Course Overview
Circuits and Electronics (6.002x) is one of MIT’s foundational electrical engineering courses, introducing learners to circuit analysis, electronics, and system design.
The course blends theory with hands-on problem-solving and emphasizes understanding through mathematical modeling and simulation tools.
Learners gain essential skills in analyzing basic circuits, working with diodes and transistors, and understanding operational amplifiers.
This course serves as a gateway into electrical engineering, embedded systems, robotics, and hardware design.
Learning Outcomes
Learners will be able to:
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Analyze basic DC and AC circuits
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Apply circuit laws (Ohm’s Law, Kirchhoff’s Laws)
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Model circuits using linear and nonlinear components
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Understand and use diodes, transistors, and MOSFETs
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Build small signal models
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Design basic amplifiers
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Understand op-amp functionality and feedback systems
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Use simulation tools for circuit design
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Apply engineering thinking to real-world circuit problems
Course Structure
| Module | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Circuits | Circuit elements, voltage, current, power |
| 2 | Resistors & Networks | Series/parallel circuits, KVL, KCL |
| 3 | Capacitors & Inductors | Energy storage, dynamic circuits |
| 4 | Circuit Analysis Techniques | Node & mesh analysis, Thevenin/Norton models |
| 5 | First-Order & Second-Order Circuits | Transient responses, time constants |
| 6 | Diodes & Nonlinear Circuits | Rectification, clamping, modeling diodes |
| 7 | Transistors (BJTs & MOSFETs) | Operating regions, biasing, current equations |
| 8 | Amplifiers | Small-signal models, gain, frequency response |
| 9 | Operational Amplifiers | Ideal op-amp model, inverting/non-inverting amps |
| 10 | Feedback & Stability | Negative feedback, stability concepts |
| 11 | Digital Circuits Basics | Logic gates, switching behavior |
| 12 | Final Exam Preparation | System-level review and practice problems |
Course Duration
| Mode | Duration |
|---|---|
| Self-paced | 10–12 weeks (8–12 hours/week) |
| Instructor-paced | Offered occasionally |
Assessment
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Weekly problem sets
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Simulation-based exercises
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Circuit modeling assignments
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Practice midterm(s)
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Final exam (graded or ungraded depending on track)
Prerequisites
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Calculus (recommended)
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Basic physics (electricity & magnetism concepts)
Included Materials
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Lecture videos by MIT faculty
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Circuit simulation tools (e.g., 6.002x lab software)
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Problem-solving PDFs
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Practice circuit schematics
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Reference formula sheets
Certification
MITx Verified Certificate in Circuits and Electronics
Awarded after completing graded assignments and exam.
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