University of Memphis

What you'll study

The PhD in Engineering is built around independent research supervised by faculty in the Herff College of Engineering, combined with advanced coursework to provide a rigorous foundation in theory and methods. Students typically take advanced core and elective courses in their chosen specialization and complete research rotations or topics seminars before focusing on a dissertation.

• Research areas: biomedical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science and engineering, and interdisciplinary subjects such as sensors, controls, manufacturing, and energy systems.
• Coursework and methods: advanced mathematics and modelling, experimental methods, computational methods, systems analysis, and specialised technical electives aligned to the student’s research focus.
• Program milestones: coursework completion, qualifying or candidacy examination, dissertation proposal and defence, and submission of an original doctoral dissertation. Many students also present at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals during their candidature.
• Duration and structure: the programme emphasises a balance of coursework and sustained supervised research. Full-time students normally progress from initial coursework and examinations into full-time dissertation research under a faculty advisor.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised master’s degree in engineering or a closely related discipline. Exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree and relevant research experience may also be considered. Admission is selective and based on the applicant’s academic record, research experience, fit with faculty expertise, and potential for doctoral research.

• Academic qualifications: a relevant master’s degree is typically required; strong transcripts from previous degrees are expected.
• Research experience: evidence of research potential, such as a master’s thesis, publications, project reports, or industry R&D experience, strengthens an application.
• Supporting documents: a statement of research interests, curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, and a list of potential faculty supervisors or research groups you wish to work with.
• English language: for applicants whose first language is not English, an acceptable English language qualification is required.
• Funding and supervision: prospective students are encouraged to identify a potential faculty supervisor prior to applying; many successful applicants are supported by teaching or research assistantships.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Engineering pursue a wide range of careers across academia, industry and the public sector. The programme prepares students for roles that require deep technical expertise, original research capability and leadership.

• Academic careers: postdoctoral research, tenure-track faculty positions and teaching roles in universities and colleges.
• Industry and R&D: research scientist and senior engineering positions in sectors such as biomedical devices, aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy and advanced manufacturing.
• Government and national labs: research and technical leadership roles in government research laboratories and agencies.
• Consulting and management: specialist technical consulting, product development leadership, and technology management or entrepreneurship.

Why study at University of Memphis

The Herff College of Engineering at the University of Memphis offers a supportive research environment with access to modern laboratories, interdisciplinary centres and collaborative links with local industry and regional research partners. The college emphasises mentorship and close faculty collaboration, providing students with hands‑on research experience and opportunities to publish and present work internationally.

• Research infrastructure: facilities and labs that support experimental, computational and applied research across engineering disciplines.
• Industry connections: proximity to medical, logistics and manufacturing sectors fosters applied research collaborations and internship or employment opportunities.
• Graduate support: a range of assistantships and fellowships are available to qualified students, together with professional development resources and career services tailored to doctoral candidates.
• Collaborative culture: interdisciplinary centres and research groups encourage cross-department projects and partnerships that enhance the impact and relevance of doctoral research.