航空航天系统工程或机械工程博士学位要求成功完成一个独立的研究项目，最终完成论文。希望毕业生表现出批判性思维，能够进行独立的原始研究并精通学术领域的能力。该学习计划至少包括BS学位以外的66门课程和研究学期。至少需要修读本系MS学位课程以外的18个学期的课程。该学习计划还包括两项考试，包括两部分的资格考试，以及论文答辩，正式被称为最终综合考试。资格考试分为两部分，包括笔试和随后的口试，包括论文主题的提议。MAE部门办公室提供了所有考试的说明。
Graduates are expected to demonstrate critical thinking, an ability to do an independent, original investigation, and mastery of an area of scholarly literature. The Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Aerospace Systems Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.<br>The PhD in Mechanical Engineering provides students entree to senior-level positions and an edge in the job market. Graduates develop a specialty within mechanical engineering and conduct research. Research findings are published both in a dissertation and in archival periodicals.