Program Overview

Introduction to the PhD in Explosives Engineering

The PhD degree in explosives engineering at Missouri S&T is a unique program that prepares students for careers in academia, consulting, and industry. It provides students with the opportunity to conduct novel research in energetic materials, including explosives, and related areas.

Program Overview

The PhD degree requires a minimum of three years of full-time study beyond the bachelor's degree, including research work for the dissertation. PhD candidates must complete course requirements and novel research in explosives-related topics.

Program Requirements

PhD candidates must complete at least 15 credit hours of coursework at Missouri S&T and are required to pass the qualifying, comprehensive, and final oral examinations of the PhD program. Doctoral students in explosives engineering must consult the graduate degree requirements in explosives engineering, Missouri S&T's graduate catalog, and their respective advisors to develop a program of study.

Securing an Advisor

It is recommended that students secure a tentative graduate advisor even before they formally apply. Students should review the department's faculty directory to find faculty members whose research interests align with their aspirations and contact them by email with their portfolio to ask if they are willing to serve as their PhD advisor.

Research in Explosives Engineering

The United States recognizes the increasing importance of securing the supply chain for explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics due to their importance to industry and national defense. Explosives engineering faculty and students conduct research related to energetic materials, including explosives hazards and effective manufacture, transport, use, and storage of explosives using experimental testing and numerical simulation.

Research Fields

• Health and safety
• Energetic materials

Career Paths

Explosives engineers can choose from a variety of exciting careers, including:

• Researchers (both government and private companies)
• Technical services engineers with explosives and blasting companies
• Engineers with consulting firms
• Law enforcement

Industries

Explosives engineers work with:

• Universities
• National laboratories
• Explosives manufacturers
• Law enforcement agencies
• Consulting companies

Student Testimonials

Students who have completed the program have praised its resources and facilities, which allow for hands-on research experience in energetic materials, detonation, and shock physics. The program has helped them achieve their career goals and transition into various industries.