Ph.D. in Engineering Saint Louis University

The Ph.D. in Engineering program at Saint Louis University's School of Science and Engineering focuses on a specific research topic. The students are expected to conduct original academic research that culminates in a dissertation and peer-reviewed publications. Additional coursework related to the chosen research area is also required.

Ph.D. students prepare a program of study that must be approved by the faculty advisor, department chair and the director of graduate programs. This program of study is developed and then reviewed within the context of students’ background and career goals, allowing students to customize their program to suit their professional goals.

Graduate students in engineering at Saint Louis University will demonstrate:

1. enhanced professional and analytical skills through the development of an in-depth understanding of theoretical and practical concepts;
2. excellent communication skills through written and oral presentations;
3. creative thinking skills through mastery of topics required to solve complex engineering problems; and
4. depth of knowledge required to pursue advanced work in a modern, ever-changing world through entrepreneurial experiences woven into their program.

These attributes will be assessed during the required examination milestones. For a Ph.D., the required milestones include a qualifying exam, a written dissertation proposal and corresponding oral defense, and a written dissertation and corresponding oral defense presentation.

The Ph.D. in Engineering requires a total of 60 credits of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree, with a minimum of 12 credits of dissertation. A limited number of courses may be at the 4000 level; all others must be at the 5000 or higher level. Those students who earn an M.S. may include a maximum of 24 master’s degree course credits with departmental approval, but not the thesis or project credits in the 60 credits for the Ph.D. degree.

There are three concentrations in the engineering doctoral program:

• Aerospace and mechanical engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Civil engineering

Fieldwork and Research Opportunities

School of Science and Engineering graduate students gain valuable experience working with both faculty and peers. Additional opportunities to publish in scientific journals and attend professional conferences prepare our graduates for careers in industry or academia.

Saint Louis University’s location in a vibrant and industry-rich city means that faculty members have access to and relationships with industry professionals. The School of Science and Engineering provides many opportunities for these professionals to interact with students, share their real-world experiences, network and even collaborate on research projects. Therefore, students have access not only to top-notch faculty but to the most recent developments in industry.

The expert faculty of the School of Science and Engineering collaborate with graduate students in groundbreaking research in the following areas:

• Biomaterials
• Engineering Education
• Fluid Dynamics
• Haptic and Human-Machine Interfaces
• Hydrodynamics and Environmental Fluid Mechanics
• Infrastructure
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Manufacturing and Materials
• Solid and Fluid Biomechanics
• Space Systems
• Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
• Transportation
• Unmanned Aerial Systems and Flight Control Systems
• Water Quality and Treatment

1. Graduates will be able to apply knowledge of advanced concepts and analytical skills within engineering that enhances or adds to the scientific consensus.
2. Graduates will be able to communicate clearly and creatively a mastery of topics required to solve complex engineering problems through peer-reviewed research and oral presentations.
3. Graduates will be able to conduct independent research that addresses problems in broader contexts.

Graduates of the doctoral program seek employment in the industry, government or as university professors.