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Doctoral Program in Mechanical Engineering

Outstanding students with a GPA of at least 3.5 in their master’s program will be considered for admission to the program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree in mechanical engineering.

At least 90 credits are required for the Ph.D. degree. The master’s degree is not a prerequisite for the Ph.D., but does count as 45 credits toward the 90-credit requirement. In addition to the 45 credits normally taken for the M.S. degree, students must take at least 18 credits of coursework (exclusive of independent study or thesis credits). The remaining 27 credits consist of a combination of dissertation, independent study, and additional advanced coursework consistent with the approved plan of study. All Ph.D. students are expected to participate in the department’s seminar program, course instruction, and other academic activities.

Students who hold a B.S. degree and are currently enrolled in the MEM graduate program can take the Ph.D. candidacy examination after the completion of at least one year of graduate study at Drexel University with a minimum GPA of 3.5 in all engineering and science graduate courses. A student holding an M.S. degree that has not been granted by the MEM Department can take the Ph.D. candidacy examination after completing at least two terms of graduate study at Drexel University with a minimum GPA of 3.5 in all engineering and science graduate courses taken while in the MEM Department.

The Ph.D. candidacy examination consists of two parts, a written part and an oral part. The written part consists of one examination in applied mathematics and one examination in a major area established by the applicant and his or her advisor. Following successful completion of the written examinations, an oral examination is administered. This examination emphasizes, but is not restricted to, the student’s major area.

The Ph.D. candidacy examination is given twice each year, at the beginning of the fall and spring terms. Additional details are given in the Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics Graduate Program Manual.

At least one year prior to graduation, candidates must give a presentation to the dissertation committee. The committee must approve the thesis topic and the general method of attack. A final examination consisting of a presentation and defense of the research dissertation is required, before the Ph.D. degree is granted.

Furthermore, Ph.D. students may have to take technical writing courses in fulfillment of their Ph.D. requirements. Foreign Ph.D. students are subject to the same ESL requirements as M.S. students.

Ph.D. students must comply with the University’s one-year residency requirement.

Further details can be obtained from the department's Graduate Programs Manual.