about Georgia Tech’s embedded systems programs:

University of California, San Diego (UCSD)

UC San Diego is famous for research in engineering and technology. Secretly, students love the beautiful weather and active campus life here. Students opting MS in embedded systems closely work with big tech companies in Southern California, like Qualcomm and Broadcom. These have strong links to wireless and embedded devices.

One thing that makes UCSD’s embedded systems program different is its strength in wireless communications, low-power design, and VLSI systems. Many professors here have worked in the industry and they bring that sort of experience into their teaching. 

UCSD’s labs, like the Center for Wireless Communications, let students test new ideas and often partner with tech firms for funded projects. Graduates often stay in California because the state offers many jobs in embedded systems and electronics.

UCSD’s strong link with Qualcomm means many students find internships or jobs in wireless embedded systems.

Professors often bring industry-sponsored projects into classes, so students work on real solutions rather than only textbook problems.

Students are mostly noticed to be involved in the research in VLSI design here. Lower tuition costs compared to other California universities make UCSD attractive for budget conscious students.

Here’s important data about UCSD’s embedded systems options:

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

UIUC is one of the oldest and most respected public universities in the USA for engineering. It is located in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois. UIUC stands out for its strong command on digital systems, embedded software, and control systems. This is all packed into a solid MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering. 

Students here join labs like the Coordinated Science Lab and the Information Trust Institute. These labs work on big-time research ideas around medical devices, sensor networks, and secure embedded platforms. The course offers one of the broadest selections of embedded systems subjects among public universities.

UIUC has strong faculty research in cyber-physical systems and embedded security. Many students get involved in tech competitions or IEEE student projects. If you look at the tuition fees, it is much lower than top private universities, but job outcomes remain competitive.

UIUC’s strong alumni network and on-campus recruiting make it easy to land jobs at companies like Intel, IBM, and Amazon.

University of Southern California (USC)

USC is a private university, and it is well-known for its engineering school, which is the Viterbi School of Engineering. The MS in  Embedded Systems at USC allows students to explore topics like real-time systems, low-level programming, system-on-chip design, and robotics.

One thing USC does well is connect students with the tech industry in LA. Courses are designed to be practical. Some of them are even co-taught with experts from companies. Students at USC often work with labs like the Information Sciences Institute and the Center for Robotics and Embedded Systems.

You will notice major portion of students are international at USC. The school offers career services, networking events, and optional CPT/OPT programs that make it easier for students to work in the USA after graduation.

USC helps its students get internships in the entertainment tech, aerospace, and electronics industries. The embedded systems program is well-rounded and lets students create/personalise their course load based on interest.

Many students work on projects in AI-powered hardware, drone systems, or smart sensors. USC has a large alumni network in top companies like Apple, NVIDIA, and SpaceX.

Most universities in the USA offer two main intakes for a Master’s in Embedded Systems: Fall (August-September) and Spring (January). The Fall intake is the most popular, and almost all top universities accept students during this term. The Spring intake is available at some universities but offers fewer courses and funding options.

Here are the main details students need to know about intakes:

Fall Intake (Primary)

The fall intake starts in the month of August or September. All top universities like MIT, Stanford, and CMU accept the majority of the applications during this intake. This is an important intake as it offers the most courses, scholarships, and on-campus job options. The application deadlines for fall intake usually fall between December and February of the previous year.

Spring Intake (Secondary)

It typically starts in January. Only a few universities offer this option, like USC, UIUC, and UCSD. Please note that this intake offers only limited course and elective availability. The application deadlines for spring intake are between August and October.

Rolling Admissions (for a few universities)

Some lower-ranked or private universities may have rolling intakes. For this, applications are accepted throughout the year, but early applications have higher chances. 

Which Intake to Choose for a Master’s in Embedded Systems in USA?

If possible, always keep an eye on the primary intake (Fall). Apply for the Fall intake for more choices in professors, research roles, and internships. Consider the Spring intake only if you missed the Fall deadlines or need more time to prepare your documents

The Master’s in Embedded Systems in the USA combines practical and theoretical knowledge on an equal level. Students learn how to design and build tiny computers that control bigger machines. The program usually includes both fixed subjects (core) and flexible choices (electives).

Most programs cover these important core subjects:

• Embedded Systems Design
• Microprocessors and Microcontrollers
• Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS)
• Embedded Software Development
• Digital System Design
• Computer Architecture
• VLSI Design
• Internet of Things (IoT) Systems
• Robotics and Control Systems
• Hardware Security
• Wireless Communication for Embedded Devices
• Machine Learning for Embedded Platforms

Students aiming to get into universities in the USA for an MS in Embedded Systems must have strong marks, a good English test score, and all the necessary documents required. This section explains exactly what a student needs to study at these top universities in USA. You'll find out who can apply, what marks are needed, and what documents must be ready before you send in your application.

Eligibility Criteria for MS in Embedded Systems in the USA

You need to qualify certain eligibility criteria and requirements of Master's embedded systems courses in USA before proceeding with its application. While these criteria and admission requirements can vary with the universities, a few of the basic ones are given below:

• Bachelor's Degree: The most common admission eligibility for MS in Embedded Systems in the USA is to have a bachelor's degree certificate. You need to have an engineering bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or a closely related field with good scores in key subjects. Having a good GPA of at least 3.5 will help you to get into the best colleges.
• English Language Proficiency Scores: If you are of an international student, then you must submit your language test scores to be considered for admission to the course. It is one of the most important criteria for admission to embedded systems courses in the USA. The minimum expected scores for an MS in embedded systems in the USA are:
  • IELTS: 6.0 to 7.0
  • TOEFL: 90 to 100
• GRE or GMAT Scores: Graduate entrance scores like the GRE or GMAT are optional for getting admission to Master's programs in the USA. These scores are used for the evaluation of your profile. However, competitive test scores based on some top universities are:
  • GRE: 260 to 330
  • GMAT: 650 to 725
• Work Experience: To pursue an MS in embedded systems in the USA, universities may ask for work experience. So, having 2-3 years of professional experience is an added advantage.
• Passport & Student Visa: A US student visa is a must to get admission into the best universities in the USA for an MS in embedded systems for international students. A copy of your passport is also required for applying for the student visa. Make sure you can apply for a Student Visa at least three months before the date of travel.

Documents Required for MS in Embedded Systems in USA

There are some essential documents you need in the submission process. Here is a list of documents you should gather before submitting your application form:

• Official high school transcripts
• Language test scores
• GRE or GMAT scorecards
• Personal essay
• Statement of purpose
• Letter of recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Work experience certificate 
• Proof of your financial resources
• Copy of your passport
• A few passport-sized photos

Yes, students can apply for a Master’s in Embedded Systems in the USA without the GRE at several universities. Many schools have made the GRE optional after the pandemic to make the process easier for students. Even if the GRE is waived, students still need a good GPA, strong English test scores, and sometimes work or research experience.

Here’s a list of some universities in the USA offering an MS in Embedded Systems where the GRE is optional or not required for many applicants:

The cost of studying usually includes two major expenses, one if tuition fees and the other is living expenses. So, the average tuition cost in the USA may range from USD 30,000 to USD 50,000 (INR 25 to 41.5L) every year. While if you look at the total cost of living, it may range from USD 10,000 to USD 20,000 (INR 8 to 16 Lakhs). 

Approximately 43% of overseas students take out education loans to help cover the expense of their education.  In order to pay for books, food, and transportation, many students often work up to 20 hours a week at part-time employment.  More than a million overseas students studied in the United States in 2025, and many of them cited financial difficulties as one of their main obstacles.

Tuition Fees 

The tuition fees may slightly vary with your study choice, full-time or part-time. Some schools cost more, and some cost less.

• MIT and Stanford are often the most expensive for this program. These have yearly tuition going above USD 60,000 (INR 58.5 L). That’s almost double the cost at some public universities like UC San Diego.
• UC San Diego offers one of the most affordable programs among top-ranked universities, with fees around USD 37,155 (INR 31.9 L) per year. 
• Interestingly, Georgia Tech, ranked among the top 35 globally, charges only about USD 31,370 (INR 26.03 L) per year. This makes it a huge value-for-money choice for Embedded Systems.
• Many top universities increase tuition fees by 3-5% every year (students should check the latest rates on official university websites).
• Besides tuition, students must also pay student fees, lab fees, and health insurance, which can add USD 1,500 to USD 3,000 (INR 1.2 to 2.5 L) per year to the total cost.
• Some schools waive tuition completely for research assistants. For example, at Caltech, students who secure research positions may not pay tuition at all and even earn a monthly stipend.

Cost of Living in the USA

Rent, food, entertainment, and travel are all expensive in the United States. Monthly living expenses for students often range from USD 1,000 to USD 2,000 (INR 83,000 to 1.66 L). Please note that every city has a different cost of living, where NYC and Houston would always be on the higher side of it.

Together, housing and food expenses can account for over half of a student's monthly budget (report from EducationUSA). Living with roommates, cooking at home, or taking advantage of student discounts are ways that many students save money.

The typical monthly expenses for a student in the United States are:

Some of the top scholarships in USA for MS that may help you with some finance can be SEG Scholarships, Fulbright, Rotary Peace, and many others. These scholarships help pay for tuition fees, living costs, and sometimes even travel.

These scholarships mentioned below in the table can be extremely helpful for you to get off the burden of loan repayments. Please check:

Applying for an MS in Embedded Systems in the USA usually involves several steps. Students need to plan early and check details on each university’s official website, because deadlines and requirements can change.

Here’s the usual step-by-step process:

Step 1: Shortlist Universities

You should visit official university websites to check the available programs, tuition fees, and admission requirements. After that, make a list of universities that match your interests, budget, and academic profile.

Step 2: Check Eligibility

Check the minimum GPA required for each university. See whether the GRE is mandatory or optional for the program. Also, review the accepted English proficiency tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, along with their minimum score requirements.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Prepare all the required documents for your application. These usually include your academic transcripts, such as:

• Bachelor’s degree mark sheets
• GRE scores (if required)
• English test scores
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (usually 2 or 3)
• Resume/CV highlighting projects or work experience

Step 4: Fill Out Online Applications

Create your accounts on the official admission portals of the universities you’ve shortlisted. Fill out all the required sections carefully and make sure to upload the necessary documents as per the university's instructions.

Step 5: Pay Application Fees

Application fees usually range from USD 50 to USD 150 for each university. You can pay the fee online through the university’s official application portal.

Step 6: Submit Applications

Make sure to double-check all the details and documents before submitting your application. It’s best to apply well before the deadlines to increase your chances of getting noticed by the admissions team.

Step 7: Track Application Status

Log in to each university’s admission portal regularly to check for updates. Some universities may also contact you for an interview during this stage.

Step 8: Receive Admission Decisions

Universities usually send their admission decisions through email or the application portal. Once you receive the offers, compare them and select your preferred university.

Step 9: Apply for a Visa

After accepting an offer, the university will send you the I-20 form needed for your student visa. Use this form to apply for an F-1 visa through the official US visa website (https://travel.state.gov).

A few pro tips here can be:

• Book your flights on time and check which route would be the cheapest for you. Do not forget to take a leverage of student discounts.
• Pre-plan your stay. Please book your accommodation 4 months in advance. If you know that most of the on-campus accommodation gets filled quickly. So, make the decision beforehand whether you want to stay on campus or off campus. 
• Arrive before classes start and attend orientation programs for a better understanding of your future.

Students who finish an MS in Embedded Systems in the USA can stay and work through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Since Embedded Systems is a STEM field, students can work for up to 3 years after graduation without needing a full work visa immediately.

Here’s how it works:

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Duration: 12 months of OPT for all degrees. An extra 24-month STEM extension for students in Embedded Systems, making it 36 months total.

It allows students to work in the USA after their degree. Students must work in a job related to their field of study. You can apply through the USCIS official website (https://www.uscis.gov). Apply for OPT as soon as possible after receiving your degree.

H-1B Work Visa

After OPT, many students switch to the H-1B visa to keep working in the USA. It is sponsored by an employer. It allows work for up to 6 years (in 3-year blocks).

Other Options

Some students apply for O-1 visas if they have special skills or achievements. Some pursue further studies (PhD) to stay longer on a student visa.

Students can apply for various job roles after completing an MS in Embedded Systems Engineering, such as hardware engineer, electrical engineer, and many others. The average salary for these positions is around USD 70,000 to USD 95,000 per year. 

There is a diverse range of job opportunities in Uthe SA after an MS in embedded systems. Some of the popular ones are:

Studying for a Master’s in Embedded Systems in the USA is an exciting goal for many students. The universities there offer great courses, research, and job opportunities. But the journey can also feel confusing. Many students worry about which university is best for them, how to prepare their documents, or how to fill out long application forms. It’s normal to feel stressed when so many important decisions have to be made.

This is where Yocket Premium can help you. Our team guides you at every step, from choosing the right universities to finishing your applications on time. With the premium, you can feel more confident and avoid mistakes that could delay your plans. If you feel unsure or stuck, reach out to our experts who are ready to help you make your study plans smoother and easier.