Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

This program provides advanced, research-based education and knowledge through advanced coursework, state-of-the-art and original research, and publication of novel results in preparation for careers in academia and industrial research and development.

The doctoral degree is awarded in recognition of a high level of mastery in one of the several fields of the department including a significant original research contribution. A student working toward the Ph.D. degree has great flexibility in formulating an overall program to meet individual needs under the guidance of an advisor and the department. In order to maintain the standards expected in this degree program, there are requirements that must be satisfied. Primarily, the Ph.D. candidate should meet the requirements for a master's degree or present evidence that he or she has reached an equivalent level of proficiency. Further, the student must be accepted by a thesis advisor and pass a qualifying examination given by the department in order to be admitted to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. The examination evaluates the student's background in order to determine the student's potential for achieving a doctorate.The student, in consultation with the advisor, prepares a program of study to meet individual needs and interests, which must then be approved by the advisor, the department's Graduate Studies Committee, the Department Chair, and the Graduate College. The program of study usually consists of at least one full year of advanced coursework beyond the master's degree and a minimum of one full year of thesis research.After the student essentially completes all coursework, he or she must pass the Ph.D. comprehensive examination.