Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The PhD in Engineering Science is primarily a research degree built around an individual dissertation project. Early in the programme you take advanced coursework tailored to your research area, followed by focused seminars and research rotations. Areas of study commonly include biomedical engineering and bioengineering; materials science and nanotechnology; energy systems and sustainable engineering; systems engineering, control and robotics; and computational methods, data science and modelling.

• Core and advanced coursework — graduate-level modules in continuum mechanics, advanced materials, transport phenomena, control theory, optimisation, computational methods, and statistical inference depending on your specialism.
• Research seminars and methods — topical seminars, journal clubs and methods courses that build experimental, numerical and analytic skills necessary for independent research.
• Laboratory research — sustained work in a faculty research group, including experimental design, instrument use, data collection and analysis.
• Qualifying assessment — a written and/or oral examination or portfolio that demonstrates mastery of the field and readiness to pursue dissertation research.
• Dissertation and defence — original research that contributes new knowledge to the field, culminating in a written thesis and public defence.
• Teaching and professional development — opportunities to teach or assist undergraduate courses, plus workshops on grant writing, communication and entrepreneurship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in engineering, applied science, physics, mathematics or a closely related discipline; many successful applicants also hold a relevant master’s degree. Admissions look for evidence of research aptitude such as project work, publications, or research assistant experience.

• Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Letters of recommendation (typically three) that can speak to research potential and academic performance.
• Statement of purpose / research proposal outlining your research interests, relevant experience and fit with faculty and facilities.
• Curriculum vitae detailing research, publications, technical skills and relevant experience.
• English language proficiency proof if applicable (e.g. recognised tests) for applicants whose first language is not English.

Applicants should consult the programme’s admissions page for any additional documentation or departmental expectations. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate quantitative preparation, relevant laboratory or computational experience, and a clear research direction that aligns with faculty expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD in Engineering Science pursue diverse careers. Many move into tenure-track academic positions, postdoctoral fellowships and leading research roles in universities. Others take senior R&D positions in industry—across medical devices, materials, energy, robotics, aerospace and semiconductor sectors—or technical leadership roles in start-ups and scale-ups. Additional pathways include research positions in national laboratories, specialised engineering consultancies, and roles in technology policy, venture capital or product development where deep technical expertise and problem-solving skills are required.

Why study at Dartmouth University

The Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth is known for small, collaborative cohorts and close faculty mentorship, giving PhD students substantial access to principal investigators and cross-departmental collaboration. The school emphasises interdisciplinary research, enabling projects that combine engineering fundamentals with biology, chemistry, computer science and business. Students benefit from well-equipped laboratories, multi‑disciplinary research centres, and connections to a network of industry partners and entrepreneurial resources.

Additionally, the research environment places a strong emphasis on professional development—teaching experience, communication training and opportunities to translate research into impact through industry engagement or start-up incubation. The combination of personalised mentorship, broad interdisciplinary opportunities and strong institutional support makes the programme especially suitable for students aiming for leadership roles in research and technology innovation.