engineering mechanics phd

• University of Wisconsin-Madison

DEGREE Engineering Mechanics, PhD

Doctoral degree in engineering mechanics

As a PhD student in engineering mechanics, you’ll delve deeper into several main areas of the mechanics of materials and astronautics: continuum mechanics, computational mechanics, dynamics and vibration, fluid mechanics, nanomechanics, solid mechanics, and biomechanics. Additionally, you can add breadth to your education with a minor in a number of related fields, including civil and environmental engineering, chemical and biological engineering, electrical and computer engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering and engineering physics, physics, geological engineering and geology, mathematics, statistics, and computer science.

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 .

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS and PROCESS

Degree:  For admission to graduate study in Engineering Mechanics, an applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, mathematics, or physical science, and an undergraduate record that indicates an ability to successfully pursue graduate study. International applicants must have a degree comparable to a regionally accredited U.S. bachelor’s degree.

It is highly recommended that students take courses that cover the same material as these UW-Madison courses before entering the program:

Course and Semester Credits                                         Typical Courses

Advanced Mathematics, 3 cr                      MATH 319 , MATH 320 , or MATH 321

Linear Algebra and Matrices, 3 cr              MATH 320 or MATH 340

Mechanics of Materials, 3 cr                       E M A 303

Dynamics, 3 cr                                             E M A 202 or PHYSICS 311

Descriptions of course content can be accessed through  The Guide . Students may enter without having taken these courses. However, in such cases the students must inform their advisors, who will help them plan courses of study that will provide adequate background for our department’s graduate curriculum. Provisions for admission on probation, or as an applicant for more than one master’s degree (e.g., simultaneous MS degrees in two departments) are given in the  Graduate School website . 

All applicants must satisfy requirements that are set forth by the  Graduate School . 

GPA:  The Graduate School requires a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 basis on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours from the most recent bachelor’s degree. In special cases, students with grade point averages lower than 3.0 who meet all the general requirements of the Graduate School may be considered for admission on probation.

PhD advisor selection process:  PhD applicants are encouraged to identify potential faculty advisors and seek a confirmation. Please review the department  Research  and  People  websites and contact those whose research interests align with yours. Only faculty members listed with the 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 also encouraged to inquire about possible funding opportunities. If a faculty member agrees to be your advisor, ask the person to email an acknowledgment 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

To apply to the EM 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

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

In this document, applicants should explain why they want to pursue further education in Engineering Mechanics 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 and/or research performance. It is highly recommended these letters be from faculty familiar with the applicant. 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

Application 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. Additional 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 .

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

REENTRY ADMISSIONS

If you were previously enrolled as a graduate student in the Engineering Mechanics program, 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 EM faculty advisor) must be willing to supply advising support and should e-mail the EM 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 EM 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 EM or a non-EM graduate program, wishing to apply to this degree program should contact the  EM 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 Engineering Mechanics 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, the number of continuing students receiving support, and the degree program a student is enrolled in. 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 Ph.D. program 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.

More information on graduate student funding is available from the  UW-Madison Graduate School .

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 .

In the Engineering Mechanics graduate research programs, students push the boundaries of fundamental knowledge in fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, and dynamics while working on problems with direct relevance to societal needs–like clean energy, aerospace, human health, and materials discovery–and with direct access to state-of-the art experimental and computational laboratories.

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

At least 36 of the required 60 credits must be in classes satisfying the following general requirements and mathematics, breadth and depth requirements.

 It is acceptable for students who earned an M.S. degree in Engineering Mechanics at UW-Madison to use coursework completed while in the M.S. degree program to meet the requirements above.

Graduate Student Services [email protected] 3182 Mechanical Engineering 1513 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706

Associate Chair for Graduate Studies [email protected]

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Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics

Areas of Study

For our engineering mechanics doctoral students, BEAM offers concentrations in the following areas:

• Solid mechanics
• Fluid mechanics
• Dynamics, control, and vibrations
• Biomechanics
• Applied mathematics

Each graduate student selects an area of interest and designs a program of study in consultation with a graduate committee.

Ph.D. Requirements

Students must earn a minimum of 90 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree is not required for admission to the program. 

Core Courses

• ESM 5014 : Intro to Continuum Mechanics (three credits)
• ESM 5314 : Intermediate Dynamics (three credits)
• ESM 5024 : Intro to Solid Mechanics (three credits)
• ESM 5054 : Intro to Fluid Mechanics (three credits)
• ESM 5004 : Scientific Communication in Engineering Mechanics (two credits)

Math Courses

• MATH 5000-6000 level courses   (See Graduate Manual for approved courses) (three credits)

ESM Courses

• Additional ESM coursework, ESM 5000-6000 level courses (See Graduate Manual for approved courses) (six credits)

Additional Coursework

• 5000-6000 level courses supporting area of Ph.D. research (12 credits)
• ESM 5944 (minimum of four, one-credit hour seminars) (four credits)

Program-specific credits from above: 39 hours

Additional coursework

• Agreed upon by student and advisory committee: 21 hours

Dissertation Research

• ESM 7994 (Research/Thesis) (30 hours)

Minimum total credits: 90

Restrictions.

• No more than three credits of 4xxx-level coursework can be counted toward the required minimum 34 credits of coursework.
• No more than three credits of Independent Study (5974 or 6974) can be counted toward the required minimum 34 credits of coursework.
• A maximum of 15 credits of transfer coursework can be counted toward the required minimum of 34 credits of coursework.

Additional Requirements

• Attend orientation in August. Information will be shared upon your admission to the program.
• Satisfy the scholarly ethics and integrity requirement
• Submit the plan of study
• Pass qualifying exam (students can be exempted from this exam based on their performance in core courses)
• Pass preliminary exam
• Pass final defense

Engineering Mechanics Graduate Manual  (PDF)

For more details on admissions and degree requirements as well as information on required courses, examinations, and grades, see the graduate regulations manual. This guide is intended to supplement, but not replace, the Virginia Tech Graduate School Catalog .

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• Engineering Mechanics, Ph.D.

The master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees in engineering mechanics are offered within a graduate program covering contemporary areas in both theoretical and applied mechanics. With the guidance of a major professor, a program can be designed to meet an individual student's needs and interests.

The program is broadly structured into several main areas of instruction and research interests in mechanics of materials and astronautics: continuum mechanics, computational mechanics, dynamics and vibration, fluid mechanics, nanomechanics, solid mechanics, and biomechanics. Related fields in which minor work may be done include civil and environmental engineering, chemical and biological engineering, electrical and computer engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering and engineering physics, physics, geological engineering and geology, mathematics, statistics, and computer science.

Current faculty research interests include adhesive-bonded joints; composites; failure criteria; analytical and computational solid mechanics; analytical and computational dynamics; multibody dynamics; analytical and computational active and passive space-structure control systems; dynamic stability; nonlinear fracture mechanics of traditional and advanced materials; continuum mechanics; modal analysis; nanomechanics and nanotribology; fluid-structure interaction; non-Newtonian fluid flow; structural mechanics; viscoelasticity; viscoplasticity; cell mechanics; and biomechanics.

Laboratories are well equipped for experimental testing and research; these include holography, Moire, atomic force microscopy, vibration testing, and other optical methods for experimental mechanics research. The department has access to collegewide facilities. The Wisconsin Laboratory for Structures and Materials Testing has facilities for testing large structures, fatigue and vibration labs, and complements the department's laboratories. The Materials Science Center provides state-of-the-art instrumentation, support facilities, and expert technical assistance for research and education in materials. Its facilities include scanning and transmission electron microscopes, image processing and analysis systems, surface and thin film characterization facilities, and x-ray diffraction facilities.

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 .

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS and PROCESS

Degree:  For admission to graduate study in Engineering Mechanics, an applicant must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, mathematics, or physical science, and an undergraduate record that indicates an ability to successfully pursue graduate study. International applicants must have a degree comparable to a regionally accredited U.S. bachelor’s degree.

It is highly recommended that students take courses that cover the same material as these UW-Madison courses before entering the program:

Course and Semester Credits                                         Typical Courses

Advanced Mathematics, 3 cr                      MATH 319 , MATH 320 , or MATH 321

Linear Algebra and Matrices, 3 cr              MATH 320 or MATH 340

Mechanics of Materials, 3 cr                       E M A 303

Dynamics, 3 cr                                             E M A 202 or PHYSICS 311

Descriptions of course content can be accessed through  The Guide . Students may enter without having taken these courses. However, in such cases the students must inform their advisors, who will help them plan courses of study that will provide adequate background for our department's graduate curriculum. Provisions for admission on probation, or as an applicant for more than one master's degree (e.g., simultaneous MS degrees in two departments) are given in the  Graduate School website . 

All applicants must satisfy requirements that are set forth by the  Graduate School . 

GPA:  The Graduate School requires a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 basis on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours from the most recent bachelor's degree. In special cases, students with grade point averages lower than 3.0 who meet all the general requirements of the Graduate School may be considered for admission on probation.

PhD advisor selection process:  PhD applicants are encouraged to identify potential faculty advisors and seek a confirmation. Please review the department  Research  and  People  websites and contact those whose research interests align with yours. Only faculty members listed with the 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 also encouraged to inquire about possible funding opportunities. If a faculty member agrees to be your advisor, ask the person to email an acknowledgment 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

To apply to the EM 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

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

In this document, applicants should explain why they want to pursue further education in Engineering Mechanics 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 and/or research performance. It is highly recommended these letters be from faculty familiar with the applicant. 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

Application 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. Additional 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 .

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

REENTRY ADMISSIONS

If you were previously enrolled as a graduate student in the Engineering Mechanics program, 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 EM faculty advisor) must be willing to supply advising support and should e-mail the EM 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 EM 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 EM or a non-EM graduate program, wishing to apply to this degree program should contact the  EM 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).

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.

Program Resources

There are three mechanisms for Graduate Student funding through the university for Engineering Mechanics 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, the number of continuing students receiving support, and the degree program a student is enrolled in. 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 Ph.D. program 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.

More information on graduate student funding is available from the  UW-Madison Graduate School .

Additional Resources

Federal loans.

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 .

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Major requirements.

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

MODE OF INSTRUCTION

Mode of instruction definitions.

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

Required courses.

At least 36 of the required 60 credits must be in classes satisfying the following general requirements and mathematics, breadth and depth requirements.

 It is acceptable for students who earned an M.S. degree in Engineering Mechanics at UW-Madison to use coursework completed while in the M.S. degree program to meet the requirements above.

Graduate School Policies

The  Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures  provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Major-Specific Policies

Prior coursework, graduate work from other institutions.

With advisor and EM Graduate Studies Committee approval, students may use up to 15 credits of prior graduate coursework that led to a relevant MS degree. Alternatively, with advisor and EM Graduate Studies Committee approval, students may use up to 6 credits of relevant coursework from a prior graduate program.  Please review the Graduate Program Handbook (see contact box) for information about use and restrictions to this policy.

UW–Madison Undergraduate

With faculty approval, students who have received their undergraduate degree from UW–Madison may apply up to 7 credits numbered 400 or above toward the minimum graduate degree credit requirement.  This work would not be allowed to count toward the 50% graduate coursework minimum unless taken in courses numbered 700 or above. No credits can be counted toward the minimum graduate residence credit requirement. Coursework earned ten years or more prior to admission to a PhD program is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

With faculty approval, students who have received an ABET-accredited undergraduate degree (not including UW–Madison) may be eligible to apply up to 7 credits of their undergraduate coursework toward the Minimum Graduate Degree Credit Requirement.  No credits can be counted toward the Minimum Graduate Residence Credit Requirement, nor the Minimum Graduate Coursework (50%) Requirement.  Coursework earned five or more years prior to admission to a master's degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

UW–Madison University Special

With program approval, students are allowed to count up to 15 credits of coursework numbered 400 or above taken as a UW–Madison Special student toward the minimum graduate residence credit requirement, and the minimum graduate degree credit requirement. UW–Madison coursework taken as a University Special student would not be allowed to count toward the 50% graduate coursework minimum unless taken in courses numbered 700 or above. Coursework earned ten years or more prior to admission to a doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

This program follows the Graduate School's Probation policy.

ADVISOR / COMMITTEE

Each student is required to meet with their advisor prior to registration every semester.

CREDITS PER TERM ALLOWED

Time limits.

Qualifying Exam:  The written portion of the qualifying exam is offered twice a year, once in August/September and once in January, generally the week before classes start. The associated literature review presentation must be completed within the timing limits stated above. 1. If you enter the PhD program directly without an MS or equivalent degree, you will first earn 30 graduate credits. Take your qualifying exam either the first or second time that it is offered after the semester in which you earn those 30 credits. 2. If you earn a UW–Madison Engineering Mechanics MS and immediately enter the PhD program in the following semester, take your qualifying exam either the first or second time it is offered after the semester in which you earned your MS. 3. If you enter the PhD program with an MS degree either from another department or institution, or are returning to UW–Madison with an MS degree after an absence, take the exam at the start of your third PhD semester

Preliminary Exam:  Ph.D. students must complete their preliminary exam within five years of passing their qualifying exam.

Dissertation Defense (oral thesis presentation):  There must be at least nine (9) months between the preliminary exam and dissertation defense. 

A candidate for a doctoral degree who fails to successfully complete the dissertation defense and deposit the dissertation within five years after passing the preliminary examination may be required to take another preliminary examination to be admitted to candidacy a second time.

Grievances and Appeals

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

• Bias or Hate Reporting  
• Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures
• Office of the Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs
• Dean of Students Office (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
• Employee Assistance (for personal counseling and workplace consultation around communication and conflict involving graduate assistants and other employees, post-doctoral students, faculty and staff)
• Employee Disability Resource Office (for qualified employees or applicants with disabilities to have equal employment opportunities)
• Graduate School (for informal advice at any level of review and for official appeals of program/departmental or school/college grievance decisions)
• Office of Compliance (for class harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence)
• Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (for conflicts involving students)
• Ombuds Office for Faculty and Staff (for employed graduate students and post-docs, as well as faculty and staff)
• Title IX (for concerns about discrimination)

Department of Mechanical Engineering Grievance Procedures

If a student feels unfairly treated or aggrieved by faculty, staff, or another student, the University offers several avenues to resolve the grievance. Students’ concerns about unfair treatment are best handled directly with the person responsible for the objectionable action. If the student is uncomfortable making direct contact with the individual(s) involved, they should contact the advisor or the person in charge of the unit where the action occurred (program or department chair, section chair, lab manager, etc.). Many departments and schools/colleges have established specific procedures for handling such situations; check their web pages and published handbooks for information. If such procedures exist at the local level, these should be investigated first. For more information see the Graduate School Academic Policies & Procedures:  https://grad.wisc.edu/acadpolicy/?policy=grievancesandappeals . The Assistant Dean for Graduate Affairs ( [email protected] ) provides overall leadership for graduate education in the College of Engineering (CoE), and is a point of contact for graduate students who have concerns about education, mentoring, research, or other difficulties.

The student is encouraged to speak first with the person toward whom the grievance is directed to see if a situation can be resolved at this level.

Should a satisfactory resolution not be achieved, the student should contact the  Associate Chair for Graduate Studies or the John Bollinger Chair of Mechanical Engineering  to discuss the grievance. The Associate Chair for Graduate Studies or Department Chair will facilitate problem resolution through informal channels and facilitate any complaints or issues of students. The first attempt is to help students informally address the grievance prior to any formal complaint. Students are also encouraged to talk with their faculty advisors regarding concerns or difficulties if necessary. University resources for sexual harassment, discrimination, disability accommodations, and other related concerns can be found on the  UW Office of Compliance website . Other campus resources can be found above. 

If the issue is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction the student can submit the grievance to the Associate Chair for Graduate Studies in writing, within 60 calendar days of the alleged unfair treatment.

On receipt of a written complaint, a faculty committee will be convened by the Associate Chair for Graduate Studies to manage the grievance. The faculty committee will obtain a written response from the person toward whom the complaint is directed. This response will be shared with the person filing the grievance.

The faculty committee will determine a decision regarding the grievance. The Associate Chair for Graduate Studies will report on the action taken by the committee in writing to both the student and the party toward whom the complaint was directed within 15 working days from the date the complaint was received.

At this point, if either party (the student or the person toward whom the grievance is directed) is unsatisfied with the decision of the faculty committee, the party may file a written appeal. Either party has 10 working days to file a written appeal to the School/College.

Documentation of the grievance will be stored for at least 7 years. Significant grievances that set a precedent will be stored indefinitely.

The Graduate School has procedures for students wishing to appeal a grievance decision made at the school/college level. These policies are described in the Graduate School’s Academic Policies & Procedures:  https://grad.wisc.edu/acadpolicy/?policy=grievancesandappeals .

Take advantage of the Graduate School's  professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

• Demonstrate an extraordinary, deep understanding of mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles in the field.
• Demonstrate an ability to formulate, analyze, and independently solve advanced engineering problems.
• Apply the relevant scientific and technological advancements, techniques, and engineering tools to address these problems.
• Recognize and apply principles of ethical and professional conduct.
• Demonstrate an ability to synthesize knowledge from a subset of the biological, physical, and/or social sciences to help frame problems critical to the future of their discipline.
• Demonstrate an ability to conduct original research and communicate it to their peers.

ASSOCIATE PROFESSORS

Assistant professors, see also  mechanical engineering faculty directory ..

• Requirements
• Professional Development
• Learning Outcomes

Contact Information

Mechanical Engineering College of Engineering 2107 Mechanical Engineering Building 1513 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 Department of Mechanical Engineering

Graduate Student Services [email protected] 3182 Mechanical Engineering 1513 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706

Associate Chair for Graduate Studies [email protected]

Graduate Program Handbook View Here

Graduate School grad.wisc.edu

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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

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

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Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

Admission Requirements

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

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

Find out more about  admission requirements .

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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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Iskender Sahin

Matthieu Nadini

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!

College of Engineering

Engineering Mechanics (Ph.D.)

Engineering Mechanics

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

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

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

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

Graduate Handbook

Current MSU students

Future students

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

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

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

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

Applicants must complete the following:

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

Current Research Groups  are:

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

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

The graduate application fee is $65 for domestic students and $75 for international students. Upload/enter additional application materials/information and request letters of recommendations using the  graduate student education portal  which you access with your MSU applicant ID and password. The portal also allows you to check the status of your application and send e-messages to the department.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mechanical engineering and applied mechanics (phd), mechanical engineering and applied mechanics , phd.

The Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM) program provides a comprehensive graduate education at the Ph.D. level supported by over 30 faculty and 140 graduate students working to solve a broad range of problems.

Description

The program boasts expertise in fundamental areas such as solids, fluids, heat transfer, dynamics, vibrations, materials, manufacturing, and design with applications from medical robotics to rehabilitation, magnetic levitation to energy applications, 3D printing to nano-machining, tissue engineering to advanced fibers for composites, materials characterization to nondestructive evaluation, and computational analysis and simulation to computational materials optimization.

The faculty and students in the program work on a range of problems focusing frequently on a mix of experimental understanding and characterization, theoretical modeling and simulation, numerical analysis, and modeling and simulation. These activities are supported through a broad range of experimental facilities including laboratories for computational fluid and solid mechanics and thermodynamics; micro-mechanics, fabrication and combustion; robotics and mechatronics; rapid solidification; thin films; x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy; atomic force microscopy; biomaterial and mechanotranduction; tissue and arterial mechanics; nontraditional manufacturing; dynamics and vibrations; nondestructive evaluation and ultrasonics; organic and nano-electronics; polymer composites and advanced fibers; polymer mechanics and 3D printing; power systems; surface mechanics and tribology; trauma mechanics.

Students entering the program with a B.S. degree can either enter an M.S. program or directly start a Ph.D. program, with the option of obtaining an M.S. on the way to completing their Ph.D. Students in the program at the M.S. level can also select from a broad range of specializations.

Academic Pathways

Dual degree:.

Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MS)

Applying for Admission

Standard requirements for all graduate programs.

• Application for Admission with $50 non-refundable application fee .

If International: Uploads must include all college- or university-level transcripts or mark sheets (records of courses and marks earned), with certificates, diplomas, and degrees plus certified English translations.

After admission: Official documents are required from all students who are admitted and enroll. Photocopies of certified records are not acceptable. International students enrolled in other U.S. institutions may have certified copies of all foreign records sent directly to the Office of Graduate Studies by their current school’s registrar office.

When sending TOEFL scores, our institution code is 6877 and a department code is not needed.

• If applicant is not a US citizen and expects an F or J visa: financial information .
• Applicants must also fulfill any additional requirements the department specifies at the time of application.

Program-Specific Admission Requirements

Additional requirements specific to this program.

If an applicant self-reports GRE scores, they must also have ETS.org send official GRE scores sent to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (institution code 6877). Applicants who wish to have their GRE scores evaluated as part of this application are expected to have at least a minimum Quantitative score of 155, and a minimum combined Quantitative and Verbal score of 305.

• Personal Statement: Statement of Purpose including research interests and objectives
• Research Interest: Review current faculty and their research areas.
• Three letters of recommendation

Admission Application Deadlines

For full financial consideration, students must apply by January 15 for Fall,  September 15 for Spring, and November 15 for Summer.

Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics

Campus Address

W342 Nebraska Hall Lincoln NE 68588-0526

Graduate Chair

George Gogos

Support Staff

Kathie Hiatt

Related Programs

• MS Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics
• Cert Additive Manufacturing

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.

UNL Graduate Chairs and staff please complete the program update form to provide edits. Updates to graduate program pages are made on an annual basis in conjunction with the Graduate Application for Admission.

Doctoral Program in Mechanical Engineering

PhD Application Deadline DECEMBER 15 View Application Steps

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Shantanu Thakar

Yeo Jung Yoon

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Shantanu Thakar PhD in Mechanical Engineering

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

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

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

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

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

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

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

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

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

It has to be one of astronomer or a soccer player

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are your plans after graduation?

I have joined Amazon as a Research Scientist in Robotics.

Hometown (city, country):

Pune, India

Personal Website (if any):

shantanuthakar.github.io

Faculty Advisor:

Prof. Satyandra K. Gupta

Yeo Jung Yoon PhD in Mechanical Engineering

“Be positive!” 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I grew up in Seoul, South Korea

Satyandra K. Gupta (Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Department)

James Croughan PhD in Mechanical Engineering

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claremont, California, USA

Dr. Alejandra Uranga

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The Engineering Mechanics (EM) graduate program at The University of Texas at Austin prepares Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy students for continued work in academia and industry. Graduates are equipped to solve technical problems in a wide range of fields including aerospace, automotive, petroleum, manufacturing, and computer engineering to name a few. Our faculty possess a broad range of expertise in experimental, theoretical, and computational mechanics.

Degree Programs

We offer advanced study and research leading to the Master of Science in Engineering degree and the Doctor of Philosophy degree in engineering mechanics. The normal prerequisite for graduate study is a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering mechanics or in a related field of engineering. Graduate study is possible for those with degrees in science or mathematics, but some undergraduate coursework will be needed to make up any deficiencies.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

Program description.

Students in the PhD in Mechanical Engineering program will be instructed in advanced core principles and have the opportunity to conduct research that will ultimately help solve problems in energy, healthcare, security and transportation.

The PhD in Mechanical Engineering requires 75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree.

For complete admission and degree requirements, view the Graduate Catalog at  catalog.utdallas.edu .

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program seek positions such as: Professor, Research Scientists at corporate or national laboratories, Research and Development Engineer for the design, manufacturing, control, and operation of components and systems in energy, health care, security and transportation and Consulting Engineer in the public and private sectors.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Requirements

Degree requirements:  A master’s or bachelor’s degree in engineering or one of the natural sciences from an institution of higher education in the U.S. or from a comparable institution abroad.

GPA:  A grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 or better on a 4.0 point scale.

Letters of recommendation:  Three letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with the student’s record, and are able to judge the candidate’s preparation and ability to succeed in doctoral study in Mechanical Engineering.

Resume required:  Yes

Admissions essay required:  Yes

An essay describing motivation for doctoral study and how it relates to the student’s professional goals.

Deadlines:  University  deadlines  apply.

Contact Information

Department of Mechanical Engineering  Email: [email protected]

Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science The University of Texas at Dallas, ECW41 800 W Campbell Rd Richardson, TX 75080-3021

engineering.utdallas.edu

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A Long Tradition of Excellence - Ranked in the top 20 nationally by U.S. News & World Report , our mechanical engineering programs are among the best in the country and have been for decades.

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Aerospace Engineering & Engineering Mechanics

College of Engineering and Applied Science » Academics » Departments » Aerospace Engineering & Engineering Mechanics » Majors & Programs » Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering & Engineering Mechanics Degree

Why study Aerospace Engineering & Engineering Mechanics?

Graduate students in the Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics doctoral program pursue research in the areas of Dynamics and Control, Fluid Mechanics, Propulsion Systems, and Solids and Structures. These are the four key areas that present challenges and opportunities to shape the future of aerospace engineering and to bring societal benefit at large.

Often referred to as the Birthplace of Aviation, the Southwest Ohio area has long played an important role in aerospace history and technology. The UC School of Aerospace Systems, which features the second-oldest Aerospace Engineering program in the country, has been at the forefront of aerospace technology since the early days of air and space travel. 

The School of Aerospace Systems graduate programs have played pivotal roles in building this success by bringing together outstanding faculty, and the most talented students from around the world. The School has a record of long-standing excellence. Now, more than ever, the School strives to deliver scientific discovery and technological innovation that will drive the future of aerospace engineering and more broadly will impact the related fields of energy, security, and health. 

The School of Aerospace Systems provides one of the best university-based research environments in the world with state-of-the-art laboratories and a diverse faculty base that has recently been expanded to bring top expertise in critical new research areas from leading institutions worldwide.

Admission Requirements

• GRE - Required of all international students; GRE is exempt for students that earned a degree from an ABET accredited university (or equivalent accreditation) in the USA with a GPA of 3.0+
• Transcript(s) and Degree Certificates
• GPA minimum 3.0 or equivalent
• Statement of Purpose
• Two letters of recommendation
• International students - English Proficiency Test: TOEFL (minimum 92) or IELTS (minimum 6.5)
• Guide: Aerospace Engineering & Engineering Mechanics-PHD

Application Deadlines

Early Admission

General Admission

Application deadlines and additional application information can be found at the  CEAS Office of Graduate Studies .

Contact Information

Find related programs in the following interest areas:.

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Program Code: 20DOC-AEEM-PHD

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Joint Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering Science and Mechanics

The Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics and the Penn State College of Medicine offer a joint degree program in which a student can receive a doctor of medicine (M.D.) from the College of Medicine and a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in engineering science and mechanics from the College of Engineering. The joint degree program forms the basis for an interdisciplinary, transformational program dedicated to educating a new generation of physician engineering scientists working at the frontiers of clinical and translational research. 

The program provides the opportunity for students interested in careers in academic medicine and research to obtain the necessary training in clinical and basic sciences in a seven-to-eight-year period. The dual degree provides the student with knowledge of the breadth of clinical science plus the ability to design experiments and conduct biomedical research, with modern technology.

Integration of the medical and graduate curricula is emphasized from the beginning of the program and sustained even during the predominantly medical or graduate years of training.

Requirements

Candidates for the Ph.D. in engineering science and mechanics typically take a minimum of 59 total credits beyond the baccalaureate degree (42 graduate course credits, 5 seminar credits, and typically 12 research credits). Master’s degree holders typically take 33 credits (18 graduate course credits, 3 seminar credits, and up to 12 research credits). Exceptions to these requirements may be approved by petition.

Students may enter the Ph.D. program after completing an appropriate baccalaureate or master’s degree prior to admission. At least 18 graduate credits must be earned in 400- and 500-level lecture/laboratory courses approved by the department, and 3 credits of a graduate seminar (E MCH 514 or E SC 514) must be earned beyond the master’s degree requirements.

College of Medicine Graduation Requirements

• Satisfactory completion of all Year 1 required courses
• Completion of the Year 1 Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
• Satisfactory completion of all Year 2 required courses
• Completion of the Year 2 OSCE
• Satisfactory completion of all Year 3 required clerkships, 3 Island courses, and 1 required elective month
• Satisfactory completion of the Year 3 choice procedures by the end of Year 3
• Passing score on the Year 3 OSCE
• Completion of the Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE); a requirement for residency application
• Satisfactory completion of all Year 4 required acting internships, Neurology clerkship, Year 4 Island, the Humanities requirement, and 4 electives
• Passing score on the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1
• Passing score on USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge
• Passing score on USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skills
• Completion of the Medical Student Research (MSR) Project
• Completed during the acting internship or the electives taken during the fourth year of medical school
• Complete two examinations that must be signed off by an attending physician, chief resident, or a fellow

Joint Program Requirements

The joint M.D./Ph.D. in engineering science and mechanics degree program will require four years of medical study and three or more years of graduate study in engineering science and mechanics fields. While there will be some level of double-counting of courses, the candidates will fulfill the full requirements of both programs as detailed in the Graduate Programs Guide.

For more information about the joint M.D./Ph.D. in engineering science and mechanics, please refer to the Graduate Programs Guide .

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The Penn State Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics (ESM) is an internationally distinguished department that is recognized for its globally competitive excellence in engineering and scientific accomplishments, research, and educational leadership.

Our Engineering Science program is the official undergraduate honors program of the College of Engineering, attracting the University’s brightest engineering students. We also offer graduate degrees in ESM, engineering mechanics, engineering at the nano-scale, and an integrated undergraduate/graduate program.

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PhD programs

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With 21 PhD program options to choose from , you can definitely find the niche you need to advance your knowledge and career goals.

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Mechanical Engineering

What is mechanical engineering.

Lehigh’s undergraduate major in mechanical engineering offers students a comprehensive education grounded in the fundamentals of the discipline while incorporating invaluable hands-on experience opportunities. Professors renowned for their research offer world-class instruction and access to research internships, co-op experiences and independent study projects. The program prepares students for satisfying and productive careers in a wide variety of fields.

Mechanical engineering students gain knowledge in areas such as solid and fluid mechanics, engineering materials, product design and manufacturing, thermodynamics and control systems. The manufacturing course required of all juniors exemplifies the department’s hands-on approach to education. Using sophisticated engineering tools, teams of Lehigh students collaborate each year with local middle-school students to design, simulate, fabricate and produce a new manufactured product, like a plastic matchbox car or a new way to package toys. They use the department’s CAD software, rapid prototyping facilities, computer numerical control milling and injection-molding machines. The course culminates with an annual expo in which the students compete and are judged on product design and effectiveness.

Mechanical Engineering Career Opportunities

Lehigh’s mechanical engineering alumni go on to design, create and operate various types of machinery. They manage systems for energy conversion, material transport and the control of motions and forces.

Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering fields, with professionals working in industries as diverse as aerospace, transportation, bioengineering, communications, electronics, computers, energy, environment, machinery and manufacturing.

Mechanical Engineering Degree Contact

Robin Armbruster, administrative specialist for undergraduate studies: [email protected] | (610) 758-4025

College of Engineering Central Inbox: [email protected] | (610) 758-5308

Take the Next Step

MechSE CARES created to support inclusive atmosphere for all

3/28/2024 Julia Park

Written by Julia Park

MechSE CARES, an initiative led by the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, hopes to address and resolve any reported incidents related to belonging, discrimination and hate within the MechSE community.  Additionally, a new mechanism has been developed for confidentially disclosing such experiences or concerns.

The MechSE CARES committee has assembled in an effort to actively listen to concerns and gain insights into incidents related to inclusion and belonging; provide an internal resolution process; and, alongside campus-wide offices, offer support for responses to explicit acts of racism, discrimination and hate.

“MechSE and the MechSE CARES committee believes that diversity and unbounded inclusion of our faculty, staff and students are fundamental to our mission of developing engineers who will work together to address major societal challenges,” said Professor Geir Dullerud, Chair of the MechSE CARES and DEI committee.

Learn more about the MechSE CARES initiative, its purpose and committee members.

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This story was published March 28, 2024.

Moscow Polytech: Statistics

Updated: February 29, 2024

Quick Review

Acceptance rate & admissions.

We've calculated the 70% acceptance rate for Moscow Polytech based on the ratio of admissions to applications and other circumstantial enrollment data. Treat this information as a rough guide and not as a definitive measure of your chances of admission. Different programs may have significantly varying admissions rates.

Research profile

Moscow Polytech has published 4,393 scientific papers with 6,605 citations received. The research profile covers a range of fields, including Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Quantum and Particle physics, Environmental Science, Materials Science, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Biology.

Moscow Polytech majors

by publication & citation count

Annual publication & citation counts

The tuition table for Moscow Polytech gives an overview of costs but prices are approximate and subject to change and don't include accommodation, textbooks, or living expenses. The costs of programs might differ significantly for local and international students. The only source of truth for current numbers is the university's official website.

The currency used is Russian Ruble (RUB).

Moscow Polytech has on-campus housing.

Programs and Degrees

The table below displays academic fields with programs and courses that lead to Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees offered by Moscow Polytech.

Note that the table provides a general overview and might not cover all the specific majors available at the university. Always visit the university's website for the most up-to-date information on the programs offered.

Moscow Polytech faculties and divisions

General information, location and contacts, moscow polytech in social media.

What Can You Do With an MS in Engineering Management?

Industry Advice Engineering

With so many degree specializations available, engineering can be a difficult field to navigate as a recent graduate. There are numerous factors when choosing a career path, but among the most important aspects to consider are your long-term professional goals. A master’s degree in engineering management can prepare you for the technical demands of the field and provide a leadership foundation for the future.

If you’re wondering whether advancing your education aligns with your career goals, here’s a closer look at what engineering management is, what you can do with a master’s degree, and whether earning an advanced degree in this field is worth it.

What Is Engineering Management?

From healthcare and banking to communications and entertainment, organizations are increasingly using tech-based solutions to design and deliver products and services. As a result, businesses need more leaders who are proficient in both engineering and business management. Engineering management is meant to bridge this gap between engineering and business operations.

Engineering management is an interdisciplinary approach to training project managers, providing them with the technical background and business leadership skills needed to oversee projects and product development in various industries. Since this discipline connects many different departments, engineering management focuses on expanding proficiency in several skill sets to understand both the technical and strategic sides of development to communicate objectives to business stakeholders effectively.

Do You Need a Master’s Degree To Be an Engineering Manager?

A specialized degree is always helpful when entering the workforce but is not required. Individual employers typically determine whether or not applicants need a master’s degree in engineering management, and most employers require a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience , according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

If you don’t have a relevant undergraduate degree, however, returning to school may be a great option if you want to broaden your career options. In fact, a master’s degree can increase your earning potential by approximately 18 percen t.

Jobs You Can Get With a Master’s in Engineering Management

Earning a master’s in engineering management equips you with the skills to succeed in the engineering industry. Dedicated to training technically skilled organizational leaders, the degree prepares students to navigate both business and engineering challenges. If you’re considering earning a graduate degree, here are potential job titles you can pursue as a result of advancing your education.

Engineering Manager

Engineering managers oversee engineering-based product development and the operations that support it. They’re in charge of making the best strategic choices regarding project prioritization, supply chain management, process optimization, product design, compliance protocols, and more. A master’s in engineering management is specifically designed to prepare students for this demanding role.

Systems Engineer

Systems engineers build, implement, and maintain systems involved in production, coordination, or service delivery. Combining technical and human-centered practices, systems engineers create and troubleshoot tools, systems, and processes to solve real-world problems as efficiently as possible. For this role, an engineering management degree equips you to analyze the information required to coordinate data, people, resources, and services to develop adaptable systems to satisfy complex goals.

Project Manager

Project managers work in all industries supervising company outputs, monitoring performance, and developing the most efficient workflows. A master’s in engineering management is extremely beneficial to those interested in working in engineering, technology, or manufacturing because these industries often have complex processes that require both business operations knowledge and engineering expertise.

Manufacturing Engineer

This type of engineer specifically works in manufacturing, which could be mechanical, chemical, or digital. Manufacturing engineers must have a thorough understanding of operations, material processing, equipment handling, and system maintenance associated with their manufacturing methods. A master’s in engineering management provides the in-depth engineering and managerial education needed to optimize costs, resources, processes, safety, and supply chains.

Program Manager

An engineering program manager directs all the technical, functional, and strategic processes involved in developing and executing programs and products. They decide what technologies and processes to use, guide research, and coordinate staff, stakeholders, and supply chains. An engineering management degree offers the expertise needed to gain a broad view of operations, analyze problems, and make strategic decisions.

Principal Engineer

Principal engineers are high-ranking leaders who provide direction for other engineers. They’re often considered industry authorities; therefore, principal engineers must stay current on best practices, regulations, and other changing conditions in engineering fields. An engineering management degree prepares principal engineers to be organizational leaders with the comprehensive experience and skills to align the goals of senior management, clients, and engineering teams.

Product Manager

Product managers plan and oversee a product strategy from research and conception to launch and beyond. They manage production timelines and assess product demand, user needs, and market gaps to devise solutions for developing new products and improvements to existing ones. A master’s degree in engineering management can prepare product managers to balance research, design, development, sales, and marketing objectives to deliver products that serve long-term business goals.

Quality Engineer/Analyst

A quality engineer is responsible for monitoring the quality of manufactured goods. They assess quality standards and implement solutions to meet the criteria through testing, documentation, maintenance, and risk mitigation. Quality engineers can benefit from a master’s degree because it offers industry-specific knowledge in manufacturing. For example, students learn how to put processes in place to control quality on a large scale.

Business Analyst

While analysts work in every industry, they can specialize in helping engineering businesses evaluate the competitive landscape and innovate to become industry leaders. From customers and resources to regulations and supply chains, analysts assess internal and external factors affecting the business and develop strategic ways to improve product offerings and stand out from competitors.

Is a Master’s in Engineering Management Worth It?

While earning a master’s degree can be very beneficial to your career options, there are other factors that may hold you back from advancing your education. Graduate programs take time and money to complete, so it’s important to make sure this commitment is worth the investment. Here are three factors that you should consider when applying to master’s programs.

Higher Salary Potential

Earning a master’s degree isn’t cheap, but there is plenty of evidence indicating that it’s money well spent. According to a government report, the median annual salary of engineering managers is $135,040. This is largely due to the fact that engineering managers are classified as organizational leadership roles that require extensive skills. As a result, engineering professionals who earn this degree typically command higher salaries.

Positive Job Growth

Technology is at the forefront of innovation in every industry, which means engineering professionals with interdisciplinary skill sets are becoming increasingly valuable to organizations. Government data shows that engineering manager positions grow at a rate of 1.7 percent annually. While engineering positions are growing, so are leadership roles that require engineering expertise. Earning a master’s degree expands engineers’ career options by offering management training to expedite their entry into these higher-level leadership positions.

Valuable Experience

The best master’s degree programs take an experiential learning approach, giving students the opportunity to study alongside experts in the field and apply their skills in real engineering projects. These curriculums are designed to stimulate technical, analytical, operational, strategic, and human-centered thinking to solve problems.

Earning your master’s from an accredited institution, like Northeastern’s Master of Science in Engineering Management  program, can set you apart from other job candidates. Not only will you have a more robust project portfolio, but you’ll also have more industry-specific experience from experiential opportunities such as internships, networking, and job placement.

Become a Leader in the Field

The engineering field is vast and multifaceted, giving you the flexibility to mold your education to your career goals as they evolve. Whatever industry, organization, or specialization you choose, a master’s degree can help you get to the forefront of your field. Just as engineers have led the way in new technological advances, you too can take charge and learn how to lead a company into the future.

Want to become a business leader in the engineering, manufacturing, or technology industry? Check out our  Master of Science in Engineering Management programs to learn more about how this degree can elevate your career.

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