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Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Top Universities, Admission Requirements, Cost and Placements

MG
Manu Garg • 8 Mins read • 30 Jul 25
Masters in Embedded Systems in USAMasters in Embedded Systems in USA

Thinking of pursuing a Masters in Embedded Systems in USA? Masters of Embedded Systems in USA course duration is 2 years, focusing on assembly language, architecture, components, circuits, operating system coursework, use of lab equipment, etc. Masters in Embedded Systems in USA eligibility criteria include a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in a bachelor's degree in STEM courses; furthermore, students have to take English proficiency tests. Some top Universities for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA may prefer candidates with professional work experience. 

The Masters in Embedded Systems in USA average tuition fee ranges between $30,000 to 60,000, while the average cost of living in USA is $25,000. Some of the top Universities for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA include University of California, Berkeley, University of California, San Diego, Carnegie Mellon University, etc. Masters in Embedded Systems in USA admissions to top universities generally took place in the Fall and Spring semesters.

There is immense scope after completing Masters in Embedded Systems in USA. For instance, graduates may earn up to $97,000 per year. Continue reading this blog that will navigate you through Masters in Embedded Systems in USA top universities, admission requirements, cost and placements.


Master in Embedded Systems in USA: Quick Highlights

The table below shows a quick overview of Masters in Embedded in USA.

Particulars 

Details

Course Name

Masters in Embedded Systems 

Program Type

Full Time

Course Duration 

2-Years

Eligibility Criteria 

Bachelor's degree in STEM courses with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

English Proficiency Requirement 

Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 79

Tuition fees 

$30,000 to 60,000

Average Salary

$97,000

Intake 

Fall and Spring 

Top Universities 

University of California, Berkeley, University of California, San Diego, Carnegie Mellon University, etc.


Why Choose a Masters in Embedded Systems in USA?

Below are the key reasons to pursue Masters in Embedded Systems in USA.

  • USA hosts top universities in the world for Masters in Embedded Systems. 
  • The Masters in Embedded Systems in USA are globally recognised, opening up immense global opportunities for graduates.
  • Top Universities in USA for Masters in Embedded Systems have a decent alumni base and industry connections. Both factors open a number of networking opportunities for students in their early days.
  • The number of jobs in the CSE market is expected to shoot up by 21% by 2028. Embedded Systems, being a core field of computer science, will also witness a rise in job opportunities.
  • In USA, tech giants like Google, Bosch, IBM, Intel, and Microsoft hire embedded engineers. As per reports graduates may earn an average of $97,000 annually after completing Masters in Embedded Systems in USA.


Best Universities for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA

The table below shows the Masters in Embedded Systems in USA top universities with their fees and QS World ranking.

Top Universities 

QS World Ranking 2026

Course Name 

Annual Fees(USD)

University of California, Berkeley

17

Master of Engineering: Robotics and Embedded Software

$66,142

Carnegie Mellon University

52

Master of Software Engineering - Embedded Systems

$60,000

University of California, San Diego

66

Master of Advanced Studies - Wireless Embedded Systems - Electrical and Computer Engineering Track

$28,897

Pennsylvania State University

82

Master of Electrical Engineering- Embedded Systems

$23,395

Arizona State University

173

Master of Computer Engineering: Embedded Systems

$37,044

University of California, Irvine

293

Master of Embedded and Cyber-Physical Systems

$34,317

Oakland University

651-680

Master of Science in Embedded Systems

$35,653

San Francisco State University

1401+

Master of Science in Engineering: Embedded Electrical and Computer Systems

$39,384


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA top universities is listed in the following points.

  • A GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (83%-86%) in Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 79
  • GRE or GMAT Scores
  • Work Experience (if required)
  • Passport
  • American Student Visa


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Application Process

The following points show the detailed application process for a Masters in Embedded Systems in USA.

  1. First of all you have to choose a university that caters to your individual goals and requirements.
  2. After selecting the university, check its eligibility criteria for the course. Collect all the related documents and transcripts to proceed with the application.
  3. Apply to the University's official website by submitting all the required documents and paying the application fee.
  4. Track your application with the ID and Password.
  5. After getting the selection letter, immediately apply for the American student visa to avoid any unexpected delays.
  6. Finally, you have to board a flight to USA to study for a Masters in Embedded Systems.


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Documents Required

The following are the key documents to apply for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA.

  • Bachelor's degree 
  • English Language Proficiency Tests Scores
  • Official transcripts from college/ university attended
  • Statement of purpose
  • Up-to-date resume
  • Two years of professional work experience, if required
  • Work experience, if any
  • Health Insurance 
  • Copy of passport
  • Proof of finances


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Visa Application Timeline

Students thinking of studying for a master's in embedded systems in USA are always advised to apply for the F-1 student visa as early as possible to provide them ample time for university applications, visa processing, and unexpected delays. The table below shows the quick overview of an American student visa for Masters in Embedded Systems.

Particulars 

Details

Recommended Visa Type

F-1 Student Visa

When to apply?

As early as possible after receiving the selection letter.

Processing Time 

3-4 Months 


Top Entrance Exams for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA 

Below mentioned are the top entrance exams for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA. 

  1. To pursue Masters in Embedded Systems in USA, students must qualify the English language proficiency test like IELTS, TOEFL
  2. Many of the universities have waived off the GMAT/GRE exams for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA. However, students may apply with their high GMAT score to get preference.
  3. Apart from English language proficiency tests and GMAT and GRE there are no other standard tests required for pursuing Masters in Embedded Systems in USA.


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Cutoff

The table below shows the Masters in Embedded Systems in USA IELTS/TOEFL cutoff scores for top universities.

Top Universities 

Minimum Cutoff Scores

University of California, Berkeley

  • TOEFL score: 90
  • IELTS score: 7

University of California, San Diego

  • TOEFL: 85
  • IELTS: 7.0

Carnegie Mellon University

  • TOEFL score: 102
  • IELTS score: 7.5
  • DET score: 135

University of California, Irvine

  • TOEFL: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5

Oakland University

  • TOEFL score: 79
  • IELTS score: 6.5
  • PTE score: 53

San Francisco State University

  • TOEFL: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5

Arizona State University

  • TOEFL score: 90
  • IELTS score: 7

Pennsylvania State University

  • TOEFL score: 80
  • IELTS score: 6.5
  • DET score: 120


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Syllabus

A Masters of Embedded Systems in USA typically includes subjects like Embedded Systems Design, Real-Time Operating Systems, and Embedded Hardware Design. To make the degree more worthy, students are allowed to choose from the pool of specialisations. Some of the key specialisation areas include Embedded AI, FPGA Design, and Wireless Embedded Systems. 


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Core Courses

The table below shows the core courses included in the Masters in Embedded Systems in USA. 

Core Courses 

Embedded Systems Design

Real-Time Operating Systems

Microcontrollers and Microprocessors 

Embedded Hardware Design

Embedded Software Development

Digital Signal Processing

Embedded System Architecture

Embedded System Verification and Validation

NA


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Specialisations 

The table below shows the specialisations included in the Masters in Embedded Systems in USA. 

Specialisations

Embedded AI and Machine Learning

FPGA Design

Robotics and Automation

Wireless Embedded Systems

NA

NA


Masters in Embedded Systems in USA: Scholarships

The table below shows key scholarships available for international students pursuing Masters in Embedded Systems in USA. 

Scholarship Type 

Details

Fulbright Scholarships for Indians

Awarded to international students with excellent academic records and English language proficiency pursuing a master’s degree in the U.S.

All Star Verified Scholarship

Awarded to international students studying in the U.S. based on academic merit.

Rotary Peace Fellowships

These scholarships are for international students pursuing master’s degree programs.

MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship

These scholarships are awarded to international women students enrolled or accepted to full-time STEM programs.

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

Awarded to outstanding postgraduate students from select developing countries.

SEG Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit to undergraduate and graduate students who have above-average grades.

PEO International Peace Scholarship

Awarded to international women students to pursue graduate studies in the U.S. or Canada.


Cost of Living in USA

Apart from the annual tuition fees, students have to bear a number of expenses to pursue higher education in USA. The table below shows the cost of living in USA.

Expenses Type 

Average Annual Expenses (In USD)

Accommodation 

$20,000

Meals 

$8,500

Transportation 

$2,200

Health Insurance 

$6,700

Miscellaneous 

$9,100


Career Scope After Masters in Embedded Systems in USA

The computer science and engineering job market is expected to rise by 21% by 2028. Apart from general trends the USA is a hub for tech giants like Google, Microsoft, etc. A graduate may earn an average of $97,000 annually in USA after completion of the Masters in Embedded Systems. Some of the key roles offered to students are:

  • Embedded Software Engineer 
  • Senior Software Engineer 
  • Electrical Engineer 
  • Embedded System Engineer 
  • Senior Test Engineer 
  • Hardware Engineer


Course in Location Salary Package

The table below shows the average annual salary for various job roles offered to graduates after completing Masters in Embedded Systems in USA.

Job Role 

Average Annual Salary (in USD)

Embedded Software Engineer 

$87,485

Senior Software Engineer 

$99,136

Electrical Engineer 

$84,996

Embedded Software Developer 

$70,953

Associate Project Manager 

$87,573

Embedded Systems Engineer 

$76,379

Senior System Engineer 

$109,979

Senior Test Engineer 

$99,447

Hardware Engineer 

$73,269


Frequently Asked Questions


Ques: What are the best universities for MS in Embedded Systems in USA?

Ans: Top universities for Masters in Embedded Systems in USA include Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, Georgia Tech, and UC Berkeley.


Ques: Is a Masters in Embedded Systems worth it in USA?

Ans: Yes, Graduates often secure roles in CSE, IoT, and robotics industries, with average salaries for Embedded Systems engineers in the USA ranging around $97,000 annually.


Ques: What’s the difference between MS in Embedded Systems and MS in Computer Engineering in USA?

Ans: MS in Embedded Systems focuses on hardware–software integration and real‑time systems, while MS in Computer Engineering covers topics like networks, architecture, and VLSI design.


Ques: Are there Embedded Systems Master’s programs with robotics or IoT specialization in USA?

Ans: Yes, top Universities in USA like Georgia Tech, CMU, and UC Irvine offer Masters in Embedded Systems specialising in robotics, IoT, and hardware design.


Ques: What are the admission requirements for Masters in Embedded Systems programs in USA?

Ans: The Masters in Embedded Systems in USA eligibility criteria include a bachelor’s in electrical, electronics, or computer engineering, GRE scores, transcripts, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.