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Jun 15, 2026
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2026-2027 University Catalog
Technology, PHD
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About the Program
The Ph.D. in Technology prepares scholars to conduct original, theory-informed, and methodologically rigorous research addressing complex technological systems and their organizational and societal implications.
The program develops advanced competence in research design, statistical analysis, and analytical methodologies, followed by focused study within a defined area of interest and sustained independent dissertation research. Students engage critically with contemporary scholarship, identify significant research problems, and design studies that contribute new knowledge to the field.
Coursework is selected in consultation with the faculty advisor to ensure depth, coherence, and preparation for the preliminary examination. Advancement to candidacy requires demonstrated mastery of research methods and the student’s area of specialization. The dissertation must represent an original contribution to knowledge and is defended in a formal public examination.
Graduates are prepared for academic, research, and advanced professional roles requiring high levels of analytical expertise, scholarly communication, and independent inquiry.
Program Website Program Requirements
90 Credits Required(Up to 30 credits from a Master’s may be applied.)
Foundational Courses (4 credits)
Statistics Selective (3 credits)
Alternative courses are based on the faculty advisor’s recommendations.
Advanced Research Methods Selective (3 credits)
TECH 67600 is preferred. Alternative courses are based on the faculty advisor’s recommendations.
Areas of Interest Courses (9-14 credits)
Students complete three graduate-level courses from either a concentration, listed below, or in consultation with their Faculty Advisor. These courses are selected to:
- Support preparation for the Preliminary Examination.
- Develop deep expertise within a defined research domain.
- Align with dissertation research objectives.
Electives (0-35 credits)*
*Students may not need to take elective credits if entering the PHD program with 30 credits of coursework from a Master’s. Students with any less than 30 credits will need to take elective credits to fulfill PHD coursework requirements.
Dissertation Research (36 credits)
Dissertation research credits are taken after successful completion of the Preliminary Examination. A Research Expectations Worksheet must be on file prior to enrolling in dissertation hours.
The dissertation must represent an original contribution to knowledge in technology and demonstrate methodological rigor, theoretical grounding, and practical impact.
Additional Requirements
Scholarship plays a very important role in the preparation of M.S. and Ph.D. students in the Purdue Polytechnic Institute. Graduate students need to understand the role of scholarship in higher education as well as its importance in disseminating new knowledge. Ph.D. students are required to be first author on at least one-refereed journal article or refereed conference proceedings and co-author on one other refereed journal article or refereed conference proceeding. These articles may be published or “in review”. Concentrations
Departmental concentrations: Interdisciplinary concentrations: Program Learning Outcomes
Students will: - Design and conduct original research that solves complex technological problems and produces validated, impactful solutions.
- Integrate interdisciplinary knowledge to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative technological systems, processes, or solutions.
- Lead research and innovation efforts while applying ethical principles to ensure responsible, global, and societal impact.
GPA Requirements
To remain in good standing, students are expected to maintain a graduation index representing a B average (3.0/4.0 GPA) or better. Additional Information
Preliminary Examination: Evaluates mastery of research methods and the student’s area of specialization.
Final Examination (Dissertation Defense): Public defense of original research.
(Refer to Administering Graduate Programs for procedural details.)
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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