Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The PhD programme is centred on independent research guided by faculty advisers, supported by a curriculum of advanced coursework and professional development. Students typically take graduate-level courses in core and elective areas that reflect their research focus, for example:

• Advanced computational methods, numerical analysis and machine learning for engineering applications
• Control systems, dynamics and robotics
• Materials science, micro/nanofabrication and device physics
• Bioengineering, biomedical devices and systems biology
• Systems engineering, optimisation and complex networks
• Data science, sensing and signal processing

Programme structure normally includes initial coursework to build depth and breadth, qualifying or candidacy examinations to confirm readiness for independent research, and a sustained dissertation phase culminating in a defended thesis. Students engage in seminars, present work at conferences, contribute to peer‑reviewed publications and often take teaching or mentoring responsibilities. Interdisciplinary collaboration with other Dartmouth departments and research centres is strongly supported.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in engineering, applied science or a closely related discipline; many successful candidates also hold a relevant master’s degree. Typical application components include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, names of referees providing letters of recommendation, and samples of prior research or publications where available. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency according to the school’s published requirements. Admissions committees look for evidence of research potential, quantitative preparation and alignment between the applicant’s interests and faculty expertise. Some applicants may be invited to interview as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme move into a wide range of careers that leverage deep technical expertise and research experience. Common pathways include:

• Academic careers as tenure‑track faculty or postdoctoral researchers
• R&D leadership roles in industrial research labs and high‑technology companies
• Technical or scientific roles in startups and entrepreneurial ventures
• Positions in government laboratories, national research organisations and policy bodies
• Consulting roles that require advanced analytical and systems skills

The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinary work, communication and translation of research prepares graduates for roles that bridge science, engineering and application domains.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Studying engineering at Dartmouth means working within the Thayer School’s small, collaborative research environment where students receive close mentorship from faculty. The school emphasises problem‑driven, cross‑disciplinary research and offers access to specialised laboratories and shared facilities that support experimental and computational work. Students benefit from Dartmouth’s broader liberal arts setting, which encourages communication skills, leadership and opportunities to collaborate with other departments and research institutes. The supportive community, focus on translating research into impact and strong industry and alumni networks combine to create an environment well suited to ambitious doctoral researchers.