PhD Programs
Introduction
PhD students in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering develop their own research agendas in one or more of our research labs, working alongside faculty mentors who are pursuing investigations with National Science Foundation funding and other grants. Our PhD programs are highly selective and produce top-tier candidates for high-level industry jobs, postdoctoral research positions, and tenure-track faculty roles at universities around the world.
UIC fosters independence. It has a great faculty and resources for students to access. At the same time, the curriculum at UIC and research opportunities challenge students to become independent thinkers and to be innovative.
| PhD in Mechanical Engineering, '24
Overview
Our PhD programs require 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.
PhD students must pass a preliminary examination before they begin the final phase of their doctoral study. Visit our Preliminary Examination page for full details. Upon completion of all degree requirements and the dissertation, students must orally defend their work before their committee.
PhD in Mechanical Engineering
Conduct research on the forefront of biomedical engineering, computational mechanics, energy, microscale and nanoscale science and engineering, and other areas.
PhD in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
Develop expertise in core disciplines in industrial engineering, such as data-driven decision-making and design, controls, and manufacturing.
PhD Degree Requirements
Which MIE Lab Is Right for You?
Curious about which faculty lab director might be the right mentor for your doctoral studies at UIC? Learn about our mechanical and industrial research labs and find faculty mentors.
Additional Information
Graduate Courses
Visit our Graduate Courses page for easy access to information about current graduate course offerings in mechanical and industrial engineering at UIC.
You can also view detailed course descriptions for Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering on the UIC Academic Catalog.
Graduate Student Resources
Find helpful links, forms, and guides on our Graduate Student Resources page.
Hear From Our Alumni
Ketki Lichade, ’23
PhD in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
Assistant Professor, University at Buffalo
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 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.
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.
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 a 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.
Hear From Our Alumni
Yasmin Dias, ’23
PhD in Mechanical Engineering
Senior Product Development Engineer, Thermo Fisher Scientific
What aspects of your degree program best prepared you for the workforce?One of the most valuable aspects of my experience at UIC was access to its exceptional shared analytical laboratories. These facilities not only provide state-of-the-art instrumentation but also offer comprehensive training that empowers students to independently perform advanced analytical techniques. This hands-on access was transformative for me. It allowed me to develop a strong sense of autonomy and technical confidence, equipping me with the skills to independently design and execute experiments.
What words of advice would you give to someone who is considering enrollment at MIE? Be curious and make the most of every resource available to you. Embrace each learning opportunity with intention and enthusiasm. In time, you will come to realize that every lesson—no matter how small it may have seemed—carried the power to shape who you would become.
What is your favorite memory of being an MIE student? One of my most cherished memories of UIC is its beautiful campus and, even more so, the remarkable people who make it such a welcoming community. Among them, Wanda Flores, the Assistant Director of Graduate Programs, holds a particularly special place in my heart. She is one of the most caring individuals I have ever had the privilege of knowing. Wanda’s support extended far beyond academics—she ensured that I felt welcomed, valued, and safe. Her kindness, compassion, and genuine dedication made a profound difference in my experience.