Mechanical Engineering PhD

Learning Outcomes Established for the PhD

Program graduates will develop an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles related to a sub-discipline of mechanical engineering.
Program graduates will have demonstrated a mastery of a broad range of topics related to mechanical engineering, including applied mathematics, and an ability to study and learn independently.
Program graduates will have demonstrated the ability to perform independent research by completing a dissertation project which results in the creation of new knowledge and/or the advancement of the state-of-the-art in specific sub-disciplines of mechanical engineering. The dissertation project will contain elements of design, experimentation and/or analysis and will require innovation and creativity.
Program graduates will develop technical writing and oral presentation skills.
Program graduates will demonstrate a pattern of living consistent with high ethical and moral standards.

Semesters of entry and application deadlines: fall, spring, summer - January 15 (U.S. and international); winter - September 15 (U.S. and international).
Entrance examinations: the GRE general exam is required for admission. The expected GRE scores are: V-470; Q-720; AW-4. International applicants are required to take the TOEFL or IELTS exam. University minimum scores are required.
Prerequisite: BS degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours. A BS in any other field requires provisional admission.

Apply at: http://www.byu.edu/gradstudies/admissions/applynow.php

Credit hours: a minimum 66 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree, which may include up to 18 hours of dissertation credit and 30 hours of combined master's course work and thesis credit (by committee approval) and must include 9 total credit hours of approved math and statistics. No undergraduate courses may apply toward a doctoral degree (except those already applied to a master's degree). 3.0 GPA is required.
Examinations: A qualifying written examination must be taken within the first year of the PhD program. Exams are offered in March and September of each year. All students are also required to pass an oral examination (defense of dissertation).

Residency is required for the major part of the work toward the PhD. This work must be completed under the specific direction of a graduate faculty member while the student is in residence at BYU (at least two consecutive semesters of 6 or more hours of registration). "In residence" is defined as (1) being registered for credit as a graduate student and (2) living and conducting research in the general vicinity of the university, where the student has ready access to research facilities and consultation with the faculty.

**For comprehensive policies and procedures of PhD program, see student handbook