PhD in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineers use science, mathematics, and technology to address human need. We are an essential discipline because our role is to help humanity use technology to work and live smarter: automating functions to enhance productivity and performance, harnessing energy sources, developing novel materials, discovering new applications in science and medicine, and designing methods, systems, and manufacturing techniques to improve our world. The National Science Foundation and Academy of Engineering have projected significant shortages of scientists and engineers by the early 2020s. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from WNE, you can fill that important talent gap and contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of mechanical engineering as you conduct research in your individual area of interest leading to your dissertation. The PhD research experience and curriculum can be pursued after having received either the MS or the BS degrees.
Why Choose PhD in Mechanical Engineering?
Earning a PhD in Mechanical Engineering full- or part-time from WNE gives you the opportunity to advance in your career through undertaking signature work at the threshold of emerging technologies and in pursuit of a deeper understanding of a complex world. At the outset of your work and study you will select an advisor from the faculty. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and academic resources. Studying at Western New England University, ranked among Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs by US News & World Report, also offers exciting opportunities to develop your own mentorship and teaching skills as a graduate teaching fellow working with undergraduates on their own research and design initiatives such as the WNE’s SAE Baja Project or ASME Design Project.
What Will You Study?
Areas of PhD research in Mechanical Engineering at Western New England include Mechatronics and Robotics, Thermo-fluids and Energy, Vibrations and Mechanics, Energy Systems, Novel Materials for energy and environmental applications, and Design and Manufacturing. Through a combination of coursework and independent research culminating in your dissertation, you will gain the foundation and depth of mechanical engineering theory and practice, a breadth of knowledge across multiple areas of specialization.
Admissions Requirements
Candidates for the PhD in Mechanical Engineering should possess a master’s or bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related discipline. Students seeking admissions to the PhD program will have an undergraduate academic record that demonstrates outstanding performance.
A GRE score from the last five years, with a combined verbal and quantitative score of at least a 300 with a quantitative score in at least the top 40th percentile will be required for consideration. Candidates having scores below the established GPA and GRE requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis upon petition. Candidates whose primary language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English.
Candidates whose primary language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English.
How are Courses Offered?
The PhD program is intended to be versatile and tailored to support individual research initiatives. Course requirements are established solely by the doctoral committee. The degree typically consists of 30 or more graduate course credits earned at Western New England University beyond the MS.
The PhD in ME at Western New England is a thesis-based research-oriented degree for students who intend to pursue careers in Research and Development, Research Management, or Academia.
Faculty
The personal attention you’ll receive from our faculty is unparalleled. They’ll become your mentors, learning partners, and colleagues during your education. Not only will you work with them in the classroom, but you’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty with established research and international standing. Additionally, many of our faculty have strong research ties with industry. Their wide-ranging interests are in areas such as AI and machine learning, acoustic filtrations and separation, fluid dynamics, ceramics and novel forms of carbon, robotics and mechatronics, solar energy, and manufacturing processes.
Program Goals & Philosophy
The graduate program offers students opportunities to develop levels of expertise and knowledge consistent with a career of technical leadership. Additionally, the program emphasizes the acquisition of advanced knowledge and the fostering of individual experience of significant intellectual exploration. One goal of the program is to prepare graduates with appropriate technical depth and breadth of knowledge and experience in order to become researchers and practitioners in the mechanical engineering and technology area.
It is the philosophy of the program to graduate students who have the ability to create, evaluate, improve, design, and manage complex mechanical and technological systems. The systems include solid mechanics, heat transfer, thermo-fluids and energy, materials science, mechanical design and manufacturing, and mechatronics and robotics. Additionally, students will demonstrate the ability, through dissertation research, to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of Mechanical Engineering.
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International Students
Leaders with engineering backgrounds are needed around the globe to manage people and resources. The College of Engineering enjoys a growing reputation among international students for the caliber of our graduate programs. Learn more about our support for international students.
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