ECEG 390
Theory and Applications of Electromagnetics

Spring 2026

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Bucknell University Course Catalog Description

"Applications of Maxwell's equations to the solution of problems involving electric and magnetic fields and transverse electromagnetic waves. Transmission line parameters, wave propagation, reflection from planar surfaces, polarization, and electromagnetic interaction with matter."

Detailed Description

This course introduces students to the study of transmission lines and electromagnetic waves and, to a lesser degree, electrostatic and magnetostatic fields. Although the foundation of the course is Maxwell's equations, which form the basis of all electromagnetic theory, the focus is on applications of the theory to analysis and design tasks frequently encountered by engineers.

Knowledge of electromagnetic theory is an important aid for solving many types of problems in the modern technical world. Areas of application include computer buses and network cabling, motors and generators, optical fibers, remote sensing, radio and wireless (including cellular) communication and control systems, radar, broadcasting, radio interference and its suppression, printed circuit board layout, lasers, electromagnetic noise, and many others.

One of the primary goals of the course is to expose students to various technical issues that they are likely to encounter in their careers. The number of topics and depth of coverage will depend on the amount of time available and, to a certain extent, on student interest. Topics that are likely to be covered include:

  • Transmission lines
  • Time-varying electromagnetic fields, especially time-harmonic fields
  • Simple antennas
  • Plane wave propagation, polarization, and attenuation
  • Wave reflection, refraction, and transmission

Successful completion of the course requires a good understanding of complex variables, vector analysis, and vector calculus.

Prerequisites

ECEG 210 and MATH 211 (or their equivalents) are the prerequisites for this course. Other courses or previous experience may be substituted for the prerequisite courses with the permission of the instructor.

Class Meetings

ECEG 390 has no lab section, but the lecture section meets four hours per week at the following times and locations:

  • Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 1:00–1:50 pm in Dana 115
  • Thursday 3:00–3:50 pm in Dana 305
 

Site maintained by:
Associate Professor David F. Kelley
Electrical & Computer Engineering Department, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, USA
e-mail: dkelley AT bucknell DOT edu

Updated: January 14, 2026

| Bucknell University | College of Engineering | Electrical & Computer Engineering Dept. | David Kelley's Homepage |