PhD in Mechanical Engineering

The Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering trains students to carry out independent research and to lead development teams, with the goal of placing graduates in industry or faculty positions. Faculty research spans manufacturing, nanomaterials, energy storage, composites, combustion, acoustics, biomechanics, controls, robotics and autonomous systems. The Detroit setting supports collaboration with automotive firms, medical centers and government laboratories. Students select a field within one of three thrust areas, and may count certain cross-listed biomedical engineering courses toward their program. Admission requirements are listed on the program page, and the department wants candidates trained to work independently. Candidates are guided by nationally recognized faculty, and the department's goal is to foster creativity and excellence through in-depth training in applying advanced principles to research.