phd courses for mechanical engineering

Doctoral Program

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The Ph.D. degree is intended primarily for students who desire a career in research, advanced development, or teaching; for this type of work, a broad background in mathematics and the engineering sciences, together with intensive study and research experience in a specialized area, are the necessary requisites.

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is conferred on candidates who have demonstrated to the satisfaction of their department or school

• substantial scholarship
• high attainment in a particular field of knowledge
• and the ability to do independent investigation and present the results of such research.

They must satisfy the general requirements for advanced degrees, the program requirements specified by their departments, and the doctoral requirements for candidacy, as outlined in the Stanford Bulletin.

PhD Admissions information

For Current Stanford Students

The ME Student Intranet has detailed information about processes and requirements for the ME PhD .

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PhD in Mechanical Engineering

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

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

Stage 1: MS or its Equivalent

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

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

Stage 2: Qualifying Examination, PhD Coursework, Preliminary Examination

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

ME PhD Qualifying Examination

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

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

A student may attempt the examination twice.

Details of the Exam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved List of Areas and Courses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Biomechanics: ME 481, 482, 483; TAM 461

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

Coursework***

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

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

Preliminary and Final Examinations

Scheduled upon completion of coursework requirement or in the semester in which the final coursework is taken. To schedule your exam, please see this page on the Graduate College website: grad.illinois.edu/thesis/submitting-doctoral-committee-requests  

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

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

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

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

PROCESS FOR REPORTING EXAM RESULTS

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

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

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

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

DOCTORAL EXAMINATION COMMITTEE REQUIREMENTS

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

SEMINAR REQUIREMENT

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

Stage 3: Thesis and Final Examination

THESIS FOCUS

Thesis and Final Examination

DOCTORAL DISSERTATION DEFENSE

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

FINAL EXAMINATION

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

Continuous registration in ME 590 is required until completion of the preliminary exam. Seminar credit cannot be counted toward coursework requirements. Students are required to attend a minimum of 4 seminars in the semester. The seminar schedule is e-mailed to students at the beginning of each semester.

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

To complete seminar registration with a conflict:

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

To receive credit for alternate seminars:

Alternate seminars include TAM 539 Fluids Seminar Series (for students who are registered in TAM 539), any other MechSE seminars not listed as part of the MechSE Seminar Series, and other seminars in Engineering, Math, or Physics.

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

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Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

Admission Requirements

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

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

Find out more about  admission requirements .

Abu Dhabi Global Fellow Program

Urban Science Doctoral Track

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PhD Program

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

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

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

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

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

Where Do Our PhD Graduates Go?

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

Learn More About the PhD Program

• Graduate Program Flyer
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PhD in Mechanical Engineering

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Mechanical Engineering PhD candidates are leaders in research and education in academia and industry—they carry with them a strong network of peers built during their graduate studies. Students can enter the program directly after completing a bachelors degree, and earn a masters degree along the way or enter after completing a masters degree.

Degree Type

At Boston University, our Mechanical Engineering PhD candidates have the opportunity to study and research in a broad range of areas within the exciting field of mechanical engineering. We challenge our students to reach their potential as they create new knowledge and innovative solutions to pressing societal problems of today (and tomorrow). Our PhD students work closely with our faculty at the forefront of theoretical, computational, or experimental research in Robotics, Mechanics of Bio/Soft Materials, Sustainable Energies, and Space Technologies, among other inspiring areas of research.

EXPLORE OUR MECHANICAL ENGINEERING RESEARCH AREAS

We believe in the importance of strong community and create abundant opportunities for our students to collaborate and socialize with each other beyond the traditional boundaries of research areas and lab groups. Graduate socials, both formal and informal, a college-wide Student Association of Graduate Engineers, and an overarching culture of interdisciplinary research enrich the professional and extracurricular pursuits of our students. Beyond the BU campus, Boston provides a high-tech research community where external collaborations with industry, government and other universities are common. Moreover, the PhD experience also includes opportunities to present your work at conferences around the world, providing opportunities to network with peers around the globe.

VIEW OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING MECHANICAL ENGINEERING EVENTS

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

• All PhD students take a course covering basic teaching methods and philosophies and are required to satisfy a teaching practicum for a minimum of two semesters.
• Our post-master’s PhD candidates have no structured course requirements but they are required to complete 32 credits applicable to the degree at a 500 level or higher.
• Post-bachelor’s doctoral students are awarded MS degrees upon completion of the 32 credit hours of structured coursework and the PhD Prospectus Exam.
• PhD students must satisfy a residency requirement of at least two consecutive academic-year semesters of full-time graduate study at Boston University.
• Doctoral students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 to remain in good academic standing and to graduate. All graduate courses are counted in the GPA. Only grades of “B-” or better fulfill PhD curricular requirements.

EXTERNAL FELLOWSHIPS

The College of Engineering (ENG) is committed to five full years of financial support for graduate students in the ENG PhD program who maintain satisfactory academic progress. Entering PhD students are fully funded in their first year. During the first year, incoming PhD students must pursue research and funding discussions with the research faculty. At the end of the first academic year, PhD students must move to RA funding, while others continue on their external fellowship if applicable.

The Mechanical Engineering faculty are willing to work with students to develop the necessary research statements for these types of fellowships. Many of these are due in December or January. Thus they are more feasible for students who are already studying in our program.

Specific information for international students

Financing your Education

View the PhD profile here

Please contact us if you have further questions. We would love to hear from you!

Best Mechanical Engineering Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Engineering Schools

Mechanical engineers work with machines and engines,

Mechanical engineers work with machines and engines, from elevator technology to robotics. Students can focus on areas such as heat transfer and fracture mechanics. These are the top graduate schools for mechanical engineering. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

For full rankings, GRE scores and student debt data, sign up for the U.S. News Engineering School Compass .

Here are the Best Mechanical Engineering Programs

Massachusetts institute of technology, stanford university, california institute of technology, university of california, berkeley, georgia institute of technology, university of illinois urbana-champaign (grainger), university of michigan--ann arbor, purdue university--west lafayette, cornell university.

SEE THE FULL RANKINGS

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Cambridge , MA

• # 1 in Mechanical Engineering
• # 1 in Best Engineering Schools

$57,590 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,222 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $75 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $57,590 per... Read More »

Engineering school

Tuition and fees (master's).

$57,590 per year (full-time)

ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

Average quantitative gre.

Stanford , CA

• # 2 in Mechanical Engineering
• # 2 in Best Engineering Schools

$66,297 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,469 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $125 for U.S. residents and $125 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $66,29... Read More »

$66,297 per year (full-time)

Pasadena , CA

• # 3 in Mechanical Engineering  (tie)
• # 7 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

N/A TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

548 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $100 for international students. The 2022 Ph.D. student-faculty ratio... Read More »

Berkeley , CA

• # 3 in Best Engineering Schools

$11,700 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$26,802 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,673 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $135 for U.S. residents and $155 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $11,700... Read More »

$11,700 per year (in-state, full-time)

$26,802 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Atlanta , GA

• # 5 in Mechanical Engineering  (tie)
• # 5 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$14,064 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$29,140 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,784 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $85 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $14,064 per... Read More »

$14,064 per year (in-state, full-time)

$29,140 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Urbana , IL

• # 11 in Best Engineering Schools

$19,320 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$36,798 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,812 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $70 for U.S. residents and $90 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $19,320 per... Read More »

$19,320 per year (in-state, full-time)

$36,798 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Ann Arbor , MI

$29,466 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$55,276 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,800 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at University of Michigan--Ann Arbor has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$29,466 per year (in-state, full-time)

$55,276 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

West Lafayette , IN

• # 8 in Mechanical Engineering
• # 4 in Best Engineering Schools

$10,842 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$29,644 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,495 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at Purdue University--West Lafayette has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$10,842 per year (in-state, full-time)

$29,644 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Ithaca , NY

• # 9 in Mechanical Engineering  (tie)
• # 13 in Best Engineering Schools

$29,500 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,602 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,617 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at Cornell University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $105 for... Read More »

$29,500 per year (full-time)

$2,602 per credit (part-time)

Princeton University

Princeton , NJ

• # 23 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

850 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $75 for international students. The 2022 Ph.D. student-faculty ratio... Read More »

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie)

Pittsburgh , PA

• # 11 in Mechanical Engineering  (tie)

$52,100 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,172 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,843 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Carnegie Institute of Technology at Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$52,100 per year (full-time)

$2,172 per credit (part-time)

University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell)

Austin , TX

$10,554 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$19,320 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,395 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Cockrell School of Engineering at University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$10,554 per year (in-state, full-time)

$19,320 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

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More Schools in this List (Alphabetical)

Arizona State University (Fulton)

• in Mechanical Engineering
• # 41 in Best Engineering Schools

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$32,656 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,464 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $70 for U.S. residents and $115 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $12,01... Read More »

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time)

$32,656 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Auburn University (Ginn)

Auburn , AL

• # 55 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$10,386 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$31,158 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

636 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering at Auburn University (Ginn) has a rolling application deadline. The application... Read More »

$10,386 per year (in-state, full-time)

$31,158 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Baylor University

• # 161 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$47,588 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

132 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Engineering & Computer Science at Baylor University has a rolling application deadline. The application... Read More »

$47,588 per year (full-time)

Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson)

Binghamton , NY

• # 112 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$11,310 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$23,100 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,095 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science at Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson) has a rolling... Read More »

$11,310 per year (in-state, full-time)

$23,100 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Boston University

Boston , MA

• # 34 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$61,050 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$1,908 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,230 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $95 for U.S. residents and $95 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $61,050 per... Read More »

$61,050 per year (full-time)

$1,908 per credit (part-time)

Brigham Young University (Fulton)

• # 127 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$7,932 per year (LDS member, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$15,864 per year (Non-LDS member, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

424 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $50 for U.S. residents and $50 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $7,932 per... Read More »

$7,932 per year (LDS member, full-time)

$15,864 per year (Non-LDS member, full-time)

Brown University

Providence , RI

• # 63 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$9,132 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$9,132 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

The School of Engineering at Brown University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $75 for U.S... Read More »

$9,132 per credit (full-time)

$9,132 per credit (part-time)

Case Western Reserve University (Case)

Cleveland , OH

• # 53 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$50,838 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,119 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

659 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Case School of Engineering at Case Western Reserve University (Case) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$50,838 per year (full-time)

$2,119 per credit (part-time)

Mechanical Engineering

• Graduate study in Mechanical Engineering
• Ph.D. programs

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

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

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

• Other Ph.D. programs

I’d like more information.

View the  degree requirements  in the handbook.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

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

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

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

Ph.D. Financial Support

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

Advanced entry Ph.D.

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

Direct Ph.D.

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

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

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

Other Ph.D. programs and partnerships

Apply here (by these deadlines).

For spring 2023

For fall 2022

The application for fall entry opens in October.

More information

Ph.D. employment stats

Ph.D. enrollment and completion stats [pdf]

Mechanical Engineering, PhD

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

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

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

Admissions 

To be admitted to graduate study in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, applicants must submit credentials sufficient to convince the faculty that they will thrive in a program of advanced course work and research. Graduate Record Examination scores must be submitted.

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

All Ph.D. students are required in their first three years, and master’s students are encouraged during their time here, to register for EN.530.803 Mechanical Engineering Graduate Seminar and attend its weekly Mechanical Engineering Graduate Seminars.

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

Program Requirements

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

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

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

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

• University of Wisconsin-Madison

DEGREE Mechanical Engineering, PhD

Doctoral degree in mechanical engineering

As a PhD student in mechanical engineering, you’ll be part of a community of outstanding students who are preparing for advanced work in industry, national labs, and academia. We’ll mentor you on your way to becoming a world-class researcher, and you can choose from opportunities within established and emerging research specializations. Broad research themes within the department include biomechanics, computational engineering, energy, manufacturing, and mechanics and controls, and within those, you’ll also have access to excellent research facilities are available for specialized research.

At a glance

Mechanical engineering department, learn more about what information you need to apply., how to apply.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Submitted scores will not be used in admission decisions.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS and PROCESS

Degree: Most applicants have a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Students with a Bachelor of Science in other engineering or physical and natural science disciplines will be considered for admission. International applicants must have a degree comparable to a regionally accredited U.S. bachelor’s degree.

GPA: The Department of Mechanical Engineering prefers a 3.2/4.0 GPA. The minimum GPA to be reviewed by the admission committee is 3.0/4.0.

Advisor selection process: Applicants are required to seek out and secure their own faculty advisor. International students must complete this process as part of the application process, before an offer of admission may be granted. To seek out a faculty advisor please review the department Research and People websites. Only those faculty listed with titles of Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor, can serve as graduate advisors. Do not contact Emeritus faculty, Lecturers, Research Scientists, or Faculty Associates. You are encouraged to inquire about possible funding opportunities. If a faculty member offers to be your advisor, ask them to email their acceptance to [email protected] .

Each application must include the following:

• Graduate School Application
• Academic transcripts
• Statement of purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• English Proficiency Score (if required)
• Application Fee

All applicants must satisfy requirements that are set forth by the  Graduate School . Upon acceptance, students without Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Science degrees may be required to complete one or more courses in addition to degree requirements to satisfy any deficiencies (this requirement cannot be determined prior to admission).

To apply to the Mechanical Engineering program, complete  applications , including supportive materials, must be submitted as described below and received by the following deadline dates:

• Fall Semester—December 15 
• Spring Semester—September 1 
• Summer Session—December 15 

ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT

Within the online application, upload the undergraduate transcript(s) and, if applicable, the previous graduate transcript. Unofficial copies of transcripts will be accepted for review, but official copies are required for admitted students. Please do not send transcripts or any other application materials to the Graduate School or the Department of Mechanical Engineering unless requested. Please review the requirements set by the  Graduate School  for additional information about degrees/transcripts.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

In this document, applicants should explain why they want to pursue further education in Mechanical Engineering and discuss which UW faculty members they would be interested in doing research with during their graduate study (see the Graduate School for  more advice on how to structure a personal statement ).

Upload your resume in your application.

THREE LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

These letters are required from people who can accurately judge the applicant’s academic, research, and/or work performance. Letters of recommendation are submitted electronically to graduate programs through the online application. See the  Graduate School for FAQs  regarding letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation are due by the deadline listed above. 

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY SCORE 

Every applicant whose native language is not English, or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English, must provide an English proficiency test score. The UW-Madison Graduate School accepts TOEFL or IETLS scores. Your score will not be accepted if it is more than two years old from the start of your admission term. Country of citizenship does not exempt applicants from this requirement. Language of instruction at the college or university level and how recent the language instruction was taken are the determining factors in meeting this requirement.

For more information regarding minimum score requirements and exemption policy, please see the Graduate School Requirements for Admission .

APPLICATION FEE

Submission must be accompanied by the one-time application fee. It is non-refundable and can be paid by credit card (MasterCard or Visa) or debit/ATM. Information about the application fee may be found here (scroll to the ‘Frequently asked questions).

Fee grants are available through the conditions  outlined here by the Graduate School . Applicants who do not qualify for a fee grant as explained above, may seek out a Mechanical Engineering faculty advisor and discuss the fee grant option with that individual. If the faculty advisor is able and willing to pay the application fee for the applicant, the faculty advisor should contact the ME Associate Chair for Graduate Studies or the ME Graduate Admissions Team for assistance. 

If you have questions, please contact  [email protected] .

RE-ENTRY ADMISSIONS

If you were previously enrolled as a graduate student in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, have not earned your degree, but have had a break in enrollment for a minimum of a fall or spring term, you will need to re-apply to resume your studies. Please review the Graduate School requirements for previously enrolled students . Your previous faculty advisor (or another ME faculty advisor) must be willing to supply advising support and should e-mail the ME Graduate Student Services Coordinator regarding next steps in the process.

If you were previously enrolled in a UW-Madison graduate degree, completed that degree, have had a break in enrollment since earning the degree and would now like to apply for another UW-Madison program; you are required to submit a new student application through the UW-Madison Graduate School online application. For ME graduate programs, you must follow the entire application process as described above.

CURRENTLY ENROLLED GRADUATE STUDENT ADMISSIONS

Students currently enrolled as a graduate student at UW-Madison, whether in ME or a non-ME graduate program, wishing to apply to this degree program should contact the ME Graduate Admissions Team to inquire about the process and deadlines several months in advance of the anticipated enrollment term. Current students may apply to change or add programs for any term (fall, spring, or summer).

Tuition and funding

Tuition and segregated fee rates are always listed per semester (not for Fall and Spring combined).

View tuition rates

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

There are three mechanisms for Graduate Student funding through the university for Mechanical Engineering Ph.D. students:

• Fellowships
• Graduate assistantships: project assistantships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships
• Traineeships

Funding is awarded based on the qualifications of the student, the number of applicants, the amount of available funding, and the number of continuing students receiving support. You can apply for funding for research assistantships by contacting individual faculty members directly. Please check our  website  to look for faculty (only those listed with titles of assistant professor, associate professor, or professor can serve as graduate student advisors). Search for faculty who have research interests that align closely with your own by viewing faculty directory entries, visiting the faculty’s website (linked from the directory page), and reviewing publications by the faculty member. Once you have identified faculty with interests close to your own, you are encouraged to contact them by email to inquire regarding available research assistant positions. The admissions office does not know if a particular professor has research assistant positions available.

Students who apply to the department will be automatically considered for fellowship opportunities within the department. Admitted students will be eligible to apply for Teaching Assistantship positions. More information, including the application, will be available to students after admission is complete.

Students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents may be eligible to receive some level of funding through the federal direct loan program. These loans are available to qualified graduate students who are taking at least 4 credits during the fall and spring semesters, and 2 credits during summer. Private loans are also available. Learn more about financial aid at  their website . 

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SERVICES FUNDING AND SCHOLARSHIPS

For information on International Student Funding and Scholarships visit the ISS  website .

Global industry partners and U.S. government agencies (like the Department of Energy, National Institutes of Health, and the National Science Foundation) entrust Badger engineers to design and conduct complex research into a wide range of theoretical and practical questions. Our faculty and student lab teams create a deeply collaborative research environment to study problems ranging from renewable energy to soft robotics and osteoarthritis to vehicle traction on the Moon.

View our research

Curricular Requirements

Minimum graduate school requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum  academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Required Courses

Two semesters of  M E 903 Graduate Seminar  are required.  These should be taken the first two semester the student is in residence.  If an M.S. degree is received at UW–Madison, additional M E 903 credits are not required.

A minimum of 42 formal course credits beyond the B.S. degree. This includes a minimum of 15 credits (usually five courses) numbered 700 or higher (excluding M E 964 Special Advanced Topics in Mechanical Engineering courses unless specifically approved). 12 credits (usually four courses) numbered 700 and above must be taken at UW–Madison. A minimum of 6 credits (usually two courses) numbered 700 and above must be in Mechanical Engineering (M E) and/or Engineering Mechanics (E M A) taken at UW–Madison. A minimum of one (3 or more – credit) math course. The following courses would satisfy the math course requirement:

Acceptable courses for the remainder of the required 42 formal course credits (this total includes the courses taken for the PhD breadth requirement) are those numbered 400 and above. Up to two 300 and above courses in engineering, math, or the sciences taken at UW-Madison can also be used towards the formal course credit requirement. The 300 and above courses can be from Mechanical Engineering and/or Engineering Mechanics if approved by the student’s advisor and the ME graduate committee. 

Minimum of 18 thesis credits ( M E 790 Master’s Research and Thesis ,  M E 890 PhD Research and Thesis ,  M E 990 Dissertator Research and Thesis ) are required with an overall grade of S.

Graduate Student Services [email protected] 3182 Mechanical Engineering Building 1513 University Ave., Madison

Associate Chair for Graduate Studies [email protected]

Recent mechanical engineering graduate news

Student Org Spotlight: Graduate Engineering Mechanics Society (GEMS)

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Become a badger engineer.

Mechanical Engineering

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Mechanical and Energy Engineering, PhD

The doctoral Mechanical and Energy Engineering program at the University of North Texas offers you a groundbreaking opportunity to learn fundamental and applied knowledge compatible with mechanical engineering, renewable energy, energy modeling, manufacturing and fossil fuels.

Our Doctor of Philosophy degree is the first of its kind in Texas. The innovative curriculum allows you to study and conduct research with world-class faculty members. This collaboration can lead to being published in professional journals, a validation of your hard work and strong research.

In addition, you’ll work with faculty members to develop both a broad and in-depth knowledge for solving energy problems. You’ll explore topics such as:

• Fundamentals of energy
• Thermal energy and fluids
• Solid mechanics and controls
• Renewable and alternative clean energy
• Energy efficient products and structures
• Bio-based green and sustainable products
• Energy efficient intelligent vehicles

Our faculty members have been honored by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, among others. Their research areas include environmental sustainability, materials and manufacturing, and oil and gas.

The University provides several services exclusively to graduate students. The Graduate Student Writing Support office can help you with writing, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Research offers assistance with statistical research.

A Dissertation Boot Camp and other specialized workshops are available through the Toulouse Graduate School ® . Many of the workshops are available online for your convenience.

Degree requirements

You’ll plan your degree program with assistance from your major professor and advisory committee. The degree requires 72 credit hours beyond a bachelor’s degree or 42 credit hours beyond a master’s degree. You’ll need to maintain at least a B average in all courses.

Students entering with a master’s degree

• 12 credit hours of core courses
• 12 credit hours of electives
• 6 credit hours of research
• 3 credit hours of a seminar course
• 9 credit hours of dissertation

Students entering with a bachelor’s degree

• 24 credit hours of electives
• 21 credit hours of research
• 12 credit hours of dissertation
• Mechanical & Energy Engineering PhD Degree Plan

To find out more about the Ph.D. Program in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, contact our Graduate Academic Specialist at 1+ (940) 369-8482 and [email protected] or Dr. Hamid Sadat, ME Doctoral Program Coordinator, at 1+ (940) 565-2078 or [email protected]

Still have questions?

Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions:

1+ (888) UNT-GRAD , 1+ (940) 565-2636

[email protected]

Things to Note:

• The application to the Toulouse Graduate School does not come instantly to the department once completed. There is a process the Graduate School takes before they mail the application to the department physically. Please allow up to, possibly, two weeks for it to get to the department. Please contact the Toulouse Graduate School in regards to a timeline and their official deadlines.
• International Students: Please have the application completed four months in advanced before the desired semester starts. Ensure you are also in contact with the International School and the department about the required documents necessary for enrollment.
• Once the application is completed the committee will meet and respond with a decision as soon as possible after funding is considered. Expediting is not guaranteed, but will be considered under request and provided reason (outside of late application) with funding decisions considered following soon after. Holidays and weather may affect response.
• Staff and faculty cannot provide detailed updates in regards to the application process but please feel free to reach out with inquiries or concerns to either Dr. Tae-Youl Choi, the faculty member you are interested in researching with.
• The department no longer takes email submissions for documents.

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Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the J. Mike Walker ’66 Department of Mechanical Engineering opens the door to a wide range of career paths, including industry R&D, government research laboratories, consulting, entrepreneurship, and academia.

Our Ph.D. program equips students with the expertise and problem-solving skills necessary for career success. The curriculum provides a grounding in mechanical engineering fundamentals and opportunities for broader exploration in topics ranging from entrepreneurship to machine learning.

Incoming Ph.D. students will identify a dissertation advisor from among our world-renowned faculty.

All students in our Ph.D. program receive financial support. Many enter with their own funding via external fellowships (from NSF, DOE, etc.) or other sources. All others receive funding in the form of a graduate assistantship, which includes a monthly stipend, remission of tuition and fees, and employee health insurance. Students entering with a Bachelor degree are guaranteed an assistantship for at least five years; those entering with a Master degree are guaranteed at least four years. Funding is contingent on maintaining academic good standing.

For questions about our Ph.D. program, please email us at   [email protected] .

Application Process

Applicants to our Ph.D. program receive a fee waiver that reduces application cost to $25. Please follow the link below and complete the application. The fee will be reduced to $25 at checkout.

Apply at EngineeringCAS

View Current Program Requirements

96 Hour Ph.D.

96 Credit Hour Requirements (Direct Ph.D. program)

64 Hour Ph.D.

64 Hour Ph.D. (For those already having a Master's degree)

Ph.D. Program Requirements

The Ph.D. degree requires a minimum of 96 semester credit hours beyond a baccalaureate degree, and a minimum of 64 semester credit hours for a student who has completed a master’s degree. A student in this program must pass the Qualifying Exam according to the current departmental guidelines for the exam.

Committee Requirements:

• Minimum of four (4) faculty on the committee, including the committee chair and co-chair, if  applicable.
• All committee members must be on Graduate Committee Faculty through Graduate and Professional School. A list is  available at https://gradcom.tamu.edu/faculty .
• At least one member must be from outside the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
• Joint/Courtesy Appointment Chairs are required to fund student through GAR or a GAT position in the faculty member’s home department.
• Committee Co-chair: optional; student may choose to have a co-chair on their committee. This person can be from in or out of MEEN.
• If your chair is a MEEN faculty member, you must have at least one (1) committee memberfrom MEEN. At least one (1) committee member must be from outside of MEEN. The remainingone (1) committee member may be from in or out of MEEN.
• If your chair is a joint/courtesy appointment, you must have at least two (2) committeemembers from MEEN. The remaining one (1) committee member must be from outside of MEEN.

Curricular Options:

Mathematics courses:.

• MEEN 602: Modeling & Analysis of Mechanical Systems (preferred).
• Any graduate level MATH or STAT course.

Core Courses:

• MEEN 601: Advanced Product Design
• MEEN 603: Theory of Elasticity
• MEEN 608: Continuum Mechanics
• MEEN 612: Mechanics of Robot Manipulators
• MEEN 613: Engineering Dynamics
• MEEN 615: Advanced Engineering Thermo Dynamics
• MEEN 617: Mechanical Vibrations
• MEEN 621: Fluid Mechanics
• MEEN 630: Intermediate Heat Transfer
• MEEN 651: Control System Design
• MEEN 672: Introduction to Finite Element Method
• MEEN 683: Multidisciplinary System Analysis & Design Optimization
• MEEN 688: Advanced Solid Mechanics

Technical Elective Courses:

• Any graduate level MEEN course. It may include courses from the core course listing and a maximum of 4 hours of MEEN 684 and 685 combined. A minimum of two graduate technical electives, excluding MEEN 684, must be in MEEN.
• Any graduate level course in the College of Engineering or College of Science, with research advisor approval. Courses with the ENGR prefix or from outside the Colleges of Engineering or Science will require prior approval from the MEEN Graduate Program Director.
• May include up to one undergraduate courses at the 400 level. 

96 Credit Hour Ph.D. Program Requirements 

Curricular requirements.

• Required graduate level mathematics credit: Two courses — total of six credit hours.
• Core courses: Three courses — total of nine credit hours.
• Technical elective courses: Six to nine courses — total of 18-27 credit hours. 
• Seminar: Three semesters of MEEN 681 — total of three credit hours. Seminar courses from other departments will not be accepted.
• Research: 51-60 credit hours of MEEN 691. The number of research credits will depend on how many credit hours of technical electives the student chooses to take.

64 Credit Hour Ph.D. Program Requirements 

• Required graduate level mathematics credit: One courses — total of three credit hours.
• Core courses: One courses — total of three credit hours.
• Technical elective courses: Four courses — total of 12 credit hours. 
• Seminar: Two semesters of MEEN 681 — total of two credit hours. Seminar courses from other departments will not be accepted.
• Research: 44 credit hours of MEEN 691.

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Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering

Mix interdisciplinary research, human ingenuity, abundant resources and a location in a state known as an incubator of global, entrepreneurial R&D, and you have Idea Leadership. At UD, discovery, invention and innovation matter. The close coordination of our high-impact academic research in our core areas has broad influence on our global society. Delaware is a small state, but we think BIG!

The broadest of the engineering disciplines, mechanical engineering offers a wide range of research and career opportunities for those committed to advancing innovations to enhance quality of life. The University of Delaware’s Ph.D. program in mechanical engineering is regarded for our solid technical curriculum, our internationally recognized faculty and world-class high-impact research in nearly every aspect of modern mechanical engineering. Reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of our research, many of our faculty members hold joint or affiliated appointments in other departments. An annual budget of more than $9 million allows us to constantly strive to expand knowledge of the world around us.

Mechanical Engineering

About the Program

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

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

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

What to Expect

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

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

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

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Beyond the classroom.

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

By the Numbers

engineering school ( U.S. News & World Report )

in mechanical engineering ( U.S. News & World Report )

in the world for innovation ( Nature Index)

Admission Requirements

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

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

• Completed online application
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution 
• Statement of purpose
• Current resume/CV
• Transcripts
• Test scores for GRE (waiver available)
• Two letters of recommendation
• Results of TOEFL or IELTS exam (waiver available)

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Department of Mechanical Engineering

• Graduate Program

PhD Program

The PhD in mechanical engineering requires 90 hours of graduate credit. Students holding a master of science degree receive 30 credit hours toward the 90 required hours.

Students are required to take at least 32 hours of coursework at the 400 level or higher, of which at least 24 credit hours should be mechanical engineering courses. The dissertation is typically about 30 of the total of 90 credit hours. No more than 10 of these may be transferred from non-matriculated work at Rochester.

There are three examinations during the PhD program the:

• Preliminary examination - at the end of the first full academic year of study
• Qualifying examination - typically taken at the end of the second year or during the third year
• Final oral examination

The PhD Program of Study Form should be completed and approved within four semesters of matriculation. Students should talk with their advisor and review the Graduate Handbook for more information.

For information about finding an advisor, PhD examinations and PhD dissertation see the Graduate Handbook .

Stipend/Funding for PhD Students

Our full-time PhD students receive competitive graduate fellowships or research assistantships comprising an annual stipend, medical benefits, and full coverage of graduate tuition.

The details of a particular student's financial offer can vary depending upon specific circumstances and will be specified in a letter sent to each student at the time that an admission offer is made.

Part-Time Study

Part time study is defined as registration for fewer than 12 credit hours per semester. Part time students must satisfy the same requirements as full time students, as well as a residency requirement.

Residency is defined as registration for at least 12 credit hours in each of two consecutive semesters. i.e.: fall – spring, or spring – fall.

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Ph.d. in mechanical engineering, program overview.

The Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering degree is granted in recognition of high achievement in scholarship and an ability to apply engineering fundamentals to the solution of complex technical problems. The program of study is broad for a doctoral-level degree, requiring research and engineering analysis at a high level.  The program is administered by the college of engineering therefore, departmental boundaries are nonexistent and the student, with his/her adviser, is free to choose a program of study that pulls together the necessary interdisciplinary subjects to address the research topic as needed.

Basic Requirements

A short summary of requirements for the Ph.D.includes:

• 30 hours of coursework beyond the master's degree
• 30 hours of dissertation research
• Successful completion of the qualifying examination
• Successful completion of the candidacy examination
• Successful defense of the dissertation

More Information

• CSU Graduate Catalog - Ph.D.
• Washkewicz College of Engineering - Ph.D.
• Washkewicz CoE Ph.D. - Plan of Study Form   [Word] , [pdf]
• Washkewicz CoE Ph.D. - Dissertation Proposal Approval Form   [Word] , [pdf]

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PhD Program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program represents the highest level of academic pursuit within the selected field. Engineering students in the PhD program engage in rigorous academic exploration and seek to make transformative contributions to their chosen research discipline. Students embark on an intensive academic journey, striving to ignite innovation and usher in transformative change in their selected research discipline. Doctoral candidates collaborate closely with faculty advisors and committees to cultivate an environment that encourages innovation. They actively participate in scientific dissemination through the authorship of journal and conference publications and by presenting their findings at conferences, workshops, or other public forums. The program culminates in the completion of a Dissertation, a scholarly contribution that contains the key findings of the research program and expands the frontiers of knowledge. Graduates of doctoral programs assume leadership roles within academia, research institutions, and industry, driving innovation, advancement, and transformative change.

Skills Developed 

Research and critical thinking.

Our PhD programs emphasize extensive research, teaching students how to formulate research questions, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and draw meaningful conclusions. This fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to challenge existing paradigms in the field of engineering.

In-Depth Knowledge, Problem Solving, and Critical Thinking

Students delve deeply into their chosen area of specialization. They acquire an in-depth understanding of the theoretical foundations, advanced techniques, and emerging trends in their specific field. This expertise allows them to contribute significantly to their discipline through innovative research. 

Communication and Presentation

Effective communication is crucial for PhD students. They learn to articulate complex engineering concepts, research findings, and methodologies clearly and concisely, both in written form and orally. Presenting research to a diverse audience helps refine their ability to convey ideas to different stakeholders.

PhD Program Paths

Points of pride.

Students can pursue our PhD programs directly after earning their BS degrees. They can also earn their MS degree while completing this path. Once they successfully complete their candidacy exam, they can apply for their MS by candidacy. 

Average Length to Degree: 5-6 years

Students who have already earned a MS degree can pursue our PhD program. They can transfer their MS degree to our institution and take less coursework compared to the our BS - PhD students.  

Average Length to Degree: 4 - 4.5 years

A minimum of 80 graduate credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree, including coursework and a dissertation, are required to obtain a doctoral degree. If a student has obtained a master’s degree at Ohio State or elsewhere, then a minimum of 50 graduate credit hours beyond the master’s is required. The entire work for the PhD degree must be completed within a period of nine calendar years.

BS-PhD Path

Students who have earned a BS degree and wish to pursue a PhD directly must meet the following requirements in order to graduate:

30 total hours of 5000+ letter graded graduate courses 4

At least 3 hours must be 5000+ Math, Stats, or other program approved math equivalency courses 5

At least 18 hours must be 6000+ courses and at least 9 of those hours must be MAE courses

At least 50 hours of AE 8999 with your faculty advisor

AE Seminar every semester until graduation

• First author journal submission
• Successful completion of the Qualifying and Candidacy Exams
• Submission and successful defense of a Doctoral Dissertation

MS-PhD Path

Students who have already earned a MS degree and are pursuing a PhD must meet the following requirements in order to graduate:

18 total hours of 5000+ letter graded graduate courses 4

At least 3 hours must be Math, Stats, or other program approved math equivalency courses 5

At least 9 hours must be 6000+ MAE courses

OSU MAE MS graduates can double-count up to 2 courses from their MS degree toward their PhD coursework requirements.

At least 32 hours of AE 8999 with your faculty advisor

4:  Up to 3 hours may be 4000+ non-departmental courses as long as the Math and the 6000+ requirements are still met.

5:  A course being used to satisfy the Math requirement cannot be used to satisfy the other letter graded PhD course requirements.

Important Notes

• Any courses taken Spring 2018 and beyond students must earn a grade of C or better in order for courses to count toward the coursework requirements.

Coursework in the following fields: Engineering, Natural and Mathematical Sciences, or Medicine can be used towards the degree requirements, permitted all of the specific degree requirements are met.

Courses taken outside of Engineering, Natural and Mathematical Sciences, or Medicine may count, but are subject to review and approval by the student's faculty advisor and the Graduate Studies Committee.

At least 50 hours of ME 8999 with your faculty advisor

ME Seminar every semester until graduation

At least 32 hours of ME 8999 with your faculty advisor

The specific requirements for the PhD in Nuclear Engineering are below. 

PhD Coursework Requirements 

• NUCLREN 5001 ( Interaction of Radiation with Matter )
• NUCLREN 5002 ( Reactor Physics )
• NUCLREN 5003 ( Nuclear Reactor Systems and Analysis )
• NUCLREN 5004 ( Material in Nuclear Systems)
• 6 hours nuclear engineering 5000+ courses beyond the core courses 
• 3 hours NE 6000+ courses
• 6 hours of advisor approved elective coursework
• 3 hours Math 4000+, Stats 5000+ or program approved Math Equivalency courses (not Math 4504)
• 50 hours of NE 8999 with advisor
• NUCLREN 6881 every semester until candidacy 
• Students who have not taken NUCLREN 4505 (Introduction to Nuclear Engineering) or an introductory Nuclear Engineering course at another institution are required to take NUCLREN 4505 immediately upon starting their graduate studies. NUCLREN 4505 does not count towards the required number of hours for a graduate in Nuclear Engineering.

Career Development & Opportunities

Embarking on a journey towards a PhD is a path of unparalleled growth and expertise acquisition. In MAE, we believe in empowering our students to not only thrive academically, but also to shape a future brimming with diverse and rewarding possibilities. Our commitment lies not just in the pursuit of knowledge, but in guiding our students to chart personalized career trajectories tailored to Industry, National Labs, and Academia. MAE offers unique professional development and networking opportunities for students to reach their career goals including: 

• Networking with Faculty, Labs and Centers that have close ties with industry and National Labs;
• Conference travel grants and research presentation opportunities; 
• Engaging in community outreach initiatives including events to promote science and technology awareness and inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers;
• The FAST (Future Academic Scholars Training Program) program is a two semester-long course that covers all the essential materials graduate students need from how to prepare themselves while in grad school and develop appropriate and competitive credentials to apply for faculty positions, interviewing, gaining funding, hiring graduate students themselves, how to manage classroom teaching and what are the best teaching practices, and how to balance work and life;

Career Outcomes

Earning a PhD is a significant achievement associated with prestige and recognition in the academic and professional worlds. This achievement opens doors to leadership positions and opportunities for contribution, while the scholarly value of a PhD extends beyond an individual's lifetime, leaving a lasting legacy as their research and contributions continue to influence the academic community and society. Our PhD graduates possess a diverse range of career opportunities, with paths leading to employment in industry, government agencies, national laboratories, and academia. Below, we provide a list of example career outcomes, showcasing the versatility and success of our alumni in these different sectors. 

• Idaho National Laboratory
• Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
• Los Alamos National Laboratory
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory
• Oak Ridge National Laboratory
• Sandia National Laboratories
• U.S. Air Force
• Cornell University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Purdue University
• South China University of Technology
• Transportation Research Center
• University of Michigan
• University of Pennsylvania
• University of Texas, Austin
• Agility Robotics
• Caterpillar Inc
• ExxonMobil Corporation
• Ford Motor Company
• General Motors
• Intel Corporation
• Intuitive Surgical
• Lam Research Corporation
• Magna International
• Owens Corning
• Path Robotics
• Pratt & Whitney
• TaylorMade Golf

Ph.D. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

The MAE graduate curriculum is located in the MAE graduate handbook .

The faculty of the department strives to offer graduate courses that will challenge the students’ capabilities, inform them of cutting-edge innovations, and develop in them an appreciation of the deep beauty and history of our discipline. Toward these ends, the curriculum has three goals: 

To ensure that all graduates possess a broad knowledge of the fundamentals that underlie Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

To ensure that all graduates have a deep knowledge within one of the department’s three primary disciplines

To provide sufficient flexibility within our program for interdisciplinary students, acknowledging the great diversity within MAE and its emerging areas

The particular focus areas range in scales from macro to nano, and in scope from highly theoretical to quite applied, and utilize state-of-the-art analytical, computational, and experimental tools.

The courses in the MAE department are categorized into the following three areas: analytical math, numerical, and topical. With the approval of their advisor and the Department, graduate students must take a minimum number of classes from each area that form the graduate student’s “Core Courses.”

Ph.D. students must complete 36 credit hours of course work, including 15 credit hours of core courses, and 6 semesters of MAE seminar.

​This department also offers a direct Ph.D option, in which students do not earn a Masters of Science degree and proceed directly to a Ph.D. This allows for faster completion of the Ph.D program. Students can decide if this is a good option for them by discussing it with their advisor.

The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only.  The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements. These publications may be found here .

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Admission Requirements

In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, applicants must meet the following program requirements:

• Baccalaureate Field Mechanical engineering. The degree must be from an American Board of Engineering Technology (ABET) accredited college or university or equivalent.
• Grade Point Average At least 3.00/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of undergraduate study. A grade point average of at least 3.50 is preferred for applicants to the PhD program.
• Tests Required International applicants are required to take the GRE. Applicants seeking a teaching or research assistantship are strongly encouraged to take the GRE General.
• TOEFL 80, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (iBT Test); 60, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Writing 21 (revised Paper-Delivered Test), OR,
• IELTS 6.5, with subscores of 6.0 for all four subscores, OR,
• PTE-Academic 54, with subscores of Reading 51, Listening 47, Speaking 53, and Writing 56.
• Letters of Recommendation Three required.
• Personal Statement Required.
• Other Requirements Admission to the PhD program is not automatic for students completing their MS degree in the department. Master’s students who desire to continue on to the PhD must see the department’s graduate coordinator for forms to apply to the PhD program.
• Nondegree Applicants Nondegree applicants may be admitted for no more than 8 semester hours.
• Deadlines The application deadline is the same as the Graduate College deadline; the deadline for applicants who want to be considered for funding can be found on the Graduate College website.

Degree Requirements

In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, students must meet the following program requirements:

• Minimum Semester Hours Required 108 from the baccalaureate.
• Students must complete one of the following two options:

I. Direct PhD

• 108 hours total from the baccalaureate

Rubrics MATH and STAT are allowed with approval of the advisor and director of graduate studies.

All students must enroll in ME 595 every fall and spring semester. 

II. PhD Post MS

• 108 hours total, including 32 hours transferred from the MS
• Credit for MS Degree : Those having an MS degree from an accredited institution will be awarded 32 semester hours of credit toward the PhD degree requirement, which includes 24 hours of course work and 8 hours of ME 599 .

Other Requirements 

• No graduation credit will be given for Credit/No Credit courses.
• Students must get the director of graduate studies’ approval to take online courses.
• All courses must be approved first by the student’s advisor and then by the director of graduate studies.
• Departmental Qualifying Examination: Required.
• Preliminary Examination: Required.
• Dissertation Required. Students in the Direct PhD program must earn at least 60 semester hours in ME 599 . Post-master's students must earn at least 52 semester hours in ME 599 .
• Other Requirements Students must be registered during the semester of intended graduation.

Financial Aid

There are several different forms of financial aid available to incoming graduate students: University Fellowship, Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, and Tuition and Fee Waivers. Applicants may seek financial aid by completing the Application for Graduate Appointment as part of the online application. They will automatically be considered for all four forms of financial aid listed above. Additional information can be found on the MIE website .

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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Mechanical Engineering

Candidates normally register for the M.Eng. degree in the first instance. However, in exceptional cases where the research work is proceeding very satisfactorily, or where the equivalent of the M.Eng. degree has been completed at another university, candidates may be permitted to proceed directly to the Ph.D. degree without submitting a master's thesis as long as they have satisfied the course requirements for the M.Eng. degree.

A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.

Required Courses

Offered by: Mechanical Engineering ( Faculty of Engineering )

Administered by: Graduate Studies

Mechanical Engineering : Preparation of a written literature review.

Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2024-2025 academic year.

This course must be completed in the student's second term, within 8 months of initial registration in the program.

Mechanical Engineering : Preparation of the Ph.D. thesis proposal by the student.

This course must be completed in the student's third term, within 12 months of initial registration in the program.

Mechanical Engineering : Presentation of the Ph.D. thesis proposal by the student and oral examination of the student's background in related areas.

This exam must be taken in the student's fourth term, within 16 months of initial registration in the program.

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Civil Engineering

Bachelor of science degree.

The Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org , under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Civil and Similarly Named Engineering Programs. The study includes the design, construction, and maintenance of physical structures and modifications to our natural environment that are the foundation of our modern society. Our Civil Engineering degree requires students to complete studies in four sub-disciplines: Geotechnical, Structural, Transportation, and Water Resources Engineering.

Degree Benefits

• Diverse career opportunities: Graduates can work in private and public sectors, offering them a wide range of job opportunities.
• Program availability and scholarships opportunities: There are several scholarship opportunities from the industries and the department for eligible students.
• Job placements of our graduates: Graduates of our civil engineering program work in renowned companies, including IMEG, TerraCon Consultants, Shive-Hattery, US Army Corps of Engineers, Illinois Department of Transportation, Iowa Department of Transportation, and more.

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WIU's Construction and Facilities Management program is a general degree that prepares students to work in commercial, residential, or facilities management industries. Our program aims to provide the education and skills for students to be successful and fulfill the construction and facilities management industry workforce needs.

• Hands-on Learning: The program emphasizes hands-on learning opportunities, and the professional preparation course prepares students to network, locate employment, and get hired at local, regional, and national companies.
• Industry connections: Required internships guarantee students graduate with industry work experience to add to their resumes.
• Professional development: Extracurricular opportunities and guest speakers, enhance the educational opportunities of students and exposure to current industry issues.

Electrical Engineering

The Electrical Engineering program at WIU-QC is a comprehensive four-year program, accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org , under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Electrical, Computer, Communications, Telecommunication(s) and Similarly Named Engineering Programs. The curriculum offers strong fundamentals in circuits, signals and systems, control systems, electronics, and electric power that apply to upper-level courses such as microelectronics, power electronics, mechatronics, renewable energy, microgrids, and more. The program is designed to provide interactive learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

• Acquire hands-on technical skills with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and software .
• Improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills through project-based learning .
• Gain real-world experience with industry professionals through internships and capstone projects that lead to exciting employment opportunities .

Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org , under the General Criteria. This degree program is designed to prepare graduates for professional practice and leadership in the 21st century. Students take classes in mechanics, materials, electronics, and quality, depending on their emphasis field. The two areas of emphasis offered are General Engineering and Industrial Engineering.

• Provides fundamental knowledge of engineering that is applicable to pursuing work or graduate studies in many areas/disciplines of engineering or technology.
• Graduates are less likely to be identified as only being able to work within a specific discipline and more easily identified as being capable of cross-disciplinary work .

Engineering Technology

Technical trades, industrial processes, and engineering principles have been a part of Western for more than a century. Today, students get experience in computer-aided drafting and design, welding, computer-numerical controlled (CNC) programming, lean and quality continuous improvement, rapid prototyping, industrial electronics and control, and workplace safety.

• Practical, Relevant Experiences: Instruction involves extensive hands-on training in material processing, programming, and utilization of industrial equipment. Faculty have direct industry experience that they apply in the classroom.
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• Talent Development: Graduates are prepared for lifelong learning, adapting to rapid change, and the ability to transition in leadership and management roles.

Mechanical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org , under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical Engineering Programs. Mechanical Engineering is one of the oldest and broadest of the engineering disciplines. Our B.S. in Mechanical Engineering degree program builds upon a foundation of solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics. The degree offers areas of emphasis in Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, and Robotics Engineering. An elective course in Additive Manufacturing — 3D printing is available for all three emphases.

• Students are engaged in advanced research projects and labs supported by WIU and the local industry.
• Be at the forefront of mechanical engineering technology by learning from active scholars who incorporate their innovative research into coursework.
• Our faculty are both skilled educators and industry professionals leading the way in fields like thermal science, mechatronics, and mechanical design.

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• Engineering Technology   Location: Macomb
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The School of Engineering and Technology is committed to justice, inclusion, diversity, and equity for all students, faculty, and staff.

Justice and inclusion are core components of all programs and the School's mission. Diversity and equity are fostered at all levels, during all activities, and always promoted.

Furthermore, an inviting and encouraging environment aimed towards an affinity of belonging, and an awareness of being part of something bigger than oneself, represents our commitment to promote collaboration.

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Q&A: Engineering grad gets head start on career in research

Class of 2024.

Sydney Wickett ’24 is on the fast track to earning her master’s degree from Florida Polytechnic University. When she receives her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with a concentration in aerospace on Sunday, May 5, Wickett will be only one year away from returning to the commencement stage for her advanced degree. She is among the first participants in the University’s 4+1 master’s degree program, taking graduate-level courses while completing her undergraduate degree.

Why did you choose your major? 

I changed my major impulsively a month before I came here. I thought I was going to study journalism – I was so sure I was going to do it. Then application time came around and I decided to do STEM. I ultimately decided to do mechanical engineering because I’ve had an interest in aircraft since I was a kid. I love watching airplanes and loved watching shows all the time about aircraft mechanics. 

How well do you feel Florida Poly prepared you for life after graduation?

Incredibly well. I’ve learned a lot, especially considering how shy I was and how incapable I was speaking with people. The biggest thing Florida Poly has done for me is develop my communication skills, not only in regular communication settings, but in professional settings like capstone and being able to go to conferences and professional things of that nature.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Florida Poly?

My research for sure. During my first two years, I wasn’t super involved and was having a hard time getting into everything. That’s also when you’re not doing full engineering classes yet. Then I started doing research and it was night and day how into it I was. By doing research and also being a student education assistant is how I realized I wanted to be a professor, because it allowed me to keep doing research. I get to look at lots of cool things and work on fun equipment.

What was your greatest accomplishment at the University?

I’m published. I wanted to write for so long, and when I decided I was going to do mechanical engineering I felt bad for not going into writing. Then I ended up being able to be a published author of a research paper in January. It’s so great.

What’s the biggest non-curricular lesson you learned during your time at Florida Poly?

You are your own biggest critic and there is no one who is paying more attention to what you do than yourself. Nobody else goes home and thinks about what I did wrong. It’s hard to get out of that habit and realize no one is paying attention to you as much as you think they are.

What does earning your degree mean to you?

The fact that I’m getting a degree in mechanical engineering is not anything I could have predicted four years ago. I was going to be a data science or a journalism major, but I felt like I would be missing out on something. I never felt like that studying mechanical engineering. I didn’t have a STEM background, but this is a culmination of all the work I’ve been doing, which feels great.

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of Q&As with several Florida Poly Class of 2024 graduates.

  Contact: Lydia Guzmán Director of Communications 863-874-8557