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Dec 08, 2025
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2025-2026 University Catalog
Mechanical Engineering, PHD
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 Return to: College of Engineering (Graduate)
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About the Program
With a graduate degree from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University, students will conduct world-class mechanical engineering research, with close support from faculty and industry. Students will master the skills necessary to innovate at nearly any field: from fuel pumps to heart pumps, carbon fiber to carbon nanotubes, and solid rockets to soft robotics. Students can enjoy the benefits of a Big Ten university, from cultural events to exciting athletics, all within walking distance. After graduation, students will be able to take advantage of Purdue’s sought-after partnerships with industry and utilize Purdue’s worldwide network of 82,000 engineering alumni to find the career of their dreams. Program Website Required Courses (42 credits)*
*If not (partially) completed by coursework from a Master’s degree. Applied Mathematics Courses (3-9 credits)*
*Math credits taken during the MS may be included as PhD applied math courses. At least 6 credits must be an MA 500/600-level course, from the Math department (cannot be an independent study course). The other 3 credits may be from approved applied math courses, which are listed here: Mechanical Engineering Supplemental Information (GR) . Courses not allowed on the plan of study to satisfy the math requirement include: MA 580; ME 562 and 579; MSE 697; STAT 501 & 513. ME & Non-ME Courses (21-33 credits)*
*Students must take at least 21 new credits beyond the Master’s degree. These should come from 500/600-level ME courses as well as courses outside of the ME department. Students should consult with their major advisor for course options that suit their research interests. Suggested courses for both ME and non-ME departments can be found here: Mechanical Engineering Supplemental Information (GR) . Dissertation Research (48 credits)
Concentrations
Interdisciplinary concentrations: Additional Information
Only graduate-level courses (500/600-level) that are “technical and quantitative in content” may be listed on a PhD Plan of Study. At least one of the courses must be a Purdue West Lafayette, 3-credit, lecture-based course at the 600-level, and cannot be a course that is also being used to meet the math requirements. Independent project courses (ME 597 or ME 697, etc.) are limited to a maximum of 3 credits, and must not exceed 3 credits to be listed on the Plan of Study. Graduate Programs Disclaimer
- The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
- Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary.
- Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
- Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
- Comparative information about Purdue University and other U.S. educational institutions is also available through the College Navigator tool, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, and through the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Return to: College of Engineering (Graduate)
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