RICE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 90 credit hours minimum (coursework + research)Total Credit Hours
- Up to 5 years to complete degreeProgram Duration
- Qualifying Exam by end of 3rd semesterMilestone
- University Candidacy by end of 9th semesterMilestone
- Original research for thesisKey Component
- 10 hours/week instructional assistance expectedRequirement
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering program at Rice University is designed for students who want to develop advanced knowledge and conduct original research in mechanical engineering. The program aims to equip students with the skills to become leaders and researchers in the field. Students will gain expertise in a specialized area through in-depth study and research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to scientific knowledge.
Curriculum
The PhD program requires a minimum of 90 credit hours at the 500-level or above, combining coursework and research. The exact breakdown between coursework and research hours depends on the student's previous degree upon entry. All students are expected to consult with their thesis director for course selection, which must be approved by the department.
- Varies based on prior degree
- Advanced topics coursework
- Research coursework
- Thesis research and writing
Careers
Graduates of the PhD program are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, and industry, where they can lead research and development efforts. The program emphasizes original research, aiming for contributions that can lead to publications in scientific journals.
- University Professor
- Research Scientist
- R&D Engineer
- Technical Lead
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum credit hour requirements for the PhD in Mechanical Engineering?
- The program requires a minimum of 90 credit hours, which include both coursework and research. The exact balance between coursework and research hours will depend on your previous degree.
- How long does the PhD program typically take to complete?
- The program duration can vary based on your prior degree, but it is designed to be completed within up to 5 years. Key milestones include a qualifying exam by the end of the third semester and university candidacy by the end of the ninth semester.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor, Research Scientist, R&D Engineer, and Technical Lead in academia, research institutions, and industry.
- Where can I find detailed information about tuition fees and living costs?
- Specific tuition and living cost information for the Mechanical Engineering PhD program is not provided on the program page. Please consult Rice University's graduate admissions or the Mechanical Engineering department directly for these details.
- What is the application deadline for the PhD in Mechanical Engineering?
- Application deadlines are typically in December or January for Fall admission. For specific dates, you should check the Mechanical Engineering department's website.
- Are there any specific academic or English language requirements for international applicants?
- While specific GPA and GRE requirements are not detailed, applicants are expected to hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or a related field and demonstrate command of advanced topics. English proficiency test scores may be required if your previous education was not in English.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or related fieldVaries based on prior degree for credit hour requirements. Specific GPA and GRE requirements are not detailed here but are typical for PhD programs.
Students are expected to demonstrate command of advanced topics, apply technical skills to research, and communicate scientific ideas effectively. All entering graduate students must attend at least 75% of MECH seminars during their first six semesters.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified for international students on the program page. Please refer to the university's graduate admissions for detailed financial information.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not specified for domestic students on the program page. Please refer to the university's graduate admissions for detailed financial information.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page. International students should budget for living expenses in Houston, Texas.
The provided finance page is for the business school and does not contain specific tuition or living cost information for the Mechanical Engineering PhD program. Detailed financial information should be sought directly from Rice University's graduate admissions or the Mechanical Engineering department.
How to apply
1. Check Departmental RequirementsVisit the Mechanical Engineering graduate program website for specific admission criteria, application procedures, and required documents.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and any other required documents as specified by the department.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application by the stated deadline.
4. Take Required ExamsSubmit scores for any required standardized tests (e.g., GRE, English proficiency tests if applicable).
5. Await DecisionThe department will review applications and notify applicants of admission decisions.
Scholarships
Templeton Foundation Academic Cross Training Fellowship$220,000 for up to 3 years
Accreditation
Not specified on the program page.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum credit hour requirements for the PhD in Mechanical Engineering?
+
The program requires a minimum of 90 credit hours, which include both coursework and research. The exact balance between coursework and research hours will depend on your previous degree.
How long does the PhD program typically take to complete?
+
The program duration can vary based on your prior degree, but it is designed to be completed within up to 5 years. Key milestones include a qualifying exam by the end of the third semester and university candidacy by the end of the ninth semester.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor, Research Scientist, R&D Engineer, and Technical Lead in academia, research institutions, and industry.
Where can I find detailed information about tuition fees and living costs?
+
Specific tuition and living cost information for the Mechanical Engineering PhD program is not provided on the program page. Please consult Rice University's graduate admissions or the Mechanical Engineering department directly for these details.
What is the application deadline for the PhD in Mechanical Engineering?
+
Application deadlines are typically in December or January for Fall admission. For specific dates, you should check the Mechanical Engineering department's website.
Are there any specific academic or English language requirements for international applicants?
+
While specific GPA and GRE requirements are not detailed, applicants are expected to hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or a related field and demonstrate command of advanced topics. English proficiency test scores may be required if your previous education was not in English.