PhD in Mechanical Engineering

The University of Kentucky (UK) has grown into a vibrant institution committed to advancing knowledge, fostering creativity, and nurturing leaders. With a sprawling and picturesque campus, the university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. At the core of the University of Kentucky's mission is a dedication to research and discovery. The institution is renowned for its cutting-edge research initiatives, spanning fields such as healthcare, agriculture, engineering, and the arts. With world-class faculty leading the way, UK provides students with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research and contribute to advancements that have a global impact. Beyond academics, the university embraces a vibrant campus life, encouraging students to participate in a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities, fostering personal growth, and building a strong sense of community. The University of Kentucky stands as a dynamic and inclusive educational institution, preparing students not only for successful careers but also for a life of purpose and contribution to society.

The Ph.D. degree is a research degree granted on the basis of broad knowledge of mechanical engineering and specialized study in a specific area of interest. The student must conduct original and significant research and must submit and defend a dissertation based on that research. To obtain a Ph.D. degree from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, a student must Earn 36 graduate credit-hours taken at the University of Kentucky while in graduate standing after receiving a bachelor’s degree. Residency and research courses may not be used to satisfy this requirement. Students who have a M.S. degree from an accredited institution must complete 18 hours of course work. In order to advance to candidacy, doctoral students must pass a qualifying examination consisting of both written and oral components. The written component tests the candidate’s knowledge in three fundamental areas of Mechanical Engineering. The oral component consists of a presentation and defense of the student’s proposed dissertation research; a prospectus prepared by the student must be submitted to the doctoral advisory committee prior to the examination.