Program Overview
The Mechanical Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of New Hampshire offers six concentrations, providing students with a deep understanding of a core area and broader knowledge in related fields. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and communication abilities, preparing graduates for careers in research, design, manufacturing, and academia. Students must maintain a high GPA, pass a qualifying exam, form a doctoral committee, and complete an original dissertation to earn the degree.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Description:
The Mechanical Engineering (Ph.D.) program at the University of New Hampshire offers specialization in the following six concentrations:
- Fluid Dynamics and Thermal science
- Solid Mechanics
- Materials Science
- Design and Manufacturing
- Dynamic Systems and Control
- Ocean Engineering
Objectives:
- To provide students with a deep understanding of at least one core area of Mechanical Engineering.
- To provide students with a broader understanding of 1-2 areas of Mechanical Engineering that are different from the area of research of the student's thesis.
- To develop students' critical thinking and creative abilities in defining research questions and outlining strategies of inquiry.
- To enhance students' ability to document research outcomes comprehensively for publication.
- To develop students' ability to communicate research results to scientific audiences in conferences.
- To foster students' ability to work collaboratively with other peers.
Outline:
Course Requirements:
- Students entering with a B.S. degree must complete at least twelve 3- or 4-credit courses, with five at the 900 level.
- Students entering with an M.S. degree in engineering are required to take a minimum of five 3- or 4-credit courses, with three at the 900 level.
- Further course requirements are determined by the student's area of concentration and guidance committee.
Qualifying Examination:
- The qualifying examination is administered by the student's guidance committee.
- Upon successful completion of the qualifying examination, the student may advance to candidacy.
Doctoral Committee:
- A doctoral committee is appointed once candidacy has been attained.
- The committee must be composed of a minimum of five members, usually three from the student's major department and two from related departments.
Dissertation:
- Each Ph.D. candidate must conduct research of sufficient originality and significance to warrant the awarding of the Ph.D. degree.
- The final examination (oral defense) is the defense of the student's dissertation.
Assessment:
- Students are required to maintain a “B” average (3.00 GPA) with no grade below “B-” in all coursework.
Teaching:
- All full-time graduate students are required to attend a weekly Mechanical Engineering Graduate Seminar.
- Students are required to make one presentation per year at the seminar.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Research and development engineer
- Design engineer
- Manufacturing engineer
- Technical consultant
- Professor
University of New Hampshire
Overview:
The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a public research university located in Durham, New Hampshire. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research. UNH is a top-tier research institution, as classified by the Carnegie Classification, and is consistently ranked among the best value public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Services Offered:
UNH offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, majors, and career paths.Career Services:
Assists students with career exploration, job searching, and internship opportunities.Financial Aid:
Offers various financial aid options to help students afford their education.Housing & Residential Life:
Provides on-campus housing options and support services for students living in residence halls.Dining:
Offers a variety of dining options on campus, including meal plans and catering services.Student Support:
Provides resources and support services for students facing academic, personal, or financial challenges.Fitness & Recreation:
Offers a variety of fitness and recreational activities, including intramural sports, sport clubs, and fitness classes.Health & Wellness:
Provides health and wellness services to students, including medical care, counseling, and health education.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNH offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Clubs & Organizations:
Over 300 student clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests.New Student Programs:
Provides orientation and support services for incoming students.Student Union:
Offers a variety of events, programs, and services for students.Athletics:
UNH is home to the Wildcats, a Division I athletic program with a strong tradition of success.Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Tier Research Institution:
UNH is a leading research university with a strong focus on innovation and discovery.Excellent Academic Programs:
UNH offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.Vibrant Campus Life:
UNH provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience with a wide range of activities and opportunities.Strong Alumni Network:
UNH has a large and active alumni network that provides support and mentorship to students.Beautiful Campus:
UNH is located on a beautiful and spacious campus with a variety of amenities and facilities.Academic Programs:
UNH offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
UNH offers over 100 undergraduate majors across various colleges and schools, including the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics.Graduate Programs:
UNH offers over 70 graduate programs, including master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and professional degrees.Other:
UNH has two additional campuses: UNH Manchester and UNH Law. UNH Manchester offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, while UNH Law is a nationally recognized law school.
