Radar Communications and Systems Technology

Also known as: Radar Engineering, RF and Radar Systems, Applied Radar Science, Electromagnetic Systems Engineering

In this Bachelor's program, you will delve into the fundamental principles and advanced applications of radar technology, learning how these systems detect, track, and image objects. You will explore subject areas such as electromagnetic theory, radio frequency (RF) circuits, signal processing, antenna design, and digital communications. The program focuses on equipping you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to design, analyze, test, and implement modern radar systems across various industries.

Social SciencesSTEMEngineeringAerospaceCommunication

A Week as a Student

Your week kicks off with an Electromagnetic Theory lecture, where Professor Davies breaks down complex field equations. You're trying to wrap your head around vector calculus applications. In the afternoon, you meet your Intro to Radar Systems group, sketching out ideas for your first system analysis project. Later, you hit the campus rec center for a run, clearing your mind. You spend the evening reviewing notes and starting the dense reading for tomorrow's RF Circuit Design class, already feeling the academic challenge.

High School Preparation

Required Subjects

Pre-Calculus or CalculusPhysicsChemistryEnglishComputer Science or Programming

Recommended GPA

3.0-3.5

Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)

AP Calculus (AB or BC)
AP Physics (1, 2, or C)
AP Computer Science A
Honors Engineering Fundamentals
AP Statistics

Recommended Activities

Robotics Club or Competition
Science Olympiad
Amateur Radio Club
Coding or Electronics Club
Engineering Design Challenges
Math Team

Application Essay Topics

Describe a real-world problem you believe radar technology could help solve, and how.
Discuss the ethical implications of advanced radar surveillance and how engineers might address them.
Explain a recent innovation in radar technology that excites you and why.
How has your interest in mathematics or physics influenced your decision to pursue radar communications and systems technology?

Alternative Path

While a traditional Bachelor's degree is common, you could enter related technical roles with an Associate's degree in electronics technology or similar fields, often combined with specialized certifications in radar maintenance or RF systems. Military service in relevant technical branches can also provide valuable experience and training.

Core Subjects

Click on "i" to learn more about each subject

Career Prospects

Growing Study Prospects

Upon graduation, you could pursue roles such as a Radar Engineer, RF Engineer, Systems Integration Engineer, Signal Processing Engineer, or Test and Evaluation Engineer. These positions are primarily found in sectors like defense and aerospace, telecommunications, automotive (for autonomous driving radar), weather forecasting, and various government agencies.

Impact of AI on this Study

AI significantly impacts radar communications by enhancing signal interpretation, target classification, and autonomous system integration. You will learn to apply machine learning algorithms for improved object detection, clutter suppression, and cognitive radar capabilities, which adapt to dynamic environments. This program will equip you with skills in using AI tools and software for advanced data analytics and predictive modeling within radar systems.