The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering is awarded to students who demonstrate high academic achievement and research competence in the fields of mechanical engineering. To earn a PhD, a student must complete an approved, rigorous program of advanced course work and submit and defend an original dissertation of independent research. The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (MIE) expects all successful doctoral candidates to show depth of knowledge and research innovation in their chosen field of specialization. The MIE department admits applicants to the PhD program either directly after earning a suitable bachelor's degree (i.e., direct entry) or after earning a suitable master's degree (i.e., advanced entry).<br>An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering/scientific/quantitative problems<br>An ability to explain and apply engineering design principles, as appropriate to the program's educational objectives<br>An ability to produce solutions that meet specified end-user needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors<br>An ability to recognize and advance the engineering tools/principles needed for creative thinking and innovation to propel technical development for industrial applications and/or scientific research