can you get a phd in mechanical engineering

PhD Admissions

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Instructions for applying to the Stanford ME PhD Program are below.

Note for current Stanford MS students interested in adding a PhD program: please contact the ME Student Services Office about the necessary paperwork and relevant policies. If you are a current master's student in the Stanford Mechanical Engineering department, to apply for the PhD, you must complete paperwork prior to conferring the MS degree. Failure to do so will require an application through the online admissions process along with all other external applicants.

Application Deadlines

• Start Quarter:  Autumn 2025-2026 Application Date:  December 2, 2024
• Start Quarter:  Winter 2024-2025* Application Date:  October 21, 2024
• Start Quarter:  Spring 2024-2025* Application Date: January 27, 2025

*Students wishing to apply to the PhD program to start in Winter or Spring quarter must first contact [email protected] directly. Please do not start or submit a Winter or Spring application without first contacting our office.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the PhD program, applicants must:

• Have earned, or be in the process of earning, a BS degree in engineering, physics, or comparable science program. 
• Submit all application materials by the application deadline.
• Meet minimum TOEFL requirements, if applicable. Review the information on the Graduate Admissions website for more information. 

All students interested in pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering must use the online Stanford Graduate Admissions Application . Your application must include all of the materials listed below and be received by Stanford by the application deadline. 

Required Application Documents

• Online Application
• Application fee

Statement of Purpose

• PhD Supplementary Information form (within application)
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended for more than one year
• Official TOEFL scores, if applicable

The GRE will not be accepted for applications received through December 2024.  We ask that you do not submit or reference GRE scores in your application, as they will not be considered. (Updated June 2024)

Your Statement of Purpose should identify personal and professional goals. It should also discuss your development to date and your intentions regarding graduate study and life beyond Stanford. The ME Graduate Admissions Committee reads your Statement of Purpose with interest because, along with the letters of recommendation, it offers insight into who you are as an individual. Your Statement of Purpose should not exceed two pages in length, single spaced. 

PhD Supplementary Information form

The PhD Supplementary Information form within the application asks applicants to briefly address five prompts (1000 characters max):

• List up to three Stanford ME faculty members whose research interests overlap with your research interests and are potential PhD advisors. (Select from list)
• Briefly comment on your motivation for seeking a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.
• Briefly describe an activity (academic or not) that you initiated and involved independent inquiry, e.g. a technical project, or an extracurricular activity that you planned and executed. What did you learn?
• Briefly describe a situation in which you experienced failure, or a situation in which your beliefs were challenged. How did you handle the situation, and what did you learn?
• Briefly describe a time (or ongoing circumstances) that caused you to face a significant obstacle or experience adversity. How did you approach the situation?

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required -- one letter must come from an academic source, although we prefer at least two. If your background includes industry experience, involvement in leadership, public service, or entrepreneurial activities, you may wish to include one reference who can comment on that aspect of your experience. Recommendations must be submitted online. Please see the "Recommendations" section of the online application for more information. Please do not submit letters of recommendation through Interfolio.

Transcripts

You are required to upload unofficial copies of your transcripts or e-transcripts to the online application for all institutions you have attended for at least a year as a full-time student. Please  do not  send your official transcripts unless we contact you to do so.

TOEFL Scores

TOEFL results must be from an examination taken within 18 months of the application deadline. The Stanford institution code for ETS reporting is 4704. No department code is needed . For more information on TOEFL requirements, please see the Required Exams and Frequently Asked Questions sections on the Graduate Admissions website . 

Application Status Inquiries

After submitting the online application, applicants will have access to an online checklist which will track all required application materials. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are not able to confirm with individual applicants when documents have been received. All applicants should monitor the online checklist to track individual documents. It is the applicant's responsibility to monitor the checklist and ensure that all documents are received by the deadline. Please allow 2-6 weeks for application materials to be added to your application and appear in the checklist. 

Admission decisions will be released electronically by mid-late March. 

Reapplicants must submit new supporting documents and complete the online application as outlined above in the Graduate Application Checklist.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

The  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  program cultivates and supports a highly-engaged, multidisciplinary and multicultural community of graduate students from across Stanford University, and delivers a diverse collection of educational experiences, preparing graduates to address complex challenges facing the world. Knight-Hennessy Scholars participate in an experiential leadership development program known as the King Global Leadership Program and receive funding for up to three years of graduate study at Stanford. Two applications must be submitted separately; one to Knight-Hennessy by  October 9, 2024 , 1:00 pm PST, and one to the Stanford graduate degree program by its deadline to join the 2025 cohort. Visit  kh.stanford.edu  to learn more and apply.

The selection of PhD students admitted to the Department of Mechanical Engineering is based on an individualized, holistic review of each application, including (but not limited to) the applicant's academic record, the letters of recommendation, the Statement of Purpose, personal qualities and characteristics, and past accomplishments.

Mechanical Engineering

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Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering prepares students for careers in research and academia. Our collaborative faculty are investigating a diverse range of research areas like additive manufacturing, air quality, cellular biomechanics, computational design, DNA origami, energy conversion and storage, nanoscale manufacturing, soft robotics, transdermal drug delivery, transport phenomena, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

Interested? Visit our research pages for more information, including faculty areas of expertise and research videos.

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View the  degree requirements  in the handbook.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

Students typically complete the Ph.D. degree requirements in three to five years. Early in the program, students focus on course-work that enhances their knowledge as they prepare to conduct research.

Within one year, students must pass the departmental qualifying exam, an oral exam that tests research skills and knowledge of a core mechanical engineering subject area.

Student research forms the core of the Ph.D. program. Research involves active student-directed inquiry into an engineering problem, culminating in a written thesis and oral defense.

Ph.D. Financial Support

The majority of full-time Ph.D. students accepted through the standard application process receive fellowships that cover full tuition, the technology fee, and a stipend for living expenses for up to five years, as long as sufficient progress is made toward degree completion. These awards are sufficient to cover all expenses for the year (including summers). Students are required to pay for health insurance, the transportation fee, the activity fee, books, and course supplies. Off-campus housing is available within walking distance of campus. At least one year of residency is required for the Ph.D. We offer two ways to enter the Ph.D. program.

Advanced entry Ph.D.

The advanced entry Ph.D. is for students with an M.S. in an engineering discipline or equivalent field.

Direct Ph.D.

The direct Ph.D. is for students entering the program with a B.S. in an engineering discipline or equivalent field.

For a comprehensive overview of the programs, including degree requirements, please consult the most recent handbook

Ph.D. candidate Remesh Shrestha, co-advised by Professors Sheng Shen and Maarten de Boer, explains his research to create polymer nanowires that have high thermal conductivity:

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PhD Program

Our PhD Program offers students opportunities to work in labs specializing in a broad range of mechanical engineering research.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering prepares students for careers in research and academia. Our faculty are investigating a diverse range of research areas like fluid mechanics, renewable energy technologies, materials processing and manufacturing, prosthetics, diagnostic tools, nanotechnology, and much more. As a PhD candidate, you will share in the excitement of discovery as you collaborate with our faculty on cutting edge research. You will also acquire strong, independent research skills and begin to develop your own skills and reputation as a member of the research community.

Because the advisor/graduate relationship is the cornerstone of a successful PhD experience, all new PhD candidates are carefully matched with faculty advisors, based on mutual research interests.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) normally requires four to five years of full-time study beyond the baccalaureate degree. There is no formal course requirement for a doctoral degree. The student develops a technical program involving both research and coursework with the help of his or her faculty advisor.

PhD candidates must pass the departmental exam, the Graduate Board Oral exam, submit a doctoral dissertation, and pass a final dissertation defense.

Where Do Our PhD Graduates Go?

Visit our PhD Alumni page to see where our PhD graduates have made their mark around the world. You, too, can join this elite group with an admission to our highly-ranked PhD program.

Learn More About the PhD Program

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Mechanical Engineering, PhD

Whiting school of engineering, the ph.d. program.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) normally requires four to five years of full-time study beyond the baccalaureate degree. There is no formal course requirement for a doctoral degree.  The student develops a technical program involving both research and course work with the help of their faculty advisor.

PhD candidates must pass the Departmental Qualifying Exam (usually taken at the end of the second semester of graduate study), successfully submit a doctoral dissertation proposal (usually during the third-year of full-time study), complete a doctoral dissertation, and pass the final Graduate Board Oral exam and the dissertation defense.

Admissions 

To be admitted to graduate study in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, applicants must submit credentials sufficient to convince the faculty that they will thrive in a program of advanced course work and research. Graduate Record Examination scores are not required and will not be considered in reviewing applications.

Each graduate student is assigned to a faculty advisor to map a program for the first year and enter the intellectual life of the department. The student will remain in regular communication with the advisor. The advisor may use a variety of methods to assess the student’s progress. It is not necessary that a student have the same advisor in successive years. After serious research for a dissertation has begun, the research supervisor will automatically function as advisor.

All Ph.D. students are required in their first three years to register for EN.530.803 Mechanical Engineering Seminar  and attend its weekly Mechanical Engineering Graduate Seminars.

Where Do our PhD Graduates Go?  Visit  our PhD Alumni page  to see where our PhD graduates have made their mark around the world. You, too, can join this elite group with an admission to our PhD program!

Program Requirements

Although there are no formal course requirements, students are presumed to be prepared by studies equal to six 600-level courses in their field of specialization and six courses in related fields. All candidates for the doctorate must complete two semesters as a teaching assistant as part of their training. All students are required to follow a course of study approved by their individual advisor.

 In addition to general university requirements, the student must complete the following requirements:

• Achieve an unconditional pass in the oral Departmental Qualifying Exam based on core courses. This exam is usually taken after the second semester.
• Submit a Doctoral Dissertation Proposal that will serve as a base for research and dissertation by the end of the third year.
• Complete research and write the Doctoral Dissertation.
• Achieve an unconditional pass in the Graduate Board Oral examination satisfying the Graduate Board requirements. This is a comprehensive examination in which students must demonstrate proficiency at the graduate level in their field of specialization.
• The final and principal requirement for the doctorate is to successfully defend the Doctoral Dissertation in a final oral presentation and examination, also known as the "dissertation defense."

Additional details on Ph.D. requirements and departmental academic policy for the Ph.D. degree can be found on the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Advising page .

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering boasts a world-class program leading to the PhD in Mechanical Engineering, offering tremendous flexibility in course selection.

Students may choose whether or not to earn the MS on the way to earning the PhD in Mechanical Engineering. Most students joining the department enter the PhD program in Stage 1, during which students complete their MS degree in Mechanical Engineering or Theoretical and Applied Mechanics. An outline of the steps toward completion of the Mechanical Engineering PhD is presented below.

Stage 1: MS or its Equivalent

Please select a link for information on getting your MS degree in  ME  & or  TAM .*

Students entering directly after earning the BS are considered Stage 1 PhD students until the prerequisite for the qualifying exam has been completed. 

Stage 2: Qualifying Examination, PhD Coursework, Preliminary Examination

The Department requires graduate students to successfully complete a qualifying examination to formally enter the PhD program.

ME PhD Qualifying Examination

The objective of the qualifying exam is to evaluate student’s sufficient depth and breadth of understanding in the area of research. Towards this goal, a committee of two faculty members appointed by the Associate Head for Graduate Programs for each examinee will administer an hour-long oral exam on a peer-reviewed, archival journal article related to student’s area of research. The committee will be asked to select an important paper in the student’s research field, consistent with the fact that the student has a two-week preparation period.  The paper is chosen by the committee in consultation with the student’s advisor, and is provided to the student two weeks ahead of the exam. The article may not be one authored/co-authored by the student or by any faculty in the department.  The exam result is presented as pass, conditional pass or fail, and should be submitted via email to the Graduate Programs Coordinator.  The Assistant Director of Graduate Programs will relay the result to the student’s advisor.

A minimum of B+ grade in each of four independent courses from any one or a combination of any two areas chosen from an approved list (see below) is a prerequisite for taking the qualifying exam.

A student may attempt the examination twice.

Details of the Exam

Prerequisites:   A B+ grade or higher in each of the four independent courses chosen from an approved list (see below) is a prerequisite for appearing in the qualifying exam. These four courses can be chosen from a single area or a combination of any two areas. In addition, the student is required to take the qualifying exam within two years after a master’s degree or within three years of a bachelor’s degree. The advisor must approve the choice of courses. Students would be encouraged to retake a class to improve their grade sufficiently to meet the requirements. Transferred coursework cannot be used to fulfill the prerequisites of the qualifying exam.

Administration of the Qual Exam :  Students who have satisfied the prerequisites for the exam and wish to register should submit the  ME PhD Qualifying Exam Form to the Graduate Programs Office. Exam schedules will be set based on committee availability and must not be earlier than 3 weeks from the time of the request approval.

Advisors will email the names of three suggested committee members and three suggested articles to the Graduate Programs Office.

The Associate Head for Graduate Programs will review the request and select the two members for the evaluation committee.

A notice will be sent from the Graduate Programs Office to the committee, informing them that they have been appointed to administer the examination and who has been named Committee Chair. The notice will also include the suggested articles from the advisor and the timeline in which the exam needs to be scheduled.

Students are responsible for picking a date and time that works for all committee members. Once a date and time are confirmed by all committee members, students must email [email protected]  the date and time of their exam, with each member of the committee carbon-copied (CCed) on the email. 

Oral Examination Committee:   A committee of two faculty members from MechSE appointed by the Associate Head for Graduate Programs for each examinee will administer an hour-long oral exam on a peer-reviewed, archival journal article related to student’s area of research.

Journal article:  The student will be examined on a published, peer-reviewed archival journal article related to student’s research. The student’s adviser will provide a suggested list of papers to the Graduate Programs Office with a rationale for the choice of the articles, to be shared with the examining committee.  The committee may choose a paper from the list, or it can choose a paper outside of the advisor’s suggested list, but from within the general research area of the student.  The selected paper must be an important paper in the student’s research field, consistent with the fact that the student has a two-week preparation period. If the article selected is outside the list, the committee needs to provide a rationale for the choice of the article, and a statement describing the reason as to why an article was  not  chosen from the advisor’s suggested list. The committee’s statement will be provided to the Associate Head (AH) for Grad Programs, and  not  to the student’s advisor. AH may communicate the statement to the advisor at his/her own discretion.  The article may not be one authored/co-authored by the student or by any faculty in the department.  In addition to reading the article, the student is expected to review the related literature.  The article will be provided to the student two weeks ahead of the exam, so please contact the Graduate Programs Office with the article selection as quickly as possible. Once the paper is selected, the student will be notified to contact the committee to schedule the examination.

Grading:  The student must present the material from the article in 30 minutes, and answer committee’s questions in the remaining 30 minutes. The exam will be graded on the following points:

• overall significance of the article
• influence of the work on the development of the field
• possible future research directions in the area of the article
• the key findings of the work
• connection to student’s research

Outcome of the exam:  the result can be (a) an unconditional pass, (b) a conditional pass pending taking a specific course or courses with a defined minimum grade, and (c) a fail. On failing, a student may repeat the oral exam once.

Approved List of Areas and Courses

Combustion: ME 403, 501, 503; CHBE 551/CHEM 582; CHEM 522;

Computational Mechanics: ME 412, 447, 471, 570; TAM 470, 570, 574; CEE 576; CS 446, 450; MSE 485

Controls: ME 446, 460, 461, 541, 561, 562; AE 403, 454, 504, 555, 556; ECE 486, 515 (same as ME 540), 517, 534, 553, 555, 568, 573; Math 518, 519, 540, 541, 550, 551

Dynamics: ME 440, 546 (same as ECE 528); TAM 412, 416, 514, 518; TAM 515 / AE 554

Fluid Mechanics: ME 410, 411(same as AE 412), 412, 504, 510; TAM 435, 531, 532, 534, 536, 537, 538, 570; AE 511, 514, 515

Heat Transfer: ME 401, 411 (same as AE 412), 412, 420, 502, 504, 520, 521, 522, 523

Manufacturing: ME 450, 451, 452, 453 455, 458, 541, 550, 554; AE 526

Materials: CHEM 524; ME 430, 431, 530, 531, 532, 533; MSE 455, 460, 480, 488; PHYS 460; TAM 424, 427, 428, 524, 534, 559; AE 525, 526

MEMS/NEMS: ME 485, 487, 523, 586

Solid Mechanics: ME 430, 472; TAM 445, 451, 456, 529, 545, 551, 552, 554, 555, 557, 559; AE 522, 523, 528, 529, 550, 559

Biomechanics: ME 481, 482, 483; TAM 461

Thermodynamics & Energy Conversion: ME 400 (this course will be counted for the Qualifying Examination for those who have taken the course during Spring 2017 or earlier), ME 401, ME 402, ME 404, ME 502, ME 512; CHEM 442, CHEM 524, CHEM 544; PHYS 427/MSE 500 (one or the other--students may not take both), PHYS 486, PHYS 487, PHYS 504

Coursework***

If a student is entering with a completed MS degree or plans to earn the MS on the way to the PhD, the coursework requirements are 20 hours of graduate-level coursework beyond the MS, to include: at least 8 hours of 500-level courses, an advanced 500-level math course taught at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus (which can be counted as  part of the required 8 hours of 500-level coursework).  The advanced math requirements may be satisfied by TAM 541, TAM 542, TAM 549, ECE 534, or any 500-level course offered by the Mathematics Department except for the following: MATH 596, MATH 597, MATH 598, and MATH 599.  At least 8 hours of “Enrichment” coursework (graduate level courses that do not strongly overlap with the student’s main research topic) to be chosen in consultation with the advisor, and at least 44 hours of dissertation credit (599) beyond the MS.  Additional courses beyond the 8 hours of 500-level courses may be ME or TAM graduate-level courses (400-500 level), or other engineering graduate-level technical courses chosen in consultation with advisor.  No more than 4 of the 20 hours may be ME or TAM 597, Independent Study.

If the PhD is pursued directly after the bachelor's degree, the coursework requirements are 44 hours of formal graded coursework to include 16 hours at the 500 level, 4 of which may be ME 597 Independent Study and may include the required 3-4 hours of 500-level math.  The math requirement may be satisfied by TAM 541, TAM 542, TAM 549, ECE 534, or any 500-level course offered by the Mathematics Department except for the following: MATH 596, MATH 597, MATH 598, and MATH 599. At least 8 hours of “Enrichment” coursework (graduate level courses that do not strongly overlap with the student’s main research topic) to be chosen in consultation with the advisor, and at least 52 hours of dissertation credit (599) beyond the MS.  Additional courses beyond the 16 hours of 500-level courses may be ME or TAM graduate-level courses (400-500 level), or other engineering graduate-level technical courses chosen in consultation with advisor.  

Preliminary and Final Examinations

Scheduled upon completion of coursework requirement or in the semester in which the final coursework is taken. To schedule your exam, please see this page on the Graduate College website: Submitting Preliminary and Final Exam Requests.

Preliminary Exam Time Limits are set by the Graduate College. 

You should submit your exam request to the Graduate College at least 3 weeks prior to the approximate exam date. Once you have submitted your Graduate College exam request, a notice is sent to the MechSE Graduate Programs  Office to approve the request. Once the request is approved by the MechSE Graduate Programs Office, the Graduate College will send the student and the MechSE Graduate Programs Office notice that the exam has been approved. 

After the Graduate College has approved your exam and you have been notified of the approval via email, the MechSE Graduate Programs Office will direct you to complete the Departmental Preliminary Exam Request Form or Departmental Final Exam Request Form . These forms should be submitted online to the MechSE Graduate Programs Office at least one week prior to the exam. 

Preliminary Examination proposals should be 20 pages in length including introductory pages, figures, etc. It should include statement of proposed research, its objectives and significance; a brief review of previous work on related research; and a short discussion of tentative methods of analysis and/or experimentation. There are no specific format requirements for the proposal. 

Final Examination abstracts should be submitted as a double-spaced Microsoft Word document in Times New Roman, size 12 font. The research summary should be one paragraph long, submitted as a Microsoft word document in size 11, Calibri font.

PROCESS FOR REPORTING EXAM RESULTS

The process for reporting Prelim and Final exam results is as follows:

The Committee Chair should email  [email protected] , cc’d to the committee members.  The email must include the following information:

• For Preliminary Exams : 1) Date of the exam, 2) Result of the exam, 3) Names of committee members
• For Final Exams : 1) Date of the exam, 2) Result of the exam, 3) Names of committee members, 4) How each committee member voted
• For Thesis/Dissertation Approval Forms : 1) Approval of the document, 2) Names of committee members

The Graduate Programs Office will attach the result confirmation email to the PER/FER form, which should include the signature of the EO or DGS at the bottom. This departmental signature confirms the accuracy of the result, which aligns with our standard practice.

DOCTORAL EXAMINATION COMMITTEE REQUIREMENTS

• Graduate College policy requires this committee shall have a minimum of 4 voting members, 3 of whom must be University of Illinois Graduate Faculty (i.e. they have an appointment with the Graduate College as teaching faculty who instruct a graduate course or courses.   MechSE policy states at least 1 of the 4 voting members must not be from the department of the candidate.  Committee members from outside the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are welcome but would serve in addition to the 3 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign committee members.  If a member of the committee is non-UIUC faculty and will participate as a non-voting member, nothing additional is required.  If you desire a non-UIUC faculty member to serve as a voting committee member, a letter/email of justification from the advisor, stating what qualifies the person to be a voting member on the committee along with the person’s CV, must be attached to the exam request at the time of submission.
• Three of the committee members must be listed as Graduate Faculty members and two must be tenured (Associate Professor or Professor).  The committee should include faculty members from more than one area of specialization.
• The “Chair” must be a member of the Graduate Faculty from the candidate’s department and may also be the Director of Dissertation Research.  The chair is responsible for convening the committee, conducting the examination, and submitting the Certificate of Result to the department in which the student is enrolled.
• A “Contingent Chair,” if designated, must be a member of the Graduate Faculty.  The Contingent Chair serves if the original chair is unable to serve for any reason.
•  The Director of Dissertation Research is responsible for guiding/advising the student in their thesis research as part of an ongoing research project.  He/she may also discuss a tentative course of study or recommend a sequence of courses the student can take reflecting the interest of the student.
• A Department Affiliate cannot serve as a “Chair” or a “Contingent Chair” of a Preliminary Examination or Final Examination Committee.  Only faculty members of the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering may serve in that capacity.

SEMINAR REQUIREMENT

Continuous registration in ME 590/TAM 500 is required until the semester after the completion of the preliminary exam, unless the student will not attend the full semester the preliminary exam is administered. In this case, the student does not need to register in their final semester. Seminar credit cannot be counted toward coursework requirements.

Stage 3: Thesis and Final Examination

THESIS FOCUS

Thesis and Final Examination

DOCTORAL DISSERTATION DEFENSE

May be taken no sooner than six months after the preliminary examination.

FINAL EXAMINATION

Residency requirement: The University of Illinois requires that 64 hours must be from courses meeting on the Urbana-Champaign campus or at other locations approved by the Graduate College for resident credit. *A student entering with a MS degree is credited with 32 hours of coursework, leaving 64 hours to be completed at Illinois. **A maximum of 4 hours of ME 597 Independent study may be applied toward the 500-level coursework requirement. ***Coursework applied toward the degree must be approved by the Associate Head for Graduate Programs.

PhD students must continuously enroll  in ME 590 or TAM 500 each semester until after the term after they have successfully passed their preliminary exam. Seminar credit cannot be counted toward coursework requirements. Students are required to attend a minimum of FOUR seminars each semester, three of which should be departmental. The seminar schedule is e-mailed to students at the beginning of each semester.

Students enrolled in a course that conflicts with ME 590 or TAM 500 still need to register for ME 590/TAM 500 and are required to attend alternate seminars with prior approval from the GPO.

To complete seminar registration with a conflict:

• Request a registration override by contacting the Undergraduate Programs Office at  [email protected] . Include your name, UIN, and the course you are enrolled in that is in conflict with the seminar. Also, list the seminar course you will register for (ME 590 or TAM 500).
• You will receive an email when the override is entered.
• You must register for ME 590 after the override is entered.
• You must contact the GPO at the beginning of the term regarding any conflicts.

To receive credit for alternate seminars:

Alternate seminars include TAM 539 Fluids Seminar Series (for students who are registered in TAM 539), any other MechSE seminars not listed as part of the MechSE Seminar Series, and other seminars in Engineering, Math, or Physics. A maximum of one alternate seminar can be counted towards the course requirement per semester.

For complete information on the Seminar Requirement, please visit the Seminar Requirement Page.

Questions? MS/PhD: [email protected] M.Eng.ME: [email protected]

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The PhD in Mechanical Engineering program is interdisciplinary by design and provides both post-bachelor’s and post-master’s applicants the opportunity for study in a broad range of areas within mechanical engineering as well as within the College of Engineering. The mechanical engineering faculty members boast international reputations and provide students with opportunities for research in:

• Acoustics and Vibrations
• Biomechanics
• Computational Science and Engineering
• Dynamics, Robotics, Systems, and Controls
• Thermofluid Sciences, Energy, and Sustainability
• MEMS and Nanotechnology

Learning Outcomes

Students who complete the PhD in Mechanical Engineering program will be able to:

• Make an original and substantial contribution to the discipline of mechanical engineering as demonstrated by the completion of a PhD thesis.
• Demonstrate the ability to conduct advanced independent research by mastering research methodologies and techniques, synthesizing existing knowledge, analyzing and evaluating their findings, and communicating the results to other researchers.

Course Requirements

Post-bachelor’s students.

• Must complete all departmental requirements for the Master of Science.
• Are required to complete a minimum of 64 units applicable to their degree (a minimum of 24 units must be structured courses and a minimum of 16 units of research/dissertation is required).

Post-Master’s Students

• Develop a curriculum in consultation with their faculty advisor
• Are required to complete 32 units applicable to their degree, all of which must be at the 500 level or higher
• Are required to complete a minimum of 8 units of research/dissertation coursework.

Residency Requirement

Each student must satisfy a residency requirement of a minimum of two consecutive regular terms of full-time graduate study at Boston University. Full-time study in this context means full-time commitment to the discipline as determined by the associate dean for research and graduate programs.

Teaching Requirement

Students must also take ENG ME 801 Teaching Practicum 1 and ME 802 Teaching Practicum 2. These courses cannot be used to meet the structured course requirements. Both ENG ME 801 and 802 come with practical teaching experience. Practical teaching experience includes some combination of running discussion sections, managing laboratory sections, providing some lectures, preparing homework and solution sets, exams, and grading. Attend lectures/seminars on best teaching practices. Total time commitment: up to 20 hours/week for one term for each course.

Qualifying Examination

• Students must pass a comprehensive examination covering basic knowledge in mechanical engineering
• Limited to two attempts
• ME Qualifying Examination

Responsible Conduct of Research Requirement

All College of Engineering PhD students are required to complete the Advanced Responsible Conduct of Research program prior to completing the prospectus. The Advanced RCR program includes an online module and four live discussion workshops.

Dissertation Prospectus Defense

• Within one year of becoming a candidate, the student is expected to present an oral dissertation proposal to the prospective Dissertation Committee and obtain approval for the written dissertation prospectus.

Dissertation

• A PhD candidate is expected to prepare and carry out an independent and original research project in partial fulfillment of the dissertation requirement.
• The Dissertation Committee must consist of College of Engineering (tenured or tenure-earning) faculty.

Final Oral Examination

• Students shall present themselves for a final oral examination in which they must defend their dissertation as a worthy contribution to knowledge in their field and demonstrate mastery of their field of specialization as related to the dissertation.
• The Examining Committee is composed of at least five members, of which two must be (tenured or tenure-earning) faculty from the student’s academic department/division.
• Both the post-bachelor’s and post-master’s programs must be completed within five years of the individual’s acceptance into PhD candidacy.
• Candidates for the PhD are required to have a member of the graduate faculty in the department/division of their major field as an advisor.

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Mechanical Engineering

About the Program

Eager to lead mechanical engineering applications in academia, industry or government labs? A PhD from Case Western Reserve University can get you there. Since we spearheaded the evolution of machinery in 1887, our team at Case School of Engineering has trained researchers who focus on advancing our field to advance human lives—from developing biologically inspired robots in partnership with NASA to creating robotic arms for remote-controlled surgery. 

Our five-year PhD in Mechanical Engineering program allows you to hone your expertise through our rigorous curriculum as you specialize in topics such as dynamics, control, and manufacturing; fluids and thermal sciences; or solid mechanics.

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Whether you’re looking for information about education abroad opportunities, have questions about visas, or are interested in international opportunities on campus, these quicklinks will help you quickly navigate some of the key resources our website offers for students.

What to Expect

Our curriculum focuses on blending a mastery of the fundamentals of mechanical engineering with creativity, societal awareness and leadership skills to produce leaders who know how to solve the problems that most need our attention.

We cultivate a research-intensive environment and tackle everything from the integration of data analytics to the dynamics of rotating machinery, additive manufacturing, nanotechnology, robotics, combustion, heat transfer and more. Our recent innovations include a portable device to easily detect sickle cell anemia in low-resource settings, and a biohybrid robot that integrates 3-D-printed parts with a sea slug muscle to produce a cyborg-esque bot that could travel further than traditional robots.

Our inclusive and dynamic department culture nurtures collaboration between faculty, students and staff, so you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment as you explore your academic or research pursuits.   

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Beyond the classroom.

We place a high value on experiential learning and have created space for you to curate your ideas into products. The seven-story, 50,000-square-foot Larry Sears and Sally Zlotnick Sears think[box] is the largest open-access innovation center at a university in the United States. With design and ideation resources, prototyping and fabrication equipment, business and legal expertise, and more, Sears think[box] is the ideal place to pursue your passions or even launch a startup.

By the Numbers

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Admission Requirements

If you wish to pursue this degree you must successfully pass the qualifying examination consisting of both written and oral components. We offer qualifying exams on applied mechanics, dynamics and design, or fluid and thermal engineering sciences.

When reviewing your profile for admission consideration, we require the following:

• Completed online application
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution 
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• Two letters of recommendation
• Results of TOEFL or IELTS exam (waiver available)

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Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D.

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Mechanical engineers create the physical systems and devices that define modern society — everything from automobiles to air conditioning, robotic parts to power plants, people movers to artificial limbs, and rocket engines to satellites. At the School of Engineering, we groom our students to become the inventors and innovators of tomorrow. Our PhD in Mechanical Engineering program offers a balanced curriculum that emphasizes the principles behind these designs and approaches. To apply these principles in the field, we make computational and research experience an integral component of your studies.

We also offer you the freedom to choose from 5 distinct areas of specialization:

• aerospace engineering
• controls and dynamic systems
• fluid dynamics and thermal systems
• materials engineering
• mechanics and structural systems

The high faculty-to-student ratio of our program ensures you develop close ties to your instructors and fellow students. This fosters lifelong relationships and a rigorous intellectual community of scholars.

Many of our graduates enter such fields as computer engineering, nanotechnology, software development, and financial engineering. They also occupy positions in bioengineering, manufacturing, astronautics, systems engineering, and corporate management and law.

Admission Requirements

Admission to this program requires an MS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or other closely related engineering field or applied sciences. Generally, you must also be able to present a GPA of 3.5 or better in your MS work. In cases where it is unclear that the required MS specialization has been satisfied, the degree requirements for the Mechanical Engineering, MS at the School of Engineering will define the necessary reparation. This same criterion applies for degrees received in other engineering disciplines.

Those with a BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and a GPA of 3.5 or better may apply directly to the program.

Find out more about  admission requirements .

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Urban Science Doctoral Track

The general credit requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering degree at the School of Engineering are:

• Transfer from MS degree (30 credits)
• Approved coursework beyond the MS degree (18 credits minimum)
• Ph.D. dissertation (18 credits minimum)
• Approved electives (up to 6 credits)
• Minimum Total Required: 75 Credits

The credits above include MS degree credits but go beyond those for the BS degree.

Your studies must also be completed 5 years after the MS degree or the date of admission, whichever is later, unless a formal leave of absence is approved before the period for which the studies are interrupted.

In addition, you must take a written and oral departmental qualifying examination within the first 2 times it is offered after the date you join the doctoral program. Upon passing, you must then form a Ph.D. Guidance Committee and begin your dissertation. To do so, you will need to register for at least 3 credits of ME 9999 each fall and spring semester. Actual registration should reflect the pace of the work and your activity.

An exception to the minimum registration requirement may be made in the last semester of registration if that semester is devoted primarily to complete the work and dissertation. A dissertation grade of U for 2 consecutive terms affects whether or not you will be allowed to continue doctoral work. You must present progress on your dissertation to your guidance committee at least once a year. You can find additional details on degree requirements in the departmental pamphlet available at the department's main office.

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Doctoral Program in Mechanical Engineering

PhD Application Deadline DECEMBER 15 View Application Steps

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Shantanu Thakar

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Shantanu Thakar PhD in Mechanical Engineering

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

The best piece of advice I was given was to not take your career related defeats too seriously and most importantly not letting them affect your mental health. To get into detail, at the time when something you’re not happy with happens, it feels like a huge deal. But for the long term such things do not matter much. For example, if one doesn't get admission in their dream university, although it feels like a huge defeat at the time, after 10 years you won’t even remember much about it. Hence, it is necessary to not take any such defeat too seriously. Ofcourse, you should feel sad and strive to achieve better but it is very important to not let it affect your mental health. Things have a way of falling in place. For example, even if you do not get your dream university, you may end up getting a job better than most people at that university.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

For me the greatest accomplishment would be successfully completing my PhD from one of the top universities and receiving the Best Research Assistant award in the process. 

What's your favorite impulse purchase from the past 12 months?

It has to be the new Tesla that is yet to be delivered.

Please describe a little about your research and what excites you about it

My research is in the area of AI and machine learning for motion planning for complex robots like robotic arms, or robotic arms mounted on mobile robots or multiple robotic arms moving together for performing several tasks. Making sure that such complex robots move safely and successfully  is extremely challenging. Coming up with novel solutions for solving such challenging problems for different applications is what excites me. However, the thing that excites me most is actually seeing robots move and perform interesting tasks like disinfection, grasping, transportation of objects, to name a few. It is highly satisfying to see that my research can benefit making life easier and safer for people. 

If you could choose any other profession outside of engineering or computer science, what would it be? 

It has to be one of astronomer or a soccer player

What are some factors that helped you decide to pursue your PhD at USC?

The two most important factors for me were my advisor, Prof. Satyandra K. Gupta and the excellent infrastructure and facilities for robotics at USC. Prof. Gupta’s research was exactly what I was interested in and looking to get into. Moreover, he is an excellent advisor who gives you a lot of freedom to express yourself, but also makes sure you are moving towards the goal. He makes sure his students work on problems that are relevant for the industry. The facilities at the center for advanced manufacturing, where he’s the director at, are state-of-the-art. I have not seen so many varieties of robots and 3D printers anywhere else. 

If you were to recommend to an incoming student 3 places to go in California/Los Angeles, what would they be?

It is really difficult to recommend just 3 places in Southern California, let alone in the entire California. Let me stick to SoCal. The first place I recommend is one of my favorite national parks, Channel Island National park, off the coast of Ventura. Not only are the islands extremely beautiful with blue waters and rich marine life for snorkelling and scuba diving, but also, on the way there, you will get to see dolphins, seals and if you’re lucky whales. It’s a must visit! The second is my favorite beach in LA, Hermosa Beach. It is a small city of its own with amazing restaurants. The sunset from Hermosa beach is one of the prettiest I have seen. The third place would be my absolute favorite ice cream place near Westwood, Saffron & Rose. The Persian ice cream they serve is one of the best ice creams I have ever had. 

What is a memory you'll cherish about your time at USC?

Some of the memories I’ll cherish the most are working late at night at the lab chasing a deadline, after which, our entire lab would go to the diner close by for late night food and beer. Apart from this, I miss playing soccer at the Brittingham field till late at night.  

What's one thing about you that might surprise me?

I could solve the Rubik’s cube in less than 30 seconds 

What are your plans after graduation?

I have joined Amazon as a Research Scientist in Robotics.

Hometown (city, country):

Pune, India

Personal Website (if any):

shantanuthakar.github.io

Faculty Advisor:

Prof. Satyandra K. Gupta

Yeo Jung Yoon PhD in Mechanical Engineering

“Be positive!” 

Whenever I face a challenge in my graduate studies, I try to have a positive and fresh mindset. Positive thoughts help me a lot to overcome various hardships. I believe the way I think really affects the way I react.

In my first year of my PhD, My colleagues and I won the best paper award for robotic 3D printing research at ASME IDETC-CIE conference. We worked hard for the project and it felt really great to see our hard work finally pay off.

Recently, I found a cool home-décor shop in K-town and bought a bunch of home décor items. My room is now more fun and interesting with cute planters, various candles, a huge wall clock and artistic tissue box.

My research is about developing robot learning algorithms for various manufacturing applications. I have been fascinated by the fields of robotics and Artificial Intelligence since I was an undergraduate student. I love the idea that my research problems are at the intersection of both fields!   

Travel writer! I love to travel, eat local food, and experience local cultures. It would be interesting to travel to other countries and write about interesting episodes.

Great resources for research, well-organized graduate program, and the location. I visited USC campus and my lab before coming to USC. I was amazed by the wonderful support that USC can offer to prospective graduate students and decided to pursue my PhD here. 

The Getty Center is a place where you can see lots of art and walk beautiful gardens. I also recommend visiting Griffith Observatory. It is especially beautiful during sunset times, and a great place for hiking. Also, if you want to feel the ocean breeze, I recommend going to the beaches in Malibu.

The time I have spent with my friends and colleagues. We studied and hung out together, discussed various topics, and helped each other. My graduate life is wonderful because of them! 

I have been a devoted yoga practitioner for the past 7 years. I love to do beach yoga and hot yoga. It helps me to release stress and clear my mind. 

I plan to pursue a career in academia. I love being in academia because I can work on the problems that I feel most interested in. I also like to work and communicate with scholars and students who have the same research interest as me. They are inspirational!  

I grew up in Seoul, South Korea

Satyandra K. Gupta (Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Department)

James Croughan PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Fail often but safely. Often the fastest way to learn and master something is to learn every way of not doing it, either by trying it yourself or watching others attempt it. That being said, you need to make sure each failure does not result in harm to yourself or others. So long as that is possible, the fastest path to success is to fail constantly and creatively.

In high school I struggled with maintaining enough body weight, and had several health issues related to that. At the time I was about six feet tall and weighed 130 pounds, and my doctor told me I needed to put on at least 30 pounds of muscle to be healthy, but the more I put on, the healthier I would be. I very much took that to heart and have been getting stronger ever since. It has been 13 years since I started daily weightlifting and monitoring my diet, and I have now put on nearly 70 pounds of muscle and am the healthiest I have ever been.

Blackout curtains. I saw them at Target and decided to try them out, and instantly started sleeping much better. I had no idea how sensitive to light I was until I experienced sleeping in a genuinely dark room. I probably get an extra 2 hours of sleep now, simply because the light isn’t waking me up too early.

Please describe a little about your research and what excites you about it.

I am an experimentalist who works on very high-performance wings in the Dryden Wind Tunnel. I have built several wings designed to invalidate many of the assumptions used in traditional wing aerodynamics, with a goal of explaining how and why these models must change when key assumptions are false. The two most exciting parts of this are the implications and how my analysis process works. My research clearly shows that many of the design rules currently used in wing design only apply to a small range of wing designs. If you go outside of these traditional designs, much higher performance wings are possible than what traditional aerodynamics would predict. How I determine this is also very exciting. All of my wings were designed to cover a broad range of possible outcomes without knowing the exact math that might predict those outcomes, making an accurate prediction of the results impossible beyond basic intuition. As such, I really didn’t know what to expect when I first started seeing my results. When they finally came in, they far exceeded my expectations, which is awesome.

Lawyer. I love debating anything and everything and am very extroverted and analytical, so trial lawyer or something like that would make sense and be fun.

I wanted to pursue bigger and crazier projects than what I had been doing previously, and I knew I needed a stronger educational background to be qualified to do that. USC and Dr. Uranga were the only school and advisor combination I looked at that offered a specialization in system, experimental, or mechanical design, in combination with a specialization in a more traditional engineering area. Additionally, I am from the LA area, and have absolutely zero desire to leave and have been a fan of USC for a long time, so that made it a very easy choice.

• Watch your favorite band at the Hollywood Bowl.
• Climb Mt. Baldy or Mt. San Jacinto.
• Take a long walk on the beach in Malibu around sunset.

All the trips to all-you-can-eat sushi and Korean bbq with lab-mates and classmates. Lots and lots of good food and good times.

I travel a ton but have a rather short list of places I have been. I am on a round trip plane flight about every 50 days on average, yet have somehow never been to New York, for example.

I am in the pure writing stage of my thesis work, and have already started working full-time for an aerospace company as I finish that up. I was previously a consultant for Rhoman Aerospace, and became VP of Engineering and Controls in July.

Claremont, California, USA

Dr. Alejandra Uranga

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Do you need help with one of your classes?

If you are struggling in one of your classes and are looking for help, please reach out to the ME ASO staff! We can work with you to discuss options for support, including identifying potential peer tutors who have previously completed the class you are in. 

The goal of the PhD program is to create a culture of scholarship and high impact research that produces articulate researchers who are called upon first to hold leadership positions in society and academia.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree is the highest degree awarded by the Mechanical Engineering Department and is recommended for students who are interested in leadership careers in academia (e.g. as a faculty member of a university), industry, or government.

Sections of this Page:

Milestones to the Ph.D.

Research and coursework, qualifying examinations.

Dissertation Proposal Exam

Dissertation

Ph.d. research at the university of michigan.

Research involves active, student-directed inquiry into an engineering topic. A student’s research experience forms the core of the PhD program. There are two goals for conducting research: 1) to learn the general skills to conduct independent research and 2) to develop new knowledge in mechanical engineering.

Conducting research requires combining knowledge gained in the classroom with the ability to read the scientific literature, identify critical knowledge gaps, structure complex problems, formulate and test hypotheses, analyze and interpret data, and present and discuss technical results. Engineering research also requires significant experimental, computational, and analytical skills. A student learns these core skills as she pursues her research topic.

Many of these skills cannot be learned in the classroom setting, but instead must be developed in the laboratory, library, and conference room as the student actively interacts with faulty, other students, and researchers around the world. Independent, non-classroom based learning and problem solving is a core aspect of the PhD degree. Upon completion of his dissertation the student should be an international expert in a technical area. Dissemination of new knowledge at technical conferences and in peer-reviewed archival publications is an important part of research.

There are three student profiles in the ME PhD program: (1) Direct PhD students that are admitted without a relevant Master’s degree, (2) students who enter the PhD program with a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant field, and (3) students who enter the PhD program with a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant field from the University of Michigan. The differences in the three tracks toward the PhD vary at the coursework level. Please be mindful of the requirements listed below. A student should always discuss academic plans with his research advisor.

The major ME program milestones all PhD students complete:

• Qualifying Examination (RCC & RFE)
• Advancement to Candidacy
• Dissertation Proposal Examination
• Thesis Dissertation (written) and Defense (oral)

In addition to the academic component of the PhD, students are encouraged to participate in professional development. The Rackham Graduate School has partnered with divisions around campus to develop a central location to promote workshops, training sessions, forums, and talks relevant to graduate students. It is recommended that students visit the Professional and Academic Development  website on a regular basis to stay informed about the activities on campus.

Timeline & Satisfactory Progress

The ME department will adhere to all Rackham policies regarding academic progress, probation, dismissal and appeals as outlined here in the Rackham Academic Policies (Section 3.5).

The timeline for completing these milestones and other program requirements and expectations.

To continue in the Ph.D. Program and remain fully funded, you must maintain satisfactory progress in the following ways:

• Maintain Cum. GPA of 3.5 or higher
• Engage in research with faculty by the end of 1st semester.
• Solidify faculty advisor by the end of 1st semester.
• Identify thesis topic by the end of 2nd semester.
• International students must take and pass the GSI OET by the end of the 3rd semester.
• Pass the RCC by the end of 2nd semester (an extra semester may be granted via petition if necessary, but no more).
• Complete ME 500: Professional Skills for Graduate Student Success prior to advancement to candidacy (Fall 2021 and later cohorts).
• Demonstrate preliminary results in research by the end of the summer term after the first year (in preparation for the RFE). If you have concerns about your progress, email the Grad Coordinator to schedule a meeting with Grad Chair.
• Direct PhD students should take the RFE in their 3rd semester (after RCC completion) and are expected to pass the RFE by the end of 4th semester. Change-of-Program students pass the RFE within two semesters of beginning the Ph.D. Program. An extra semester may be granted in either case via petition if necessary, but no more.
• Complete Dissertation Proposal Exam (DPE) and form dissertation committee within one year of passing the RFE. (For students who take the RFE in their 3rd semester, it is desirable to complete the DPE by the end of the 2nd year in the PhD program.)
• Maintain progress toward publications and dissertation completion with the guidance of advisors. If you have concerns about your progress, email the Grad Coordinator to schedule a meeting with Grad Chair.

You are welcome and encouraged to speak to the Graduate Coordinator and Chair at anytime.  You and your advisor both have opportunities to confirm progress or express concerns regarding your progress via the Annual Progress Update.

Probation : If a student is not making satisfactory progress in one or more of the areas outlined above, the student will be put on probation.  The terms of probation will be individually designed based on the student’s situation and as agreed upon by the Graduate Chair, the faculty advisor, and the student. The ME Graduate Program Committee will also review and approve all probation agreements.  When a the terms of probation are agreed upon, a probation agreement will be completed and enforced by the Graduate Chair.

Length of the Probationary Period : The probationary period will be no shorter than two months and, unless otherwise stated, conclude at the end of that term. If a student is placed on probation within two months of the end of the term, the probationary period will extend into the following term for at least two months.

Funding During the Probationary Period : Doctoral students will continue to receive funding during the probationary period.

End of the Probationary Period : At the end of the probationary period the student will either be returned to good academic standing or dismissed from the program.

Appeals Process for Probation and Dismissal : Students may appeal academic probation or dismissal decisions. Appeals pertaining to a students’ academic performance or progress in the program will be overseen by the Graduate Program Committee. The Rackham Graduate School will handle appeals relating to procedural issues of fair and equal treatment by the program.

Finding a Research Advisor:

To select a research advisor, the student should talk to faculty members in potential areas of research interest. If the research topic is of an interdisciplinary nature, the student can choose to have two research advisors as long as at least one advisor is from Mechanical Engineering. 

It is expected that the faculty advisor will have research support or other available funding in order to finance tuition, stipend and benefits costs of the degree.

Recommendations and tips for finding a research advisor:

• Talk to senior graduate students about their advisors. Share your interests and ask them for suggestions about whom you should meet.
• Familiarize yourself with various research groups.
• Make a list of faculty to contact who are involved in research areas that interest you. A list of faculty by research areas can be found here .
• Read about faculty research in journals, conference proceedings, or on their website.
• Visit their labs. A list of labs can be found here .
• Schedule meetings with faculty members. Typically this is done via email which includes an introduction and requests time to meet with them. Be knowledgeable about their work in order to have an active discussion about their previous and ongoing research.
• Sometimes working in their lab for academic reasons only (not as a Graduate Student Research Assistant (GSRA) ) will provide you with the opportunity to prove your researching capabilities and may lead to a GSRA with that faculty.
• If possible, enroll in classes being taught by faculty whose work interests you.
• Do well in classes relevant to your research interest and get to know the faculty.
• Consider doing a small project supported intellectually by a faculty member. ME 590 research credits are taken.
• If you are unsuccessful with securing a research advisor, it is recommended that you meet with the Graduate Program Chair immediately to discuss the situation.

Research Requirements

Regardless of whether or not the Ph.D. student has a Master’s prior to attending U-M or not, all students should take at least 6 credits of research ( ME 590 ) in the first two-three terms of the PhD program.  This will help ensure that the student meets Rackham’s requirements to candidacy upon successfully passing of the qualifying exams.  Change of Program students are not required to enroll in addition ME 590 credits after matriculating to Ph.D. as they have already completing the credit requirement for advancing to candidacy.

Students should complete 8 hours of  responsible conduct of research and scholarship  (RCRS) training by the end of their 3rd term of enrollment. 

Once a student has completed 6 credits of ME 590, they should take 8 credits of ME 990 per term.

Once a student reaches Candidacy, 8 credits of ME 995 research credits are taken every term until the student defends their dissertation.

Coursework Requirements

For Direct PhD students (i.e. students admitted without a relevant Master’s degree):

• It is necessary to complete all of the academic requirements for the Master’s degree which includes 30 credits . Please visit the Master’s Degree page for specific degree requirements. This type of Master’s degree is referred to as an “embedded” master’s, a master’s degree awarded “on-the-way” to the PhD. In addition to their MSE degree, direct PhD students must complete:
• At least 6 credits of letter-graded (including the grade S – Satisfactory) graduate coursework registered as a Rackham student while in residence on the Ann Arbor campus. Courses elected as visit (audit) do not meet this requirement, nor do ME590, ME695, ME990 and ME995.
• (Fall 2021 cohort and later) ME 500: Professional Skills for Graduate Student Success. This class should ideally be taken in the first year but may also be taken in the second year if needed. This 1 credit course may be counted towards the additional 6 credits of letter graded coursework.

For PhD students entering with a relevant Master’s Degree :

• At least 18 credits of letter-graded (including the grade S – Satisfactory) graduate coursework registered as a Rackham student while in residence on the Ann Arbor campus. Courses elected as visit (audit) do not meet this requirement, nor do ME590, ME695, ME990, and ME995.
• Of the 18 letter-graded credits, 3  credits must be cognates . The cognate requirement may be satisfied by having completed a UM Master’s degree which included a cognate component.
• (Fall 2021 cohort and later) ME 500: Professional Skills for Graduate Student Success. This class should ideally be taken in the first year but may also be taken in the second year if needed. This 1 credit course may be counted towards the 18 credits of letter graded coursework.
• A PhD student entering with a relevant Master’s degree that decides to pursue an additional master’s degree at the University of Michigan may apply the 18 credits required for the PhD to the master’s degree in another department. The student’s advisor should approve of the second degree.

For PhD students entering with a Master’s Degree from the UM ME Department (i.e. change of program students) :

• At least 6 credits of letter-graded (including the grade S- Satisfactory) graduate coursework registered as a Rackham student while in residence on the Ann Arbor campus. Courses elected as visit (audit) do not meet this requirement, nor do ME590, ME695, ME990, and ME995.

For students who completed the SUGS program :

• Additional credits of letter-graded graduate coursework equal to or greater than the number of credits double counted in the SUGS program.

The PhD Qualifying Examination (QE) consists of two components: the Research Core Curriculum (RCC) (formerly GCC) and the Research Fundamentals Exam (RFE).

Research Core Curriculum (RCC) Exam

The goal of the RCC is to ensure proficiency in technical topics both within and outside of the student’s primary research area.

Students can submit their RCC plan here.

All PhD students must take four Research Core Curriculum (RCC) courses in the first two semesters. Typically students will enroll in two Research Core Curriculum courses in the first term, however some exceptions exist where students will only enroll in one or will opt to take three. During the second term of study, the remaining Research Core Curriculum courses are taken. Change-of-program students should refer below.

The RCC consists of four 500+ level graduate courses that satisfy the following course distribution requirements:

• At most, three may be in the student’s research area
• At least one must be outside of the student’s research area
• At most, one may be from a department other than Mechanical Engineering. Note: Multiple cross-listed courses in the RCC plan will prompt additional consideration by the Graduate Program Committee (GPC)

In consultation with their research advisor a student should develop and submit a RCC plan . If a student does not have a research advisor, the student should submit a preliminary RCC plan by the Friday before the first day of classes. The ME Graduate Chair will then work with the student (if necessary) to arrive at a satisfactory plan.

The RCC Plan should include a list with each course and detail on how it is/is not related to the student’s research area. courses on which the RCC will be based (a list of all ME graduate-level courses scheduled for the Fall and Winter terms is located here ).

The GPC will review and (if appropriate) approve RCC course plans based on their accordance with the course distribution requirements specified above and their academic rigor. The GPC will monitor the historical record of GPAs for courses selected on the RCC, and may ask a student to revise the student’s RCC plan if the plan is judged to be insufficiently rigorous.

RCC plans may need to change after the start of the semester or between the first and second semester of the RCC. Typical circumstances that may necessitate a revision include course cancellations and a change in the student’s research area and/or research advisor. Revised RCC plans require GPC approval. Requests for modifications to RCC plans should be submitted via the RCC form prior to the add/drop deadline for the term..

GPC approval is required for dropping a course after the above dates and will only be given in rare circumstances. Changes in research area and/or research advisor are not sufficient reasons for dropping an RCC course.

Evaluation of the RCC (for those who entered the PhD program after Winter 2014):  The grades students receive in RCC courses will be averaged to determine an RCC GPA. The GPA is based on Rackham’s 4.0 scale where A+ = 4.3 , A = 4.0, A- = 3.7, and B+ = 3.3. The RCC GPA will be used to determine the outcome of the RCC and will follow these guidelines:

*Note: A student must demonstrate proficiency by performing very well on the RFE (as judged by the RFE examiners) to pass the PhD qualifying examination. The student has two tries on the RFE to perform very well.

**Note: The student may petition the GPC to take an additional course in the third semester if that course grade could increase the overall GPA (of all five courses) to at least a 3.5.

Petitions for a deviation from the above guidelines due to rare and extenuating circumstances can be made to the GPC. There are no course retakes in the RCC.

Change-of-Program Students. The GPC will evaluate the prior courses taken by a change-of-program (i.e. MSE to PhD) student to determine which (if any) courses may be eligible to include in an RCC plan, thus reducing the total number of RCC courses required to be taken after the student enters the PhD program. In some cases, a student’s previously completed coursework may satisfy the RCC entirely; thus, the student would not be required to take any additional coursework.

Research Fundamentals Exam (RFE)

The RFE is an oral examination to test the student’s potential to conduct independent research at the PhD level along with her written and oral communication skills. There are four primary objectives:

• Assess the depth of knowledge in the area of research specialization and the ability to relate this to research, 
• Assess the ability of the student to propose an interesting and relevant problem for PhD research
• Test ingenuity, creativity, and problem-solving skills, and 
• Assess written and oral communication skills and the ability to respond to questions.

Students who have a research advisor and have successfully completed the RCC coursework or who have successfully petitioned are eligible to apply for the RFE. Students must have a 3.5 GPA or higher to take the RFE. If a student does not have this GPA, they are required to submit a petition  form to the graduate chair for consideration to take the RFE.

PhD students who successfully complete the RCC coursework must take the RFE the following semester. Change of Program students must take the RFE within one year. It is not mandatory for Change of Program students to take the RFE in their first semester as a PhD student.

Exams are held in the last two weeks of October and last two weeks of March (winter).   The RFE is an oral exam lasting for 45 minutes which is structured with a 15 minute presentation followed by 30 minutes of question and answer with two faculty members.

Sample RFE Presentation

The RFE is organized by research subject areas as listed below:

Registration. Eligible students must register their intent to take the RFE to the Academic Services Office. The online registration form is announced to students via email in the first two weeks of each Fall and Winter semester. In addition, students are responsible for submitting an electronic document with the following elements:

• Bio-sketch using NSF fellowship application format , 
• Research abstract describing research: the purpose of the research being examined, key related research, research hypotheses, research methodology, and results to date. The abstract should be formatted with 11 point font, single spacing, one-inch margins, and be a maximum of 2 pages. These two pages include title, citations, and bibliography.
• A list of RCC courses with discussion of how the RCC courses match the RFE topic and future research plans (less than 200 words).

If you have an approved testing accommodation or SSD-VISA and would like to have similar accommodations for the RFE, please let us know below. We will work with you and SSD to make sure that appropriate accommodations are made for your RFE.

Examiners. Two faculty are selected by the Graduate Program Committee to act as examiners for each RFE thematic area. A student’s research advisor cannot be an examiner. The research advisor is not allowed to be present during the RFE.

Grading.  Students are evaluated on a scale ranging from excellent to poor in each of the following areas:

• Synthesis of course material in research problem context.
• Input to research project.
• Research conduct and methodology.
• Research outcomes.
• Communication.

A sample grade sheet with more information about grading criteria can be found here .

All areas are considered when determining the student’s examination outcome (pass/fail). The two examiners will produce a written report to the Academic Services Office indicating if the student has passed or failed the RFE with specific reasons for their decision.

Communication of Results. The result of the RFE is communicated by the Academic Services Office to the student by way of individual email. Successfully completing the RFE does not mean a student passes the RCC.

Retaking the RFE. Only one repeat is permitted and must be taken no later than the next offering of the RFE after the original RFE. Students will automatically be sent a registration email for the next available RFE session.

Advancing to Candidacy is a prestigious milestone on the way to the PhD. Rackham stipulates that from the time of initial enrollment, Candidacy should be achieved within 3 years. There is reduced tuition associated with candidacy as well as registration constraints. 

Semester deadlines for completing the requirements to advance to candidacy are found  here .

Requirements to advance to candidacy:

• Pass the Qualifying Examination (RCC and RFE)
• Complete ME 500: Professional Skills for Graduate Student Success
• Completed at least 18 credits of letter-graded (including the grade S – Satisfactory) graduate coursework registered as a Rackham student while in residence on the Ann Arbor campus. Credits elected as visit (audit) do not meet this requirement, nor do any ME990 or ME995 credits.
• Of the 18 credits, 3 must be cognates .
• Completed RCRS training requirement.  Workshop Schedule can be found here .

Upon successful completion of the RFE, students will automatically be advanced to candidacy if they have met all of the requirements listed above.  If a student does not wish to advance to candidacy, they should note that on the RFE registration form or notify the Graduate Coordinator in advance ( [email protected] ). 

Rackham’s Free Course Policy:

“Ph.D. candidates register in the fall and winter terms for 995, “Dissertation/candidate,” which consists of 8 credit hours for a full term or 4 credit hours for a half term. No part-time enrollment is possible. A student who defends in the spring/summer term must register for 8 credit hours of 995 for the spring/summer full term.

Candidates who register for a course should seek prior approval from their faculty advisors. Candidates may elect either one course per term or more than one course for a total of no more than four credits without paying additional tuition beyond candidacy tuition. Courses may be taken for credit or as a visit (audit).

A candidate who does not elect a course during a term of 995 enrollment may, in the next term, either register for courses for no more than 8 credits or register for no more than two courses that total more than 8 credits. An additional course may not be taken in anticipation of taking none in a future term of 995 enrollment.

Candidates who choose to take more courses than those for which they are eligible will be assessed additional tuition per credit hour. ” The additional tuition will be charged to the student’s funding source for that term. Students are not to cover any additional tuition charges.  Original Source .

GSI Oral English Test (OET) Requirements for International PhD Students

GSI Oral English Test (OET) is used to review the English proficiency of international students.  Passing the exam is a requirement for international PhD students and is necessary to ensure satisfactory progress while simultaneously confirming the ability of that student to be an effective GSI. All international students must pass the OET by the end of their 3rd academic term after admission (e.g., by the end of F12 for students who entered in F11) in order to be considered making satisfactory progress toward their degree. International students whose undergraduate education was taught exclusively in English may be exempt from the OET. Additional exemption criteria can be found  here .

• Upon successful completion of this requirement, the student will then be eligible to hold a  GSI position  (see the  English Language Proficiency Requirements  section).
• If the student does not hold a GSI position within the next 18 months after passing the exam, the student must check in with the  English Language Institute (ELI)  to extend or renew their exam results. In order to continue making satisfactory progress, a PhD student must maintain valid exam results throughout their academic tenure. Please  contact  the English Language Institute to schedule a renewal interview.
• The ELI will evaluate the student’s English skills and determine if the student is qualified to extend the exam results or is required to retake the exam. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the ELI to maintain valid exam results.

Dissertation Proposal Exam (DPE)

The DPE is an oral exam that provides an early assessment of the feasibility of a student’s proposed research topic for his/her dissertation. In particular, the exam is intended to assess the suitability of the topic and the student’s academic background for carrying out the proposed research. The exam is administered by a student’s Dissertation Committee. The DPE should be completed within one year of passing the RFE.

The Dissertation Committee

Students will assemble their dissertation committee prior to taking the DPE. The Dissertation Committee oversees the student’s research outcomes. Through the dissertation proposal exam, committee meetings, and the thesis defense, the committee tracks the student’s progress and provides feedback and guidance. At each of these meetings, the student presents his research and responds to the committee members’ questions. The purpose of the committee is to provide an outside perspective on the student’s research, helping the student to structure his/her work and identify opportunities. The committee is responsible for approving the student’s research plan via the DPE and signing off on the final dissertation and defense.

Dissertation Committee Requirements: 

A committee must have a minimum of 4 members:

• The chair or one of the co-chairs should be a member of the faculty in the Mechanical Engineering department.
• Three members must be from a Rackham Doctoral Program and be considered a member of “ The Graduate Faculty “, this generally means a Professor at the University of Michigan.
• Two members must be from the Mechanical Engineering department.
• One member must have a 50% appointment in a Rackham doctoral program, other than the Mechanical Engineering department (except Interdisciplinary programs) – otherwise known as your cognate member.

The committee may include a University faculty member who is not a member of “The Graduate Faculty”, a University staff member, or a qualified individual outside the University who to provide expertise in the candidate’s discipline. Any non-faculty member must be approved by the Graduate Program.  These special members require additional documentation to be submitted, ideally prior to the DPE.

The Rackham Graduate School has also developed a Quick Reference Chart for Eligibility to Serve on Dissertation Committees .

Once the committee is formed, the DPE is scheduled as the first meeting of this committee. The student will prepare a written thesis proposal for the committee to review and give an oral presentation to the committee. The format of the written thesis proposal as well as the timing of the exam is at the discretion of the committee chair.

Upon completion of the DPE, the committee chair prepares a memorandum addressed to the ME Graduate Program Chair. The memo should state the outcome of the DPE and list the dissertation committee members. ( Example memo here ) The signed memo is submitted to the Graduate Coordinator ( [email protected] ). This information will be used to formally process the student’s dissertation committee with the Rackham Graduate School.

After the Graduate Coordinator has submitted the dissertation committee to Rackham Graduate School:

• The student and committee chair will receive automatically generated emails to approve of the committee submission.  
• Rackham will then approve of the dissertation committee ensuring that all requirements are met.
• Once approved by Rackham, the student and the Graduate Coordinator will receive confirmation that it has been approved.  At this time the committee information will be visible in the student’s record in Wolverine Access.

The official guidelines for the dissertation and defense are established by the Rackham Graduate School. In addition, the Rackham Graduate School publishes annual deadlines by which a candidate must defend a dissertation and complete all degree requirements as set forth by Rackham. Doctoral students are expected to complete the degree within 5 years of achieving candidacy, but no more than 7 years from first enrollment.

Dissertation (Written). The dissertation is the most important aspect of the students PhD program experience, since it documents the original contributions made by the candidate as a result of independent research. In advance of graduation, the dissertation must be approved by all the members of the student’s dissertation committee. The student will prepare a rough draft of the dissertation and provide it for all the committee members for their comments before preparing the final draft. Students must provide the rough draft to the committee at least 10 days before the Defense.

Defense (Oral). The defense examination will be given after the thesis has been formally completed. This examination will be a defense of the doctoral thesis and a test of the candidate’s knowledge in the specialized field of research. The format of the examination will be a public seminar presented by the candidate, with an open question period, followed by a private examination by the Dissertation Committee.

Thesis Dissertation and Defense Timeline:

After the dissertation committee gives preliminary approval to the final draft of the dissertation, it must be formatted to meet the standards of Rackham Academic Records and Dissertations (OARD) found here . Support for thesis formatting is available from the Knowledge Navigation Center in the Graduate Library, which offers tutorials, template assistance, guides, and resources for dissertation preparation.

Before the oral defense, students are required to set up a pre-defense meeting with the Rackham Graduate School. In this meeting, students will be instructed on the process and be given Dissertation Evaluation Forms. When the final draft is distributed to the committee members together with Dissertation Evaluation Forms, a defense (oral) is scheduled for a date approximately two weeks later. Dissertation Evaluation Forms must be completed by all Dissertation Committee members at least three working days prior to the oral defense. The defense is public, and a notice is posted on the Rackham Graduate School website, and the Academic Services Office will send an email announcement to the ME students and faculty. After the oral defense, the student or committee chair should submit the Final Oral Examination Report within 48 hours of the defense. The student should then attend the post-defense meeting with the Rackham Graduate School. 

Helpful links related to the dissertation process:

• Rackham Dissertation Handbook – A thorough explanation of the dissertation procedure.
• Dissertation Timeline – Step-by-step timeline of the dissertation and defense.
• Completing the Doctoral Degree Requirements – Important information for before and after the oral defense.
• Doctoral Degree Deadlines – List of deadlines for final term of enrollment, including grace period deadlines.
• Submitting the Dissertation – How to electronically submit your dissertation.

George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering

Phd degree program.

Requirements for the various PhD degree programs, degree checklist, and information on: advising, qualifying exams, seminars, teaching practicum, dissertation, deadlines, and applying to graduate.

Degree Requirements

Select your degree below to view the minimum course credit-hour requirements (PDF):

• Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering-Georgia Tech & Seoul National University Joint Program
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nuclear Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy in Robotics
• Doctor of Philosophy in Bioengineering

Student Resources

Phd advising.

All new GRA's and GTA's must participate in the thesis advisor selection process during the first month of their first semester in the Woodruff School.

All Ph.D. students must register for Seminar 8014  (2 credit hours- no letter grade- attend at least 22 seminars).

PhD Proposal

The objective of the Ph.D. Proposal is to allow an early assessment of your chosen topic of research for the satisfactory completion of the doctoral degree.

PhD Deadlines

Thesis deadlines are firm, and if you don't submit yours by the deadline, your graduation may be delayed. Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to submitting theses or dissertations.

PhD Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination provides an early assessment of your potential to satisfactorily complete the requirements for the doctoral degree.

Teaching Practicum

All Woodruff School Ph.D. students are required to complete three semester hours of Teaching Practicum (ME/NRE 7757) during the course of their doctoral studies.

PhD Dissertation

All PhD students at the Woodruff School should review the following requirements and guidelines to prepare for their dissertation.

Apply to Graduate

On-line Application for Graduation Instructions.

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PhD in Mechanical Engineering

The primary objective of the PhD degree program is to educate students to the highest levels of their chosen field to enable them to make lasting impacts to fundamental knowledge, technology, and society through research. PhD students are expected to become domain experts and complete research that can withstand the rigorous test of external peer review.

We offer funding to all PhD applicants whom we admit. Our department anticipates extending full funding to about 75 Fall 2025 PhD applicants. Funding includes:

• a graduate student salary,
• tuition remission,
• mandatory student fees, and
• 91% health insurance coverage.

In your first year, you will be funded by the department as a Teaching Assistant (TA) for one semester and as a Research Assistant (RA) for the other semester, which enables you to find a research lab and to practice working in a classroom setting. Faculty with alternate sources of funding may petition the department to waive the TA requirement for first year students in their lab. In your second year and beyond, you will be funded by a research advisor as an RA or through other fellowships, pending reasonable research progress and academic performance. If your research advisor has a funding gap, they can apply to the department for gap funding. This way, students have a safety net so that they can continue to be funded throughout their PhD program.

For information about applying to the PhD program, please visit  PhD Admission  or email [email protected] .

PhD Degree Overview

• Research Focus Areas
• PhD Curriculum
• Application Deadlines

At the time of application, PhD students choose from  eight focus areas  to guide their selection of courses and research. Within each area, PhD students have access to top experts in their field and conduct research that has direct impact on human health and safety, the environment, and technology development. They work alongside and learn directly from faculty members doing both fundamental and applied research that harnesses state-of-the-art experimental, theoretical, and computational approaches to expand the frontiers of technology in the following areas:

• Air Quality
• Mechanics of Materials
• Micro/Nanoscale
• Robotics and Systems Design
• Thermo Fluid Sciences

Please review our  Research Overview Slides  for a quick look at faculty members and their unique capabilities and areas of expertise. 

Research Overview Slides

PhD Courses Requirement

PhD students must complete a minimum of 30 graduate-level credits at the 5000 level or higher. Of these 30 credits, at least nine must be mechanical engineering department courses. All PhD students are required to take the following courses:

• MCEN 5020: Methods of Engineering Analysis (3 credits)
• MCEN 5030: Introduction to Research (3 credits)

Note: Some faculty research advisors will require that their students complete more than 30 course credits. The department recommends that students consult with both their graduate program advisor and faculty research advisor for guidance on coursework recommendations or requirements.

Mathematical Proficiency Requirement

All PhD students are required to take MCEN 5020 Methods of Engineering Analysis and to pass with a grade of B- or higher. Students receiving a grade below B- in MCEN 5020 must retake the course. PhD students will not be able to advance to post-prelim status until the mathematical proficiency requirement has been completed. Failure to complete this requirement by the end of the second year of the PhD may result in removal from the PhD program.

Dissertation Hour Requirement

​In addition to coursework, you are required to complete 30 dissertation hours. Students are not able to register for thesis credits on their own and should schedule an appointment with their graduate advisor to be registered. Students must continuously enroll in five dissertation credits in the semesters following passing the comprehensive exam.

Fundamental Topics Preliminary Exam

All PhD students must successfully pass the fundamental topics preliminary exam , which is intended to assess the potential to successfully complete a PhD in mechanical engineering. It is designed to evaluate analytical skills, appraise knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentals, and to gauge potential for creative independent research. The exam requires students to consolidate their grasp of the fundamentals of mechanical engineering and to demonstrate an aptitude for communicating knowledge during an oral presentation. The content of the examination reflects consensus across the department faculty. The examination is administered by the Graduate Committee, acting on behalf of the entire faculty.

Research Preliminary Exam

The research preliminary exam is an oral presentation of research to a committee of three that must include a PhD student’s research advisor and at least one other faculty member from mechanical engineering. Students should view this as an early thesis proposal. At least one week prior to the exam, students must send a 250-word presentation abstract, including title and any relevant references, to all committee members. 

Comprehensive Examination

Students must complete a comprehensive exam between 6 and 12 months prior to defending their PhD dissertations. At the time of the comprehensive exam, the dissertation committee will be formed and given preliminary approval by the Department and Graduate School. A mechanical engineering PhD degree requires depth of knowledge in the dissertation/research area, as well as breadth of knowledge across the mechanical engineering curriculum. Consequently, the comprehensive exam is designed to test student knowledge of their proposed research area, and any general knowledge in the field. It is also intended to evaluate whether a student’s proposed research project is original and creative work, whether it will make a significant impact in the field, and whether it will qualify for publication in quality peer-reviewed journals. The exam is also an opportunity to demonstrate an ability to present scientific concepts orally. In short, the comprehensive exam serves as the gateway to the next phase of the doctoral program: completion of a dissertation.

Written Dissertation

The written dissertation must comply with Graduate School rules and procedures in terms of format and submission. The dissertation title appears on official university transcripts and must be submitted to the Graduate School in addition to the physical signature page from the dissertation. Students are also required to submit the full written dissertation electronically at the ProQuest website .

• Dissertation Defense

Before completion of the PhD degree, students must have their dissertation accepted for defense by the review committee. The dissertation defense may occur before or after the final electronic submission of the written dissertation to the Graduate School, but must take place prior to the end of the final semester of enrollment. Students must then pass a dissertation defense, which is a final examination on the dissertation and related topics. In the defense, students are expected to explain their research clearly and concisely, and to discuss how it relates to other research in the field. This is an opportunity for recognition of completed doctoral work. It is also an opportunity for discussion and formal evaluation of the dissertation.

We accept PhD applications from applicants not currently enrolled at CU Boulder for the  fall term only . To receive full consideration, please submit all application items by the following deadlines:

• International applicant deadline:  December 1  by 10:00 p.m. MST
• Domestic applicant deadline:  December 15  by 10:00 p.m. MST

In limited cases, external PhD applications may be accepted and reviewed for the spring semester. Typically, these applicants are transfer students who have already identified a CU PhD advisor. In such instances, the graduate advising team should be consulted at  [email protected]  prior to applying. Applicants in this scenario should plan to ensure the submission of all required application documents as soon as possible and no later than one month prior to the anticipated semester of beginning their studies at CU Boulder.

What should be in my application? | Paul M. Rady Mechanical Engineering | University of Colorado Boulder

Learn About our Faculty

• Traits Faculty Value in Prospective PhD Students
• Innovation, Industry, and Research Collaborations
• Learn More about Faculty Research

When surveyed, faculty shared that the following traits are valuable in prospective PhD students: 

• Interest in hands-on learning
• Enthusiasm and grit
• Research experience
• Creativity and independence
• Intellectual curiosity
• Dependability
• Willingness to try new things
• Work experience is a plus
• Publications are a bonus
• Dedication to lab goals
• Ability to connect past knowledge with new areas of inquiry
• Understanding how the science we generate in our research is relevant for policy and how it readily impacts local communities

Venture Partners at CU Boulder  notes that the University of Colorado has ranked fifth for startup creation , according to the latest report by the Association of University Technology Manager (AUTM).

The National Academy of Inventors (NAI)  has ranked  the CU system 14th among the “Top 100” institutions nationwide for recent patent activity. 

Boulder is also home to a variety of well-known companies and labs doing research and development. Our faculty researchers and their research groups regularly collaborate with scientists at federal research labs that are located in the Boulder/Denver area, including the following:

• National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)
• National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST)
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

When surveyed, mechanical engineering research faculty indicated the following level of industry involvement throughout their academic careers:

You can also watch a comprehensive overview of the research happening in our department, presented by our faculty:

• Research in Air Quality and Thermofluids
• Research in Biomedical, Robotics, and Design
• Research in Materials, Mechanics, and MicroNano

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is a PhD in mechanical engineering worth it?
• What can I do with a PhD in mechanical engineering?
• Why pursue a PhD in mechanical engineering versus a specific engineering program?
• What differentiates CU Boulder's mechanical engineering program from others?
• How long will it take to get my degree?
• What are current students saying about the program?
• What are alumni saying about the program?

Yes! Graduates conduct impactful research with a direct influence on human health, safety, environmental sustainability, and technological advancement. The program prioritizes cutting-edge tier-one research, supported by state-of-the-art facilities. CU Boulder's top-ranked mechanical engineering programs provide guidance through research and teaching assistantships, fostering a collaborative environment. The diverse research focus areas and the opportunity to engage with field experts make pursuing a PhD in mechanical engineering at CU Boulder rewarding and impactful.

Mechanical engineers holding a PhD enjoy a spectrum of possibilities. They can pioneer startups derived from their research, secure patents for groundbreaking technologies, conduct research in national labs and diverse industries, engage in teaching roles, or work globally in prestigious research institutes.

We surveyed faculty members to gain insights into the diverse career trajectories of mechanical engineering PhD graduates. The resulting data presents an approximate distribution of pursuits among our PhD graduates:

Academia: 28.9% Industry R&D: 38.5% Consulting: 6.7% Nonprofits: 5.7% National Labs: 15.8% Their own start-ups: 4.0% Other: 0.6%

Prospective students are encouraged to connect with faculty for in-depth insights and explore unique program opportunities.

A PhD in mechanical engineering offers versatility in the job market, enabling professionals to work in renewable energy, biomechanics, air quality, robotics, project management, construction, and more. Choosing mechanical engineering allows exploration across multiple areas of interest, facilitating interdisciplinary research and collaboration. It can be a practical choice for individuals transitioning from related backgrounds, providing flexibility in research focus and professional outcomes.

Our program fosters adaptability, empowering students for various career paths—academia, industry research, consulting, nonprofits, national laboratories, startups, and more. CU Boulder's Mechanical Engineering provides a strong foundation for diverse and fulfilling career journeys.

Additionally, our program stands out for its diverse class offerings that align with individual interests and goals. The program emphasizes collaboration, offering numerous avenues for students to work with different lab groups, industries, and national labs. This collaborative environment enhances research opportunities and post-graduation prospects. 

We also cultivate a strong sense of community among our graduate students. PhD students gather on a regular basis for community events such as the fall picnic, heritage feast, spring picnic, a summer Pride event, and coffee hours. Our students have advocated for emergency funds for students and have also launched an active K-12 outreach program. Additionally, PhD students have impacted graduate program decision-making and policies by having representation and a voice on the graduate committee.

A PhD student entering without prior graduate coursework will typically take five years to complete the PhD degree. However, it is not uncommon for students to finish both earlier and later than this five-year average. A student entering the PhD program with prior graduate coursework from another university may be eligible to transfer up to 21 credit hours to CU and may be finish in about four years. Regardless of the time taken to complete the PhD, the primary emphasis is on remaining at CU Boulder long enough to complete high-quality research that satisfies the requirements of the PhD dissertation and defense. 

What do mechanical engineers with a PhD do?

• One of the coolest things about getting a PhD in mechanical engineering is that you can choose to go into almost any field! Some PhD students will spin a startup company off their research ideas; some will patent new technologies, and some will teach in lecture halls with over 300 students. There is no limit to the opportunities available to you with a PhD in mechanical engineering. - Liv F.
• Mechanical engineers can do all sorts of different things. I have PhD friends who are working on diagnostic blood testing, others studying human motion and prosthetics, and others studying atmospheric science and laser systems. I work at the confluence of robotics, AI, and neuroscience. - Gene R.

​Why mechanical engineering versus a specific program?

 Mechanical engineering is a great degree because you can use it to work in many different fields. Whether you are interested in renewable energy, biomechanics, air quality, robotics, project management, construction, or a number of other things, you’ll be able to pursue a career in those fields using your knowledge and background in mechanical engineering. - Liv F.

I chose mechanical engineering because it was easier for me to continue that course (my BS and MS were in ME) and get accepted into an ME program than CS, for example. -Gene R.

What differentiates CU Boulder’s mechanical engineering program from others?

• I think one of the great things about the CU mechanical engineering program is the variety of classes that are offered; you can almost always find a class that aligns well with your interests and goals. -Liv F.
• We have a lot of collaboration within the department, and across departments, relative to other schools. - Gene R.
• I am using my degree as an excuse to move to a different country and work at a massive research institute called Max Planck! The world seems one degree smaller within the research realm and it makes it so much easier to make connections around the world/ work with a variety of different people. - Vani S.
• There are several options for PhDs. Common paths are to pursue a career in academia, secure a role in industry or government lab, or create a startup to commercialize your research. I chose to pursue the 3rd option and co-founded a company with several other people from our lab. It’s been a great experience and opportunity. Like a PhD, this path is full of new challenges and opportunities to grow. - Eric A.

ME is perfect for the individual who likes to dip into multiple different areas of interest. I gravitated toward the ME program because I had a biomechanics background, but I wanted to become more knowledgeable in robotics. By not doing a specific program, I was able to explore both fields through my research and work with people who specialized in both robotics and biomechanics. - Vani S. 

Mechanical engineering is interesting because it’s so broad and deals with many different topics. There are always new things to learn and opportunities to synthesize knowledge from different disciplines. I really enjoy the physical and tangible aspects of mechanical engineering, which is why I studied soft robotics and actuators. - Eric A.

• There are many different avenues for collaboration when completing a PhD at CU Boulder. I worked with five different lab groups during my graduate career, and I was able to complete a 7-month internship with Meta one year prior to my defense. Several students in my year were able to work with other industries and national labs to complete their research, many of whom hired the students post-graduation. Vani S.
• Generally, location and opportunities for outdoor recreation are a big differentiator for CU Boulder. Academically, the mechanical engineering program offers unique opportunities. Robotics and soft materials are rapidly growing disciplines. The department has recruited key faculty in this area, and there are opportunities to collaborate with other departments, such as computer science, electrical engineering, and aerospace. You also have access to several resources that will help you commercialize your research if you’re interested in starting a business. CU Boulder actually has one of the highest rates for startup creation in the nation. There are many resources through the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Leeds School of Business, and Venture Partners to help you pursue that path. - Eric Ac.

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We establish an environment of respect and inclusive excellence where high-quality instruction, project-based learning and cutting-edge research are leveraged to educate and nurture the next generation of socially conscious, deeply knowledgeable engineers, scientists and problem-solvers. 

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Departments

• Ann and H.J. Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences
• Chemical & Biological Engineering
• Civil, Environmental & Architectural Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering
• Paul M. Rady Mechanical Engineering
• Applied Mathematics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Creative Technology & Design
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• Engineering Management
• Engineering Physics
• Integrated Design Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
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Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

The PhD in Mechanical Engineering is a rigorous degree program designed to establish an individual's ability to conduct independent, innovative research. Graduates from this program typically seek careers as faculty at a research university or as a researcher in an industrial or government research laboratory.

• Requirements for Students Entering with a BS
• Requirements for Students Entering with an MS

Applicants are admitted to this program on the basis of their educational qualifications. It is expected that any candidate to the doctoral program have an outstanding academic record in mechanical engineering or a related technical discipline. The Department does not require applicants to submit their recent General Record Examination (GRE) scores. Submission of GRE scores is optional. 

More detailed descriptions of all application requirements are provided on the  Graduate Admissions website . Current Tufts students who desire to go directly into the PhD program following the completion of their Master's degree must submit a personal statement and their advisor(s) supporting statement(s). No application fee is required. The application package must be submitted prior to the semester in which the student intends to begin her/his doctoral work.

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Best Doctorates in Mechanical Engineering: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

Are you interested in becoming an expert in mechanical engineering? Use our comprehensive guide to the best PhDs in Mechanical Engineering to find the right school and program for you. In addition to all the essential details of each PhD in Mechanical Engineering program, we will also give you tips for getting accepted into your chosen program and how to pay for it.

In addition, you can explore your career options with our comprehensive career outlook for mechanical engineering PhD holders. We’ve included the best mechanical engineering jobs for experts in the field and the average PhD in Mechanical Engineering salary you can expect to make in each of these positions.

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What is a phd in mechanical engineering.

A PhD in Mechanical Engineering is a terminal degree in the field of mechanical engineering, which is the study of the theory and practice of how machines work. With this degree, mechanical engineers acquire expert-level knowledge and skills to design, develop, and build mechanical and thermal systems.

The mechanical engineering profession also requires testing these systems to make sure they function optimally. Mechanical engineers apply the science of matter, energy, motion, and change to machines that improve our lives.

How to Get Into a Mechanical Engineering PhD Program: Admission Requirements

The requirements to get into a mechanical engineering PhD program vary. Some of the typical requirements for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering program include an online application and paying an application fee. Most likely you will also need to have earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering as a minimum education requirement. 

Most programs require that you submit a personal statement, an updated resume, and letters of recommendation. International students usually have to complete a TOEFL, an IELTS, or an equivalent English proficiency exam and earn a minimum score. Some schools have a residency requirement that may need to be considered when planning for your PhD program.

In addition, most schools have qualifying exams that you must pass, as well, and you must provide transcripts from previous education. Further, some programs require you to complete specific coursework before beginning your PhD program.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Admission Requirements

• Online application
• Application fee
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Personal statement, updated resume, letters of recommendation
• TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent with minimum score requirements (international students)

Mechanical Engineering PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Mechanical Engineering?

It is fairly hard to get into a PhD program in mechanical engineering. Some schools are very strict when it comes to whom they will accept into their program. Entrance into mechanical engineering PhD programs requires a specific level of knowledge and skills, so there is a qualifying exam in most cases.

The good news is that if you have advanced knowledge and skills in mechanical engineering, and you strategically plan your application, you will have a much easier time getting accepted into engineering school .

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Mechanical Engineering: In Brief

Best Universities for Mechanical Engineering PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering

The best universities for mechanical engineering PhDs are reputable for preparing graduates to become experts in their field. Doctoral degree holders in mechanical engineering develop machines that have a positive impact on transportation, medicine, robotics, and climate change, among other fields critical to human health and happiness.  

If you’ve begun looking into where to get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering to acquire advanced engineering skills and knowledge, look no further. Here are 10 of the best PhDs in Mechanical Engineering and more details about the schools that offer them.

Arizona State University (ASU) was founded in 1886 and today provides over 450 graduate programs in higher education. The school offers 20 PhD degrees in engineering and among them is the mechanical engineering PhD. ASU reports that 91 percent of its graduates are employed 90 days after graduation. 

Since 2003, research at ASU has led to over 4,100 invention disclosures and more than 980 US patents. In addition, startups based on ASU intellectual property have resulted in more than $833 million in investment capital.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

This is an 84-credit mechanical engineering program with qualifying exams and a comprehensive written exam, oral exam, prospectus, and dissertation in engineering fundamentals. This PhD in Mechanical Engineering can help you unlock career opportunities to become an engineer, engineering manager or director, engineering professor, or research engineer.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Overview

• Program Length: Approximately 5 years
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Tuition and Fees: $858/credit (in state); $1,361/credit (out of state); $1,470/credit (international)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowships and awards, financial loans, teaching and research assistantships
• Graduate admissions application and application fee
• Bachelor's or master's degree
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 in master’s degree or last 60 hours of bachelor’s degree
• GRE or GMAT scores, personal statement, resume or curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and educational transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency (international students)

Auburn University opened its doors in 1859, and the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering was established in 1908. Auburn provides many PhD degree programs, 10 of which are in engineering fields. The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering currently has 623 students enrolled in PhD programs.

This mechanical engineering doctorate requires course work of at least 60 credit hours over and above a bachelor’s degree, including a dissertation, with a minimum of 21 credit hours in course work at the 7000 to 8000 level. A minor of nine credits in an approved field is also required. You must submit a study plan, pass the written and oral qualifying exams, and submit a written dissertation and defend it successfully. 

• Program Length: Approximately 4-6 years
• Tuition and Fees: $949/credit
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, financial loans, graduate teaching, research assistantships
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree
• GPA of 3.0 and minimum GRE score
• Three letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose
• Previous education transcripts

Established in 1946, Binghamton University offers 111 graduate programs of study. The school has 29 PhD programs available in a variety of subjects. The Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science provides a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. Binghamton University has over 700 research opportunities and 23 organized research centers. 

The PhD in Mechanical Engineering provided by the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science requires 24 credits. Graduate students must choose an area of focus, such as design and manufacturing, solid mechanics, or dynamic systems. Students must develop a learning contract with an advisor and satisfy the qualifying exam requirement. 

Students must submit a prospectus and presentation of their proposed research and have it accepted by the guidance committee. There is also an oral presentation and defense of dissertation. In addition, the dissertation must be approved by the student's research committee. 

• Program Length: Approximately 3 years
• Tuition and Fees: $471/credit (in state); $963/credit (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Financial loans, assistantships, fellowships and scholarships, opportunities for employment including federal graduate work study, opportunities for underrepresented students, research and travel funding, installment options
• Submit an online application and pay the $75 application fee (or seek a waiver)
• Send bachelor’s or master’s degree transcripts (minimum GPA of 3.0)
• Submit a personal statement, resume, three letters of recommendation, and GRE or GMAT scores (strongly recommended, or required for students pursuing a graduate assistantship)
• TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores (international students)

Boston University has 17 schools and colleges offering over 300 academic programs of study. It’s ranked number 13 for graduate employability in the US by Times Higher Education, and the school provides six different PhDs in Engineering. Boston University is a major private research university that has had breakthroughs in everything from African studies to zebrafish genetics. 

In order to graduate with this PhD in Mechanical Engineering, you must fulfill the teaching requirement. Students must also pass the qualifying examination, prepare and carry out independent and original research projects, and pass the final oral examination. 

This PhD in Mechanical Engineering provides research opportunities in various areas such as acoustics and vibrations, biomechanics, computational science and engineering, and dynamics, robotics, systems, and controls. 

• Program Length: 5 years (maximum)
• Acceptance Rate: 21-22%
• Tuition and Fees: $1,908/credit (part time); $61,050/year (full time)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Dean’s fellowship, doctoral research assistantship, doctoral teaching fellowship, scholarships, institutional fellowships, external fellowships 
• Bachelor’s degree 
• Official or unofficial transcripts
• Online application and $95 application fee
• Statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation
• English proficiency test scores (international students)

California Institute of Technology , or Caltech, was started in 1891 and today offers various graduate programs in 31 science and engineering degree options. Additionally, Caltech has 45 alumni and faculty who have won a total of 46 Nobel Prizes.

This doctorate program requires 54 core credits, 36 of which must be taken in a single track to meet the depth requirement. In addition, you must pass these with a minimum of a C grade. 

The remaining 18 core credits can be from any track. The remaining required credits are made up of electives or minor courses, advanced or applied mathematics courses, a graduate engineering seminar, and research.

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• Tuition and Fees: $56,364/year
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowships, teaching and research assistantships, external fellowships, grants
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Transcripts from each college or academic institution attended
• Three letters of recommendation, a CV, and a statement of purpose

Clarkson University was founded in 1896, and today is a private research university educating graduate students in the US. The school provides more than 95 programs of study in engineering, business, education, science, liberal arts, and health professions, including PhD degrees. Clarkson University says that 97 percent of its graduates have secured employment in their chosen field.

This program of study requires a 90-credit-hour minimum beyond the bachelor’s degree. This includes a minimum of 24 credit hours of coursework, six credit hours of seminar, and 60 credits earned in residence at Clarkson.

Coursework includes 15 credit hours in the major field, nine credit hours in the minor, and six credit hours from a department different from the one the student is housed in. Doctoral students also need at least two years of full‑time study at Clarkson and no more than 30 credit hours of graduate transfer (B grade or better). You must also pass the qualifying examination and research proposal defense examination, and a dissertation must be submitted and defended orally.

• Program Length: Approximately 3 to 5 years (with a 7-year maximum)
• Tuition and Fees: $ 1,533/credit
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Clarkson University's Payment Plan, federal student loans, alternative student loans, Income Share Agreement with Vemo Education, graduate assistantships, outside scholarships 
• Online application 
• Statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts of previous education
• International applicants must meet a minimum English proficiency score: TOEFL 80 points, IELTS 6.5 points, PTE 56 points, and Duolingo English Test 115 points

Johns Hopkins University is a private research university that opened in 1876 and established its school of engineering in 1912. The school provides PhD programs in many different areas, including anthropology, chemistry, and English. Johns Hopkins University awarded its first doctoral degree in 1878.

Students develop a technical program including coursework and research with the help of a faculty advisor. Graduate students must pass the Departmental Qualifying Exam, pass the Graduate Board Oral exam, submit a doctoral dissertation, and pass the final dissertation defense. 

• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Acceptance Rate: N/A 
• Tuition and Fees: $58,720/year
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Loans, assistantships, Dean’s Master’s Fellowships, internal fellowships, external fellowships
• Application and $25 application fee
• A statement of purpose
• Transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Three letters of recommendation
• TOEFL, IELTS, or iTEP (non-native English speakers)

Texas Tech University was established in 1923 and today has over 5,500 students enrolled in its Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering. Texas Tech University provides mechanical engineering degrees and degrees in other major engineering fields such as electrical, computer science, industrial, manufacturing, and systems engineering. 

To receive this Texas Tech University PhD, students must complete 12 graduate lecture courses totaling 36 credits. Within the first two semesters of enrollment, two math and two concentration-area courses must be completed.

Additionally, six mechanical engineering courses must be completed, including the concentration area but excluding the required math courses. Students must complete one credit hour of graduate seminar (ME 5120). Leveling courses may apply if you have a bachelor’s in another field as the minimum education requirement.

You must submit a Degree Plan developed in collaboration with the PhD advisor by the end of the second semester of your doctoral studies. In addition, students must submit a qualified dissertation. 

• Acceptance Rate: Not available
• Tuition and Fees: $2,150/year (with teaching, research, or graduate part-time instructor assistantship) 
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate, research, and teaching assistantships; graduate part-time instructor; scholarships; financial aid loans and grants

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• TOEFL scores (international students)

University of Colorado Boulder started in 1877 and today offers over 4,300 academic courses across 150 fields of study. The University of Colorado Boulder conducts research in aerospace and space science, bio-health sciences, and climate, energy, and sustainability. 

The Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering conducts research that has made an impact on the advancement of several fields such as materials science, thermo fluid, and biomedical sciences.

This mechanical engineering PhD from the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering requires a minimum of 30 credits at the 5000 level or higher. A minimum of nine courses must be mechanical engineering department courses.

It also includes two courses that all PhD students must complete: the Methods of Engineering Analysis I, worth three credits, and the Introduction to Research, worth three credits. Choose from seven focus areas that will guide your selection of courses and research.

Students must earn at least a B grade for courses to count toward their PhD and should earn at least a GPA of 3.0 to be eligible for graduation; however, the GPA requirement for teaching or research assistantships is 3.25. 

Students must pass the oral preliminary exam and a preliminary research oral exam. Students must complete the comprehensive exam between six and 12 months before defending their PhD dissertation, consisting of 30 dissertation hours. They also need to pass the dissertation defense successfully to qualify for the PhD degree. 

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years (with a 6-year maximum)
• Tuition and Fees: $2,715/credit (in state); $3,414/credit or $5,688/credit (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, fellowships, scholarships
• Complete the application online via the graduate school admissions website page and pay the application fee.
• Submit your curriculum vitae, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation.
• Provide transcripts for all previous post-secondary education.
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores for all international applications.

University of Michigan was started in 1817 and today provides 19 schools and colleges, with hundreds of majors and over 1000 student organizations for doctoral students to take advantage of. They offer doctoral degrees in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, and construction engineering and management, among other engineering fields.

This PhD degree is the highest qualification issued by the Mechanical Engineering Department and includes both research and coursework. Additionally, you must pass the qualifying examinations, advancement to candidacy, the dissertation proposal examination, and the written thesis dissertation and oral defense.

• Program Length: Approximately 4-5 years (with a 7- year maximum) 
• Acceptance Rate: N/A     
• Tuition and Fees: $14,558/term (full-time in state); $27,023/term (full-time out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Internal and external fellowships, assistantships, instructorships, graduate student staff assistant (GSSA) positions
• Bachelor’s degree
• Statement of purpose, personal statement, curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all previous educational institutions

Can You Get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering online, but few programs are available. You may need to look outside mechanical engineering to find a PhD in engineering program online. Make sure that you adequately research the online PhD requirements. Depending on the school, there may be a need for you to go to campus for things like orientation, clinicals, internships, or practicum requirements.

Mechanical engineering graduate students’ online programs have various research opportunities. Thankfully, online degrees are also respected in the job market . Career opportunities with top companies become available once graduates have earned their PhD in Mechanical Engineering either online or on campus.

Best Online PhD Programs in Mechanical Engineering

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering?

It takes three to 10 years to get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. The National Science Foundation states that most US students take around 7.2 years to graduate with a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering.

Most people complete the coursework in two to three years. However, the dissertation may take up to seven years to complete depending on how much time you dedicate to finishing it.

Is a PhD in Mechanical Engineering Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Mechanical Engineering is hard, even if you are good at and enjoy mathematics and science. A PhD is the highest level of education in the field so it requires a significant amount of research, time, and dedication. In addition, the field of mechanical engineering includes scientific and mathematical concepts that PhD mechanical engineering students will need to master to acquire their PhD degree.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering?

It costs about $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This data further illustrates that the average cost of graduate degree programs in mechanical engineering at a private institute can reach as much as $25,929 and public institutions cost around $12,171 per year.

Costs to acquire a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will vary from school to school. There are also different costs for in-state and out-of-state students. Make sure to check out the costs associated with your PhD degree properly so that you can adequately plan or budget for your investment.

How to Pay for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering: PhD Funding Options

The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering include tuition waivers, teaching assistantships, research fellowships, scholarships, financial aid loans, and grants. In some cases these can completely pay for your PhD, making it essentially free. Many of these funding options are available for online learning too.

Some schools also offer income share agreements as an option. However, this option should be carefully considered as total payments may amount to more than the actual cost of your PhD degree.

Note that there are various options available that will vary by school. There are also multiple options of funding for students available depending on your circumstances, for example, low-income families and international students.

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What Is the Difference Between a Mechanical Engineering Master’s Degree and PhD?

The difference between a mechanical engineering master’s degree and a PhD is that a PhD, or doctoral degree, can be attained after acquiring your master’s degree. A master’s degree is more career-oriented, and a PhD is more research-oriented. As a result, a master’s may mean that you have more job opportunities. However, a PhD means that you are an expert in your field.

A master’s is quicker to acquire than a PhD, but obtaining a PhD also means being bestowed the title of doctor. A Master’s in Mechanical Engineering will most likely cost less than a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. However, PhD in Mechanical Engineering is more desirable than a master’s degree in professions such as teaching at higher education institutions, for research, and in clinical settings.

Master’s vs PhD in Mechanical Engineering Job Outlook

A job outlook of 7 percent growth is projected for jobs such as mechanical engineers with a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS also reports that a career such as a post-secondary teacher, which typically requires a PhD, has a job outlook of 12 percent . As such, having a mechanical engineering PhD will offer you more career opportunities than just a master’s degree will.

Difference in Salary for Mechanical Engineering Master’s vs PhD

A Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, according to PayScale, comes with an average salary of $89,000 . Entry-level jobs may start with salaries of about $62,000. Wiith experience and a proven track record, you may reach a high-paying wage of about $98,509 per year.

A PhD in Mechanical Engineering degree holder has an average salary of $110,000 . This means that a PhD represents earning an average of about $20,000 more per year than a master’s degree. Entry-level positions may start at around $52,000, but with experience and a proven track record, you could earn as much as $130,000.

Related Mechanical Engineering Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering

You should get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering because there areexcellent benefits that come with this degree. Benefits, aside from being bestowed the designation of doctor and being an expert in your field, include high-paying salaries and research opportunities. Let’s have a closer look below.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Mechanical Engineering

• Higher-paying salaries and possible tenure. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, graduates can acquire higher-paying salaries that may come with academic tenure or research tenure. This means you can get above-average wages and, with tenure, a certain amount of job security provided that you comply with the defined terms and conditions.
• Expert-level knowledge and skills. A PhD or doctoral degree is the highest qualification you can acquire in any field. As a result, you accumulate in-depth knowledge and skills that few others possess unless they too have obtained a PhD degree.
• Increased job opportunities. Having a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will increase job opportunities because it is the highest qualification you can acquire. As a result, there will be few jobs in your industry that you won’t qualify for. You will be a prime candidate with an edge over other applicants for a wide range of positions.
• Opportunities to make an impact in your industry. Having experience in research, and continuing with research after acquiring your PhD degree, will afford you the benefit of valuable contribution to cutting-edge research areas in your chosen industry. Being a part of these research opportunities means making valuable, or even revolutionary, discoveries and conclusions that may affect valuable change in your field.

Getting a PhD in Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical Engineering PhD Coursework

The coursework options for getting a PhD in Mechanical Engineering cover a widely varied scope of topics, and knowing what to look for may seem overwhelming for some. However, as this is a technical field of study, prospective students can be sure that there are specific coursework requirements across all programs. Below is a list of topics typically included in mechanical engineering PhD coursework.

Mechanical Design

Mechanical design coursework introduces concepts like computational approaches that automatically generate mechanical designs via predefined parameters. Additionally, you will learn about multi-material mechanical design, relating to topics in the design process, and computational analysis tools based on mechanical simulation, among others.

Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics coursework introduces basic laws of thermodynamics. Students will develop a body of knowledge about entropy, thermodynamic properties of substances and mixtures, phase equilibrium, and transformations. Course content also includes the basic phase diagram and related physical and mechanical properties.

In this course you will learn about energy’s fundamental principles and experimental electrochemistry techniques as well as the fundamentals in iconic and electronic conduction of metal. It will help students understand different semiconductors, inorganics, and polymer materials and their applications pertaining to batteries, fuel cells, electrochemical capacitors and photonics, sensors, and semiconductor electrochemistry.

This kind of course covers everything about materials mechanics, including crystalline and non-crystalline materials, as well as basic solid mechanics concepts, stress concentration and materials failures, stress and strain sensing principles, and sensors.

Coursework may include learning about polymer chain formation, configuration, and basic structures; crystalline and amorphous states of polymers; and solution and phase behavior of polymers.

Fluid Dynamics

Learn about the physical properties of gasses and liquids and the kinematics of flow fields. Analyze viscous, heat-conducting Newtonian fluids, stress and surface-tension-driven flow and capillary effects. Among the other topics covered are vorticity and circulation, and ideal fluid flow theory in two and three dimensions.

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How to Get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering: Doctoral Program Requirements

Although there are some common steps and requirements for earning a mechanical engineering PhD degree, many doctoral program requirements will vary by school and PhD program. Check the specific graduation requirements of the school and the program before applying to learn how to get a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.

This will help ensure that you are informed of and prepared to fulfill all of the criteria required for your career path in advanced mechanical engineering. That being said, below you can find typical doctoral requirements for engineering disciplines.

Every PhD degree in mechanical engineering has specific course and credit requirements. Each program allows a particular number of credits that can be transferred from previous degrees or courses completed. Additionally, most PhD programs have specific courses that must be included in the program you develop with your PhD academic advisor. 

Graduate students must also maintain a minimum GPA, and some programs have a certain number of seminars you must attend, which also varies by school and program. Some programs require a higher GPA for assistantships, so ensure you check what is required to qualify if you intend to apply for these as part of your plan to fund your PhD. 

Most PhD programs require a degree plan of study to be submitted within a specific timeframe of the program, and some programs state that you must finish the coursework within a certain amount of time.

The preliminary exams, in most cases, are to assess competency in both mechanical engineering and research processes and concepts. Some have to be done within a specific timeframe and may be conducted orally.

Some coursework has to be completed before you are permitted to take the exam, and most programs offer a limited number of attempts to pass the exam. Failing means being denied your PhD degree.

Some PhD in Mechanical Engineering programs require a teaching practicum. A teaching practicum requires graduate students to act as teaching assistants for several semesters. The graduate chair usually determines the requirements for these practicums.

The comprehensive exams may be oral or written and must be taken a certain number of weeks or months before a dissertation or thesis defense. Some schools demand that several research articles be submitted to academic journals as part of this requirement.

The exam, in most cases, is to assess the graduate student's knowledge and ascertain whether a student's research project is original, creative work and will make a noted impact in the field. This includes whether it will qualify for publication in appropriate peer-reviewed journals. This phase of the program serves as a gateway to the last stage, including completing the dissertation and program.

The thesis or dissertation usually requires a certain number of credit hours. It should be original work based on an original and creative topic. Some schools have a certain number of dissertation hours that may be acquired in a semester, so planning is vital. Some dissertations require that the student is enrolled full time for a certain number of dissertation hours.

Most schools have a dissertation or graduate handbook that lays out specific requirements for how to write and present your dissertation. Once the dissertation has been completed, you need to notify the committee that you intend to defend your dissertation, and it may need to be approved before you can proceed.

Once approved, you are set to attend your dissertation defense. Once completed, you may be approved by the committee, meaning you have completed your PhD successfully and are now the official holder of a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.

Potential Careers With a Mechanical Engineering Degree

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PhD in Mechanical Engineering Salary and Job Outlook

A PhD in Mechanical Engineering salary ranges between $79,000 and $130,000. Job outlooks over the next five years or so range between 5 and 12 percent in growth, and the number of jobs ranges from 28,000 to 1,276,900. This means that securing employment in your chosen career in mechanical engineering is an achievable career goal.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering?

With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, you can work in various industries, including aerospace engineering and mechanics, materials and metals, chemicals, and fast-moving consumer goods. Career choices include jobs like research scientist, senior software engineer, or training and development manager.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering

• Petroleum engineers
• Training and development managers
• Senior mechanical engineers
• Research scientists
• Senior software engineers

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering?

The average salary for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering degree holder is $110,000, according to PayScale. Based on this data, salaries may start at around $52,000 on the low end and reach as much as $300,000 in the most senior positions, like chief executive officer (CEO).

Highest-Paying Mechanical Engineering Jobs for PhD Grads

Best Mechanical Engineering Jobs with a Doctorate

The best mechanical engineering jobs with a doctorate come with excellent salaries, and they represent varied specializations and industries. On top of that, the best states to work in represent various parts of our beautiful country. Let’s have a closer look at these career options.

Petroleum engineers design and develop ways to remove oil and gas from underground deposits. They manage the drilling operations. They monitor efficiencies in drilling systems and create new tools to enhance the extraction of these materials. A PhD in Mechanical Engineering will also allow you to consider careers within academia and research and development in the petroleum engineering field. 

• Salary with a Mechanical Engineering PhD: $130,850
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 28,500
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Alaska, California, Texas, Florida

Training and development managers create plans, coordinate, and develop skills through knowledge-enhancement programs for businesses and employees. They are required to manage budgets and collaborate with other departments to determine a company's learning and development needs. This may include managing research and development tasks to improve efficiencies and achievements within the business and its staff. 

• Salary with a Mechanical Engineering PhD: $120,130
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 42,100
• Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California, Colorado, Massachusetts

Industrial production managers oversee the operations of manufacturing and related teams. They coordinate, plan, and manage these teams in producing goods like cosmetics, toys, and cars. They are responsible for managing and achieving the associated targets and budgets, making their job a crucial aspect of any profitable business in manufacturing products.

• Salary with a Mechanical Engineering PhD: $103,150
• Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 189,300
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Colorado, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire

Mechanical engineers use the knowledge and skills developed by gaining their PhD in Mechanical Engineering to research, design, develop, and build mechanical and thermal sensors. This includes designing, developing, and building devices, tools, engines, and machines. Testing and analyzing systems to optimize efficiency is another vital aspect of this profession.

• Salary with a Mechanical Engineering PhD: $95,300
• Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 299,200
• Highest-Paying States: New Mexico, Louisiana, District of Columbia, California, Alaska

Postsecondary teachers work at higher education institutes such as colleges and universities. Mechanical engineering doctoral degree holders educate students enrolled in mechanical engineering degree programs. Responsibilities include assessing and grading. In addition, teachers do research to incorporate cutting-edge technologies and related information to maintain industry-relevant materials and knowledge within the curriculum.

• Salary with a Mechanical Engineering PhD: $79,640
• Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
• Highest-Paying States: Alaska, New York, Utah, California, New Jersey

Is a PhD in Mechanical Engineering Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Mechanical Engineering is worth it. Although most jobs for mechanical engineers require at most a master’s degree, some do require a PhD, like becoming a university professor.

However, benefits of having a PhD in Mechanical Engineering include increased employability and avoiding unemployment, higher-paying salaries, expertise-level knowledge in your field, strong technical skills, and the distinguished title of doctor.

Additional Reading About Mechanical Engineering

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/mechanical-engineering/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/jobs-for-mechanical-engineering-majors/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/mechanical-engineer-cover-letter/

PhD in Mechanical Engineering FAQ

Yes, you can get a good job in mechanical engineering without a PhD degree. Most jobs in mechanical engineering require a master’s degree at most. However, having a PhD will increase your chances for advancement.

Yes, you can work remotely with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. In fact, there are numerous jobs available online for candidates with degrees at the doctoral level.

You can find PhD in Mechanical Engineering jobs on trusted job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. You can also network with your school’s program partners and other professionals in the industry. You can also look online for lists of the best companies hiring mechanical engineers to discover the top employers in the field.

Yes, a bootcamp technical certificate can help you get a mechanical engineering job at some of the world’s top global companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook.

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Doctorate degrees

You can apply to our PhD program with a master’s or just a bachelor’s degree, and our PhD students receive full funding, which includes a tuition waiver, monthly living stipend, and health insurance. Find out why you should get a PhD at Michigan .

All of our departments offer doctorate degrees, and we also have interdisciplinary PhD programs that help you make the most of broad expertise at the university.

See what we offer in the Engineering Course Guide and Bulletin.

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About the degrees

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) : Full-time five-year research-based program. Develops skills that apply to careers both inside and outside academia. We provide all PhD students with a tuition waiver, stipend and health insurance.

Doctor of Engineering in Manufacturing (DEng) : Graduate professional degree for students who have already earned both a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in any engineering or business discipline. Details in Michigan Engineering Course Guide and Bulletin .

College of Engineering

Mechanical Engineering (Ph.D.)

Mechanical Engineering

Doctor of philosophy, department of mechanical engineering, program details.

• Application process

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Mechanical Engineering .

The components of the doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering involve the student first finding an advisor and forming a committee. Subsequently, the components of the doctoral degree programs consist of a qualifying exam, a comprehensive exam, prescribed course work, research, the dissertation, and a final oral defense and examination.

• Program overview (Office of Registrar)
• Course descriptions (Office of Registrar)

Graduate Handbook

Current MSU students

Future students

Applications from students are due by the following dates and will be reviewed beginning:

• December 15 for Fall enrollment
• September 15 for Spring enrollment (Only a very small number of financial aid offers are available to Spring applicants.)

Applications are all considered for financial aid and assistantships. Applications received by the above dates will receive the maximum consideration for this financial aid and assistantships.

• Applicants to M.S. programs should have earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, or a closely related field prior to the term for which they are applying.
• Applicants can enter directly into a Ph.D. program after earning their B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, or a closely related field prior to the term for which they are applying - this is called the Direct Admit Ph.D. program.
• Applicants who have earned a M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, or a closely related field prior to the term for which they are applying can also enter the Ph.D. program.

Applicants must complete the following:

• Upload electronically with your Michigan State University application
• An official copy of your TOEFL Scores for applicants from countries where the official language is not English. Applicants should have all test scores sent from the testing agency directly to Michigan State University; Office of Admissions; Hannah Administration Building; 426 Auditorium Road, Room 250; East Lansing, Michigan 48824-2604. The Mechanical Engineering department code for the TOEFL is 68. Click here for the  English Language Proficiency Minimum Requirements
• A "Statement of Financial Proof and Affidavit of Support" if you are an international student and can provide for your own support as a graduate student. Visit the  International Applicants  page for information.
• A copy of your resume
• A written personal statement describing how your background and life experiences - including social, economic, cultural, familial, educational, or other opportunities or challenges - motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Your Personal Statement should be concise, and no more than 2 pages when formatted in Times New Roman 12-point font with 1-inch margins and single line spacing.
• A written academic statement explaining your reasons for seeking a graduate program degree. The following statement must be included: "My intended area of specialization in the graduate program in Mechanical Engineering at Michigan State University will be in ___________________________." Your Academic Statement should be concise, and no more than 2 pages when formatted in Times New Roman 12-point font with 1-inch margins and single line spacing.

Current Research Groups  are:

• Biomechanics Engineering Group
• Dynamic Systems and Controls Group
• Fluid-Thermal Science and Engineering Group
• Solid Mechanics, Design, and Manufacturing Group

Completion requires an application fee. Requirements and fees are not waived.

The graduate application fee is $65 for domestic students and $75 for international students.

Upload/enter additional application materials/information and request letters of recommendations using the  graduate student education portal  which you access with your MSU applicant ID and password. The portal also allows you to check the status of your application and send e-messages to the department.

• Three (3) letters of recommendation are requested through the  graduate student education portal . 3.
• Official academic record from all previous universities attended. The applicant's record should exhibit outstanding achievement as indicated both by grade point average (GPA) and the quality of courses over his or her entire academic career. Competitive applicants for financial aid and assistantships are in the top 10% of their BS class and have at least a 3.5 GPA on a scale of 4.0.

IMPORTANT: You must make sure that all the above documents: application, exam scores, financial proof, and recommendations use exactly the same first and last names. One of the largest single causes for incomplete applications is an applicant's use of multiple forms their name including reversal of last (family) name and first (personal) name on application documents. Admissions cannot correctly process documents if different forms of your name are used on documents submitted. Be consistent. The Mechanical Engineering Department's address is:

Graduate Program Department of Mechanical Engineering 428 S. Shaw Lane, Rm. 2555 East Lansing, MI 48824-1226 USA

For more information, please email the Mechanical Engineering Graduate program at [email protected]  or Dr. Lik Chaun Lee at [email protected]

For more information regarding International Admissions, visit The Graduate School Website

Annual cost information and a budgeting tool is available at the MSU Tuition Calculator

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Should Engineers Get a PHD? 11 Truths!

Should engineers get a PhD? Depends on what you want to achieve in your career. There are ups and downs to pursuing a PhD in engineering.

To figure it out, start by asking yourself what kind of career you’re after. Your decision will be based on factors like:

• Your interests
• How much money you want to make
• The lifestyle you desire
• Your other career options

We’ll chat about these four pointers, and then dive headfirst into 11 extra tips to help you size up the pros and cons of pursuing a PhD in engineering.

Important Note: I’ll be generalizing each factor I discuss, so keep in mind that there are always exceptions. And don’t forget that some superstar engineers will fly high whether they have a PhD or not. Success can come either way!

What really interests you in engineering?

A PhD can give you a leg up when tackling groundbreaking technological challenges. Without one, you might find it tough to access such work. But if you’re into more typical engineering gigs in the industry, then a PhD won’t be worth the time and money.

Usually, people go for a PhD if they want to become a specialist or researcher, or if they have their sights set on an academic career. A PhD can provide flexibility between industry and academia, letting you explore fresh ideas and spearhead innovative projects.

Here’s my two cents on both academia and industry:

In academia

In this world, your work might not make an immediate real-world splash. It could take years or even decades for your research to be recognized and applied. So, if you’re looking to become an overnight sensation, you might want to think again.

But you know what? To a select few who are passionate about your field, your work will be a big deal. You’ll have the chance to share your unique ideas with like-minded folks and make a difference in your little corner of the world.

And never forget that every small step you take will ultimately contribute to the greater good of humanity.

In industry

Meanwhile, in the industry, your work can make an instant impact. You’ll tackle awesome projects that are directly tied to a company’s goals, making a real difference in people’s lives.

Take, for example, working on R&D for batteries. Batteries are essential for our future, and every tiny improvement can change our lives in a big way.

The downside? Your company might not give you the credit you deserve for your groundbreaking work. But don’t sweat it – there are loads of similar opportunities for PhD holders who are motivated and inventive.

All in all, whether you pick academia or industry, you’ll have plenty of chances to change the world. Just keep cranking out top-notch work, and everything else will fall into place.

How much money do you want to make?

First off, don’t pay for your PhD yourself. If you can’t get funding, it means the market doesn’t see the value in your research.

Even with funding, you might only make $20k to $40k a year, depending on your university. If you’d gone straight into the industry, you could be pocketing $150k or more each year. Then you could invest that salary in real estate, businesses, you name it.

So, if money’s your main concern, you’ll lag behind your peers who jumped straight into the industry. Because while you’re spending 3 to 5 years earning a PhD and living on ramen noodles, they’ll be making bank.

And if you’re thinking about academia after your PhD, buckle up for even more financial hurdles.

Let’s be real: a PhD is a massive investment of time and money. If dollar signs are all you see, don’t bother with a PhD.

Important Note: Engineers with PhDs who start multi-million dollar businesses are exceptions, just like college dropouts who start multi-billion dollar businesses.

PhD stipends from major U.S. universities

Check this shortlist of engineering department stipends from major universities, put together by PhD Stipends :

As you can tell, diving into a PhD in engineering might not make you rich overnight. But, hey, it does give you the chance to work on some mind-blowing research and help shape the world of tomorrow.

Important Note: Don’t forget to weigh in the cost of living when you’re checking out those PhD stipends. Higher stipends usually come with a heftier price tag on everyday life, like in the Bay Area where Stanford is nestled.

What type of lifestyle do you want?

Dreaming of a chill, easygoing life? Academia might not be your jam. You could grind away for years and never snag that elusive academic tenure. Even in the industry, you might land just an ordinary engineering gig, making your PhD feel like a waste.

The professional stress from this uncertain journey can seep into your personal life. Financial struggles might become your constant companion, impacting every corner of your life. But hey, with a PhD, you get the keys to the world’s coolest toys and can work in top-notch national labs and fancy universities.

If you’re down to embrace uncertainty into your golden years, a PhD could be worth the ride. You may trade short-term comfort for the shot at doing what sets your soul on fire in the long run.

Mind you, I use the term sacrifice lightly. If you’re head over heels for your research, nothing else will even matter.

Do you have other options in life?

If you’re still feeling the PhD vibe after all this, ask yourself:

• Do you have any other career options?
• Is there another gig that’s tugging at your heartstrings?

If you said yes to either, hold your horses! Give some serious thought to whether a PhD is really your destiny. I’ve got friends who ditched their PhD programs to start businesses, and now they’re swimming in millions!

On the flip side, I know folks who chased a PhD just to immigrate to the US for a better life. But listen, don’t just follow the crowd. Committing to a PhD is a massive deal and can change your life in a big way.

This is further highlighted by the low number of U.S. students going for a PhD in engineering each year. The data below, from ASEE , includes all engineering fields combined.

Important Note: The number of awarded engineering doctorate degrees is increasing. But the U.S. population is also increasing, and more foreign students are immigrating to the U.S. to pursue a PhD. 

11 Pointers to consider in pursuing a PhD in engineering

Now, here are 11 pointers I’ve gathered from my pals and relatives who’ve gone down the PhD-in-engineering rabbit hole:

#1 Choose a research topic with real-world oomph

Picking the perfect research topic is the key to unlocking your PhD’s potential. Focus on fields that are shining bright, like:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Renewable energy

These areas tend to reel in more funding and have a higher demand in both academia and industry. After all, you still gotta pay the bills and keep a roof over your head.

#2 A PhD hones your thinking skills, not just your specialization

In the real world, you might not use all that fancy research know-how from your PhD. Instead, you’ll rely on your shiny new way of thinking to tackle problems.

So, a PhD isn’t just about becoming the go-to person in a super-niche field. It’s also about learning how to think and tackle the tough stuff.

And, hey, you can pick up these skills outside the hallowed halls of academia too.

#3 Don’t expect a PhD to put you on a pedestal

Sure, a PhD might make some folks go “ooh” and “aah,” but at the end of the day, it’s all about delivering the goods. Your skills and passion for the job are what really count, not the alphabet soup trailing your name.

I’m all about treating everyone equally, regardless of their academic fanfare.

Of course, a PhD can give you a credibility boost when making first impressions. But remember, it’s what you do next that really matters.

#4 A PhD can open doors, but it might close some too

A PhD can help you score high-level gigs at big-shot companies with in-house research and development. But beware – it might also slam some doors shut if you’re deemed overqualified for certain roles.

Choose your career path wisely and take time to think through your future pragmatically.

#5 Dive into a PhD in a subject that ignites your passion

Being passionate about your subject is the secret sauce to staying motivated during your PhD journey. Surround yourself with amazing people who share your interests, or you’ll struggle through the tough times – and trust me, there’ll be plenty.

#6 Don’t chase a PhD for the wrong reasons

Don’t go after a PhD just because “it’s what smart people do” or because you want to add some extra letters to your name.

Let’s get real here: a PhD doesn’t magically transform you into a genius. Heck, some of the brightest minds out there never even set foot in a college classroom!

If you were a regular Joe or Jane before diving into a PhD program, chances are you’ll still be one when you’re done. But hey, you don’t need to be a mega-brainiac to tackle a PhD. If you can snag a spot in a program, you’ve definitely got what it takes to see it through.

#7 Fear not the PhD pursuit

Some folks are scared stiff of the grueling trek to PhD-land. It’s like climbing a never-ending mountain, right?

Well, anything worth chasing is gonna be tough. If it were a piece of cake, everybody and their dog would be doing it!

#8 A PhD isn’t for everyone

To nail that PhD, you need a killer work ethic and a fierce dedication to your field. That’s what’ll help you conquer those hurdles and push through the lonely stretches.

Let’s face it: the PhD life isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Just look at the small number of doctorates awarded each year in the U.S., as reported by ASEE. The data below covers all engineering fields combined:

And if you’re bold enough to take on a PhD, you’re probably an ambitious go-getter. So you’ll no doubt find some other epic challenge to sink your teeth into.

#9 Pick your program and advisor like a pro

The right program and advisor can make or break your PhD ride.

Seriously, you’ll be bending over backward for your advisor for years. They’ve got the power to make your life a living nightmare. Keep your eyes peeled for these red flags:

A bad advisor:

• Is a grade-A jerk
• Makes everything about them
• Squeezes you for free labor and grinds you down
• Fills you with guilt and doubt

A good advisor:

• Is super nice and supportive
• Turns you into a top-notch researcher
• Dishes out awesome life advice
• Hooks you up with conferences and fellowships
• Lets you visit other labs

So do your homework and pick your program and advisor with care.

#10 Weigh the impact on your loved ones

I’ve known people who juggled family life and a PhD. Sure, it was a bumpy road, but they made it work.

Keep in mind that a PhD can take ages, and your biological clock won’t wait around for you to finish.

#11 Industry jobs for PhD grads

Dreaming of a PhD to score an industry job? From what I’ve seen, here are a couple of paths for PhD graduates:

• Work in well-funded government labs, doing the research thing.
• Join big-league companies like Google, Apple, or IBM that can afford to splash cash on research.

If that doesn’t float your boat, a Master’s degree might be all you need for other engineering gigs in the industry.

Important Note: During recessions, R&D departments usually hold steady. R&D is a long-haul investment for a company, after all.

If an R&D project kicks off during a slump, it’ll wrap up just as the economy bounces back. That way, the company comes out stronger on the other side.

“Should engineers get a PhD” wrap up

Deciding to pursue a PhD is a deeply personal choice that deserves some serious soul-searching.

Don’t let peer pressure sway you. Take a good, hard look at the pros and cons, and make the call that’s right for you.

Now, I’ve met engineers who’d never trade their PhD experience for the world. But others reckon it was the worst decision they ever made.

At the end of the day, a PhD is all about the journey, not just the fancy certificate and those three little letters you get to tack onto your name.

Do you think a PhD in engineering is worthwhile? Will it be even more valuable down the road?

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Author Bio: Koosha started Engineer Calcs in 2019 to help people better understand the engineering and construction industry, and to discuss various science and engineering-related topics to make people think. He has been working in the engineering and tech industry in California for well over 15 years now and is a licensed professional electrical engineer, and also has various entrepreneurial pursuits.

Koosha has an extensive background in the design and specification of electrical systems with areas of expertise including power generation, transmission, distribution, instrumentation and controls, and water distribution and pumping as well as alternative energy (wind, solar, geothermal, and storage).

Koosha is most interested in engineering innovations, the cosmos, sports, fitness, and our history and future.

6 thoughts on “Should Engineers Get a PHD? 11 Truths!”

The most insightful comparison I’ve found on this topic so far. Thank you.

Glad you found the article helpful 🙂

Thanks for that nicely summed up article – not too long and covers the important points on everybody’s mind! 🙂

Glad you enjoyed the read 🙂

Thank you, I have just been searching for info about this subject for ages and yours is the best I have found out till now. However, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you positive about the source?

I tried to capture all angles of the experience, so do your best to apply the lessons to your personality and reasons for pursuing the degree.

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Manufacturing

Test engineer i.

Job Ref: 5053485003 | Type: Regular

About The Role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with clean sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

TEST ENGINEER I

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Test Engineer   is responsible for bringing test stands into the real world and assuring they meet the stringent requirements needed for the Neutron program. You will support the Director of Manufacturing and Fluid Systems organization by standing up a new test stands, supporting component designs early and leading assembly and testing of Neutron stands.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Lead design & build of the Neutron & Archimedes test area in Long Beach
• Develop software for environmental testing and simulation
• Own assembly, checkouts and development testing of Neutron testing stands
• Develop the procedures & processes for component/engine tests that will form the baseline for the Neutron program into the future
• Lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigations, when required
• Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances
• Collaborate with the quality team to identify and drive quality-related initiatives and improvements
• Perform structured root cause analysis of in-process failures
• Liaison between production, quality, supply chain and design engineering staff for complex problem solving and process changes
• Identify, plan and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to meet production requirements, including preparation of business cases
• Lead the continuous improvement process via Lean/Six Sigma tools and techniques
• Develop, introduce, and maintain new planning, production, quality, ERP, data collection and analysis, and other processes where none exist

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other technical field
• Demonstrated experience troubleshooting valves, actuators, regulators or similar fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or while undergoing development and qualification testing
• Experience developing and building safe, high pressure, pneumatic, hydrostatic, and cryogenic test stands
• Experience with instrumentation, controls, and data acquisition systems

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master's or PhD in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other technical field
• Experience with aerospace component design, build & testing
• Previous history of planning, building, activating & operating component test stands for development, qualification and production acceptance testing
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components
• Experience with LabVIEW, Python, C, C++, MATLAB
• Extensive experience using fundamentals of fluid and structural mechanics to solve component issues in a fast-paced environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.   
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.  
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise. 
• Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules 

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

WHAT TO EXPECT  

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.    

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here .

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Biow at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here  ITAR Regulations.

Interested In This Job?