Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics PhD

Degree Awarded: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Minimum Required Credits: 30.0
Co-op Option: None
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 14.1901
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 17-2141

About the Program

The PhD in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics (MEM) at Drexel University prepares students to advance the frontiers of engineering knowledge through original, independent research. Graduates develop deep expertise in their chosen specialization while acquiring broad foundations across core areas of mechanical engineering. Students gain mastery of advanced theoretical, computational, and experimental methods; demonstrate the ability to formulate and solve complex engineering problems; critically evaluate and synthesize existing literature; and communicate research findings effectively through scholarly publications and professional presentations. The program cultivates intellectual independence, ethical research practices, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines to address emerging scientific and technological challenges.

Doctoral students engage in a rigorous, research‑intensive learning experience that combines advanced coursework with sustained faculty‑mentored research. Coursework is tailored through individualized Plans of Study that support each student’s research direction while strengthening foundational knowledge. The core of the program is the dissertation, through which students make original contributions to mechanical engineering and mechanics. Research spans a wide range of areas, including fluid and thermal transport, solid and structural mechanics, materials and manufacturing processes, robotics and human‑machine systems, dynamics and control, energy systems, plasma science and engineering, biomechanics, and other interdisciplinary topics. Students benefit from close collaboration with faculty advisors, access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and computational resources, and participation in seminars, conferences, and professional development activities.

Graduates of the PhD program pursue careers in academia, industrial research and development, national laboratories, government agencies, and technology‑driven enterprises. Alumni are well prepared for faculty positions, research scientist roles, advanced engineering leadership positions, and innovation‑focused careers that require deep technical expertise and independent problem‑solving capabilities. The program also provides a strong foundation for interdisciplinary research careers and postdoctoral study in emerging engineering and applied science fields.

As a Carnegie R1 research institution, Drexel University offers a collaborative and application‑oriented research environment that distinguishes its doctoral programs. PhD students benefit from interdisciplinary research opportunities across the College of Engineering and the broader university, strong industry and government research partnerships, and Drexel’s emphasis on experiential learning. Located in a major metropolitan research hub, the program provides access to professional networks, funding opportunities, and real‑world impact, positioning graduates for leadership in both established and emerging engineering domains.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact the School of Engineering

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet the graduate requirements for admission to Drexel University. Students holding a bachelor's degree in a science or engineering discipline other than mechanical engineering are advised to take several undergraduate courses as preparation for graduate studies. Though these courses are not counted toward the required credits for the degree, they also must be listed in the student's plan of study. Outstanding students with a GPA of at least 3.5 in their master’s program will be considered for admission to the program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics.

International applicants must demonstrate English‑language proficiency through an approved standardized exam such as the TOEFL or IELTS. A minimum TOEFL score of 90 or IELTS score of 6.5 is required for admission to graduate programs in the College of Engineering.

To learn more about additional requirements, visa documentation, and support resources, visit the International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) website.

Degree Requirements

Students Entering with an MS in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics from Drexel University

Students Entering with an MS degree in a STEM field

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Equivalent courses from MATH, ECE, or CIVE may fulfill this requirement with Associate Head for Graduate Programs' approval.

Students Entering with a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or other STEM field, but not an MS degree

¹

Equivalent courses from MATH, ECE, or CIVE may fulfill this requirement with Associate Head for Graduate Programs' approval.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research on a timely topic of modern Mechanical Engineering.
• Acquire a broader and deeper knowledge in the student’s sub-discipline/field of specialization.
• Demonstrate the ability to express research content and findings orally and in writing.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship of their work to published literature.
• Demonstrate the ability to interact effectively with colleagues.
• Demonstrate the ability to utilize experimental, theoretical, and computational tools for one’s research.