Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering

The Graduate Program in Mechanical Engineering provides students with a world-class in-depth education in a research area of their choosing. The educational program has sufficient breadth so students can transition to new research areas as needed. The program provides a foundation for life-long learning, instills independent and critical thinking skills, develops technical skills necessary to solve challenging technical problems, and prepares students for leadership positions in academia, industry, research organizations and laboratories, or for future study in science and engineering. Learning Outcomes an understanding of the basic principles of mechanical engineering and an in-depth understanding of governing principles of, and expertise in, one of the core areas of mechanical engineering. the ability to apply their understanding of these governing principles to the design, analysis, and integration of complex systems or processes. technical writing and oral presentation skills to allow them to effectively convey the results of their work to others. the skills and understanding required for life long education and professional development. the ability to critically analyze published research. the ability to apply their understanding of at least one of the core areas of mechanical engineering to the development of a detailed research proposal, the conduction of original research, and the advancement of the state of the art through peer-reviewed documents and oral presentations. Ph.D. Post-Bachelor’s Complete 24 regular course credit hours of graduate-level ME EN coursework with a grade of B- or better in each course. Complete 15 regular course credit hours of graduate-level electives (math, science, and/or engineering) with a grade of B- or better in each course. Achieve a cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 in Program of Study. Complete a minimum of 14 credit hours of ME EN 7970 Dissertation Research. Successfully complete the Ph.D. qualifying examination during the third semester (required for admission to candidacy). Successfully complete a research proposal defense. Successfully defend the doctoral dissertation before the supervisory committee. Ph.D. Post-Master’s Complete 12 regular course credit hours of graduate-level ME EN coursework with a grade of B- or better in each course. Complete 6 regular course credit hours of graduate-level electives (math, science, and/or engineering) with a grade of B- or better in each course. Achieve a cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 in Program of Study. Complete a minimum of 14 credit hours of ME EN 7970 Dissertation Research. Successfully complete the Ph.D. qualifying examination during the second semester (required for admission to candidacy). Successfully complete a research proposal defense. Successfully defend the doctoral dissertation before the supervisory committee.