该研究学位包括论文的准备，该论文认真记录了学生研究的原始贡献。博士 该课程包括学士学位以外的总共72个学时。这包括论文的最多30个学分，以及最少42个课程的学分。如果学生拥有硕士学位，则可以将24个课程学分应用于42个课程学分的要求。除了所有Rensselaer博士生要求的考试程序外，攻读该学位的土木工程和环境工程学生还必须通过资格考试。
Graduate programs leading to M.Eng., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees are available in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Transportation Engineering. The selection of a graduate program and degree is based on student interest, the area of graduate concentration, and the satisfaction of prerequisites. This research degree includes the preparation of a dissertation that carefully documents the original contribution of the student's research. The Ph.D. program consists of a total of 72 credit hours beyond the Bachelors degree, with a maximum of 30 credit hours for the dissertation and a minimum of 42 course credit hours. If the student holds a Masters degree, 24 course credit hours can be applied towards the 42 course credit hours requirement. In addition to the examination processes required of all Rensselaer doctoral students, Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering students working toward this degree must pass a qualifying examination.