There are 9 phd Mechanical Engineering programmes for international students across 8 universities in United States. Tuition is about free. Browse the full list below, compare entry requirements, and explore scholarships to fund your studies.
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.
The Department of Mechanical Science & Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering. This program integrates fundamental scientific principles with traditional mechanical engineering disciplines. Research focuses on critical societal issues in health, security, energy, environment, manufacturing, and transportation. Students can specialize in areas such as nanomechanics, biomechanics, and computational science and engineering. The department emphasizes a research-driven curriculum with opportunities for both traditional PhD pathways (requiring a prior Master's degree) and direct PhD pathways (for those entering with a Bachelor's degree). The program aims to equip graduates with a deep understanding of core mechanical engineering areas, the ability to conduct independent research, and strong communication and collaboration skills. Faculty and students engage in theoretical and experimental investigations across a wide range of topics, supported by numerous research centers and laboratories.
The Mechanical Engineering graduate program at Caltech is a highly selective, research-oriented program designed to prepare students for advanced research and professional practice in rapidly evolving interdisciplinary technological fields. The program emphasizes developing individual expertise in a chosen specialty while building a strong foundation in basic and engineering sciences. Students are encouraged to cultivate independence, creativity, leadership, and a capacity for continuous learning. The department offers both Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. Admission is preferentially granted to applicants intending to pursue a Ph.D. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry (aerospace, energy, semiconductors, high-tech startups), and postdoctoral research.
The Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University is designed for students seeking to contribute significantly to advanced research in the field. This program requires a minimum of 96 semester credit hours for students entering with a bachelor's degree, or 64 semester credit hours for those with a master's degree. Students will work closely with world-renowned faculty to identify a dissertation advisor and conduct cutting-edge research. All admitted Ph.D. students receive comprehensive financial support, including a monthly stipend, tuition and fee remission, and employee health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years for students entering with a bachelor's degree, and four years for those with a master's degree, provided academic good standing is maintained. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in mathematics and core mechanical engineering concepts, complemented by specialized technical electives and significant research engagement. Students are required to pass a Qualifying Exam and form a dissertation committee with diverse faculty representation, including members from outside the Mechanical Engineering Department.
The Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science (MEMS) at Duke University offers students the opportunity to collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research. The program emphasizes a low faculty-to-student ratio, fostering a close-knit academic community. Peer mentorship and support are provided through an active Graduate Student Committee. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum, allowing them to tailor their academic path to their specific professional goals. Research areas within the MEMS department are diverse and include Aerospace Engineering, Dynamics, Controls & Robotics, Materials Science & Biomaterials, Mechanics, Design & Computing, and Thermal Fluids & Energy. The department encourages students to explore these areas and define their unique research trajectory. More details about faculty, ongoing research, and student projects can be found on the departmental website.
The PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Western New England University is designed to nurture innovators and shape the future of the field. This research-oriented program is ideal for individuals who aspire to careers in Research and Development, Research Management, or Academia. It offers the opportunity to conduct significant research, contribute to the body of knowledge in mechanical engineering, and deepen your understanding of complex technological systems. Students will select a faculty advisor early in their studies and gain access to state-of-the-art laboratories and academic resources. The program emphasizes both depth and breadth of knowledge, allowing students to specialize in areas like Mechatronics and Robotics, Thermo-fluids and Energy, Vibrations and Mechanics, Energy Systems, Novel Materials, and Design and Manufacturing. The curriculum combines coursework with independent research, culminating in a dissertation. The program also offers opportunities to develop mentorship and teaching skills by working with undergraduates on research and design projects. Faculty members are actively involved in research with international standing and strong industry ties, providing students with valuable mentorship and learning partnerships.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering at Stony Brook University is a research-intensive program designed for students aiming for advanced careers in academia or industry. The program focuses on developing independent research capabilities, culminating in a significant original contribution to the field. Students will engage in advanced coursework, rigorous examinations, and in-depth dissertation research under the guidance of faculty experts. The curriculum allows for specialization in core areas such as Design and Manufacturing, Solid Mechanics, or Thermal Sciences and Fluid Mechanics, with the flexibility to select a minor area of concentration from a broad range of related disciplines. This program prepares graduates to tackle complex engineering challenges and lead innovation.
9 across 8 universities, listed on this page.
Yes — these programmes admit international students; check each programme's entry requirements and language of instruction.