PhD Programs

The PhD requires 108 semester hours, beginning with coursework and culminating in the research, writing, and defense of an original dissertation. UIC MIE welcomes applicants who are completing (or who have already completed) a master’s degree in their field as well as applicants with only an undergraduate degree.

Follow the links in the blue box below to learn about the degree requirements for the PhD in mechanical engineering and the PhD in industrial engineering and operations research.

PhD students must pass a preliminary examination before they begin the final phase of their doctoral study. Visit the Preliminary Examination page for full details.

Upon completion of all degree requirements and the dissertation, students must orally defend their work before their committee.

• Course descriptions: ME – IE
• Degree requirements: PhD in Mechanical Engineering
• Degree requirements: PhD in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
• Graduate courses page
• Graduate student resources page
• Lab index

Ketki Lichade ’23
PhD in Industrial Engineering

University at Buffalo
Assistant Professor

What are some of your day-to-day tasks?
My day-to-day tasks include teaching manufacturing-related courses, research advising, mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, and offering services to the department, university, and society.

What’s great about your job?
I have the freedom to explore new research ideas and directions and make meaningful contributions to advance the manufacturing field through my research, teaching, and service activities.

How do you hope your work will create positive change in the world?
I am driven by the belief that my research in advanced manufacturing holds the potential to address critical societal challenges, ranging from environmental sustainability to healthcare. Moreover, by cultivating a culture of curiosity and critical thinking in the classroom, I am committed to inspiring and empowering the next generation of scientists, leaders, and professionals.

How did the College of Engineering prepare you for your career?
COE provided me with many new opportunities for professional and personal development, which ultimately built up my confidence and shaped me into a confident woman.

Why did you choose UIC?
I choose UIC because of the excellent quality of education, research facilities and activities.

Is there an aspect of studying in Chicago in particular that you feel benefited you?
Coming from a small town in India, I feel studying in a big city like Chicago has made me more independent and confident.

Favorite thing about your former department?
Many resources and facilities to conduct successful research.

Would you recommend the College of Engineering to new applicants?
Yes. COE provides many opportunities for professional development, including but not limited to getting involved in research, student organizations, and managing work-life balance through variety of workshops.

One-sentence “Words of wisdom” to share with students:
Big things start small. Just keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Erina Baynojir Joyee ‘21
PhD in Industrial Engineering and Operation Research

University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Assistant Professor

What are some of your day-to-day tasks?
My day-to-day tasks encompass a diverse range of responsibilities within the realms of teaching, research, advising, service, professional development, and administrative duties. I dedicate a significant time to planning and delivering lectures, guiding discussions, preparing course materials, and providing feedback to students as part of my teaching role. Concurrently, I engage in rigorous research activities, including conducting experiments, analyzing data, writing scholarly articles for publication, and presenting research findings at conferences. I also mentor and advise undergraduate and graduate students, offering guidance on academic and research pursuits. Additionally, I contribute to departmental and university committees, review manuscripts for journals, participate in faculty meetings, and engage in community outreach efforts.

What’s great about your job?
There are several aspects of my job that I find truly rewarding and fulfilling. Firstly, I have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute new knowledge to my field. This research allows me to explore topics of personal interest, collaborate with talented colleagues and students, and address real-world problems through innovative solutions. Additionally, I am passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of scholars. Interacting with students, watching them grow academically and professionally, and witnessing their achievements are immensely gratifying experiences. Furthermore, my role allows me to participate in service activities, both within the university community and beyond, enabling me to make a positive impact and contribute to the greater good. Overall, the autonomy, intellectual stimulation, and opportunities for personal and professional growth make my job as an assistant professor incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

How do you hope your work will create positive change in the world?
Through my research endeavors, I aim to address pressing societal challenges and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in my field. By conducting innovative research projects and collaborating with colleagues and students, I hope to develop solutions to complex problems and make meaningful contributions to various industries and disciplines. Additionally, as an educator, I strive to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers. By fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a commitment to lifelong learning in my students, I hope to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to address global challenges and drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Furthermore, through my service activities and engagement with the broader academic and local communities, I seek to promote inclusivity, diversity, and social responsibility, fostering a culture of collaboration, empathy, and respect. Overall, I believe that by leveraging my research, teaching, and service efforts, I can contribute to creating a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous world for future generations.

How did the College of Engineering prepare you for your career?
UIC provided me with a solid foundation for my career. The rigorous curriculum equipped me with a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, materials science, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Through hands-on research opportunities, I gained valuable experience conducting cutting-edge research, experimental design, and data analysis. Working closely with experienced faculty mentors, I received guidance and support as I pursued my doctoral research, honed my technical skills, and prepared for my career in academia, industry, or research. The collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment at UIC fostered opportunities for me to collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, enriching my research and expanding my professional network. Additionally, the College of Engineering provided resources and support for professional development, helping me develop essential skills for success in my career. Overall, my experience at the UIC College of Engineering has prepared me to make meaningful contributions in the field of additive manufacturing of polymer composites.

Why did you choose UIC?
UIC was the ideal choice for my doctoral studies for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, UIC’s strong academic reputation and commitment to excellence in education and research made it stand out among other institutions. Specifically, the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering department at UIC offered a program that perfectly aligned with my research interests and career aspirations. The department’s robust curriculum, renowned faculty expertise, and state-of-the-art research facilities provided an ideal environment for pursuing advanced studies in additive manufacturing of polymer composites. Additionally, UIC’s location in the vibrant city of Chicago offered unparalleled opportunities for cultural enrichment, professional networking, and academic collaboration. The university’s commitment to providing funding and support for graduate students further solidified my decision to choose UIC for my Ph.D. Moreover, the collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment at UIC fostered invaluable opportunities for collaboration and innovation, enabling me to engage in cutting-edge research projects and build lasting professional connections. Overall, UIC offered everything I was looking for in a doctoral program, making it the perfect choice for advancing my academic and research career.

Is there an aspect of studying in Chicago in particular that you feel benefited you?
Chicago’s central location and accessible transportation infrastructure made it easy to explore other academic institutions, attend seminars and workshops, and collaborate with researchers from neighboring universities and research centers. Overall, studying in Chicago offered a unique blend of academic, cultural, and professional opportunities that significantly enriched my educational journey and prepared me for success in my career.

Would you recommend the College of Engineering to new applicants?
To the new applicants, UIC COE offers a rigorous academic curriculum, renowned faculty members, and state-of-the-art research facilities, providing students with an exceptional educational experience. Additionally, UIC’s location in the vibrant city of Chicago offers unparalleled opportunities for cultural enrichment, professional networking, and experiential learning. With its commitment to excellence in education and research, the College of Engineering at UIC prepares students for successful careers in engineering and equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to make meaningful contributions to society.

Engineering-industry person you admire most.
Dr. Yayue Pan. She has been instrumental in shaping my academic and professional journey during my graduate studies at UIC. Everything I have accomplished and learned since joining UIC can be attributed to her guidance and mentorship.

One-sentence “Words of wisdom” to share with students:
Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of perseverance on your journey to success.