<p>Hello, </p>
<p>I am a rising senior in ECE at UIUC with a background in digital signal processing (DSP) and digital communications. I've done research in communications/information theory and hope to submit a conference paper soon. I have a 3.8 GPA, haven't taken the GRE yet. </p>
<p>I am still on the fence on whether or not to pursue a PhD. I am interested in, however, in "practical" aspects of communications and digital signal processing in which hardware (maybe IC design) and software are involved. Ultimately, I would like to work in industry (at a company such as Qualcomm, Intel or Broadcom) doing stuff that is not too theoretical and hands on, to a certain extent. </p>
<p>What ECE/EE grad programs may be consistent with my interests? Can anyone elaborate in some detail, the strength of communications/DSP/electronics circuits research at programs that I'm less aware of such as Cornell, UCSD, UCLA, USC, Carnegie Mellon? I would sincerely appreciate it.</p>