PhD in Systems Engineering

This doctoral program is designed for working professionals instead of full-time campus residents. Most students are expected to study part-time, from a distance, while holding jobs connected to systems engineering. Because of that expectation, the faculty and administrators deliver every course online and impose no traditional on-campus residency. Required research seminars meet in a virtual classroom where everyone can interact. Students are strongly encouraged to present their work and submit papers at national conferences, and regular, well-documented meetings with research advisors are expected. The program also applies proven methods for keeping students engaged and supporting their professional growth. The plan of study totals at least sixty credits beyond a master's degree. It includes distribution requirements chosen with the research advisor, with one focus area of at least twelve credit hours and a second of at least nine. Thirty or more credits go to dissertation research, and there are examination requirements as well. Applications are accepted at any time, though faculty review them only twice yearly, on March 1 and November 1.