University of Washington

Overview

The Ph.D. program in Industrial and Systems Engineering at the University of Washington is designed to equip students with the skills necessary for advanced research and academic careers in the field. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical application, culminating in original research contributions through a dissertation.

What you'll study

The curriculum is organized around a combination of coursework and formal examinations, progressively leading to dissertation research. Students are expected to complete graduate-level coursework in Industrial and Systems Engineering during the initial stages, which serves to deepen their methodological understanding and research capabilities.

• Credit requirements: A total of 90 credits are required for the Ph.D. degree. Up to 30 credits may be transferred from a master’s degree, subject to program approval.
• Residency requirement: At least 60 credits must be completed at the University of Washington.
• Academic standing: Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 throughout the program.

Examination milestones

• Qualifying Examination: This examination assesses the student's preparedness for advanced research and dissertation work.
• General Examination: This evaluation examines the student’s comprehensive knowledge and research focus.
• Final Examination: The dissertation defense is based on the student's original research contributions.

Research activities are woven throughout the program, culminating in the dissertation that reflects the student’s scholarly work and findings.

Entry requirements

Applicants should refer to the department's current admissions guidelines for specific entry requirements, including any standardized tests that may be required, such as the GRE or GMAT.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Industrial and Systems Engineering are well-prepared for diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, and industry. They are equipped to tackle complex problems and contribute to advancements in the field through innovative research and application of systems engineering principles.