PhD Programs
Our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs are research-oriented degree programs for students of superior caliber who will make original contributions to theory and practice in their fields of interest. The programs prepare you for a research career in academe, government, or industry. Our curricula are purposely designed to develop the intellectual skills essential for the rapidly changing character of research. You can review SEAS interdisciplinary research centers and institutes, the Faculty Research Directory, and additional research labs and groups can be found at the deparment-level.
Bioengineering
Bioengineering employs engineering principles of analysis and design to solve problems in medicine and biology. Penn’s PhD in Bioengineering builds a solid foundation in science and develops powerful methods for understanding basic physiological processes. Its fundamental goal is to presents a broad, flexible curriculum that gives students experience in a wide range of subject areas and intellectual approaches.
Program Overview |
Department Website |
Research
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
The PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering is a research-oriented degree for students who show promise for original contributions to the theory and practice of chemical and biomolecular engineering. The degree is crucial for those planning to teach and for those planning to embark on research careers. Doctoral candidates are expected to show superior capability for independent work and study.
Program Overview |
Department Website|
Research
Computer and Information Science
Penn is taking the lead in addressing the educational and research questions that surround computing and information technology. The PhD program in Computer and Information Science welcomes candidates with strong training in any of the disciplines related to modern information processing, with an emphasis on computer science and mathematics. The curriculum is designed to develop the intellectual skills essential for the rapidly changing character of research and to meet the demands of academe and industry.
Program Overview |
Department Website|
Research
Electrical and Systems Engineering
The PhD program welcomes candidates with a strong background in science and engineering who are interested in pursuing an academic doctoral degree. The objective of this program is to help students develop skills needed to perform independent research and teaching in an exciting intellectual environment. The students will work with world-class faculty advisors and mentors. Our research laboratories provide ample opportunities for students to work with other students and faculty to develop cutting-edge theories and technologies in collaboration with other departments and schools within the University.
Program Overview|
Department Website|
Research
Materials Science and Engineering
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is recognized as a leader and innovator in materials research and education. Faculty members and students have received many top awards in their research fields, the educational program has produced leaders both in industry and in academia, and the University is ranked among the top five in the United States.
Program Overview|
Department Website |
Research
Mechanical Engineering
Our graduate program emphasizes fundamental concepts and their use in applications. A distinguished and diverse faculty of thirty-one, including colleagues affiliated with other departments in the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS), Medical School, and Wharton Business School, offer fundamental and advanced courses. Many of the research theses of our students are co-advised by these faculty drawn from diverse disciplines. These prepare the graduate student both for research at the doctoral level and for high level professional employment in challenging and stimulating work environments. After their graduation, many of our students have assumed leadership roles in industry and academia.
Program Overview |
Department Website |
Research
Funding - PhD candidates typically are awarded funding upon admission to cover tuition and fees, a stipend for living expenses and payment of University of Pennsylvania Student Health Insurance.
Dual PhD Degree Programs
Dual degrees offer PhD students the opportunity for cross-disciplinary studies with an integrative and inclusive curricula, in collaboration with the Schools of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine and the Dental School. These programs are offered in conjunction with a Bioengineering PhD.
MD / PhD Dual Degree Program
VMD / PhD Dual Program
DMD / PhD Dual Program
Students must satisfy independent admission requirements of both the School of Engineering and the other school involved. This means that the appropriate standardized tests, such as the GMAT or MCAT, a completed application form and fee, transcript, and recommendations, must be sent to both schools.
Generally, candidates should apply simultaneously to both components of the dual-degree program, since credits earned in the first degree prior to matriculation do not count toward the second degree. Students should contact the appropriate admissions offices and Penn Engineering Graduate Admissions Office for more information.
Have questions? Click here for a list of graduate chairs and coordinators.
