Program Overview
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering trains students to conduct independent research in various specializations. The program emphasizes advanced research skills, deep understanding of core principles, and ethical conduct. Graduates are prepared for careers in industry, national labs, and academia, where they can apply their knowledge to solve complex engineering problems and contribute to the advancement of the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison trains students to perform independent research in areas of faculty expertise within the department. The program aims to equip graduates with advanced research skills and a deep understanding of core principles in Mechanical Engineering. Graduates will be prepared for careers in industry, national labs, and academia.
Objectives:
- Demonstrate an extraordinary, deep understanding of mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles in the field.
- Develop the ability to formulate, analyze, and independently solve advanced engineering problems.
- Apply the relevant scientific and technological advancements, techniques, and engineering tools to address these problems.
- Recognize and apply principles of ethical and professional conduct.
- Synthesize knowledge from a subset of the biological, physical, and/or social sciences to help frame problems critical to the future of their discipline.
- Conduct original research and communicate it to their peers.
Outline:
Content:
The program covers a wide range of research specializations, including: biomechanics, computational engineering and design, energy systems, advanced manufacturing, mechanics, and robotics, controls and sensing.
Structure:
- The program typically takes 4-6 years to complete.
- Students complete coursework in their chosen specialization, as well as core courses in mechanical engineering.
- Students conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
- Students must pass qualifying exams, a preliminary exam, and a final defense to earn their degree.
Assessment:
- Students are assessed through exams, coursework, research presentations, and their final dissertation.
- The qualifying exam assesses students' fundamental knowledge in mechanical engineering.
- The preliminary exam evaluates students' research progress and ability to present their work.
- The final defense is an oral presentation and examination of the student's dissertation.
Teaching:
- The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields.
- Teaching methods include lectures, discussions, labs, and research supervision.
- The department has a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and research experience.
Careers:
- Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in various fields, including:
- Research and development
- Engineering design
- Manufacturing
- Consulting
- Academia
Entry Requirements:
Most applicants have a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Students with a Bachelor of Science in other engineering or physical and natural science disciplines will be considered for admission. International applicants must have a degree comparable to a regionally accredited U.S. bachelor’s degree. The Department of Mechanical Engineering prefers a 3.2/4.0 GPA. The minimum GPA to be reviewed by the admission committee is 3.0/4.0. International students must complete this process as part of the application process, before an offer of admission may be granted. Applicants are required to seek out and secure their own faculty advisor.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements (https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/#english-proficiency).
