Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The PhD in Engineering is a research-focused degree with a programme of advanced coursework, formal research training and a sustained original research project that culminates in a doctoral dissertation. Students normally combine core courses in engineering fundamentals with specialised coursework aligned to their chosen research area. Typical study components include:

• Advanced coursework: Graduate seminars and advanced classes in areas such as controls and dynamics, solid mechanics, materials science, electrical and computer engineering topics, bioengineering, systems engineering, and data-driven engineering methods. Course choices are tailored to the student’s research focus.
• Research methods: Training in experimental techniques, numerical simulation, modelling, and quantitative data analysis, together with formal instruction in research ethics and scholarly communication.
• Seminars and colloquia: Regular research seminars to engage with faculty and visiting scholars, and to present work in progress.
• Teaching and professional development: Opportunities to gain experience as a teaching assistant, and access to workshops on grant writing, leadership, and communication.
• Qualifying examinations: Milestone assessments such as written and/or oral comprehensive exams or a qualifying review that confirm readiness for dissertation research.
• Dissertation research: Independent, original research conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor, leading to a written dissertation and an oral defence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree in engineering, applied science, computer science or a closely related discipline. Exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree and a record of research experience may be considered.

• Academic transcripts: A strong academic record in prior undergraduate and graduate studies.
• Research experience: Evidence of research potential, typically demonstrated through a master’s thesis, publications, project work or substantive research internships.
• References: At least three academic or professional references who can comment on the applicant’s research ability and preparedness for doctoral work.
• Statement of research goals: A personal statement or research proposal that outlines areas of interest, relevant experience, and potential faculty supervisors.
• Standardised tests and language requirements: The programme’s requirements for GRE scores and English language tests (e.g. TOEFL/IELTS) vary; international applicants should check the School’s guidance for current expectations and acceptable alternatives.

Career prospects

Graduates earn a credential that prepares them for a wide range of advanced technical and leadership roles. Common career paths include:

• Academic research and teaching: Tenure-track and non-tenure-track faculty positions, postdoctoral research appointments, and roles in university research centres.
• Industrial R&D: Research scientist and engineering roles in high-tech firms, energy, advanced manufacturing, biomedical companies, aerospace and defence, and electronics.
• National labs and government research: Scientific and engineering posts in national laboratories, federal research agencies and policy-focused technical roles.
• Leadership and entrepreneurship: Technical leadership, product research management, and opportunities to found or join technology startups that commercialise research outcomes.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers a doctoral experience that emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration and close faculty mentorship. The campus combines strong engineering and applied science expertise with access to university-wide research institutes and facilities, allowing students to tackle complex, multi‑disciplinary problems.

Students benefit from small research groups and active research centres, opportunities to collaborate with faculty across informatics, computing, and engineering domains, and access to resources such as shared laboratories, high-performance computing and the Pervasive Technology Institute. The university’s location in Bloomington provides a focused academic environment with an engaged research community and connections to regional industry and national research networks.