Program Overview
The Systems Design doctoral program is an interdisciplinary program that prepares students to solve complex engineering and scientific problems through collaboration. Students can specialize in technical expertise and project management or in the theory and analysis of large-scale systems. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum in systems engineering, analysis, optimization, and other related fields, and provides opportunities for original research and project work. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in industry, government, and academia.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Systems Design doctoral degree is an interdepartmental program that addresses contemporary engineering and scientific problems that can be solved only through the cooperation of a variety of disciplines. Students in systems design can elect one of two professional directions. The first develops professionals with the technical expertise of a Ph.D. and with the ability to work with and direct groups of people working on large-scale technical projects. The second direction develops engineers with capabilities in the theory and analysis of large-scale complex systems. Concentration in an area of specific individual interest is combined with participation in a larger interdisciplinary project.
Outline:
Curriculum:
The curriculum for the Systems Design Ph.D. program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the field of systems design, as well as the specialized knowledge and skills needed to conduct original research in this area. The program's curriculum includes coursework in the following areas:
- Systems engineering
- Systems analysis
- Optimization
- Simulation
- Modeling
- Control theory
- Decision theory
- Human factors engineering
- Project management
Course Schedule:
The course schedule for the Systems Design Ph.D. program is typically as follows:
- Year 1: Students take coursework in the core areas of systems design, as well as electives in their chosen area of specialization.
- Year 2: Students continue to take coursework in their chosen area of specialization, and they begin to work on their dissertation research.
- Year 3: Students complete their dissertation research and write their dissertation.
Individual Modules:
The Systems Design Ph.D. program offers a variety of individual modules that students can take to meet their individual needs and interests. These modules include:
- Systems Engineering: This module provides students with a foundation in the principles and practices of systems engineering.
- Systems Analysis: This module provides students with the skills needed to analyze and evaluate complex systems.
- Optimization: This module provides students with the skills needed to design and implement optimization algorithms.
- Simulation: This module provides students with the skills needed to develop and use simulation models.
- Modeling: This module provides students with the skills needed to develop and use mathematical models.
- Control Theory: This module provides students with the skills needed to design and implement control systems.
- Decision Theory: This module provides students with the skills needed to make decisions in the face of uncertainty.
- Human Factors Engineering: This module provides students with the skills needed to design and evaluate systems that are safe and easy to use.
- Project Management: This module provides students with the skills needed to manage complex projects.
Assessment:
Students in the Systems Design Ph.D. program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams: Students are required to take exams in all of their coursework.
- Projects: Students are required to complete a number of projects throughout the program.
- Dissertation: Students are required to write a dissertation that presents their original research findings.
Teaching:
The Systems Design Ph.D. program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education. The faculty members use a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Faculty members give lectures to introduce students to new concepts and theories.
- Discussions: Faculty members lead discussions to help students understand the material and to develop their critical thinking skills.
- Projects: Faculty members assign projects to help students apply the material they have learned.
- Mentoring: Faculty members mentor students to help them develop their research skills and to prepare for their careers.
Careers:
Graduates of the Systems Design Ph.D. program are prepared for a variety of careers in industry, government, and academia. Graduates may work as systems engineers, systems analysts, optimization specialists, simulation specialists, modeling specialists, control systems engineers, decision theory specialists, human factors engineers, or project managers.