types of engineering phds

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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The Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering can be done in conjunction with a Ph.D. (for the M.S./Ph.D. option) or alone. Degrees are granted after completion of programs of study that emphasize the application of the natural sciences to the analysis and solution of engineering problems. Advanced courses in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and the life sciences are normally included in a program that incorporates the engineering systems approach for analysis of problems. Students must have a bachelors degree in one of the accredited engineering curricula or satisfy the equivalent of a bachelors degree in engineering as determined by the department concerned for admission to this program.

For more information, please see Graduate Handbook 7.1 .  A printable version of the curriculum can be found here .

Though the vast majority of students in our program earn the Ph.D., the D.Eng can be earned in rare cases. Degrees are granted after completion of programs of study in professional engineering emphasizing technical, sociological, environmental, and economic problems involved in the design, construction, and operation of engineering structures, processes, and equipment. Studies include courses in the engineering sciences necessary to the engineering interpretation of the latest scientific developments, as well as courses in design, operation, humanities, and economics to provide bases for the analysis and solution of problems in professional engineering. Students must have a BS degree in one of the accredited engineering curricula or satisfy the equivalent of a BS degree in engineering as determined by the department concerned.

Engineering and Applied Sciences

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You will work toward a degree in one of six subjects— Applied Mathematics ;  Applied Physics ;  Computational Science & Engineering ;  Computer Science ;  Data Science —and Engineering Sciences, which includes Bioengineering , Electrical Engineering , Environmental Science and Engineering , and Materials Science & Mechanical Engineering . SEAS also offers a master's in design engineering jointly with the Harvard Graduate School of Design* and an MS/MBA: Engineering Sciences program ** jointly with Harvard Business School. PhD, SM, and ME students study primarily with SEAS faculty and are enrolled in and receive their degree from the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

You may also pursue collaborative options through the Medical Engineering and Medical Physics program, which is part of the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology , and supplement your studies by cross-registering in other Harvard graduate schools or at MIT.

Graduates of the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have gone on to found their own startups and work at some of the world's largest companies such as Intel, Tesla, Microsoft, Merck, IBM, McKinsey & Company, Amazon, JP Morgan, NASA, Google, and Apple. Others have gone on to academic careers with faculty appointments at MIT, Princeton, Columbia, Yale, Stanford, Imperial College-London, and Harvard.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the  Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences  (SEAS) and requirements for the degree are detailed in  Policies .

*Prospective students who are interested in the master in design engineering degree program apply through the Harvard Graduate School of Design.

**Prospective students who are interested in the MS/MBA: Engineering Sciences degree program apply through Harvard Business School.​

***Prospective students who are interested in the Quantum Science and Engineering degree apply to Harvard Griffin GSAS through the Quantum Science and Engineering Program. 

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)

Academic Background

Applicants typically have bachelor’s degrees in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, or engineering. In the application for admission, select “Engineering and Applied Sciences” as your degree program choice and your degree and area of interest from the “Area of Study“ drop-down. PhD applicants must complete the Supplemental SEAS Application Form as part of the online application process.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Not Accepted

AB/SM Program

Harvard College students may apply to the AB/SM program , which enables them to earn a master’s degree in applied mathematics, applied physics, computational science and engineering, computer science, or engineering sciences while simultaneously completing their AB degree. Students interested in applying for the AB/SM should contact the Office of Undergraduate Education at Harvard College about eligibility.

Special Instructions for Medical Engineering and Medical Physics

If you are also applying to the Medical Engineering and Medical Physics program, please review their admissions instructions . By December 15, you must send a PDF of your completed Harvard Griffin GSAS application to [email protected] .

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

PhD Admissions

Earn your doctorate at duke.

Completing a PhD program in engineering is hard. Really hard. But after years of preparation, frustration and celebration, a Duke doctorate stands out from the crowd.

Between field-defining faculty and a web of industrial, entrepreneurial and public-policy connections, with a Duke Engineering PhD, you can just about go anywhere and do just about anything your heart desires.

And with Duke’s comprehensive financial and professional support, you won’t take that journey alone.

Duke: The Path to a High-Impact Career

Wherever your path leads you, a Duke PhD will ensure you’ll arrive prepared to make a difference.

Biomedical Engineering

Civil & Environmental Engineering

Electrical & Computer Engineering

Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science

Guaranteed funding.

Duke provides significant financial support. And that’s just the beginning. There’s mentorship and career exploration support, too.

Generous Stipend

Guaranteed pay, 12 months a year, for the first five years

Paid Tuition

Covered by Duke during the first five years of study

For the first five years, Duke pays all mandatory fees

Insurance Coverage

For six years, Duke pays your health and dental premiums

Applying to Duke

Contact us at [email protected]

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5 years of stipend—plus six years of health and dental coverage

Find Your Deadline

See the application calendar for all Duke PhD programs

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Diversity Makes Better Engineers

An optimist sees the glass as half full. A pessimist? Half empty. An engineer sees a glass that’s twice as big as it needs to be. Point is, engineers see things differently. Duke engineers see things very differently. Why use glass at all? Can we create a more efficient material? Ooh, should we include a water quality sensor? Here, we value different backgrounds and ways of thinking—because new approaches generate new solutions.

PhD students

Phd students per tenure-track faculty member, of our phd students received an nsf or other prestigious fellowship, in new research awards won in fy22, best graduate biomedical engineering program.

U.S. News & World Report

Lower cost of living in Durham vs. Boston

Facilities: welcome to wilkinson.

The newest of our buildings is 81,000 square feet of transformational design. Inside Wilkinson are research neighborhoods focused on advances in health, computing and the environment.

Dedicated workspaces for doctoral students feature natural light and campus views.

Durham and Beyond

Location. location. location..

At the north vertex of North Carolina’s famed Research Triangle, the city of Durham is essential to the Duke Engineering experience. Among our neighbors are hundreds of startups and standard bearers both private and public, a growing collection of James Beard Award-winning chefs, and a quickly growing community and skyline. River rafting, trail hiking, mountain climbing and sandy beaches are all just a couple hours’ drive away.

It doesn’t take an advanced degree to see why Durham is the #3 best place to live in America according to U.S. News and World Report, but come get one here anyway.

Interested in joining our community?

Start a conversation with Duke.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

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• Mechanical Engineering

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!

PhDs in Science and Engineering

Types of degree

Before you decide on a project, you’ll want to make sure you’ve chosen the science and engineering postgraduate research path that works best for you.

We offer several different types of research degree here at Manchester, all of which provide an opportunity to build skills and experiences that will help you to achieve your personal and career development goals.

In the Faculty of Science and Engineering these options are;

• Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT PhD) : four-year research degrees which combine research with training
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) : three to four-year programmes of supervised research, with a wide range of science PhDs and engineering PhDs available.
• Engineering Doctorate : specialised engineering programmes which incorporate a taught component and industry collaboration.
• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) : typically a 12-month programme assessed by the submission and examination of a shorter thesis than that required for a PhD.
• MSc by Research : a 12-month programme including subject-specific taught course units, research skills training and research project(s).

Look through a full list of our postgraduate research options across The University of Manchester >>

A focus on... Centres for Doctoral Training

A Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) is a postgraduate research opportunity provided by a group of institutions, rather than just one university. You’ll be working across several higher education institutions, as well as with industry partners, to contribute to work in nationally recognised priority research areas. Providing cohort-based training and offering generous funding, CDT studentships are an excellent way to gain your PhD while working at the cutting edge of UK research.

The University of Manchester Faculty of Science and Engineering is recruiting for a number of CDTs in 2024 and 2025, with research areas in graphene and 2D materials, artificial intelligence, robotics and nuclear energy.

Find details of Manchester’s CDT opportunities below.

Manchester based CDTs

Recruiting students now :

• AI CDT in Decision Making for Complex Systems Led by Dr Mauricio A Álvarez, this CDT will train the next generation of AI researchers to develop AI methods designed to accelerate new scientific discoveries.
• SATURN (Skills and Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear) CDT Led by Professor Scott Heath, the primary aim of SATURN is to provide high quality research training in science and engineering, underpinning nuclear fission technology.

Recruiting students from 2025 :

• 2D Materials of Tomorrow CDT Led by Professor Irina Grigorieva, this CDT will focus on a new class of advanced materials with potential to transform modern technologies, from clean energy to quantum engineering.
• Robotics and AI for Net Zero CDT (coming soon) Led by Dr Simon Watson, this CDT will train and develop the next generation of multi-disciplinary robotic systems engineers to help revolutionise lifecycle asset management, in support of the UK’s Net Zero Strategy.

No longer recruiting students :

• Advanced Biomedical Materials CDT
• Integrated Catalysis (iCAT) CDT .

External CDTs

Recruiting students :

• Aerosol Science CDT (Continuing with a new CDT from September 2024)
• Compound Semiconductor Manufacturing CDT (Continuing with a new CDT from September 2024)
• Fusion CDT (Continuing with a new CDT from September 2024)
• Royce CDT in Developing National Capability in Materials 4.0 .
• Advanced Metallic Systems CDT
• BioDesign Engineering CDT
• Future Innovation in Non-Descrictive evaluation (FIND) CDT.

Got a question about CDTs?

Use our interactive feature to answer any common queries you might have about studying in a CDT.

Use typeform to ask a question about Centre for Doctoral Training .

A focus on... Dual awards

Want to carry out some of your research in a different country? We partner with a range of international universities, including many which host joint scholarships with us.

Our research projects offer places at such prestigious institutions as China’s Tsinghua University, the University of Melbourne, the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, and the Indian Institute of Science Bangalore.

Here's our full list of currently available dual awards >>

Want the latest updates?

Sign up to our postgraduate research newsletter to keep up to date with the latest updates and projects from the Faculty of Science and engineering.

• Stay up to date by completing our form .
• Socials. Hear the latest from the Faculty by keeping up with our social media channels on  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Not sure which type of degree is best for you? Got a question about applying, funding or something else?

Chat to our friendly application team

Types of Engineering Doctoral Degrees in the United States

A layperson might assume that engineering degrees are a simple tiered system where a student goes from associate to bachelor’s to master’s degree to, finally, a doctorate, perhaps with some branching academic career paths for engineering specialists . In truth, it’s a little more nuanced than that. For instance, if you were to look up doctor of engineering vs phd 210, you would find that they are two different degrees. They represent a similar level of academic achievement, but the benefits of a phd in engineering and the type of work that you will be able to claim with such a degree are going to differ from those of someone who has attained a doctor of engineering degree, even though your academic career paths, knowledge, and skills will have quite a bit of overlap.

So what’s the key difference between doctor of engineering vs phd? In some circles the two are referred to interchangeably, and various academic cultures around the world may not differentiate between the two at all. But in Western engineering, a phd is going to be more academic while a doctor of engineering is going to be more practical. A doctor of engineering may write research papers just like an engineering phd, but the doctor of engineering is going to be writing papers addressing specific problems that must be solved. A phd may be more concerned with theoretical and academic research, where a doctor of engineering’s work may point specifically towards, for instance, how to improve fuel economy in the trucking industry.

As you may have already guessed, a doctor of engineering salary may be a bit higher than a phd’s salary, and they will have a broader range of career options before them. A doctor of engineering may be contracted for research and design work by automotive and tech companies , they may be enlisted as a consultant by government agencies. The benefits of a phd in engineering 40 are nothing to sneeze at, of course, but benefits of a phd in engineering generally relate to academic areas. That is to say that a phd can write their own ticket at universities around the world, becoming a tenured and well-regarded professor with their work being cited in countless books and studies. But, their career path will generally be limited to the world of academics. Not every doctor of engineering salary​ is going to be in the six figure range, but where a phd can look for work at other universities, a doctor can look for work in any field where engineering skills are valued.

In terms of study, in a phd program, a student’s training will culminate in the writing of a thesis addressing a common challenge faced by practicing engineers. A doctor of engineering’s research is towards applied engineering, addressing specific problems rather than basic or general concerns and theories.

It is not hard to find worthwhile online doctor of engineering programs or more specific programs like training for a doctorate in engineering management distance learning. Online phd programs, being more academically oriented than online doctor of engineering programs 40 or a doctorate in engineering management distance learning 50 program, tend to be less comprehensive than you might want for a career that will largely be oriented around the university life.

If any of this sounds a little too broad, think of it this way: A phd in engineering is like a degree in literature. Becoming a doctor of engineering is like learning how to write novels. Each profession will draw on the work of the other, but the former is primarily oriented around theory, while the latter is oriented around practice.

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

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Doctoral Program (PhD)

The Engineering Education PhD Program bridges education research, theory and practice in engineering disciplines across the university and trains engineers to provide innovative educational experiences through practices of experiential learning, inclusion and accessibility, and other best practices in education.

The PhD in Engineering Education program will prepare students to successfully conduct rigorous engineering education research, disseminate the results of that research to other engineering education scholars and translate their findings into classroom practice. The PhD program will provide a thorough introduction to concepts, theories, models, frameworks and pedagogies that are central to engineering education and learning. It will equip students to use a variety of qualitative and quantitative research methods and apply them in their selected area of specialization as they develop their engineering education scholarship and expertise.

Adrienne Decker 140C Capen Hall (716) 645-8963 [email protected]

Learning Outcomes

By the completion of the PhD degree program, students are expected to demonstrate the following primary student learning outcomes:

• Explain the foundations and describe the history of engineering educational practices.
• Cite and describe research and theory that establish best practices in engineering education.
• Identify and implement best practices for instruction and assessment in the classroom in the context of typical types of engineering courses.
• Read, design and conduct research leading to deeper understanding and innovative utilization of existing knowledge and creation of new knowledge in the field of engineering education.
• Describe and assess critical issues of accessibility, inclusion and diversity in engineering education from the perspectives of student learning and persistence and the overall engineering education enterprise.
• Describe and explain graduate-level topics in an engineering content area such as biomedical, chemical and biological, civil, structural, environmental, computer, electrical, industrial, mechanical and aerospace engineering.

Students in the PhD program will be required to complete 72 credit hours (up to 30 hours may be research credits). The curriculum is designed around three focus areas:

• DEE Foundational Courses
• Core Engineering Courses: Four courses (12 credits) at the 500 level in an engineering field
• Theory Course: One course in either learning theory, educational psychology or sociological foundation of education
• GSE Research Methods Courses
• Electives from pre-approved courses

Course Overview

* Courses with a DEE prefix do not prepare students to become professional engineers. The PhD in Engineering Education is not a licensure-leading engineering degree program. It does not prepare its graduates for the NYS professional engineering licensure exam. The MS in Engineering Education is not a licensure-leading engineering degree program. 

Employment Opportunities with an Engineering Education PhD

• Faculty in a department of engineering education
• Faculty in an engineering department as a discipline based education research faculty member
• Teaching faculty in engineering at the college level
• Director of training for corporations, foundations, etc.
• Policymaker or public servant
• Staff at a university or college of engineering
• Director of engineering diversity, equity and inclusion programs
• Many other jobs that require the thoughtful coordination of engineering and education

Prospective students with a bachelor’s degree in engineering (minimum GPA of 3.0) are invited to apply. The GRE is not required. Admission to the program must be done online via the online  Application Management System .

Application Materials

• Transcripts
• Statement of Purpose
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Recommendation Letters
•   Requirements for demonstration of English Language Proficiency
• $85 Application Fee

No physical documents should be sent to our office. Everything should be sent electronically and uploaded via the application portal.

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Best Doctorates in Aerospace Engineering: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

Graduates with a PhD in Aerospace Engineering can become leaders in the aerospace design field. This advanced degree is one of the highest academic achievements you can get and a great choice for anyone with a deep interest in aircraft and spacecraft design, dynamics, and development. An aerospace engineering PhD opens the door to high-level, lucrative engineering jobs and to opportunities to enter the field of academia as a professor.

Our guide covers the best PhDs in Aerospace Engineering and the best aerospace engineering jobs. We’ve included a few online degree options for those who wish to earn their degree while working full-time. We’ll end with what you can expect from a PhD in Aerospace Engineering salary and job outlooks in the field.

Find your bootcamp match

What is a phd in aerospace engineering.

A PhD in Aerospace Engineering is the highest academic qualification in the field of aerospace design. Aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering are the two main branches of aerospace engineering, the former involving aircraft that function within Earth’s atmosphere and the latter involving aircraft outside Earth’s atmosphere.

Maintenance engineers, aircraft developers, and spaceship developers are just a few of the career options open to those with an aerospace engineering PhD. Similar fields of study include robotics, automotive engineering, and mechatronics.

How to Get Into an Aerospace Engineering PhD Program: Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering are typically a four-year undergraduate degree or, in some cases, a master’s degree. The bachelor’s degree can be in any engineering field with core subjects related to aerospace engineering.

Other typical requirements for admission into this degree program include the submission of academic transcripts, scores from standardized tests like the GRE/GMAT, a letter of recommendation, a thoroughly updated resume, and a personal statement to indicate your dedication. Having a strong research background and articles published in scientific journals may also be required.

PhD in Aerospace Engineering Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree and an engineering background
• Copies of academic transcripts and published articles (if any)
• Letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose or personal statement
• A comprehensive resume or curriculum vitae

Aerospace Engineering PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Aerospace Engineering?

It is very hard to get into a PhD program in aerospace engineering because it is one of the toughest engineering degrees. Do you know the saying, “It isn’t rocket science”? Well, this literally is rocket science. You need to have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of engineering and mathematical concepts in order to excel in this field.

The acceptance rates for aerospace engineering PhD programs at the top universities are quite low. For example, the California Institute of Technology’s aerospace engineering PhD program has an acceptance rate of about 9 percent . However, this school’s particular engineering graduate program has been singled out as the most selective in the nation. There are other programs that are less challenging to get into if you are motivated and prepared.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Aerospace Engineering: In Brief

Best universities for aerospace engineering phds: where to get a phd in aerospace engineering.

The best universities for aerospace engineering PhDs include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, California Institute of Technology, and Stanford University. If you are wondering where to get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, we’ll take a detailed look at some of the top institutes in the US.

We’ve researched the admissions process requirements, academic coursework, and required semester hours or credits and listed them in the section below to make sure that qualified students can easily get a PhD and start working in the aerospace engineering field. Read on for more information.

The California Institute of Technology , also known as Caltech, is a private research university in Pasadena, California, that was founded in 1891. The university excels in science and engineering and is one of the world's top, most selective universities. It has six different academic divisions but its main emphasis is on the fields of science and engineering.

PhD in Aeronautics or Space Engineering

Students admitted into this PhD program must complete first-year coursework that is the same as the first year of the master's degree program. Then they must select a research advisor and pass a qualifying exam. 

The qualifying exam determines the student’s readiness to tackle the challenges that are a major characteristic of PhD-level research. Prior to graduating, students will need to host a seminar presenting the outcomes of their thesis study.

PhD in Aeronautics or Space Engineering Overview

• Program Length: Approximately 4-5 years
• Acceptance Rate: 9%
• Tuition and Fees: $58,467/year
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, external fellowships, institute fellowships, loans, stipends

PhD in Aeronautics or Space Engineering Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Academic transcripts
• A resume or CV
• A statement of purpose

The Georgia Institute of Technology , more commonly known as Georgia Tech, has evolved a lot since its inception in 1885. The PhD in Aerospace Engineering program at Georgia Tech is renowned for its academic and research excellence. It is widely regarded as the most rigorous program in the school.

PhD in Aerospace Engineering

Aerodynamics, Fluid and Structural Mechanics, Material Behavior, Aeroelasticity and Structural Dynamics, Propulsion and Combustion, System Design and Optimization, and Flight Mechanics and control are among the specializations available to the students of this PhD program.

You must reach specific milestones within a set timeframe in order to successfully complete this PhD. These include a qualifying exam, a thesis proposal, and a successful research defense.

PhD in Aerospace Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Tuition and Fees: $14,064/year (full-time in state); $29,140/year (full-time out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, fellowships, out-of-state tuition waivers, outside sponsorships, veterans services
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field 
• GRE/GMAT scores
• Relevant work experience

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is among the world’s most prestigious institutes of technology. It has created countless inventions, including pioneering high-speed photography and inventing a new kind of matter. 

At the institutional level, MIT provides significant support for multidisciplinary research throughout its multiple schools and departments.

PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics

The mission of this program is to produce original research in the field of aerospace engineering and create new leaders in the field. Graduates of this program will be able to solve future problems in aerospace engineering through advanced analytical and reasoning skills and communicate their solutions effectively.

PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics Overview

• Program Length: Not given
• Acceptance Rate: 6.7% (graduate school)
• Tuition and Fees: $28,795/year (in state); $1,440 for the first 3 semesters, plus $4,430/ subsequent semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Research assistantships, aero/astro diversity fellowships, teaching assistantships, MIT-sponsored fellowships, external fellowships

PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics Admission Requirements

• Online application for PhD study and application fee: $75
• Statement of objectives
• Transcripts
• English proficiency scores (international students)

Princeton University meets high standards for academic excellence and research opportunities across the board. Students pursuing a PhD in Engineering (such as the PhD in Mechanical Engineering or the PhD in Aerospace Engineering) from this institute benefit from exchange programs with other top colleges and universities across the globe.

PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

The program educates researchers in engineering and applied sciences, preparing them for jobs in academia, industry, and government. It stresses foundational knowledge, deep knowledge, and outstanding communication abilities.

PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 5 years
• Acceptance Rate: 11% (graduate school)
• Tuition: $56,010/year (in state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Research assistantships, instruction assistantships, departmental funds, external fellowships

PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Admission Requirements

• A statement of purpose and an updated resume/CV
• Recommendation letters 
• Academic transcripts from your graduate degree
• Statement of financial resources and the area of interest for research
• English language tests (international students)

Stanford University is located in Palo Alto, California. It is consistently listed among the world's finest institutions. It was founded in 1885 and currently serves more than 17,000 students. It follows high academic standards and offers a number of engineering programs.

Students enrolled in this PhD program receive a broad-based education in aeronautics and astronautics through coursework as well as rigorous research in a particular area that culminates in a doctoral thesis.

• Program Length: 4-6 years
• Tuition and Fees: $66,297/year (full time)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowships, research assistantships, training grants, teaching assistantships
• Bachelor’s or graduate degree and academic transcripts
• Online application and application fee
• Statement of purpose
• TOEFL scores (if applicable)

Texas A&M University (TAMU) is a land-grant university located in College Station, Texas. It is a public institute that was created in 1876. It serves as the flagship institution of the Texas A&M University System. As of fall 2021, TAMU had the largest student body in the United States. It is the only university in the state to be designated as a land, marine, and space grant institution concurrently.

This PhD program provides you with in-depth knowledge of your chosen topic of study, research methods, and engineering principles. For degree completion, research must be carried out successfully in one of the following areas: aerodynamics, propulsion, dynamics, materials, or systems, and human integration. Tuition rates are based on a 9-credit-per-semester rate. 

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• Tuition and Fees: $8,026/semester (in state); $17,553/semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, academic excellence fellowship, Amelia Earhart Fellowships for Women
• Online application
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree
• Transcripts or grades from other institutions
• Internships or other work experience and published works (if any)
• TOEFL score, a statement of purpose, a resume, recommendation letters

With 15 interdisciplinary research institutes, the University of Colorado Boulder offers PhD students a variety of research options. The College of Engineering & Applied Science provides graduate degrees in eight fields of engineering and applied science. 

PhD in Aerospace Engineering Sciences

CU Boulder offers a varied range of opportunities for interdisciplinary research, ranging from space systems and control theory to biotechnology. Numerous collaborative research centers are available for students pursuing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering Sciences to collaborate with other students and researchers. While the acceptance rate for the entire university is 84 percent, there isn’t an available acceptance rate for this program specifically.

The school’s popular research centers include the Anschutz Medical Campus, the National Science Foundation's Industry-University Cooperative Research Program, and the Colorado Renewable Energy Collaboratory.

PhD in Aerospace Engineering Sciences Overview

• Tuition and Fees: $17,068/year (in state); $35,824/year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate student assistantships, fellowships and grants, student employment

PhD in Aerospace Engineering Sciences Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree
• A graduate faculty advisor
• Courses taken in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations at the undergraduate level
• 2 semesters of calculus-based physics and engineering

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a land-grant research public university in Champaign and Urbana, Illinois. It is the system's flagship institution, having been founded in 1867.

This institute currently enrolls about 56,000 undergraduate and graduate students, making it one of the largest public colleges in the country.

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at this institute is a world leader in aerospace research and engineering. It is committed to excellence and leadership in teaching, research, and service through internationally renowned staff and state-of-the-art research facilities.

• Acceptance Rate: 37% (college of engineering)
• Tuition: $18,256/year (in state); $34,762/year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Internal and external fellowships, research and teaching assistantships, graduate awards
• GPA of at least 3.0
• Letters of recommendation, transcripts, certificate of declaration of finances
• Completed online application
• Paid application fee of $70 ($90 for international students)

The University of Michigan is a forward-thinking research university. It is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and has been designated an R1 institution. With such a strong research focus, the university's PhD in Aerospace Engineering program provides ample opportunities for multidisciplinary research.

Michigan’s aerospace engineering program is the nation's oldest and most highly ranked collegiate aeronautics program. The graduate studies cover fundamental and contemporary aerospace themes, as well as a graduate seminar led by leading academics. 

• Acceptance Rate: 10% 
• Tuition and Fees: $25,230.38/year (in state); $50,646.38/year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: All PhD applicants accepted receive full funding for at least 5 years; students are encouraged to pursue outside fellowships from NSF, DoD, NASA, or DoE.
• A Master’s Degree in Engineering is not required but a background in engineering and math is
• Statement of purpose and resume/CV

The University of Texas at Austin is the oldest institution in the University of Texas System, having been founded in 1883. It is also the largest institution in the system, with over 50,000 undergraduate and graduate students and over 24,000 faculty and staff.

This aerospace engineering graduate program is ranked 10th nationwide, and its students work with world-class faculty. Alumni have gone on to become astronauts, administrators, and pioneers in the area of aeronautical engineering.

• Tuition and Fees: $8,684 to $10,848/year (in state); $17,312 to $19,786/year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Research assistantships, teaching assistantships, fellowships
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering or any related engineering degree from an accredited university
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in graduate-level work
• Reference letters

Can You Get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering online. An online program will provide flexibility and convenience for you, which is especially helpful if you wish to pursue your PhD with fewer compromises to your work and personal life.

Best Online PhD Programs in Aerospace Engineering

How long does it take to get a phd in aerospace engineering.

It takes about four to five years to get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, which is the lengthiest timeframe for a degree. The main reason it takes so long to complete these engineering degree programs is that it requires original and authentic research, which takes time and dedication to produce.

The process will train you to be a researcher who can make innovative discoveries. You will first complete advanced courses for the program, then conduct research using professional research techniques, and lastly write a professional and publishable dissertation, which for aerospace engineering can be book-length.

Is a PhD in Aerospace Engineering Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Aerospace Engineering is hard. An aerospace engineer must have a deep understanding of engineering science and technology. The design and construction of aircraft and spacecraft necessitates extensive knowledge of mathematics, encompassing principles like geometry, calculus, and statistics.

When it comes to design and testing, you will need a solid understanding of computers and electronic components. You must also possess a great deal of focus and dedication to complete your research and write your thesis. Strong communication skills come into play in writing articles for publication and defending your thesis.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering?

It costs about $19,792 per year to get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, according to the latest data from the National Center for Education Statistics. This cost applies to all public and private postsecondary degree-awarding institutions. The average annual tuition for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from a public institution is $12,410 per year, while the same degree from a private institution costs comparatively more per year, around $26,597.

Most doctoral programs, including those in aerospace engineering, provide ample funding opportunities to subsidize your studies. They include assistantships, fellowships, and external grants, which can sometimes cover the entire cost of your degree.

How to Pay for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering: PhD Funding Options

The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering include research assistantships, teaching assistantships, university fellowships, government fellowships, tuition waivers, performance allowances, external grants, and scholarships.

PhD students in the US are generally discouraged from engaging in external employment while pursuing their degree. This is because most schools provide work and research opportunities to help students pay for their degrees. Some schools even offer full coverage of expenses to students accepted into their program.

Some schools offering a PhD in Aerospace Engineering are funded by government agencies or private companies to make sure they produce quality research. This can attract the attention of top-performing students and draw them to these schools.

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What Is the Difference Between an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree and PhD?

The difference between an aerospace engineering master’s degree and a PhD is the amount of time spent in class versus the time spent researching. A master’s degree provides further specialization in aerospace engineering through relevant classes and hands-on experience.

A doctoral candidate spends only a small portion of time in class and a large portion of time conducting independent research. Typically, a PhD program teaches you how to conduct your own independent research and how to publish your findings and present them to an audience.

Master’s vs PhD in Aerospace Engineering Job Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for aerospace engineering graduates are expected to grow by 8 percent in this decade. This applies to entry-level jobs available for those who possess a bachelor’s degree.

In general, the higher your level of education, the more job opportunities will be open to you. For managerial positions like aerospace engineering managers or instructors, which come with an average salary of $152,350 and an expected job growth of four percent according to BLS, having an advanced degree will help you stand out among candidates. A PhD also prepares you to be a postsecondary teacher, which BLS shows has a 12 percent job growth rate in coming years .

Difference in Salary for Aerospace Engineering Master’s vs PhD

There is a considerable difference in salaries for master’s degree holders and PhD holders in the field of aerospace engineering. The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is about $91,000, according to PayScale. With this degree, you can work as an aerospace engineer, mechanical engineer, research scientist, research engineer, or senior systems engineer with small variations in annual salary.

On the other hand, the average salary for a PhD holder in aerospace engineering is about $111,000, according to PayScale. Many of the same jobs are available to these engineering professionals but with higher starting salaries. With an average difference in pay of $20,000 per year, earning a PhD in Aerospace Engineering should be high on your list of career goals as it can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.

Related Aerospace Engineering Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering

You should get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering if you want to be among the most highly skilled and highly paid engineers in this field. A doctorate in engineering qualifies you to teach at the college or university level. Research and development in a variety of engineering disciplines, as well as managerial jobs, are further great career options.

If you are involved in research and development in the aerospace industry, getting a PhD will place you on a much higher level in your work due to the advanced research and development skills gained in earning your degree. Courses are taught by experienced aerospace and aeronautical engineers and industry leaders in the aerospace industry and aviation industry, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn from them and sharpen your research skills.

There are sectors both inside and outside the aerospace industry where a PhD is considered almost essential for solving complex problems. Having a PhD will help increase your authority and give your peers and superiors more confidence in your work.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Aerospace Engineering

• Higher salaries. Following this program of study and getting a PhD in Aerospace Engineering results in higher salaries for the same job as compared to having a master’s or bachelor’s degree.
• Funding for research projects. The authority and experience that comes with a doctoral degree vastly increases your chances of winning various government-funded and privately funded research projects. This can help you become a leader and innovator in the field.
• Robust academic career. Many aerospace engineering students who pursue a doctoral degree intend to make a career in academia rather than in the industry. You can publish research papers and grow as a respected researcher in this field.
• More career options overall. In addition to research opportunities, PhD holders in this field have more job options overall. These are usually higher-ranked positions. You are also eligible to become a postsecondary teacher of engineering subjects at colleges and universities.

Getting a PhD in Aerospace Engineering: Aerospace Engineering PhD Coursework

While pursuing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, you have the opportunity to perform research in the fields of aerospace structures and propulsion as well as aerodynamic systems. As soon as you complete the graduate admissions process, you’ll need to put your previous academic background to good use because doctoral courses require a massive amount of both knowledge and research.

You will be required to complete a specific number of minimum credit hours in your graduate-level coursework on topics such as the fundamentals of fluid mechanics, aerospace engineering design, and advanced computational aerodynamics. Below are examples of the types of courses you can expect during your formal coursework.

Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics

This fluid mechanics course typically spans everything from air reentry at hypersonic speeds to particle transport and biofluid flow. Classes like this one provide opportunities for students to learn the wide range of experimental, computational, and theoretical approaches that are used to solve issues with fluid dynamics and mechanics.

Aerospace Engineering Design

This graduate study course deals with aeronautics , astronautics, and design concepts that address the essential principles and methodologies of aerospace engineering. The course promotes active learning by making use of exploration technologies.

Advanced Computational Aerodynamics

This course helps you understand and make sense of flow physics and numerical methods to identify and create solution algorithms for ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and partial differential equations (PDEs). It also helps you with the ability to pick and design solution algorithms for flight dynamics that can be described as vicious, inviscid, compressible, or incompressible.

Spacecraft Optimal Estimation

This course teaches conventional and new estimate techniques and links them to modern dynamic systems encountered in aeronautical specialties. It emphasizes the mathematical thinking and modeling of physical problems. The course applies to both spacecraft and aircraft systems.

Computational Multibody Dynamics

In this course, you will study the theoretical, numerical, and methodological foundations that will allow you to build your first model-based designs (MBDs) before you proceed to more complicated ones.

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How to Get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering: Doctoral Program Requirements

Getting a doctoral degree in aerospace engineering involves having a solid background in the fundamentals of aerospace engineering, represented by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field. This knowledge is assessed by a preliminary exam.

A PhD dissertation must also be completed and defended, requiring you to demonstrate your ability to investigate and provide a solution for an original research problem. Below is a more thorough list of the steps that are required to complete all doctoral program requirements. We’ve done the research for you on how to get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, so read on to find out more.

Doctoral students must complete the coursework required for the degree within the first academic year. While doing so, they must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, which could vary for different universities.

The credits required for a PhD can vary based on a number of different factors, but generally you need a minimum of 48 credits for this degree. Most of your time will be spent conducting research rather than sitting in a classroom.

Before taking the PhD candidacy qualification examination, you must complete three semesters of research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. In order to do this, you first need to present a dissertation proposal by the end of the third semester to formally start the proceedings for your dissertation research work.

In most cases, there is a requirement for scientific publication in reputed journals with a good impact factor to produce a high-quality dissertation thesis in an aerospace engineering PhD degree program.

Via the qualification exam, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the principles of your chosen discipline, your capacity to conduct original research, and your ability to successfully convey your findings to a broad audience. 

Overall, the qualification examination encourages you to consolidate the knowledge and skills you have gained throughout the program. It is the responsibility of the department to determine whether you have met the degree standards and qualify for the doctoral degree in engineering. 

Many universities measure the performance of each student during the research and coursework phases by conducting annual reviews. These reviews are done by the PhD advisory faculty committees, the school of aerospace engineering, and the personal advisor or supervisor.

If a candidate fails to meet the minimum requirements of the annual review, there is a chance of cancellation of the degree by the school. 

The PhD program concludes with the completion of an original dissertation on a research topic chosen by the student and its defense in front of the dissertation committee as a final public oral examination. The dissertation requirements include providing substantial and unique contributions to the development of knowledge in any sub-field related to aerospace engineering.

Potential Careers With an Aerospace Engineering Degree

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PhD in Aerospace Engineering Salary and Job Outlook

The PhD in Aerospace Engineering salary and job outlook is reasonably high, between four and 12 percent with most jobs. With a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, you will be among the most sought-after candidates in a wide range of engineering professions. You can either become an engineering professor in a university or college or work in the research and development sector of a company.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Aerospace Engineering?

With a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, you can have a successful career as a post-secondary engineering teacher, an aerospace engineer, an industrial engineer, a mechanical engineer, or a senior research officer. You can have a rewarding career in many leadership positions in academic- or industry-related jobs.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Aerospace Engineering

• Post-secondary engineering teacher
• Aerospace engineer
• Industrial engineer
• Mechanical engineer
• Senior research officer

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering?

The average salary for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering is about $112,000 , according to the data collected by PayScale. A PhD holder earns the most among people with educational and professional backgrounds in aerospace engineering.The average fluctuates slightly according to the actual job, so read on for more information.

Highest-Paying Aerospace Engineering Jobs for PhD Grads

Best aerospace engineering jobs with a doctorate.

The best aerospace engineering jobs with a doctorate include aerospace engineer, mechanical engineer, industrial engineer, materials engineer, and architectural and engineering manager. These are all among the highest-paid jobs in the country with a good job outlook.

Architectural and engineering managers are responsible for the planning, direction, and coordination of activities within architectural and engineering firms. They are most often seen working in offices, but they can also be found in research labs and manufacturing units.

• Salary with an Aerospace Engineering PhD: $152,350
• Job Outlook: 4% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 197,800
• Highest-Paying States: California, Colorado, New Mexico, New Jersey, Texas

Aerospace engineers are engaged in industries where employees design or construct aircraft, missiles, systems for national security, or spacecraft, among other things. They are largely engaged in the sectors of manufacturing, analysis and design, research and development, and the federal government.

• Salary with an Aerospace Engineering PhD: $122,270
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 61,400
• Highest-Paying States: Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona, Washington DC, California

Materials engineers manufacture, process, and test materials for a variety of uses. Materials engineers usually operate in offices with computers and design tools. Others work in research and development labs. Materials engineers are normally employed full-time, with the possibility of working overtime hours when necessary.

• Salary with an Aerospace Engineering PhD: $98,300
• Number of Jobs: 25,100
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, Alaska, Maryland, Texas, California

Aerospace engineering graduates may choose to work in the field of mechanical engineering . These engineers are responsible for the design, development, construction, and testing of mechanical and thermal machines and devices. They may visit work sites occasionally to address a problem or a piece of equipment that requires their personal attention.

• Salary with an Aerospace Engineering PhD: $95,300
• Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 299,200
• Highest-Paying States: New Mexico, Louisiana, Washington DC, California, Alaska

The goal of industrial engineers is to design efficient systems that integrate employees, machines, materials, information, and energy in order to manufacture a product or offer a service to the public. The best companies for industrial engineers are those that allow them to work in the environments they are seeking to change. For example, they may be found at an office looking at data collected by others or themselves, seeking to solve the errors in it.

• Job Outlook: 14% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 292,000
• Highest-Paying States: Alaska, Washington, California, Louisiana, New Mexico

Is a PhD in Aerospace Engineering Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Aerospace Engineering is worth it. The salaries and job outlooks in this field are strong, especially with the private sector’s entrance into space exploration through companies like Space Exploration Technologies Corp (SpaceX).

If you want to learn how to solve unique problems in science and engineering, pursuing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering may be a more worthwhile investment of your time. You will have the exciting opportunity to use your sharp scientific skills to make innovative research discoveries and become a leader in the field.

If you wish to work in academia as a professor, obtaining a PhD is almost always required. This is because having a PhD gives you authority in your field.

Additional Reading About Aerospace Engineering

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PhD in Aerospace Engineering FAQ

According to US News , the best university for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Caltech gets second place. They are both included in our list, which is based on key factors like tuition, quality of research and innovation in the aerospace field, laboratory facilities, and available funding for prospective students like PhD candidates.

Some universities do require GRE scores for admission into their PhD program in aerospace engineering. However, due to COVID-19 and its repercussions, most universities have waived the requirement.

Yes, aerospace engineers make good money. According to BLS, aerospace engineers earn on average $122,270 per year. The lowest 10 percent of aerospace engineers made less than $77,440, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $168,370. Aerospace engineers can get employed by major aerospace tech companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and SpaceX.

No, you cannot get a PhD in Aerospace Engineering for free. However, with funding opportunities like assistantships and fellowships, you can make getting your PhD quite affordable. Some programs even cover all of your costs with funding.

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Types of Research – Explained with Examples

• By DiscoverPhDs
• October 2, 2020

Types of Research

Research is about using established methods to investigate a problem or question in detail with the aim of generating new knowledge about it.

It is a vital tool for scientific advancement because it allows researchers to prove or refute hypotheses based on clearly defined parameters, environments and assumptions. Due to this, it enables us to confidently contribute to knowledge as it allows research to be verified and replicated.

Knowing the types of research and what each of them focuses on will allow you to better plan your project, utilises the most appropriate methodologies and techniques and better communicate your findings to other researchers and supervisors.

Classification of Types of Research

There are various types of research that are classified according to their objective, depth of study, analysed data, time required to study the phenomenon and other factors. It’s important to note that a research project will not be limited to one type of research, but will likely use several.

According to its Purpose

Theoretical research.

Theoretical research, also referred to as pure or basic research, focuses on generating knowledge , regardless of its practical application. Here, data collection is used to generate new general concepts for a better understanding of a particular field or to answer a theoretical research question.

Results of this kind are usually oriented towards the formulation of theories and are usually based on documentary analysis, the development of mathematical formulas and the reflection of high-level researchers.

Applied Research

Here, the goal is to find strategies that can be used to address a specific research problem. Applied research draws on theory to generate practical scientific knowledge, and its use is very common in STEM fields such as engineering, computer science and medicine.

This type of research is subdivided into two types:

• Technological applied research : looks towards improving efficiency in a particular productive sector through the improvement of processes or machinery related to said productive processes.
• Scientific applied research : has predictive purposes. Through this type of research design, we can measure certain variables to predict behaviours useful to the goods and services sector, such as consumption patterns and viability of commercial projects.

According to your Depth of Scope

Exploratory research.

Exploratory research is used for the preliminary investigation of a subject that is not yet well understood or sufficiently researched. It serves to establish a frame of reference and a hypothesis from which an in-depth study can be developed that will enable conclusive results to be generated.

Because exploratory research is based on the study of little-studied phenomena, it relies less on theory and more on the collection of data to identify patterns that explain these phenomena.

Descriptive Research

The primary objective of descriptive research is to define the characteristics of a particular phenomenon without necessarily investigating the causes that produce it.

In this type of research, the researcher must take particular care not to intervene in the observed object or phenomenon, as its behaviour may change if an external factor is involved.

Explanatory Research

Explanatory research is the most common type of research method and is responsible for establishing cause-and-effect relationships that allow generalisations to be extended to similar realities. It is closely related to descriptive research, although it provides additional information about the observed object and its interactions with the environment.

Correlational Research

The purpose of this type of scientific research is to identify the relationship between two or more variables. A correlational study aims to determine whether a variable changes, how much the other elements of the observed system change.

According to the Type of Data Used

Qualitative research.

Qualitative methods are often used in the social sciences to collect, compare and interpret information, has a linguistic-semiotic basis and is used in techniques such as discourse analysis, interviews, surveys, records and participant observations.

In order to use statistical methods to validate their results, the observations collected must be evaluated numerically. Qualitative research, however, tends to be subjective, since not all data can be fully controlled. Therefore, this type of research design is better suited to extracting meaning from an event or phenomenon (the ‘why’) than its cause (the ‘how’).

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research study delves into a phenomena through quantitative data collection and using mathematical, statistical and computer-aided tools to measure them . This allows generalised conclusions to be projected over time.

According to the Degree of Manipulation of Variables

Experimental research.

It is about designing or replicating a phenomenon whose variables are manipulated under strictly controlled conditions in order to identify or discover its effect on another independent variable or object. The phenomenon to be studied is measured through study and control groups, and according to the guidelines of the scientific method.

Non-Experimental Research

Also known as an observational study, it focuses on the analysis of a phenomenon in its natural context. As such, the researcher does not intervene directly, but limits their involvement to measuring the variables required for the study. Due to its observational nature, it is often used in descriptive research.

Quasi-Experimental Research

It controls only some variables of the phenomenon under investigation and is therefore not entirely experimental. In this case, the study and the focus group cannot be randomly selected, but are chosen from existing groups or populations . This is to ensure the collected data is relevant and that the knowledge, perspectives and opinions of the population can be incorporated into the study.

According to the Type of Inference

Deductive investigation.

In this type of research, reality is explained by general laws that point to certain conclusions; conclusions are expected to be part of the premise of the research problem and considered correct if the premise is valid and the inductive method is applied correctly.

Inductive Research

In this type of research, knowledge is generated from an observation to achieve a generalisation. It is based on the collection of specific data to develop new theories.

Hypothetical-Deductive Investigation

It is based on observing reality to make a hypothesis, then use deduction to obtain a conclusion and finally verify or reject it through experience.

According to the Time in Which it is Carried Out

Longitudinal study (also referred to as diachronic research).

It is the monitoring of the same event, individual or group over a defined period of time. It aims to track changes in a number of variables and see how they evolve over time. It is often used in medical, psychological and social areas .

Cross-Sectional Study (also referred to as Synchronous Research)

Cross-sectional research design is used to observe phenomena, an individual or a group of research subjects at a given time.

According to The Sources of Information

Primary research.

This fundamental research type is defined by the fact that the data is collected directly from the source, that is, it consists of primary, first-hand information.

Secondary research

Unlike primary research, secondary research is developed with information from secondary sources, which are generally based on scientific literature and other documents compiled by another researcher.

According to How the Data is Obtained

Documentary (cabinet).

Documentary research, or secondary sources, is based on a systematic review of existing sources of information on a particular subject. This type of scientific research is commonly used when undertaking literature reviews or producing a case study.

Field research study involves the direct collection of information at the location where the observed phenomenon occurs.

From Laboratory

Laboratory research is carried out in a controlled environment in order to isolate a dependent variable and establish its relationship with other variables through scientific methods.

Mixed-Method: Documentary, Field and/or Laboratory

Mixed research methodologies combine results from both secondary (documentary) sources and primary sources through field or laboratory research.

An abstract and introduction are the first two sections of your paper or thesis. This guide explains the differences between them and how to write them.

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Akshay is in the final year of his PhD researching how well models can predict Indian monsoon low-pressure systems. The results of his research will help improve disaster preparedness and long-term planning.

Chris is a third (and final) year PhD student at Ulster University. His project aims to develop a novel method of delivering antibiofilm compounds directly to an infected wound bed in patients.

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Few tenure-track jobs for engineering Ph.D.s, study finds

by PNAS Nexus

A study finds that most engineering Ph.D. graduates will never secure a tenure-track faculty position. Over the past 50 years, the number of full-time faculty positions in US universities has steadily declined while production of science and engineering Ph.D. graduates has nearly doubled.

Siddhartha Roy and colleagues analyzed data on Ph.D. graduates and tenure-track and tenured faculty members across all engineering disciplines from 2006–2021. The work is published in the journal PNAS Nexus .

The average annual likelihood of securing a tenure-track faculty position in engineering during this 16-year period was 12.4%. The likelihood of securing a tenure-track faculty position was 18.5% in 2006. By 2014, the likelihood had fallen to 10.9%. In 2021, the likelihood had increased slightly to between 11.3% and 12%.

Subdisciplines with the lowest placement rates for newly minted Ph.D.s include engineering management, petroleum , biomedical, nuclear engineering , metallurgical and materials, and environmental engineering . Previous research has found that nearly 80% of tenure-track engineering faculty members hired during 2011–2020 were trained at just 20% of US universities, suggesting that the likelihood of finding a tenure-track engineering position depends on the prestige of the degree-granting university.

According to the authors, alternative-academic career tracks such as careers in government and industry should be emphasized during Ph.D. training to ensure student expectations match the realities of the job market.

Journal information: PNAS Nexus

Provided by PNAS Nexus

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RIT graduate pursues Ph.D. across time zones

Nastaran Nagshineh, center, defended her Ph.D. thesis at RIT in April. Faculty from RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses served on her thesis committee and include, from left to right, Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, Steven Weinstein, Nathaniel Barlow, and David Kofke (a professor at the University at Buffalo). Mohamed Samaha participated remotely and appears on the video screen behind the group and alongside Nagshineh’s picture.

Nastaran Nagshineh is one of the first Ph.D. candidates to bridge RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses. Her accomplishment creates a path for future students at the university’s international campuses.

Nagshineh completed her Ph.D. in mathematical modeling while working full time as a mathematics lecturer at RIT Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, teaching as many as five classes a semester. She described her Ph.D. journey as “an exercise in perseverance” due to competing demands and long days. Rochester is eight hours behind Dubai, and the time difference meant many late-night classes and meetings.

“I saw this collaboration as an opportunity, rather than as a challenge, because my primary adviser, Dr. Steven Weinstein (RIT professor of chemical engineering), and my co-adviser, Dr. Mohamed Samaha (RIT Dubai associate professor of mechanical engineering), both have the same area of research interest,” she said. “They both worked toward my success.”

Nagshineh is one of 67 RIT Ph.D. students who defended their thesis this academic year and who will earn their doctorate. RIT awarded 63 Ph.D. degrees in 2023.

In 2020-2021, RIT’s Graduate School met and surpassed the university’s goal of conferring 50 Ph.D. degrees during an academic year. That number will continue to grow as students cycle through the seven new Ph.D. programs that RIT has added since 2017, said Diane Slusarski , dean of RIT’s Graduate School.

Meeting these goals puts RIT on a path toward achieving an “R1,” or research-intensive designation, from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning. RIT is currently ranked as an R2 institution . Many factors go into changing a university’s status, including research investment and maintaining a three-year average of 70 Ph.D. degrees awarded per year, according to Slusarski.

“We have met the goals of the strategic plan, and now we look forward to contributing to the research innovation in the future,” Slusarski said. “We want to help the new programs thrive and win national research awards.”

RIT’s emphasis on high-level research is seen in Nagshineh’s Ph.D. work. She applies mathematical modeling to the field of fluid dynamics. Her research has been published in top-tier journals and has gained notice, said Weinstein, her thesis adviser.

Weinstein describes Nagshineh’s accomplishments as “a testament to a fantastic work ethic and commitment” and is inspirational to younger students at Rochester and Dubai.

“The collaboration between RIT Dubai/Rochester has continued,” he said. “Another paper was submitted a few weeks ago with Mohamed Samaha and Nate Barlow (RIT associate professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics) as co-authors, as well as Cade Reinberger, a younger Ph.D. student in my research group.”

Mathematical modeling is one of RIT’s newer Ph.D. degree programs, and Nagshineh is among its earliest graduates. The program has doubled in size since it began accepting students in 2017, Slusarski said. This past fall, the mathematical modeling program had 35 students, with two graduating this year.

Altogether, RIT has 13 Ph.D. degree programs currently enrolling 438 students, with computing and information sciences accounting for the largest with 117 students. RIT’s other Ph.D. programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , electrical and computer engineering, imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

New programs in cognitive science and physics will launch in the fall.

The growth in RIT graduate education—with more than 3,000 master’s and doctoral students—reflects a demographic change in the student population, Slusarski said. “We have a higher percentage of women in the graduate programs than we have for RIT undergraduate programs.”

RIT’s graduate programs enroll 42 percent women, according to Christie Leone , assistant dean for the Graduate School.

Nagshineh, who also holds an MS in electrical engineering from RIT Dubai, welcomes her role as a mentor to other women students on both campuses.

“As a young woman in an Arabic country, the power of women is often underestimated and undervalued, and I hope to serve as a role model to female students, especially those that question their path,” Nagshineh said.

She plans to continue in her career as a professor and a researcher. “I would like to pursue a research program where I can advise my own students and teach them more deeply.”

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Two MIT PhD students awarded J-WAFS fellowships for their research on water

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Since 2014, the Abdul Latif Jameel Water and Food Systems Lab (J-WAFS) has advanced interdisciplinary research aimed at solving the world's most pressing water and food security challenges to meet human needs. In 2017, J-WAFS established the Rasikbhai L. Meswani Water Solutions Fellowship and the J-WAFS Graduate Student Fellowship. These fellowships provide support to outstanding MIT graduate students who are pursuing research that has the potential to improve water and food systems around the world. 

Recently, J-WAFS awarded the 2024-25 fellowships to Jonathan Bessette and Akash Ball, two MIT PhD students dedicated to addressing water scarcity by enhancing desalination and purification processes. This work is of important relevance since the world's freshwater supply has been steadily depleting due to the effects of climate change. In fact, one-third of the global population lacks access to safe drinking water. Bessette and Ball are focused on designing innovative solutions to enhance the resilience and sustainability of global water systems. To support their endeavors, J-WAFS will provide each recipient with funding for one academic semester for continued research and related activities.

“This year, we received many strong fellowship applications,” says J-WAFS executive director Renee J. Robins. “Bessette and Ball both stood out, even in a very competitive pool of candidates. The award of the J-WAFS fellowships to these two students underscores our confidence in their potential to bring transformative solutions to global water challenges.”

2024-25 Rasikbhai L. Meswani Fellowship for Water Solutions

The Rasikbhai L. Meswani Fellowship for Water Solutions is a doctoral fellowship for students pursuing research related to water and water supply at MIT. The fellowship is made possible by Elina and Nikhil Meswani and family. 

Jonathan Bessette is a doctoral student in the Global Engineering and Research (GEAR) Center within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at MIT, advised by Professor Amos Winter. His research is focused on water treatment systems for the developing world, mainly desalination, or the process in which salts are removed from water. Currently, Bessette is working on designing and constructing a low-cost, deployable, community-scale desalination system for humanitarian crises.

In arid and semi-arid regions, groundwater often serves as the sole water source, despite its common salinity issues. Many remote and developing areas lack reliable centralized power and water systems, making brackish groundwater desalination a vital, sustainable solution for global water scarcity. 

“An overlooked need for desalination is inland groundwater aquifers, rather than in coastal areas,” says Bessette. “This is because much of the population lives far enough from a coast that seawater desalination could never reach them. My work involves designing low-cost, sustainable, renewable-powered desalination technologies for highly constrained situations, such as drinking water for remote communities,” he adds.

To achieve this goal, Bessette developed a batteryless, renewable electrodialysis desalination system. The technology is energy-efficient, conserves water, and is particularly suited for challenging environments, as it is decentralized and sustainable. The system offers significant advantages over the conventional reverse osmosis method, especially in terms of reduced energy consumption for treating brackish water. Highlighting Bessette’s capacity for engineering insight, his advisor noted the “simple and elegant solution” that Bessette and a staff engineer, Shane Pratt, devised that negated the need for the system to have large batteries. Bessette is now focusing on simplifying the system’s architecture to make it more reliable and cost-effective for deployment in remote areas.

Growing up in upstate New York, Bessette completed a bachelor's degree at the State University of New York at Buffalo. As an undergrad, he taught middle and high school students in low-income areas of Buffalo about engineering and sustainability. However, he cited his junior-year travel to India and his experience there measuring water contaminants in rural sites as cementing his dedication to a career addressing food, water, and sanitation challenges. In addition to his doctoral research, his commitment to these goals is further evidenced by another project he is pursuing, funded by a J-WAFS India grant, that uses low-cost, remote sensors to better understand water fetching practices. Bessette is conducting this work with fellow MIT student Gokul Sampath in order to help families in rural India gain access to safe drinking water.

2024-25 J-WAFS Graduate Student Fellowship for Water and Food Solutions

The J-WAFS Graduate Student Fellowship is supported by the J-WAFS Research Affiliate Program , which offers companies the opportunity to engage with MIT on water and food research. Current fellowship support was provided by two J-WAFS Research Affiliates: Xylem , a leading U.S.-based provider of water treatment and infrastructure solutions, and GoAigua , a Spanish company at the forefront of digital transformation in the water industry through innovative solutions. 

Akash Ball is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Chemical Engineering, advised by Professor Heather Kulik. His research focuses on the computational discovery of novel functional materials for energy-efficient ion separation membranes with high selectivity. Advanced membranes like these are increasingly needed for applications such as water desalination, battery recycling, and removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater. 

“Climate change, water pollution, and scarce freshwater reserves cause severe water distress for about 4 billion people annually, with 2 billion in India and China’s semiarid regions,” Ball notes. “One potential solution to this global water predicament is the desalination of seawater, since seawater accounts for 97 percent of all water on Earth.”

Although several commercial reverse osmosis membranes are currently available, these membranes suffer several problems, like slow water permeation, permeability-selectivity trade-off, and high fabrication costs. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials that are promising candidates for highly selective ion separation with fast water transport due to high surface area, the presence of different pore windows, and the tunability of chemical functionality. In the Kulik lab, Ball is developing a systematic understanding of how MOF chemistry and pore geometry affect water transport and ion rejection rates. By the end of his PhD, Ball plans to identify existing, best-performing MOFs with unparalleled water uptake using machine learning models, propose novel hypothetical MOFs tailored to specific ion separations from water, and discover experimental design rules that enable the synthesis of next-generation membranes.  

Ball’s advisor praised the creativity he brings to his research, and his leadership skills that benefit her whole lab. Before coming to MIT, Ball obtained a master’s degree in chemical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Jadavpur University in India. During a research internship at IIT Bombay in 2018, he worked on developing a technology for in situ arsenic detection in water. Like Bessette, he noted the impact of this prior research experience on his interest in global water challenges, along with his personal experience growing up in an area in India where access to safe drinking water was not guaranteed.

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Zombie colleges roam the internet, here's how to spot a legitimate, living university

A USA TODAY investigation has exposed websites set up for closed universities posing as viable colleges.

Whoever is behind the copycat sites has been collecting application fees and personal student identity information. Once USA TODAY reached out to them for comment, some of the sites and their application links came down.

The investigation also found a network of fictitious colleges claiming to be accredited, generally the gold standard of legitimate universities in the U.S., however, those accreditors appear to be fabricated as well.  (Do you know more about these colleges, tell us. )

Investigation: Zombie colleges? These universities are living another life online, and no one can say why

So how can prospective students know which schools actually offer an education and which may be fronts for something else?  Luckily, there are telltale signs.  But it may take some sleuthing. 

Is it accredited?  

If a university wants to offer federal student aid, it has to be:

◾ Approved by a college accreditor.

◾ Approved by the state it resides in.

◾ Certified by the U.S. Department of Education, based, in part, on the first two.

Oversight of a school’s academic offerings falls to the accreditor, who is expected to review curriculums regularly. These accrediting agencies also visit schools in person.  

Prospective students can see if a school is truly accredited by looking it up on the federal government’s consumer guide to schools, the College Scorecard . Universities also often list their accreditors on their websites, which students can check against the accreditors’ own lists. Many states maintain a list of schools they have authorized as well. 

Check the web address 

It can be as simple as just checking the end of the university’s web address. 

Generally, only accredited colleges can use a .edu domain in their URL. Domains ending in .college, .education, or .university aren’t restricted to educational institutions, though. The website backed by former staffers at Marymount California University is marymountcalifornia.edu whereas the imposter website is at marymountcalifornia.education.  

Or pick up your phone and try to reach someone in college admissions. Legitimate colleges have entire staffs eager to talk to prospective students. It’s their job.

Some of the questions to ask: 

◾ When is the next application deadline?

◾ What do you need for the application? An essay? Test scores? Do you accept the Common Application , a form used by hundreds of colleges?

◾ How much does your program cost? Do you offer federal financial aid?

How do I tell if a college accreditor is real?  

Some of the imposter websites appeared to have created their own accreditors. Skeptical applicants can verify an accreditor's legitimacy by checking the Education Department’s list of approved agencies .

Note: Some accreditors are set up to approve only specific academic programs. Look instead for institutional accreditation, i.e., approval of all of the schools’ operations.  

Pay close attention to accreditors’ names too. Some counterfeit schools claimed accreditation by the “United States Higher Learning Commission.” That is close to the actual accrediting organization known as “The Higher Learning Commission.”   

Does the school have an address? Google it 

Some of the counterfeit universities claim strange addresses. The original Stratford University, for example, was in Virginia, but the imposter says the university is in Kentucky. In that case, a Google Street View search of the Kentucky address reveals no signage for a university.  

Many of the fictitious universities on the website of the Ministry of Higher Education Commission, one of the made-up accreditors, list unusual physical addresses too. The address for “Dakota Hill University,” for example, is actually home to Black Hills State University, a school that is accredited. USA TODAY found other schools with addresses that showed up on Google as nondescript office buildings, even parking garages. 

Be aware of the university’s size too. Some legitimate and smaller schools focused on career skills can be in office parks. But such a location would be unusual for large state or private colleges.  

Has anyone else attended this college? Who teaches there?  

Try to find past students. With LinkedIn, it’s easy to locate graduates of any college. Some schools also have alumni associations where prospective students may be able to learn more about the institution.  

Be wary of student testimonials that live solely on a college’s website because those could be fabricated by the operators of the university. Apply the same skepticism to sites that gather anonymous reviews such as Yelp – or even the reviews you might find on Google or Facebook.   

University professors should also have a web presence. Legitimate colleges often have individual web pages for their faculty members. Some college websites also feature past course catalogs. The new Stratford website, in contrast, listed only broad descriptions of its degree offerings and did not indicate who would be teaching those courses. That also was true of other zombie sites.  

Chris Quintana is a reporter on the USA TODAY investigations team with a background in higher education and student loans. Contact him at  [email protected] , @CquintanaDC on Instagram and X, or by Signal at 202-308-9021.