PhD in Mechanical Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering is offered through the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, a joint institute combining the research resources of Carleton University and the University of Ottawa. The program is thesis-based and prepares candidates for independent research careers in engineering. Students choose a research specialization from six fields of study: aeronautical and space engineering, biomedical engineering, controls and robotics, materials and manufacturing, solid mechanics and design, and thermal and fluid engineering. Doctoral candidates undertake original research culminating in a dissertation, building on advanced coursework in their chosen specialization and working with faculty across both partner institutions. The program normally takes four to five years of full-time study to complete. Admission is offered for the Fall, Winter and Summer terms, though the department does not schedule coursework during the Summer term. Graduates are prepared for research, academic and industry careers requiring advanced expertise in mechanical or aerospace engineering.