University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The PhD in Engineering is a research-first programme that combines advanced coursework, rigorous methodological training and an extended original research project culminating in a doctoral dissertation. Students typically follow a customised plan of study that includes advanced topics in their chosen specialism (for example mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, aerospace, materials or systems engineering), core research methods, and professional development components such as ethics and teaching practice.

Typical elements of the programme include:

• Advanced coursework in areas such as applied mathematics, finite element analysis, control systems, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, or electromagnetics depending on specialism.
• Research methods and statistics focused on experimental design, computational modelling, data analysis and simulation techniques used in engineering research.
• Seminars and colloquia to present work in progress, learn about emerging research across departments, and engage with visiting scholars and industry speakers.
• Qualifying/Comprehensive examinations or other milestones that assess readiness to proceed to independent dissertation research.
• Original dissertation research conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor, often within interdisciplinary centres or in partnership with external research organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a master's degree in engineering or a closely related discipline, with a demonstrated record of academic achievement. Exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor's degree and substantial research experience may be considered.

• Academic transcripts: evidence of relevant undergraduate and graduate study.
• Research experience: prior research, publications, or a clear research proposal are strongly desirable; identifying a potential faculty supervisor at UND is typically encouraged.
• Supporting documents: curriculum vitae, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation that speak to research potential.
• English language proficiency: for international applicants, an accepted English test score or equivalent evidence of proficiency is required.
• Additional requirements: some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by the department, or to attend an interview as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Engineering pursue a wide range of careers. Many move into tenure-track academic positions or postdoctoral research roles, while others take senior research and development positions in industry, technical leadership roles, or specialist consultancy posts. There are also opportunities in national laboratories, government agencies, and entrepreneurship where doctoral-level research skills and project leadership are valued.

Typical roles include:

• Research scientist or principal engineer in industrial R&D
• University faculty or academic researcher
• Technical lead or systems engineer in aerospace, energy, manufacturing or defence sectors
• Specialist consultant in engineering design, modelling or regulatory compliance
• Research manager in government laboratories or non-profit research centres

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a doctoral environment with close faculty supervision, interdisciplinary collaboration and access to regionally and nationally recognised research facilities. UND maintains strong links with specialised centres such as the Energy & Environmental Research Center and benefits from an established aerospace and engineering community that supports applied and translational research.

Students benefit from hands-on access to modern laboratories, computational resources and opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and government labs. The college emphasises personalised mentorship, opportunities for teaching and professional development, and funding pathways including research and teaching assistantships to support doctoral study.