Graduate Certificate in Digital Signal Processing
Purdue University’s online Graduate Certificate in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) provides specialized knowledge and practical skills in signal theory, programming, and algorithm development, preparing individuals for elevated roles that require this expertise.
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Overview
Advance your engineering career
The 100% online Graduate Certificate in Digital Signal Processing is designed to meet the needs of engineering professionals and managers seeking to increase their knowledge of DSP and its implementation in emerging technologies in less time than a traditional master’s degree. This flexible program allows students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments while gaining industry-relevant expertise.
Students will learn from the world-renowned faculty of Purdue’s Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering which is the home of the #1 ranked online Master’s in Electrical Engineering (U.S. News & World Report, 2025). Build foundational skills by selecting from a variety of courses in random signals and variables, digital communications, and lumped system theory.
With a focus on real-world applications, this certificate provides stackable skills that can be utilized immediately in the workplace or applied toward Purdue’s online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering, helping you to stay competitive in an evolving industry
The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
Program Specifics
Criteria for Admissions
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area (Engineering, Science, Mathematics, or Technology) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent (A=4.0).
More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
Required Courses
Curriculum Required Courses – 6 credits
- ECE 53800: Digital Signal Processing I
- ECE 60000: Random Variables and Signals Electives – 9 credits
- ECE 54400: Digital Communications
- ECE 58000: Optimization Methods for Systems and Control
- ECE 60200: Lumped System Theory**
- ECE 60800: Computational Models and Methods**
- ECE 63700: Digital Image Processing I
- ECE 64100: Digital Image Processing II
- MA 51100: Linear Algebra with Applications*
*Only one Math (MA) course may be selected
** Either ECE 60200 OR ECE 60800 can be applied to the certificate. More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
A graduate certificate is a specialized credential that provides advanced knowledge in a specific field. Available to those with a bachelor’s degree, Purdue’s 100% online graduate certificates take less time than a full master’s degree program. They are valuable for individuals looking to quickly advance their careers or pivot to a new industry. Graduate certificates also can serve as a stepping stone toward a master’s degree since they allow students to earn academic credits that may apply to a future graduate program. Ask your enrollment counselor for details or learn more about graduate certificates here.
Career Outcomes
Top Job Titles
- Electrical Engineers
- Digital Signal Processing Engineers
- Algorithm Engineers
- Field Programmable Gate Array Engineer
- Radio Frequency Engineers
Top Industries
- Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing
- Communications Equipment Manufacturing
- Aircraft Manufacturing
- Engineering Services
- Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing
Source: LightcastTM (2023). Unique job postings for July 2022-2023. Projected growth for years 2023-2033.
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Get your questions answered, receive application help, or plan your degree journey by speaking with an enrollment counselor. Request more information today by filling out this form to connect with a Purdue University enrollment counselor and receive additional program materials.
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