Communications

Explore cutting-edge communications research in electrical and computer engineering — driving the demand for faster, more reliable and more secure information exchange — from fundamental theory to real-world applications.

At the U of A’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, we lead the way in communications research focused on reliable and efficient information transmission. Our work explores the intricacies of classical and emerging information and communication theory, wireless communications and communication networks. Our researchers develop mathematical models for networks, signalling methods, channels and other vital systems. This foundational work informs the design of communication protocols that maximize data transfer rates, bandwidth, power consumption and enhance overall network reliability and security.

Join us as we innovate and shape the future of global information transmission.

Find faculty members who specialize in Communications Engineering

Possible Careers

  • Communications engineer/Telecommunications engineer
  • Network engineer/Architect
  • Signal processing engineer
  • Information theory/Coding engineer
  • Cloud network engineer
  • Artificial intelligence/Machine learning engineer
  • Research and development engineer/Scientist

Areas of Specialization

The communications specialization in electrical and computer engineering focuses on the theory, design, and implementation of systems for transmitting, receiving and processing information. This field is fundamental to modern life, powering everything from cell phones and Wi-Fi networks to satellite communications and fiber optics. Students learn the principles of signal processing, electromagnetic fields, information theory, and network design to address challenges in data rate, reliability, security, and power efficiency. This specialization provides a deep understanding of the protocols and hardware that enable our connected world.

Current Research in Communications

Current communications research focuses on optimizing wireless capacity and reliability. Key areas include MIMO and multi-antenna communications utilizing space-time coding for higher data rates, and robust modulation like orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) and multi-carrier systems. To combat signal loss, researchers study fading channels, diversity techniques, and equalization. The field also develops flexible systems like cognitive and software-defined radio and techniques for efficient networking such as cooperative communications, cross-layer design, and sophisticated resource allocation. Foundational work in information theory, network coding and iterative coding improves error correction. Research also extends to fiber optical and free-space optical communications.