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Doctoral Programs

Phd program.

I have a background in a specialized area related to design (illustration, photography, fine art, engineering, fashion, textiles, advertising, etc.). Does experience or a degree in this area meet the design qualification of the PhD? Candidates who do not have backgrounds in one of the School of Design's area of focus (Communication Design, Product Design, Interaction Design, UX design, Environments Design, Service Design, Design for Social Innovation, design research, design theory) would not be eligible for Teaching Fellowships. They may, however, be considered for the self-funded PhD option. Additional study, such as the School’s MA, MPS or MDes degree could make such candidates eligible for PhD Teaching Fellowships. Please contact us for advice on this matter.

I am an architect/urban planner interested in undertaking research in this area in combination with design. Would I be eligible for a Teaching Fellowship? Yes. Candidates with expertise on housing, interiors and smaller-scale architecture and an interest in Transition Design may apply and help the School build out its offerings in Environments Design.

I’m interested in undertaking doctoral research in Digital Interaction Design. Should I apply to this program? No. The Human Computer Interaction Institute offers a PhD with pathways in Interaction Design. Consequently, applicants with research topics and approaches that demand significant amounts of coding or more cognitive science based research methods will be encouraged to apply to HCII.

I have been working as a professional interaction/communication/product/service/social innovation/environments designer for 3+ years but I don’t have a master’s degree in design. Can I apply to the PhD program? In some cases, 3+ years of high-level professional design experience, demonstrated with a portfolio and a well-formulated research proposal may meet the application requirements. 

I come from a background in business and management but am interested in conducting research in Transition Design. Should I apply? In some cases, yes. Applicants with backgrounds in Business and Management, but with additional expertise and experience in Design, and who are interested in Transition Design, should apply to this program and will be encouraged to seek faculty advisers from other areas on campus.  We would be particularly interested in candidates with business and management expertise related to Transition Design such as circular economies, sustainable design, and B corps.

What if my areas of research are outside the expertise of the School of Design faculty? Carnegie Mellon is a highly ranked research university and there are potential advisors from a wide range of disciplines on the campus. We also have a network of potential advisors who are based in other institutions.

I am not a native English speaker, but my English is very good. Can you waive the language requirements for my application to the PhD program? No. The language requirements for application to the program cannot be waived. Please review these carefully.

Before I put time and energy into the application can I send you some examples of my work and have you tell me if you think I will be accepted into the program? No. Unfortunately we do not have the ability to review portfolio materials for each inquiry that we receive. To be considered for the program you will need to formally apply. 

Do you offer a part-time PhD or one that I can complete via ‘distance/online learning’? No. We do not currently offer an online option for our PhD degree. We hope to eventually offer a part time PhD degree but it is not an option at this time. 

Do you offer partial or fully funded scholarships for your PhD program? No. The only funding opportunity available is the Teaching Fellowship which requires students to teach 1-2 courses during the academic year.

DDes Program

Is the School of Design currently accepting applicants for its DDes program? Intake for this degree has been paused until further notice. We are currently reviewing our distance-learning offerings as a School and will post updates in the near future. 

  • Master's Programs

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  • PhD in Design

The first PhD in design program in the US, Institute of Design’s PhD is a top-rated graduate program for those seeking to teach or conduct fundamental research in the field. Our PhD alumni have gone on to lead noted design programs at universities all over the world and lead practices at global corporations.

By pursuing rigorous research in an area that aligns with work by our PhD faculty, you’ll work directly in some of the most exciting design-focused work being done today. To learn more about research at ID and our PhD in Design, complete this form .

PhD Faculty Advisors

Weslynne ashton.

Professor of Environmental Management and Sustainability & Food Systems Action Lab Co-Director

Anijo Mathew

Dean, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Urban Technology, & ID Academy Director

Assistant Professor of Data-Driven Design

Ruth Schmidt

Associate Professor of Behavioral Design

Carlos Teixeira

Charles L. Owen Professor of Systems Design and PhD Program Director

Degree Requirements

All PhD students will work closely with their advisors to plan their course of study and research. Students complete a total of 92 credit hours:

  • Up to 32 credits can be transferred from a master’s program
  • 12 course credits
  • 48 research credits

Courses may be selected from across the university’s course offerings to complement the objectives of the student’s program.

Admitted doctoral students will be required to submit and obtain approval for a program of study. Within two years of being admitted, students take a comprehensive examination, after which, students will be considered candidates for the PhD degree.

The research component of the program grows as the student progresses. The dissertation created from this work is intended to create a substantial and original contribution to design knowledge.

Featured Courses

Phd principles and methods of design research, phd research and thesis, phd philosophical context of design research, student work, future archetypes of ev charging, exploring controlled environment agriculture, partnership with city clerk’s office aims to reform fines and fees, phd corporate partnership initiative.

Designed for professionals who want to reach the next level of design leadership, ID’s PhD Corporate Partnership provides candidates and organizations the tools and techniques needed to grow leadership and innovation within your organization.

Candidates should have a master’s degree in design (or equivalent) and/or significant experience as a professional designer.

A Global Network

Across the entire school, ID alumni make up a strong network—a uniquely skilled set of more than 2,400 people across 32+ countries who deal with difficult issues and navigate them with clarity, purpose, and discipline.

Alumni Hiighlights

Jessica meharry, phd, associate professor, columbia college chicago, id’s phds make their mark, andré nogueira, co-founder and deputy director of the design laboratory at the harvard t.h. chan school of public health, estimated costs.

Tuition and research stipends are extremely limited. Only self-funded applicants will be considered.

Fall 2024 Admission

January 19, 2024 (priority admission) March 1, 2024 (final general admission)

Spring 2025 Admission

October 26, 2024 (final admission)

Request More Info

Request more information.

Please complete the form to request more information or if you have additional questions regarding our application process or requirements.

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 Ph.D. in Human Behavior and Design

grad students working on a white board

The research tradition within the Human Behavior and Design major is based on the social sciences, in particular environmental psychology and human factors and ergonomics. The underlying premise is that systematic, empirical research based in the social sciences, when combined with an understanding of design processes, can contribute to the planning, design, and management of environments that enhance individual and organizational effectiveness.

Program Focus

The Ph.D. in Human Behavior and Design at Cornell University is a multidisciplinary program integrating the social sciences and design. Research focuses on environmental settings across a range of scales (from products to buildings to cities), that support safe, healthy and productive behaviors and foster sustainable design and lifestyles.

The program brings together faculty and students with expertise in the fields of interior, industrial and graphic design, architecture, art, design history, historic preservation, design with digital media, building technology, environmental psychology, human factors and ergonomics, economics, and facility planning and management to work on problems related to the interior environment.

The Ph.D. in Human Behavior and Design rests on the following basic premises:

  • Development of the knowledge base guiding the planning, design, and management of physical settings requires systematic, empirical research.
  • The physical environment affects the realization of human and organizational potential including health, safety, comfort, productivity and satisfaction.
  • The users of environments are diverse and have different needs. Individual characteristics such as culture, gender, stage in the life course, family structure, role or task affect environmental needs.
  • Organizational culture, goals, and structure help shape building design and use.
  • The planning, design, and management of good environments require consideration of all users.
  • Understanding organizational and human needs is no less critical than understanding financial, technological and aesthetic factors influencing the planning, design, and management of our physical surroundings.
  • Multidimensional spatial experiences are heightened through an understanding of design elements, such as circulation, materials, lighting and acoustics.
  • Theory provides a foundation that both informs and is informed by research and practice.

The program draws its strength from faculty knowledge and research in the following four areas:

  • Environmental Psychology
  • Facility Planning and Management
  • Human Factors and Ergonomics

Ph.D. Requirements

Ph.D. in Human Behavior and Design curriculum requirements  and the graduate student handbook .

People who embrace thinking across disciplinary boundaries and who have a passion for teaching and scholarship are encouraged to apply. The strength of this unique new program is the integration of scientific and creative expertise within the same department. Applicants' prior disciplines might include (but are not limited to): social science, design, or engineering.

For more information, please contact the Graduate Field Assistant at [email protected] .

Applications are due November 1st . Applications are accepted for Fall Admission only.  

In addition to the online application via the Graduate School website , the following required documents must be submitted online:

  • Academic Statement of Purpose (within 500 words)
  • Personal Statement (limit 500 words)
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Writing sample
  • Curriculum vitae
  • GRE general test (The desired combined score should be greater than or equal to 310—for the new scoring system effective November 2011—or, a combined score of 1200 for the old scoring system.)
  • TOEFL - test for International students (DEA overall minimum: 105, plus Graduate School minimums must be met for each section: writing: 20; listening: 15; reading: 20; speaking: 22)
  • OR IELTS - The Graduate School requires an overall band score of a 7.0 or higher on the IELTS

For additional information on how to apply, please visit Graduate School Admissions.

The intent of the Ph.D. in Human Behavior and Design program is that all admitted students will be fully funded with tuition, fees, and a stipend for a period of four academic (9 months) years contingent upon satisfactory progress toward the degree.

Prospective Ph.D. Student Application Requirement FAQ

Contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) at  [email protected] .

First, you should read papers written by faculty with whom you might like to work to see if your interests align. Carefully review the websites and online materials provided by the program. In your application, describe your experience related to research, statistics, design, etc. Demonstrate your research experience. Describe you interests – possible dissertation research directions. Indicate your goals following the PhD. Request letters of recommendation from people who can speak to your research aptitude, commitment, preparedness, work ethic.

Yes, the Graduate School can help with this, but you must still adhere to our requirements and deadlines. 

No, we only have one admission cycle, applications are due in November for PhD; students start in the Fall semester of the following year.

All application materials are submitted online via the Graduate School’s application system (available on the web at: http://www.gradschool.cornell.edu/admissions/applying/apply-now ). 

No, a portfolio is not required for the Ph.D. degree.

No, but scholarly writing sample submissions are preferred (ex: Master’s Thesis; Peer Review Journal Article; Senior Honors Project).

One writing sample is sufficient.

HCD provides four years of funding to Ph.D. students in HBD, as long as students’ progress and performance is satisfactory. This funding could take the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships, fellowships, or some combination and is typically for the nine-month academic year.

No, it is not necessary to have an MS or MA before beginning the PhD.  The strongest applicants are those who have a foundation in research (e.g., have completed a research thesis (undergrad or graduate), have participated in a lab as a research assistant, have perhaps taken a social science research methods class).

For the PhD in Human Behavior and Design, a background in both design and research is preferred, but students may come from a variety of disciplines.

Yes, HOWEVER, if substantial progress has not been made on their Master’s, then it’s a long shot. Applicants should be told the following two things: 1. Their Ph.D. work will take 4 years to complete, and 2. Lack of substantial progress on their Master’s Thesis will be viewed as a liability.

Yes. Note that GRE scores must be less than five years old. See the language proficiency requirement here . 

No. Academic letters of recommendation are valuable and somewhat preferable; however recommendations should be from people who can best assess the qualities, characteristics, and capabilities of the applicant. 

Cornell’s institutional test code for ETS is 2098. DEA’s department code is 4499.

D+EA recommends a combined verbal/quantitative GRE score of 310 (new scoring system effective November 2011) or a combined score of 1200 (old scoring) but this is not an absolute cutoff. Candidates with strong applications, but scores below this level, may be considered. You may submit scores to D+EA more than once if you re-take the test. Your scores may not be older than 5 years. Please plan to take the GRE in time to submit your scores by the application due date. 

No, the GR’s can't be waived.

Yes, GREs can be retaken, but scores must be submitted by the application deadline. 

We strongly encourage you to take the GRE and TOEFL/IELTS tests early enough in advance that your scores will be received by our application due date. We may allow some latitude, however. If your official scores have not arrived by the due date, but your unofficial scores have, we may hold your application if approved by the DGS. Your scores are automatically reported to Cornell by the testing service (ETS) as soon as they are ready, and the Graduate Field Assistant will automatically add them to your packet.

Please see the graduate school's website .

D+EA recommends a GPA of 3.0 (minimum), but this is not an absolute cutoff.

The online application requires you to upload an unofficial copy of each official transcript from each college or university previously attended. To prepare your transcripts, follow the steps below:

Admitted students who accept the admission offer are required to submit an official  transcript prior to matriculation.  For more information visit:  https://gradschool.cornell.edu/admissions/prepare/transcripts/

It is advised that you periodically check your application on line to see if your application is complete, especially if you are waiting for letters of recommendation to be uploaded. D+EA’s Graduate Field Assistant may, as a courtesy, send you a reminder if you have missing information when the committee begins to review applications. If you have questions, please contact D+EA’s Graduate Field Assistant at [email protected] .

Yes, we allow deferments up to one year, but this must be decided when responding to the department’s offer.  To request a deferral, by the "reply by" date (typically April 15) an applicant must first accept the offer of admission and then request (and provide a reason for) the deferral.  Applicants cannot defer admission after declining our offer; instead the applicant must re-apply.

Yes, but this is on a case-by-case basis, and the D+EA Graduate Faculty will make decisions as to what is allowed or not allowed. Typically, you will need to provide a syllabus for your prior course(s).

 If you would like to schedule a visit, you should first make an appointment with D+EA’s DGS. If you would like to meet with other D+EA Faculty, you could also schedule meetings with them while you are on campus. Many students also enjoy taking a walking tour of campus while they are here: http://www.cornell.edu/visiting/ithaca/walking_tours.cfm .    Other useful links include the campus map  and the Visit Ithaca web site: http://www.visitithaca.com/

Ph.D. Program FAQ

Our Ph.D. students often find jobs in academia but some choose to pursue jobs in industry (e.g. Apple, Google) or as design researchers/environmental psychologists within large architecture firms.

Yes, The Graduate School regularly collects and shares information on graduate student experiences and outcomes to support prospective applicants in their decision-making process. For more information please see their metrics and outcomes data .

No, D+EA does not offer online classes for the Ph.D. program.

Yes, the Ph.D. program is STEM certified.

The first two years are dedicated primarily to course work (in your major field and two minor fields).  At the end of year 2, PhD students complete qualifying exams (“A Exam”).  Arrangements for you’re A-Exam are made with your dissertation committee. A dissertation is required.  Years 3 and 4 focus primarily on research and the completion of the dissertation.  The “B Exam” is the dissertation defense. 

Four years.

Yes, PhD students are expected to be on campus for the 4-year PhD degree. For more information please see: https://living.cornell.edu/live/wheretolive/housingoptions/index.cfm  

This depends on what sort of funding is awarded to the doctoral student. In most cases, Ph.D. students will be asked to function as a teaching assistant for at least part of their time in D+EA.

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Ph.D. in Design

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." — Nelson Mandela

The College of Design at North Carolina State University initiated the Ph.D. in Design Program in 1999. Today the program includes more than forty students from all over the world pursuing research focusing on the questions that transcend and unite the design disciplines.

The mission of the Ph.D. in Design is to advance knowledge in design through research and scholarship. This mission is built on the recognition of fertile common ground among the design disciplines and on the need for specificity and depth within them.

The Ph.D. program, therefore, values a broad range of research interests that aim to improve the human condition.

The Ph.D. in Design at North Carolina State University is outstanding. By all metrics, the program competes favorably with other North American Ph.D. programs. The College of Design has carved out a powerful and highly respected research arena (design), and the Ph.D. program is built around the strengths of the College and the faculty. 2013 External Review Team

Quick Stats

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Breaking the Stereotype: Using AI to Support Diversity in STEM

Ashley Anderson’s research looks at why there aren’t as many Black students earning degrees in STEM fields, and is looking at how generative AI can be used a tool to foster diversity and belonging. 

Dr. Park presents his doctoral research at the NC State University College of Design.

Building Success in Architecture: Pursuing a Ph.D. in Design

Dr. Jinoh Park, an alumnus of the Ph.D. in Design program at NC State and current assistant professor of interior design at the University of Arkansas, was interviewed about his research and insights within the design community.  

Hany Gaballa does the wolfie sign at the Court of North Carolina

Hany Gaballa’s Success Story: A Journey of Persistence 

Hany Gaballa’s journey in the NC State College of Design started in 2018 when he joined the PhD in Design program. He recently became an assistant professor in the architectural engineering department at the Military Technical College in Egypt. Read on to discover Hany Gaballa’s journey and how he overcame personal and work-related obstacles to achieve a successful completion of his 3-year Ph.D. amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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Ph.D. in Architecture

  • About Architecture
  • Building Science, Technology, and Sustainability

History, Theory, and Society

The Ph.D. in architecture is a research degree appropriate for those seeking careers in teaching and scholarship in architecture and its related areas, or in roles in government or professional consultation that require depth in specialization and experience in research.

The Program

Berkeley’s Ph.D. program in architecture is interdisciplinary in outlook, reaching into the various disciplines related to architecture and incorporating substantial knowledge from outside fields. Students admitted to this program carry out a program of advanced study and research, both on the basis of formal class work and of individual investigation. Work centers on three related fields of study, the major field (the basis for the dissertation), and one-to-two minor fields, at least one of which must be from a discipline outside architecture.

Fields of Study

The Ph.D. degree emphasizes course work and supervised independent research in one of the following areas of study:

  • Building Science, Technology and Sustainability (BSTS)
  • History, Theory and Society (HTS)

Major fields outside these fields or combinations thereof may also be proposed at the time of admission.

Course work is individually developed through consultation with an academic adviser. Outside fields of study may take advantage of the University’s varied resources. Recent graduates have completed outside fields in anthropology, art history, business administration, city and regional planning, computer science, various engineering fields, psychology, women’s studies, geography and sociology.

The following are members of the Ph.D faculty, broken into one of two offered areas of study. Please also review the current list of all faculty in the Architecture Department for other faculty and specialities. A sampling of faculty research is described on the faculty research projects page.

Building Science, Technology and Sustainability

Gail Brager

Requirements

The Ph.D. program in architecture is governed by the regulations of the University Graduate Division and administered by the departmental Ph.D. committee. Specific degree requirements include:

  • A minimum of two years in residence.
  • Completion of a one-semester course in research methods.
  • Satisfaction of a foreign language requirement for those in the History, Theory and Society.
  • Completion of one-to-two outside fields of study.
  • A written qualifying examination, followed by an oral qualifying examination.
  • A dissertation.

Course requirements for the degree include:

  • 2023-2024 BSTS Ph.D. Handbook [PDF]
  • 2023-2024 HTS Ph.D. Handbook [PDF]
  • 2022-2023 BSTS Ph.D. Handbook [PDF]
  • 2022-2023 HTS Ph.D. Handbook [PDF]
  • 2021-2022 BSTS Ph.D. Handbook [PDF]
  • 2021-2022 HTS Ph.D. Handbook [PDF]

Ph.D. Alumni List

  • Ph.D. Alumni — Building Science, Technology and Sustainability
  • Ph.D. Alumni — History, Theory, and Society

The PhD programme

  • About the programme
  • Curriculum research course
  • Completion of the PhD Programme’s educational component (30 ECTS)
  • a written monograph
  • a compilation of several written works (article-based thesis) 
  • a compilation of written and performing works (work-based thesis)
  • Approved trial lecture on a given topic
  • Approved public defence of the thesis (disputation)
  • demonstrates thorough understanding of a substantial body of knowledge with expertise that is at the forefront of an academic discipline or area of professional practice.
  • masters the field’s philosophy of science and/or artistic issues and methods.
  • can evaluate the expediency and application of different methods and processes in research and scholarly and/or artistic development projects.
  • can contribute to the development of new knowledge, new theories, methods, interpretations, and forms of documentation in the field.
  • can conceptualize, design, and implement advanced scholarly research and/or artistic work for the generation of new knowledge, applications, or understanding.
  • masters the academic practices and/or artistic practices (conference presentations, publishing academic papers, writing research proposals) within their own discipline.
  • engages in critical reflection on the roles, formats, and objectives of academic research and/or artistic research.
  • comprehends advanced academic writing. 
  • manages complex interdisciplinary assignments and projects.
  • can communicate ambiguous ideas, issues, and conclusions clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
  • can participate in debates in the field in international forums.
  • can assess the need for, initiate, and practice innovation.
  • “Designing Research Methods: Introduction to Interdisciplinary PhD Research in Architecture and Design” run by the AHO PhD Programme (7 ECTS)
  • “Apparatus: Reading” run by the AHO PhD Programme (7 ECTS)
  • “Apparatus: Writing” run by the AHO PhD Programme (2 ECTS)
  • “Apparatus: Framing” run by the AHO PhD Programme (2 ECTS) 
  • 2 ECTS Institute higher seminar presentations
  • 6-7 ECTS courses tailored to the individual field of study, e.g., national or international research schools/PhD courses or specially tailored collaborative courses with the AHO Masters Programmes
  • 3-4 ECTS in research mediation 
  • “Designing Research Methods” October to December. 
  • “Apparatus: Reading” runs October to April. 
  • “Apparatus: Writing” runs March/April. 
  • “Apparatus: Framing” runs April/May.
  • Institute Seminar presentations, External courses and research mediation activities can be undertaken at any time to suit the timetable of the candidate. 

Relevant links

  • AHO Research
  • AHO PhD Theses Archive  

Chair of PhD programme: Tim Ainsworth Anstey  

PhD programme coordinator: Jan Morten Øien  

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PhD in Art Education

The Doctor of Philosophy in Art Education degree is designed for students who want to make a scholarly contribution to the Art Education field.

Photo of a group of students sitting on a shore, while an artist delivers a lecture from a raft in the water

Allison Rowe, PhD (2021). “Work Like a River” (participatory lecture, 2017). Photo by Larissa Issler

PhD Art Education

At the University of Illinois, faculty and graduate students build a vibrant community of inquiry within the context of a Research 1 university. This community, including faculty whose breadth of interests span topics including contemporary art and visual culture in education, formal and informal learning, cultural policy and urban studies, and teacher training and identity, provides an intellectually stimulating environment for graduate students to stretch themselves intellectually and become world authorities on the particular topic of their dissertation.

Some doctoral students receive funding and support as teaching assistants for 4 years, and this funding is conditional upon academic standing. This funding includes a tuition waiver, a salary, health insurance, annual conference funding, plus many opportunities to gain competitive grants. Students complete coursework, consisting of 5 courses in art education, courses in research methodology and writing, courses in a minor that complements individual student interest, and courses that prepare students for the qualifying exam (taken after one year of full-time study) and the preliminary exam (at the conclusion of coursework). Examples of minors include Asian Studies, Art History, New Media, Museum Studies, and Women’s Studies. Following the conclusion of coursework, students write a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field of art education. Finally, students defend their dissertation.

During this course of study, there are numerous resources available to graduate students in Art Education, both within our program and across the University of Illinois:

  • At our major comprehensive research university, students have access to the broadest possible range of elective courses.
  • Visual Arts Research is a scholarly, refereed journal and has been published through the Art Education program for over 40 years. It is edited by Art Education faculty.
  • The Everyday Arts Lab offers an excellent local site for graduate research for those interested in arts and social practice.
  • With a total of 14 million titles the University of Illinois Library houses the largest collection of any public university in the world. The Ricker Library of Architecture and Art has 120,000 titles and 33,00 serials.
  • The Unit for Criticism and Interpretive Theory is a program that promote conversations among a range of departments in the humanities, social sciences, and performing arts by organizing lectures, panel discussions, and conferences, as well as the Modern Critical Theory lecture series.
  • The Krannert Art Museum includes an archive of over 8,000 works of art and rotating exhibitions of traditional and innovative art works.
  • The Spurlock Museum highlights the diversity of cultures around the globe.
  • Illinois is host to the  International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry , which brings a large contingent of art education scholars to campus.
  • Regular visiting speakers from other institutions including Kevin Tavin, Amelia Kraehe, David Darts, Olivia Gude, Luis Camnitzer, Matthew Goulish, Marjorie Manifold, and Stephanie Springgay.
  • Devoted room for Art Education PhD students including carrels for your use.

Faculty Interests

  • Arts-based research
  • Community arts education
  • Conceptual art practices and theory
  • Creative cities
  • Cultural globalization
  • Emerging curriculum theory
  • Performance studies
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The Top 9 Fully Funded PhD Programs

The GradCafe Editor

If you’re concerned about grad school costs, you’re not alone. Even with financial aid, many students find themselves taking on large amounts of debt. However, there are a number of options that can cover most – if not all – of your doctorate costs.

Table of Contents

What Is a Fully Funded PhD Program?

“Fully funded” means that the university offers sufficient funding to cover tuition fees and even a stipend to cover other grad school expenses . To cover gaps, many institutions offer additional support in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and employment opportunities.

Though rare, some PhD programs offer full funding for all accepted students. Understandably, the admission process is highly competitive for fully funded PhD programs.

Students who don’t meet strict criteria – and aren’t offered full funding – will be expected to pay for their tuition and other study expenses. Most take some form of government funding to do so.

The Top 9 Fully Funded PhD Programs in the US

1. the university of chicago, the department of anthropology, phd in anthropology.

University of Chicago logo

  • Courses : Development of Social/Cultural Theory, Archeological Theory & method, and archeological data sets.
  • Credits : 18 courses
  • Delivery : On-campus
  • Full funding : Full tuition, health insurance, and stipend (up to 9 years).
  • Other support : Grants, fellowships, and teaching opportunities.
  • Acceptance rate : 2.5%
  • Location : Chicago, Illinois

With a culture that encourages independent thinking, the University of Chicago has produced more than 90 Nobel Prize winners and produced defining research in several fields. In this interdisciplinary PhD in Anthropology program, students can study with many of the university’s other departments, including: Political Science, History, and Comparative Human Development.

2. Harvard University, T. H. Chan School of Public Health

Phd program in biological sciences in public health  (bph).

Harvard logo

  • Courses : Biological sciences communications, principles of biostatistics & epidemiology, and computing environments for biology.
  • Duration : Approximately 6 years
  • Full funding : Stipend, tuition, and health insurance.
  • Other support: Fellowships, awards, and grants.
  • Acceptance rate: 6%
  • Location:  Boston, Massachusetts

As the third-best university in the US , Harvard’s T. H. Chan School of Public Health has incredible prestige. With several specialized public health departments (e.g., Environmental Health, Health & Population, Epidemiology), this program also offers incredible flexibility. Students can courses from the Department of Public Health, Harvard Integrated Life Sciences (HILS), and even MIT.

3. Stanford University, Graduate School of Education

Phd in curriculum studies and teacher education  (cte).

Stanford University logo

  • Courses: Introduction to statistical methods in education, research in curriculum & teacher education, and statistical analysis in education.
  • Credits:  135 units
  • Duration: 4-5 years
  • Delivery:  On-campus
  • Full funding : Tuition aid, assistantship salary, and fellowship stipend (for 5 years).
  • Other support : Grants, travel fellowships, and emergency funds.
  • Location: Stanford, California

Stanford University tops the list  of the best universities for Education Policy Studies, making this one of the best options if you want to earn a PhD in Education. This doctorate is one of the top fully funded PhD programs in education and offers six specializations, including elementary education, teacher education, and science & environmental education.

Note : In addition to this on-campus PhD program, many recognized institutions also offer free online PhD programs in education .

4. Duke University, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences

Phd in literature.

Duke University logo

  • Courses: Wide range of literary topics, including African American Studies, modern European short fiction, gender studies, and more.
  • Duration: 6-7 years
  • Delivery: On-campus
  • Full funding  includes: Tuition, fees, stipend, and health insurance.
  • Other support: Grants, loans, childcare subsidies, and financial hardship aid.
  • Location:  Durham, North Carolina

As one of the country’s most renowned private research institutions, Duke University has ten Nobel Laureates under its belt. Their PhD in Literature program encourages students to pursue both independent studies and inter-institutional courses from other affiliated universities. Students are able to take as many programs outside literature as they wish. Typically, all PhD students receive a “stipend, tuition, and fees support, plus six years of full coverage for health and dental insurance premiums.”

5. Rice University, Jones Graduate School of Business

Phd in business.

Rice University logo

  • Courses:  Microeconomics, econometrics, theory, and dynamic optimization.
  • Duration:  4 years +
  • Full funding : Tuition waiver and $40,000 yearly stipend (earned as a research/teaching assistant).
  • Other support:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment.
  • Location: Houston, Texas

Rice University is a well-known institution and is regularly recognized as one of the best business schools in the country. As part of its PhD in Business program, students can choose between one of four different concentrations: accounting, finance, organizational behavior, and strategic management.

Northwestern University, McCormick School of Engineering

Phd in biomedical engineering.

Pasted image 0

  • Courses:  Experimental design & measurement, biological performance of materials, and advanced physical & applied optics.
  • Duration: 5-6 years
  • Full funding : Tuition scholarship and stipend.
  • Other support: Fellowships, grants, assistantships, loans, and veteran benefits.
  • Acceptance rate: 15%
  • Location: Evanston, Illinois

Northwestern University is renowned for excellence across numerous disciplines, and its biomedical engineering (BME) program was among the first of its kind. The school offers a wide range of courses, from cell and molecular engineering, medical devices and instrumental, neural engineering, and more.

7. Columbia University, Teachers College

Phd in clinical psychology.

Columbia University logo

  • Courses:  Brain & behavior, social problems for clinical psychologists, and personality & behavior change.
  • Credits: 95
  • Duration: 5 years (at least four years of residency)
  • Full funding : Tuition, stipend, and health fees (up to 4 years).
  • Other support:  Scholarships, grants, fellowships, federal work-study, assistantships, and loans.
  • Acceptance rate:  7%
  • Location:  New York City, New York

Columbia University offers a leading clinical psychology PhD program that focuses on the intersection between education, psychology, and health. Their fully funded, need-blind “Doctoral Fellowship” is given to incoming students for three years, in addition to financial aid in the fourth year (i.e., a $25,000 stipend). PhD students who receive this scholarship may be asked to work as research assistants or graduate teachers.

8. California Institute of Technology, Division of Engineering & Applied Science

Graduate degree in computer science.

California Institute of Technology

  • Courses:  Functional programming, computability theory, and advanced digital systems design.
  • Credits: 54 units
  • Duration: 3+ years of residence
  • Full funding : Tuition charges and stipends.
  • Other support: Grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
  • Acceptance rate: 7%
  • Location: Pasadena, California

Caltech is a huge name in technology education, with over fifty cutting-edge research centers and laboratories. This includes NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and astronomical observatories around the globe. To manage their rigorous course load, graduate students of the computer science program receive full tuition and a stipend of $45,000 .

9. Emory University, College of Arts and Sciences

Ph.D. in Economics

Emory University logo

  • Courses: Microeconomic theory, health economics, and market structure & imperfect competition.
  • Credits: 55
  • Duration: 4-6 years
  • Full funding : Tuition, stipend, health insurance subsidy, and professional development support.
  • Other support:  Grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment.
  • Acceptance rate: 19%
  • Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Emory University provides a liberal arts college’s atmosphere and opportunities combined with an urban research university’s facilities. This cross-registration program allows students to take classes at the university’s partner institutions, including Georgia Tech and Georgia State University, alongside their in-house courses.

Can I Earn a Free PhD Degree Online?

If you aren’t eligible for a fully funded program, that’s okay! We’ve written an article outlining the most affordable online PhD programs , the benefits, and how to apply to them!

Key Takeaways

Many US universities – including some of the country’s top institution – offer fully funded PhD programs and tuition-free online programs across various disciplines. You’ll just need to demonstrate that you’re eligible for the program through your academic performance and merit.

Once you qualify for full PhD funding, congratulate yourself on a job well done!

If you’re still weighing your options, did you know there are 1-year PhD programs online ?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a phd be free.

Yes. Eligible students can obtain a doctorate for free if a university offers fully funded PhD programs.

How Do I Get a Fully Funded PhD?

To qualify for a fully funded PhD, you’ll be required to meet certain criteria and put together a strong application. You’ll also need to have an excellent undergraduate academic record, recommendation letters, persuasive personal essay, and graduate school entry exam scores .

Fully funded PhDs are incredibly competitive, so it’s important to plan ahead. As an undergraduate student, identify your dream school, and be sure to check the requirements and eligibility criteria. Next, work hard to meet these requirements – and set yourself apart – throughout your undergraduate studies.

Can I Study a PhD in the USA for Free?

Yes. Many US universities offer opportunities to obtain a PhD for free. For example, fully funded doctoral programs will cover your tuition and expenses. Free PhD programs don’t have tuition fees but students are responsible for covering their own expenses.

However, if you aren’t successful in securing a fully funded PhD and don’t like the free options, there are plenty of other ways to pay for grad school .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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How to Apply

Ph.d. in architecture.

The Ph.D. in Architecture at Texas A&M University provides students with the tools and resources necessary to advance the field academically, professionally, culturally, and commercially. In this program, you’ll create, develop, and disseminate new knowledge relevant to architecture and related areas of focus.

You will work individually and collaboratively with graduate faculty members as they guide your doctoral research. They will share their professional and scholarly expertise as you generate new knowledge.

Apply Download Program Flyer Request More Information

About the Program

The doctoral program in architecture was established in the late 1960s with a focus on technical research. Today, our students identify and improve existing bodies of scholarly and professional knowledge across a broad range of topics.

In this program, you’ll learn to:

  • Identify critical problems and current and emerging opportunities confronting the discipline of architecture
  • Apply qualitative and quantitative research methodologies at the highest levels of scholarly, humanistic, and scientific rigor
  • Generate original and lasting contributions to the bodies of historical, theoretical, critical, and practical knowledge in architecture, related disciplines and sub‐disciplines
  • Share your doctoral research in peer‐reviewed conference papers, journal articles, book chapters, monographs, research posters, and public lectures

Areas of Emphasis

  • Healthcare Design
  • Design Computation
  • Building Information Modeling
  • History and Theory
  • Heritage Conservation
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Sustainability
  • Digital Fabrication
  • Building Construction and Processes
  • Advanced Visual Communications
  • Human-Computer Interaction (with Visualization Department Co-Chair)
  • Construction Management (with Construction Science Department Co-Chair)

The Ph.D. in Architecture prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry, government, non-governmental organizations, and independent and institutionally supported research. 

The Ph.D. in Architecture requires a minimum of 64 credit hours beyond the master’s degree. Our required courses provide students a solid foundation in historical knowledge and theoretical discourse. Our elective coursework is flexible so you can tailor your studies to your interests.

Required Courses

  • ARCH 669:  Foundations of Research (3 credits)
  • ARCH 681:  Graduate Seminar (2 semesters, fall and spring — 1 credit per semester)
  • ARCH 690: Research Ideologies for Architecture (3 credits)
  • CARC 698: Writing for Publications (3 credits)
  • One approved graduate-level architectural history course (3 credits)
  • One approved graduate-level architectural theory course (3 credits)

Elective Courses Specific to Your Area of Research

  • Courses to support research inquiry (to be determined by committee chair/mentor)
  • Courses to support research interpretation (to be determined by committee chair/mentor)

The graduate catalog connects to an extensive listing of graduate courses with ARCH designations addressing a wide range of topics in the built environment.

FAQ about the Ph.D. program

The expected time for completing the Ph.D. in Architecture is five years, though some students may require a longer period to complete the required and elective coursework, conduct research, analyze data, and write the dissertation.

This committee is composed of a chair and at least three additional graduate faculty members. The chair and one of the members must be architecture faculty. One of the members must be from outside the architecture faculty. Committee chairs assist in finding graduate faculty members to join the committee.

Once enrolled in our doctoral program, you will:

  • Complete 64 hours of coursework, including courses that support your area of research
  • Complete your preliminary examination, both written and oral
  • Defend your dissertation proposal
  • Advance to being a Ph.D. candidate (ABD)
  • Research, write and complete your dissertation
  • Defend your dissertation

Admission to our Ph.D. in Architecture program is offered to students with a master’s degree in architecture or a related field.

More about application requirements Apply

FAQ about the admission process

We admit 10 to 13 students per year from a pool of 70 to 100 applicants.

Submit your application at Texas A&M GradCas along with a non-refundable application fee. The fee may be waived only in exceptional cases for low-income applicants and McNair Scholars.

Your application should include the following:

  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended
  • 3 letters of recommendation (academic references preferred)
  • Statement of intent essay
  • Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

Learn more about the Ph.D. in Architecture application requirements.

Though a number of teaching and research assistantships, as well as competitive, merit-based scholarships and fellowships may be available for Ph.D. students, no guarantee of funding can be provided. All students entering the Ph.D. program should plan to be fully self-supporting through third-party sponsors, outside fellowships, outside scholarships, personal funds and/or student loans. Non-U.S. students must provide verification of financial status.

All inquiries regarding coursework, graduate faculty, and research focus for the Ph.D. in Architecture should be directed to Monica Garner, Senior Administrative Coordinator I, at [email protected] .

All inquiries regarding application or admission to the Master of Architecture program should be directed to Dr. Wei Yan, Director of Research Programs, [email protected] .

Centered on research

At Texas A&M, you’ll have access to active research communities housed in centers and institutes across the university. These research hubs unite students and faculty, introducing the next generation of researchers to researchers around the world.

Hazard Reduction & Recovery Center

Center for Health Systems and Design

Institute for Sustainable Communities

Center for Infrastructure Renewal

Center for Housing and Urban Development

Center for Heritage Conservation

Texas A&M Transportation Institute

Institute of Data Science

Helpful Resources

Computer requirements.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

Two women standing in the modern library

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

A man handling papers from the Hulton Archives, wearing white gloves.

  • Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Radcliffe Quad undergrad housing at Harvard University in Fall in Cambridge, MA, USA on November 2, 2013.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

MIT, a private university

(Dominick Reuter) |

  • Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

Rice University

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

fully funded phd programs in design

Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

  • Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Cornell University buildings viewed from McGraw Tower

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

fully funded phd programs in design

Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Unidentified individuals, and University Hall  on the campus of Brown University.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

fully funded phd programs in design

Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Cherry trees in bloom in the campus of Washington university in springtime

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

fully funded phd programs in design

Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

  • Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

fully funded phd programs in design

Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

New York City, New York, USA - September 13, 2013: Street view of New York University NYU in Greenwich Village Manhattan. There are people visible in this image.

  • Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

fully funded phd programs in design

L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

Two friends working in a public library, using a computer to find some specific books for their studies together.

  • Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA - November, 20 2010: The Computer Science and Engineering Building on the University of Michigan's North Campus has an eco-friendly design.

  • Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

fully funded phd programs in design

Boston University Photography |

  • Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

fully funded phd programs in design

(Stephanie Diani) |

  • Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

fully funded phd programs in design

Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

fully funded phd programs in design

Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

  • Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

fully funded phd programs in design

Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

fully funded phd programs in design

Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

"The Lawn in late afternoon at the historic University of Virginia campus in Charlottesville, Virginia. The lawn was part of Thomas Jefferson's campus design."

  • Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Yale University

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

fully funded phd programs in design

University of Minnesota |

  • Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

fully funded phd programs in design

Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

fully funded phd programs in design

Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

fully funded phd programs in design

Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Chicago, Illinois in the United States. Entrance to Northwestern University - School of Law.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

COLLEGE PARK, MD - OCTOBER 4:   Testudo is pictured on the University of Maryland Campus. The University of Maryland announced a transformative investment of $219486,000 in the university on October 4. In a first of its kind announcement, university and government officials unveiled the investment in a celebration event for the campus community.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

  • Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

fully funded phd programs in design

Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Locust Walk with students in fall, University of Pennsylvania, University City area, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

  • Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
  • Ph.D. in business at Rice University
  • Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
  • Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
  • Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
  • Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
  • Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
  • Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
  • Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
  • Ph.D. in international relations at American University
  • Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
  • Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
  • Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
  • Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
  • Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
  • Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
  • Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

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Home

Ph.D. Program Admission

fully funded phd programs in design

Admission to the School of Architecture is granted through Princeton University's Graduate School. A bachelor's degree from a college or university of recognized standing is normally required. Admission information can be found online at http://gradschool.princeton.edu/admission/ . The deadline for applications for the Ph.D. program is January 3rd. 

Applicants to the Ph.D. program should be aware that a professional degree in architecture is highly desirable, but applications are also accepted from those with academic degrees in appropriate disciplines in the humanities, applied sciences, and social sciences. If a candidate does not have prior professional training, they may be required to take a special program of study in the processes and working methods of the profession.

Although a personal interview is not required, candidates for the Ph.D. program are encouraged to learn more about the School by visiting and talking to students and faculty members. The best opportunity is the Fall Open House , which is held each November.  This year, 2023, it will be November 6 . We will post details and an online RSVP in October . Students who are unable to attend the Open House may contact the School to determine if an individual visit can be arranged.  Please allow at least two weeks when scheduling individual visits.

APPLICATION

Princeton University's Graduate School Announcement is the official and complete source of information about Princeton's graduate programs and their requirements. The electronic application is available September through December for admission the following fall. The electronic application and specific information regarding application requirements are available at: http://gradschool.princton.edu/admission .

Address all inquiries to:

Office of Graduate Admission Princeton University One Clio Hall Princeton, New Jersey 08544-0270

Applicants should submit substantial evidence of their academic qualifications and scholarly interests, including examples of written work, unpublished or published. Candidates should submit a quantity of written material sufficient to demonstrate a broad familiarity with the field of architecture, well developed writing and research skills, and the candidate's command of potential research or study areas. In the statement of intent, each candidate must write a short essay, carefully describing their previous professional and academic experience, and its relevance to future plans for research and teaching. While it is understood that fields of concentration may change during the first two years of pre-generals study, the candidate should attempt to outline a potential area of research in the context of Princeton's program.

Ph.D. writing samples should be uploaded directly to the online application . You will be able to check the status of any materials online. The checklist is only viewable after an application has been submitted: www.princeton.edu/gradschool/admission/applicants/status/

We do not notify applicants individually of materials received.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

January 3rd - $75 Application Fee

Deadline applies to all applicants for the receipt of application and all supporting material. Earlier applications are encouraged.

Each candidate's application and academic record is reviewed by the faculty committee to determine the candidate's accomplishments and academic achievements and assess other qualifications for graduate study in architecture. Serious consideration is given to letters of recommendation from persons who are in a position to evaluate a candidate's abilities and estimate the applicant's promise. Admission to the Graduate School is highly selective. All applicants are considered on a comparative basis, and admission is determined after analyzing the relative merits of all of the candidates applying in the same field. For the Graduate School to operate according to its objectives and methods, enrollment must be limited. Every effort is made to select the most outstanding candidates from among those submitting applications.

Consideration is given to all complete applications received on or before the regular Graduate School application deadline date. Applications are examined in one group during February; applicants are notified of the results in March. All fellowships and scholarship awards to entering students are made from applicants in this group. Only under unusual circumstances may students enter the Graduate School at any time other than the beginning of the academic year.

Application for financial aid does not affect an applicant's chances for admission. Generous financial assistance is made available to all accepted students on the basis of income and need.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMS

PhD Track in the History and Theory of Architecture

PhD Technology Track

Admissions inquiries can be sent to [email protected] .

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Graduate Admissions

Innovate at the next level

We are looking to enroll a diverse group of students from around the world who are comfortable working in innovative ways and seek to push the boundaries of the discipline.

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Master of Advanced Architectural Design

Infograpic

Master of Architecture

Photograph of group at a construction site wearing hard hats and visibility vests

Architecture–Engineering–Construction Management

Photograph of the interior of the Robert L. Preger Intelligent Workplace at CMU

Building Performance & Diagnostics

Graphic

Computational Design

Chart displaying temperature data

Master of Science in Sustainable Design

Archolab

Master of Urban Design

Close-up of bricks

PhD in Architecture

Wooden slats

Doctor of Design

Overview & timeline.

Applicants are responsible for completing and submitting all required application materials on time. We will begin to review application materials received on January 15 . Applications and all supporting documents, including letters of recommendation and test scores, must be received by the final deadline of February 1 . We strongly recommend applicants begin the application process early and request letters of recommendation well in advance of the deadline. You will need to complete an application to each program for which you wish to be considered for admission.

Admission Timeline

early November - Graduate Program applications open in SlideRoom

Jan. 15, 2024 - We will begin to review application materials received.

Feb. 1, 2024 - Application Deadline - the application system will close on February 1 at 11:59pm EST . Applicants will receive confirmation of receipt of admission materials no later than February 10.

February - The graduate admission committee will review Graduate Program candidate applications in February.

March - Admission decisions will be sent to master’s program candidates in early March and PhD applicants in mid-March. Candidates offered admission will have the opportunity to participate in admitted student programming to get to know the school.

April 15, 2024 - Deposit Deadline - Applicants will need to accept their admission offer no later than April 15 to secure their place in the Graduate Program and to begin the initial enrollment process.

Application Requirements

Because our graduate programs are highly specialized, each program has unique application requirements. The chart below outlines the application requirements for the program that interests you with detailed information to follow.

Chart displaying application requirements for the different graduate programs

Applicants are required to pay the $75 application fee. 

Complete the Personal Information, Demographic Information, and Academic Information forms in your SlideRoom application. 

Submit a Personal Statement that describes why CMU is a good fit for you at this point in your career, what specific focus areas you may want to explore in the Graduate Program, and your aspirations and plans for the future after leaving CMU, including how you hope to position yourself in design, research, and/or practice. 

Upload to your application, a 30-second introductory video that tells us something about you and your personal interests in architecture or the built environment. 

We are interested in getting to know you in the context of your application and portfolio submission. The short 30-second video will feature you and needs no staging or post-production - just be yourself.

Upload to your application as a PDF document , your resume/CV summarizing your education, employment experience, professional qualifications, and any noteworthy achievements. 

Upload to SlideRoom a 25-30 page portfolio formatted in single spreads (landscape or portrait) and saved as a single PDF document (maximum file size of 20MB with a maximum resolution of 150dpi).*

* M.Arch, MAAD, MUD, MSSD, and MSCD applicants are required to submit portfolios. Please reference the media section of your SlideRoom application for program-specific content and instructions. 

Upload a PDF document copy of your unofficial college transcript(s). If you have attended more than one institution of higher education, please merge all transcripts into a single PDF document for upload.

Hard copies of complete official transcripts for all degrees received will be requested as a requirement for enrollment.

For the 2023-2024 admission cycle, the GRE will be required for PhD program applicants and test optional for Master’s program applicants.

To provide your GRE score, contact Education Testing Services (ETS) to send your GRE scores directly to our department using the institution code: 2074 , GRE department code 4401 . Official scores must be reported to Carnegie Mellon by February 1 . 

We require proof of English language proficiency from all applicants whose native language/mother tongue is not English. If English is not your native language and you are not a U.S. citizen you must submit one valid English proficiency score from one of the following: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language); IELTS (International English Language Testing System); or DET (Duolingo English Test). 

TOEFL/IELTS/DET scores must be less than two years old from the start of our admission cycle (September 2023). If you are interested in the online Duolingo test, please verify that you are administered a 2020 or later version on the 160-point scale with subsection scoring.

TOEFL - Self-report your scores by uploading a copy of your score report to the application and report your scores directly to us through Educational Testing Service (ETS) using the following institution code: 2074 and the TOEFL department code: 12 . The minimum required TOEFL-iBT total score is 100, with subscores no lower than 22. 

IELTS - Self-report your scores via the application and send your scores to us using the IELTS E-Delivery Service. The minimum required IELTS total score is 7.0, with no score lower than 6.5.  We verify all IELTS exam scores electronically. Send scores for e-delivery to:

Account Name: Carnegie Mellon University School of Architecture Department: School of Architecture, Graduate Admissions Address: 4119 Frew Street City: Pittsburgh State: PA Zip Code: 15213 Country: United States 

Duolingo - Self-report your scores via the application and have your official scores sent to us by Duolingo electronically to “Carnegie Mellon University - School of Architecture Graduate Programs.” The minimum required total Duolingo score is 105. Minimum subscores are: Literacy: 105; Comprehension: 115; Production: 90; and Conversation: 95.

Applicants are required to report their official scores by the application deadline. Applicants whose scores do not meet the minimum requirements are strongly advised to retest in advance of the Feb. 1 application deadline to ensure that the scores meet our standards for English language proficiency. 

If you have a personal/professional website that you would like to share with the admission committee, then you may include the link in the program application form. 

If you would like to attach any other documents (e.g. research papers, professional writing, etc.) to your application you may add them to the application under “Optional Supporting Documents.”

Ask three individuals their permission to serve as references. We recommend selecting a variety of individuals who are familiar with your work and can speak to your qualifications for graduate studies. 

Assign three references to your application in SlideRoom. Once you have saved the recommendation request, your reference will receive an email from SlideRoom requesting them to submit a letter of recommendation and complete an evaluative recommendation form on your behalf. We recommend you advise your recommender to look for this important email in their email inbox as well as their spam and junk folders as sometimes these requests get filtered out.

To ensure that your application receives priority evaluation, please give your references ample time to complete and submit their recommendation on your behalf in advance of the application review beginning January 15 and no later than the February 1 application deadline. Your application will not be reviewed until all reference letter forms have been received for your application. 

Master’s applicants may be granted a virtual interview at the request of the program Track Chair. Applicants will be notified of interview invitations by email in early March.

PhD applicants are required to complete a virtual interview.  Applicants will be contacted by the program Track Chair in early March.

If you have any questions about your application, please refer to the Graduate Program Application FAQ . For more information, contact Carnegie Mellon Architecture Graduate Admissions .

Statement of Assurance: Policy Statement

Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran status, or genetic information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state or local laws or executive orders.

Inquiries concerning the application of and compliance with this statement should be directed to the university ombudsman, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, telephone 412-268-3930.

Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon University by calling 412-268-2000.

The Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance is available on the CMU website. 

  • Guide to Applying for Graduate School

The process of preparing for and applying to a PhD program can be overwhelming. The University of Pennsylvania has created this webpage to help prospective PhD students think through the process so you can put together a strong application.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest degree one may obtain within a particular field of study. This ranges from studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields; Social Science fields such as Education, Economics, Political Science, and Sociology; as well as Humanities fields such as English, History, Music, Philosophy, and more. The PhD degree aims to prepare people to think critically, develop research, and produce scholarship that may be used for further research or implementation. The PhD historically prepared students to take on faculty roles in colleges and universities, and that is still the goal for many students pursuing the PhD. However, today the PhD is a sought-after degree in many other industries including pharmaceutical research, arts organizations and other nonprofits, publishing, government policy, big tech, finance, and more.

  • Who can apply to a PhD program?  PhD education is available to people from various educational, occupational, socioeconomic, and demographic backgrounds.
  • Who should get a PhD?  People interested in uncovering new ideas, solutions, processes, etc. within a specific area of study through conducting independent research.
  • Why is it important for diverse candidates to become PhD holders?  Our world thrives on heterogeneous ideas and experiences, which is why it is indispensable to include students with diverse perspectives in our PhD programs. These students will generate important and original research.

Most PhD programs are fully funded, meaning that for a specific number of years, the program will pay for your tuition and fees and health insurance, as well as provide you with a stipend for living expenses. The structure of this funding varies by field. Below is an outline of general funding information as well as trends according to field of study.

  • Funding packages provided by educational institution.
  • Funding packages provided through faculty research grants: Many STEM fields fund students through research grants awarded to faculty. In these cases, students perform research alongside the faculty. 
  • Teaching Assistantships or Research Assistantships: Part-time service that provides teaching and research training opportunities within your area of study.
  • Fellowships: Internal or external merit-based funding. Some fellowships require an application while others are given via nomination. Educational institutions typically have a resource listing fellowship opportunities. Winning a competitive fellowship looks good on your resume.
  • Grants: Requires an application with supporting materials of either your grades, scholarly work, and/or anticipated research. These are available through internal and external means. Grants greatly vary so be sure to always understand the requirements. Educational institutions typically have a resource listing grant opportunities. Winning a competitive grant looks good on your resume.
  • Employment: For example, serving as a residential advisor, on-campus jobs, etc. Some PhD programs restrict additional employment, so be sure to check before applying for jobs.
  • The funding opportunities described here often can be combined.

Choosing a school or program that provides the most potential funding may be a challenging decision. The value of the same amount of funding will differ depending on the cost of living in different geographic locations. Admitted applicants should investigate cost-of-living tools (available on the web) and be sure to understand how their funding will be structured. Ask questions when you are admitted, such as: 

  • Could you share more about your program’s funding mechanism?
  • For how long is funding guaranteed? How does that compare to the average time-to-completion? Historically, what percentage of students have received funding beyond the guaranteed funding package?
  • Does funding cover tuition, fees, books, etc.?
  • Does the funding rely on teaching, research, or other service? How much and for how long? 

Choosing a program for your studies is a personal decision that should reflect not only your research interests, but your work style, and interests outside of the classroom. Here we have identified five key tips to consider when selecting schools. 

  • Ask about which programs are strong in your area of interest, which have high completion rates, which have career outcomes that align with your goals, etc. 
  • Conduct a general internet search with terms related to your research interest.
  • Determine your geographic and personal preferences. Does the area meet your community needs? Is it important that the university aligns with your sociopolitical values? Do you prefer a large city or a smaller/college town? Is there a particular region(s) that has better access to resources needed to conduct your research?
  • Access your current or former university career center. These services are often still available for former students!
  • As you narrow your choices, try to identify at least 3 faculty in the programs of interest with whom you’d like to study. Also note how many of them have tenure. If relevant, research which of those faculty are taking on advisees in your year of matriculation.
  • Read articles from faculty with similar research interests.
  • Note the number of awards, publications, and service activities of faculty.
  • Identify research opportunities funded by both your program and university at large.
  • Connect with current and former students in the program for informational interviews.
  • Connect with campus Diversity Offices.
  • Whenever possible, before submitting your applications, make an appointment to visit the campuses and department(s) that interest you.
  • Use  LinkedIn  to see what graduates of your program are doing and how they are involved in their communities.
  • Estimate your feasible cost of living by geographic location and compare to the funding package offered.
  • Consider availability of health insurance, childcare, housing, transportation, and other fringe benefits.
  • Connect with a local bank or your prospective university’s financial services office for budgeting, savings, and other financial wellness advice.
  • Your First Year in a Ph.D. Program
  • What Does Academic Success Mean and How to Achieve it?  (STEM)
  • Pathways to Science  (STEM)
  • 7 Advantages PhDs Have Over Other Job Candidates  (Industry)
  • During your undergraduate/master’s education, you should pursue coursework and/or research that will prepare you for the higher expectations of a PhD program; for example, taking a research methods course, pursuing a summer research experience, or conducting research with a professor at your home institution.
  • Identify instructors who could write a letter of recommendation. Ask them to write letters even if you do not intend to apply to PhD programs immediately. Their letter will be stronger if they draft it while their memory of you is fresh.
  • Experiences outside of higher education can also strengthen your PhD application. These may range from project management to volunteer work.
  • Develop soft or hard skills. A soft skill that is most useful from the first day of your PhD program is networking. This is necessary not only for meeting other students but also to find collaborators with similar research interests and selecting faculty for your dissertation committee. Learning how to negotiate will also serve you well when approaching collaborative projects. Hard skills related to your field might include learning statistical analysis software, economic theory, a foreign language, or search engine optimization. In short, identify a few soft and hard skills that you can familiarize yourself with prior to your program’s start date.
  • Finally, prepare by identifying leading researchers and practitioners in your field, exploring peer-reviewed literature and/or publications, and gain familiarity with research methods.
  • Be sure to address all the specific questions/topics in the personal statement prompt. 
  • Clearly state why you want to pursue a PhD.
  • Propose your research interest.
  • Identify the faculty you’d like to study under. 
  • Discuss the unique qualities/experiences you offer to the program/school.
  • Outline what you hope to do with your degree.
  • Ask for recommendation letters early in the process, at least 2-4 weeks before the deadline. A good letter takes time to write!
  • Provide recommenders with your resume, information about the program, your personal statement and/or information about your research interests and research goals.
  • Consider your current/former instructors, supervisors, colleagues. These should be people who can speak to your work ethic, academic abilities, and research interests.
  • Test scores (i.e. TOFEL, GRE, GMAT, etc.) may or may not be required.
  • All transcripts including those for coursework completed abroad and transfer credits. Some programs require official transcripts, which take longer to procure.
  • Writing sample (field dependent): Include a graduate-level sample and update any statements, statistics, etc. as needed. It is highly encouraged that you edit your previous work.
  • Diversity statement: Many institutions offer an optional short statement where students can expand on their diverse backgrounds and experiences that may contribute to the diversity interests/efforts of the school.
  • Typically, PhD applications are due 10-12 months in advance of the program’s start date (i.e. apply in November to start the following September). A good rule of thumb is to begin your application process 6 months before the deadline. 
  • The availability of reduced application fees or fee waivers varies and sometimes depends on financial status and/or experiences (AmeriCorps, National Society of Black Engineers, attending certain conferences, etc.). If you are interested in a reduced fee or waiver, reach out to the program coordinator for details.
  • Dress professionally, even if the interview is virtual. You don’t necessarily need to wear a suit but dress pants/skirt and a blouse/button down shirt would be appropriate.  
  • Develop an engaging elevator pitch, a 30-60 second summary, of your research interests and what you hope to gain by becoming a student at that particular university. Practice your pitch with friends and ask for honest feedback.
  • Prepare 2-3 questions to ask during the interview. These could include questions about program expectations, the experience and success of their PhD students, and (academic/financial/mental health) support for PhD students.
  • Some interview programs will include multiple activities including a social event. Be sure to maintain a professional attitude: do not drink too much and keep conversation on academic/professional topics.
  • This is also your opportunity to decide whether this campus is a good fit for you.
  • Academia Insider  is a good resource. 

Unlike undergraduate and master’s level education, coursework is just one component of the degree. A PhD comes with additional expectations: you must independently conduct scholarly research in your field of study, train in specific activities such as teaching or lab/field research, pass “milestone” requirements along the way, such as comprehensive exams, and complete the process by writing a dissertation. Furthermore, some fields require you to write multiple articles (number varies by field/program) for conference presentation and/or peer-reviewed publication.

There are other important elements as well:

  • Student/Advisor relationship. This is one of the most valuable relationships you can have as a PhD student. Your faculty advisor not only assists you with learning how to approach your research topic, but also typically serves as the lead supervisor of your dissertation research and writing, and ideally mentors you throughout the PhD experience. The selection process of choosing your advisor varies so be sure to know what is expected of you as a student and what is expected of the faculty member. Whenever possible, it is important to align your personality and work style with that of your faculty advisor. Many universities publish expectations for the PhD student/faculty advisor relationship;  AMP’ed  is Penn’s guide.
  • Other relationships: Your faculty advisor is far from the only important person during your PhD career. Other faculty members will also serve on your dissertation committee and be potential mentors. Other students in your program can also provide good advice and guidance along the way.
  • Coursework: Most programs have a number of required courses all students must take regardless of research interests. Once you have finished this requirement, the classes you choose should closely align with your research topic. Choose courses that will help you learn more about your dissertation topic and research methods. It is a good idea to discuss elective course selection with your advisor. 
  • The dissertation is a large-scale, written document that explores a narrow research topic of your choice. It is the final step before receiving your degree and must be presented and “defended” to your dissertation committee (made up of faculty members) for approval. Defending means that you have to answer in-depth questions about your topic. While this might sound daunting, the dissertation is simply a demonstration of all the knowledge and expertise you have acquired through your PhD education. 
  • Networking comes in many forms and includes connections with your fellow classmates, faculty members, and scholarly community. Formal networking events typically take place at academic conferences, where scholars and students present research. Increasing your academic circle will not only allow you to have study buddies, but offer you the opportunity to collaborate on articles or even gain employment. Your school’s career center can provide best practices for effective networking. 

Explore  graduate programs at the University of Pennsylvania  and click on the programs that interest you to learn more about admissions and academic requirements.

Upcoming Penn recruitment events include:

  • Fontaine Fellows Recruitment Dinner (by invitation only): Friday, March 22, 2024
  • IDDEAS@Wharton  (Introduction to Diversity in Doctoral Education and Scholarship): April 18-19, 2024. Deadline to apply is January 31.
  • DEEPenn STEM  (Diversity Equity Engagement at Penn in STEM): October 11-13, 2024. Application opens in March 2024.
  • DivE In Weekend  (Diversity & Equity Initiative for Mind Research): Fall 2024

National conferences to explore:

  • The Leadership Alliance  supports students into research careers
  • McNair Scholar Conferences
  • SACNAS , the largest multidisciplinary and multicultural STEM diversity event in the U.S.
  • ABRCMS , the annual biomedical research conference for minoritized scientists
  • The PhD Project  for students interested in business PhD programs

100 Best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Russia

Updated: July 18, 2023

  • Art & Design
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Environmental Science
  • Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
  • Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Russia ranked based on their research performance in Mechanical Engineering. A graph of 5.73M citations received by 912K academic papers made by 153 universities in Russia was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Mechanical Engineering

Moscow State University logo

2. St. Petersburg State University

St. Petersburg State University logo

3. Ufa State Aviation Technical University

Ufa State Aviation Technical University logo

4. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

Bauman Moscow State Technical University logo

5. Tomsk Polytechnic University

Tomsk Polytechnic University logo

6. Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University

Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University logo

7. Ural Federal University

Ural Federal University logo

8. South Ural State University

South Ural State University logo

9. National Research University Higher School of Economics

National Research University Higher School of Economics logo

10. Novosibirsk State University

Novosibirsk State University logo

11. Kazan Federal University

Kazan Federal University logo

12. Moscow Aviation Institute

Moscow Aviation Institute logo

13. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

National Research Nuclear University MEPI logo

14. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute logo

15. Samara National Research University

Samara National Research University logo

16. Moscow State Technological University "Stankin"

Moscow State Technological University "Stankin" logo

17. National University of Science and Technology "MISIS"

National University of Science and Technology "MISIS" logo

18. ITMO University

ITMO University logo

19. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology logo

20. Tomsk State University

Tomsk State University logo

21. Novosibirsk State Technical University

Novosibirsk State Technical University logo

22. Southern Federal University

Southern Federal University logo

23. Saratov State University

Saratov State University logo

24. RUDN University

RUDN University logo

25. Ufa State Petroleum Technological University

Ufa State Petroleum Technological University logo

26. Samara State Technical University

Samara State Technical University logo

27. Kazan National Research Technical University named after A.N. Tupolev - KAI

Kazan National Research Technical University named after A.N. Tupolev - KAI logo

28. Siberian Federal University

Siberian Federal University logo

29. Omsk State Technical University

Omsk State Technical University logo

30. Perm State Technical University

Perm State Technical University logo

31. Saint Petersburg State Electrotechnical University

Saint Petersburg State Electrotechnical University logo

32. Moscow Polytech

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33. Magnitogorsk State Technical University

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34. Saratov State Technical University

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35. Tula State University

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36. Far Eastern Federal University

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37. Saint-Petersburg Mining University

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38. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

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39. Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod

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40. Belgorod State Technological University

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41. Belgorod State University

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42. Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University

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43. Novgorod State University

44. kazan state technological university.

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45. Moscow Medical Academy

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46. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

47. tambov state technical university.

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48. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

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49. Voronezh State University

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50. Siberian State Industrial University

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51. Saint Petersburg State Institute of Technology

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52. St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering

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53. Siberian State Aerospace University

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54. Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University

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55. South-Russian State University of Economics and Service

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56. Ogarev Mordovia State University

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57. Murmansk State Technical University

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58. Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics

59. mendeleev university of chemical technology of russia.

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60. South-Western State University

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61. Perm State University

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62. Kuzbass State Technical University

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63. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

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64. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

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65. Penza State University

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66. Chelyabinsk State University

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67. Moscow State Pedagogical University

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68. National Research University of Electronic Technology

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69. Leningrad State University

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70. Yaroslavl State University

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71. Russian National Research Medical University

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72. Irkutsk State University

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73. Kuban State University of Technology

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74. Ulyanovsk State Technical University

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75. Bashkir State University

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76. Polzunov Altai State Technical University

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77. St. Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation

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78. University of Tyumen

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79. Irkutsk National Research Technical University

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80. Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University

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81. Ulyanovsk State University

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82. Orenburg State University

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83. Baltic State Technical University "Voenmeh"

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84. Kuban State University

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85. Udmurt State University

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86. Tomsk State Pedagogical University

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87. Kemerovo State University

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88. Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building

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89. Omsk State University

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90. Kuban State Agricultural University

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91. North-Eastern Federal University

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92. State University of Management

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93. Tver State University

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94. Chuvash State University

95. orel state university.

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96. Volgograd State University

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97. Ivanovo State Power University

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98. Omsk State Transport University

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99. Ivanovo State University

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100. Altai State University

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X-Energy Signs on to DOE ARDP for $80M in Initial Funding

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Publisher of NeutronBytes, a blog about nuclear energy online since 2007.  Consultant and project manager for technology innovation processes and new product / program development for commercial...

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  • Mar 7, 2021 Mar 7, 2021 6:34 pm GMT

X-Energy Signs on for ARDP and $80M in Initial Funding

  • China  Five-Year-Plan Includes Proposals For Up to 20 New Reactors

China Commits to the ACP100 Small Modular Reactor

Tvel / russian company starts fuel facility for china’s cfr-600 fast neutron reactor, dutch consortium plans work on molten salt reactors, swedish companies seek financial support for lead cooled smr development.

The advanced nuclear energy reactor developer  X-Energy  announced this week that it has signed the Department of Energy’s (DOE)  Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program  (ARDP) Cooperative Agreement, officially marking the beginning of the company’s participation in ARDP’s ~$2.5 billion program.

DOE is providing $80M in the first phase of the cost shared funding plan. DOE will invest approximately $1.23 billion in X-energy’s project over the seven-year period for this demonstration project.

X-Energy Technical Profile

X-Energy Xe-100 Profile: Chart: IAEA

This project will enable X-energy to build the world’s first commercial scale advanced nuclear reactor with Energy Northwest at a site in Washington state.

conceptual image X-Energy Design

The Xe-100 is an 80 MWe (scalable to a 320 MWe four-pack) high temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR).  (Image right is a conceptual view of the design. Image: X-Energy)

It uses TRi-structural ISOtropic particle fuel (TRISO),  manufactured by X-energy , that can integrate into large, regional electricity systems as a base and load-following source of carbon-free power.

According to X-Energy the reactor as designed is expected to optimize grid use of low-emission, intermittent renewables and other clean energy resources.

The reactor is also ideal for project sites and other power applications, including as a source for industrial process heat.

As part of the Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, X-energy and its supply chain partners will deliver a commercial four-unit nuclear power plant of its Xe-100 reactor design and a commercial scale TRISO fuel fabrication facility.

About the ARDP Program

ARDP is designed to help domestic private industry demonstrate advanced nuclear reactors in the United States. DOE expects to invest approximately $600 million over seven years with industry partners providing at least 20% in matching funds.

The Department of Energy ARDP program has three elements.

  • Advanced reactor demonstrations, which are expected to result in a fully functional advanced nuclear reactor within 7 years of the award.
  • Risk reduction for future demonstrations, which will support up to five additional teams resolving technical, operational, and regulatory challenges to prepare for future demonstration opportunities.
  • Advanced reactor concepts 2020 (ARC 20), which will support innovative and diverse designs with potential to commercialize in the mid-2030s.

NRIC image

The National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) accelerates the demonstration and deployment of advanced nuclear energy. NRIC is is a national Department of Energy program led by Idaho National Laboratory, working with collaborators to demonstrate advanced reactors by the end of 2025.

Risk Reduction for Future Demonstration Projects

Last October DOE awarded TerraPower LLC (Bellevue, WA) and X-energy (Rockville, MD) $80 million each in initial funding to build two advanced nuclear reactors that can be operational within seven years.

See prior coverage on this blog  –  DOE Awards $80M each to TerraPower, X-Energy for ARDP

The awards are cost-shared partnerships with industry that will deliver two first-of-a-kind advanced reactors to be licensed for commercial operations. The Department will invest a total of $3.2 billion over seven years, subject to the availability of future appropriations. The firms participating in the project will be providing matching funds.

TerraPower Role in ARDP

TerraPower , which is the other firm receiving the DOE funding, will demonstrate the Natrium reactor, a sodium cooled fast reactor that leverages of decades of development and design undertaken by TerraPower and its partner, GE Hitachi.

GE Hitachi will be leveraging the design work it has done on the  PRISM reactor  which in turn has its legacy in the design of the  Integral Fast Reactor  at the Argonne West site in Idaho.

The high-operating temperature of the Natrium reactor, coupled with thermal energy storage, will allow the plant to provide flexible electricity output that complements variable renewable generation such as wind a solar. In addition, this project will establish a new metal fuel fabrication facility that is scaled to meet the needs of this demonstration program.

DOE said that both projects incorporate a range of design features that will not only enhance safety, but make them affordable to construct and operate, paving the way for the United States to deploy highly competitive advanced reactors domestically and globally.

China / Five-Year-Plan Includes Proposals For Up to 20 New Reactors

( Nucnet )  China is backing the further development of commercial nuclear power as a key tool in its drive to cut carbon emissions, according to the 2021-2025 five-year plan presented on Friday to China’s annual National People’s Congress.

Beijing said it aims to have 70 GW of installed nuclear capacity by 2025 from about 50 GW at the end of 2019. That would equate to about 20 new reactors, 2021-2025, although China already has 12 under construction.

China originally aimed to bring its nuclear installed capacity to 58 GW by 2020, but didn’t meet the target following a moratorium on new projects following the March 2011 Fukushima-Daiichi accident and delays at a number of Generation III plants that were under construction.

According to the  World Nuclear Association January 2021 assessment  of China’s nuclear energy program, these are the project ( Table ) which are getting underway in the near term.

china new nuclear march 2021

According to several reports by World Nuclear New, two demonstration multi-purpose modular ACP100 ‘Linglong One’ units will be built at Changjiang. This will be China Guodian’s first mainland domestic nuclear power venture, with CNNC holding 51% of CNNC New Energy Corporation (CNNC-CNEC).

The ACP100 units are integral PWRs, 125 MWe, with passive cooling for decay heat removal. CNNC said that the units could provide electricity, heat and desalination. Construction time is expected to be 65 months.

The ACP100 was identified as a ‘key project’ in China’s 12th Five-Year Plan, and is developed from the larger ACP1000 PWR. The design, which has 57 fuel assemblies and integral steam generators, incorporates passive safety features and will be installed underground.  

ACP100 Technical Profile

ACP100 Technical Profile – Chart: IAEA

In 2016, China announced plans to build a demonstration floating nuclear power plant based on the ACP100S variant of the CNNC design. The use of the floating SMRs is targeted at providing power to artificial islands in the South China Sea for military bases there intended to project geopolitical influence in the region.

See prior coverage on this blog  —  China to deploy floating nuclear power plants to support geopolitical goals in S. E. Asia

The new mainland project involves a joint venture of three companies for the demonstration plant: CNNC as owner and operator, the Nuclear Power Institute of China as the reactor designer and China Nuclear Engineering Group being responsible for plan. Construction is expected to take 65 months, with the 125 MWe unit to start up by May 2025, subject to relevant governmental approvals.

China Slated to Become World Leader in Commercial Nuclear Power

China will have the world’s largest nuclear power fleet within a decade, an International Energy Agency official said during a session at the High-Level Workshop on Nuclear Power in Clean Energy Transitions according to  World Nuclear News  . The workshop was held jointly by the IEA and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The IEA official, Brent Wanner, head of Power Sector Modelling & Analysis for the agency’s World Energy Outlook publication, said that as nuclear fleets in the United States, Canada, and Japan reach their original design lifetimes, the contribution of nuclear power could decline substantially in those countries while China’s reactor building program will boost it into first place.

china nuclear plants map WNN

   Map of Current and Planned Nuclear Power Plants in China. Ma: World Nuclear Assoc

China already has 50 nuclear reactors in commercial operation, the third highest number behind the US (94) and France (56). In 2019, nuclear energy accounted for 4.9% of the country’s electricity production share, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.

( Nucnet ) Russian nuclear fuel manufacturer Tvel has started a production facility which will fabricate fuel for China’s  CFR-600  fast neutron reactor under construction under construction in Xiapu County, Fujian province, China, on  Changbiao Island , a coastal site 650 km south of Shanghai.. It is a generation IV demonstration project by the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). The project is also known as Xiapu fast reactor pilot project.

Tvel said in a statement that the facility is part of the Elemash Machine-Building Plant, a Tvel plant in Elektrostal, near Moscow.

The CFR-600 is a 600-MW sodium-cooled pool-type fast reactor and is expected to begin commercial operation by 2023. The plant will be able to operate on both mixed oxide (MOX) and uranium dioxide (UO2) fuel types. It is expected to have a design life of 60 years.

Tvel said the new production facility in Elektrostal is a result of a contract signed as a part of a 2018 nuclear cooperation deal between Russia and China, which included the joint construction and operation of the CFR-600 plant.

According to Tvel, the fuel contract covers initial loading of nuclear fuel into the CFR-600 and a number of subsequent refuels covering the first seven years of the unit’s operation. It isn’t clear what the duration is for each fuel cycle.

Tvel said the new fuel fabrication facility will be used to produce fuel not only for the Chinese CFR-600 and CEFR fast reactors, but also for the Russian BN-600 fast reactor at the Beloyarsk nuclear power station.

See prior coverage on this blog  —  Russia’s BN-800 Reactor Enters Commercial Operation

Profile of the CFR600

The CFR600 (China Fast Reactor-600) nuclear reactor pilot project represents the second step in fast reactor development in China following the success of the  China Experimental Fast Reactor  (CEFR), which was connected to the grid in July 2010.

Designed by China Institute of Atomic Energy, the CFR600 is a prototype sodium-cooled pool-type fast reactor capable of generating 1,500MW of thermal power and 600MW of electric power. The reactor design aims at achieving a thermal efficiency of 40%. The medium-sized fourth-generation advanced nuclear reactor will feature two coolant loops and is designed to operate at 380°C and 550°C of inlet and outlet core temperatures, respectively.

Scheduled for commissioning in 2023, the CFR-600 pilot project is  expected to pave the way  for the development and commercialization of much larger CFR-1000 reactors in China by 2030.

The CFR-600 nuclear reactor will also feature design flexibility to use two fuel types. The reactor will be first loaded with uranium oxide (UO2) and then converted to run on mixed oxide (MOX) fuel.

The  Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group  (NRG) in the Netherlands said this month that it had set up a consortium to work on development of  Molten Salt Reactors . The focus of the joint effort will be design and testing of important processes and materials needed to build them. A key emphasis is expected to be on the use of thorium as a fuel type.

440px-IMSR_heat_applications

 Conceptual image of a molten salt reactor:  Image: Wikipedia

Members of the consortium include TU Delft,  DIFFER , and reactor developer Thorizon. According to press releases,  TU Delft  has been involved in  research into the thorium MSR  for a number of years, and NRG in Petten has research facilities including the High Flux (research) Reactor.

The consortium members said they are making plans to have a first of a kind reactor built by 2035. This will be fueled with thorium with the objective of demonstrating the use of this fuel in MSRs.

NRG said said that it will carry out irradiations of materials intended to be used in MSRs. It will also work on testing and qualification of fuels for MSRs.

sunrise logo

This is the second step of three in the development and commercialization of a new type of reactor in Sweden during the 2030s.

The application is based on the project “ Sunrise ” which the Foundation for Strategic Research supported with SEK50 million ($6M) to develop design, material technology and safety analysis for an advanced  lead-cooled research and demonstration reactor . Sunrise includes KTH, Luleå University and Uppsala University. An  detailed workplan , in English, is posted at the project website.

Lead Cooled Reactor Conceptual Image

Conceptual image of a lead cooled reactor; Image:  Gen IV

If funding is available, the next step will be to build an electrically powered non-nuclear prototype for testing and verifying materials and technology in an environment of molten lead at high temperatures. The prototype, which will be operated for five years starting in 2024, is planned to be built on OKG’s area at Simpevarp outside Oskarshamn.

Johan Svenningsson, CEO Uniper Sweden, said in a press statement, “We see a clear role for nuclear power in the energy system of the future, and we therefore invest in developing the nuclear power of the future in collaboration with the company Blykalla, which has patents on design and materials for a small modular reactor with lead cooling and passive safety.”

Nuclear Energy’s Role in Sweden

The path for advanced nuclear reactor technology in Sweden may face some stiff headwinds. In recent years Sweden has shut down four older nuclear reactors which led to the restart of fossil fuel power plants. The country’s political leadership has been ambivalent about challenging the influence of green parties who want to do away with all nuclear energy use in the country.

According to the  World Nuclear Association , Sweden’s nuclear power reactors provide about 40% of its electricity.

The country’s 1997 energy policy allowed 10 reactors to operate longer than envisaged by the 1980 phase-out policy, but also resulted in the premature closure of a two-unit plant (1200 MWe).

Some 1600 MWe was subsequently added in uprates to the remaining ten reactors. In 2015 decisions were made to close four older reactors by 2020, removing 2.7 GWe. Nuclear power plants are heavily taxed by the government despite their role in abating further releases of greenhouse gases.

  • nuclear-generation

Discussions

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Matt Chester's picture

What would be the unique proposition of lead cooled SMRs as opposed to the ones already in development? 

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Nathan Wilson's picture

Lead is normally proposed as a coolant for "fast reactors".  Like sodium cooled fast reactors (e.g. CFR-600 or Natrium/GE Prism), they can be used to efficiently consume plutonium removed from dismantled weapons or plutonium and other trans-uranics from spent nuclear fuel from other reactors.

Fast reactors (at least in larger sizes) can usual operate as breeders, or near break-even.  That means that they are so fuel efficient, that they can provide inexhaustible clean energy from Earth's enormous uranium reserves (even low-grade ores, which would not be cost effective for LWRs).

Lead-cooled reactors may* have an advantage over sodium-cooled types since the boiling point of lead is higher than that of sodium, which means that they should be able to operate at a higher temperature.  Specifically, they should be able to match the operating temperature of a coal-fired power plant; so coal-to-nuclear plant conversions could be feasible.  The higher temperature may also enable lead-cooled reactors to use passive cooling at higher power levels than sodium-cooled units.  (*lead-coolant also involves greater challenges managing corrosion, however).

That ACP100 Chinese SMR is also big news.  125 MW is too small for the gargantuan 2000 GW Chinese power grid; that reactor is designed for export.

If anyone can make SMRs cheap, it's the Chinese.

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