University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The PhD is centred on original research leading to a doctoral dissertation, supported by a programme of advanced coursework and research seminars. Students typically take advanced subjects in areas such as thermofluids and heat transfer, solid mechanics and materials, dynamics and controls, biomechanics, micro/nano-systems, and computational methods for engineering analysis.

Core elements of the programme include:

• Advanced coursework tailored to the student’s research concentration and approved by a supervisory committee.
• Research rotations or early-stage projects to define a dissertation topic and establish methodology.
• Seminar courses and colloquia to present research progress and engage with departmental and visiting researchers.
• Qualifying or comprehensive examinations (written and/or oral) to assess readiness to undertake independent research, as set by the department.
• Original research under a faculty adviser, culminating in a written dissertation and a public oral defence.
• Opportunities for teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant and for collaborative projects with campus research centres and local industry.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master’s degree, typically in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering or science discipline; exceptionally well-qualified applicants with a strong bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may be considered for direct admission. Admission decisions are based on the applicant’s academic record, research experience, letters of recommendation, statement of research interests, and fit with available faculty advisers.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university regulations. Successful candidates usually have a clear research proposal or interest areas that align with faculty specialties. Financial support is commonly available through research assistantships, teaching assistantships and fellowships, and applicants should discuss potential funding with prospective advisers during the application stage.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue careers in academia, national and regional research laboratories, and industry. Common sectors and roles include:

• University faculty and postdoctoral research positions focusing on teaching and independent research.
• Research and development roles in aerospace, energy and utilities, marine and coastal engineering, robotics and automation, and biomedical devices.
• Technical leadership and specialist engineering positions in private industry, consulting firms and start-ups.
• Positions with federal and state research agencies, national laboratories and intergovernmental organisations addressing energy resilience, environmental challenges and infrastructure for island communities.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive research environment shaped by its Pacific island location, with particular strengths in renewable energy, ocean and coastal engineering, materials for harsh environments and sustainability. Mechanical engineering students benefit from collaborations with campus centres and institutes that focus on energy systems, ocean science and advanced materials, enabling interdisciplinary projects with direct regional relevance.

The department emphasises close mentorship, access to well-equipped laboratories and opportunities for fieldwork and industry partnership across Hawaiʻi and the broader Pacific region. For students whose research interests intersect with renewable energy, coastal resilience, ocean technologies or island infrastructure, UH Mānoa provides access to unique testbeds, collaborative networks and a supportive academic community.