Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Science
The highest academic degree is the Doctor of Science, or Doctor of Philosophy. At MIT, these degrees differ in name only. The doctorate is awarded upon the completion of a program of advanced study, principally at the Institute, and the performance of significant original research, design or development.
Admission into the doctoral program
Students from outside MIT may apply to the doctoral program if they have a Master of Science degree. (These applications should be made to the MIT Admissions Office).
Those who are in the departmental SM program may in principle apply at any time, but they must do so before they receive their SM if they expect to continue on without interruption* The deadline is March 1 for students on the June degree list, and November 1 for those on the January degree list. All internal applications should include:
Transcripts; a minimum GPA of 4.5 is required. Applicants with a GPA below 4.5 may be considered for admission if they present evidence of outstanding potential to carry out independent research.
- At least two letters of reference from faculty (one from the SM thesis advisor).
- A statement of objectives.
- Applications should be submitted to the Departmental Graduate Office.
Note that the qualifying examinations must be taken within three regular terms of the date of admission to the doctoral program (see below).
Requirement for the doctoral degree
The five basic requirements for the doctorate in mechanical engineering are:
The writing ability requirement, which all graduate students must satisfy,
- The writing ability requirement, which all graduate students must satisfy.
- The doctoral qualifying examination.
- A major program of advanced study.
- A minor program of study in a field different from that of the major,
- A thesis.
