PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering)

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Course Details

PhD in Mechanical Engineering is a doctoral program in mechanics. This course lasts from 5 to 8 years. PhD Mechanical Engineering is a research-based course. Over the course of the course, students learn a variety of mechanical engineering skills. You can learn about various machines and related devices. Students pursuing a PhD in mechanical engineering need a strong knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences.

Mechanical Engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacture of mechanical systems. It deals with the principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science to design and manufacture machines, structures, and other mechanical devices. A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering is an advanced degree that prepares students for research and academic careers in the field.

The primary focus of a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering is on research. Students in this program work closely with faculty members to develop research projects and conduct experiments. The research topics can vary widely, from the design of new materials and systems to the optimization of existing designs. Some examples of research areas within mechanical engineering include:

Robotics and automation: This field focuses on the design and development of robotic systems that can perform tasks autonomously or with minimal human intervention.

Materials science: This area of research focuses on the development of new materials with specific properties, such as strength, durability, and flexibility.

Energy systems: This field deals with the design and optimization of energy systems, such as power plants, engines, and renewable energy systems.

Biomechanics: This field combines principles of mechanical engineering with biology and medicine to design and develop medical devices and prosthetics.

Aerospace engineering: This field focuses on the design and development of aerospace systems, including aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites.

To pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, students typically need to have a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. They will also need to demonstrate strong research skills and have a clear research proposal or area of interest. The Ph.D. program typically takes four to six years to complete, during which time students will take advanced coursework and conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Highlights

Advanced Research Skills: A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering is a research-oriented program that allows students to develop advanced research skills. Through coursework and independent research, students learn how to conduct research, analyze data, and present their findings effectively.

Career Opportunities: A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including academic positions, research and development roles in industry, and leadership positions in engineering firms.

Specialization: Students can specialize in a particular area of Mechanical Engineering, such as robotics, aerospace engineering, or energy systems. This specialization can open up unique opportunities in the field and allow students to become experts in their chosen area.

Intellectual Stimulation: Pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering can be intellectually stimulating, as students are constantly learning and pushing the boundaries of knowledge in their field.

Contribution to Society: Through their research, Ph.D. students in Mechanical Engineering can make significant contributions to society by developing new technologies and improving existing ones.

Competitive Salary: A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering can lead to high-paying jobs in the industry or academia. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for mechanical engineers in 2020 was $88,430 per year, and those with advanced degrees typically earn more.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Course Details

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Top Entrance Exam

Most universities and institutions offering Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering require applicants to take an entrance exam, which may include a written exam and/or an interview. The exam usually tests the applicant's knowledge of basic engineering principles and their aptitude for research.

• UGC NET
• JNUEE
• GATE
• UGC CSIR NET
• DTU

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Admission

To be admitted to a Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering, applicants must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. They should have a strong academic record and research experience, including publications and research projects. Applicants may also be required to submit a research proposal outlining their area of research interest.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility requirements for admission to a Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering may vary depending on the institution. However, the following are the general requirements:

Candidates must successfully complete a master's degree in engineering or technology. People with a postgraduate degree in a scientific field can also apply for this course. However, you must clear the GATE barrier.

Bachelor of Engineering or Technology graduates are also eligible to apply for this course. At least he must achieve a final grade of 75%.

SC/ST/OBC/PwD or other disadvantaged candidates will be allowed mark relaxation.

If a university conducts an entrance exam, passing the exam is also an important admission criterion.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Course Duration

The duration of a Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering varies depending on the institution and the student's research area. Typically, it takes four to six years to complete the program.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for Ph.D. programs in Mechanical Engineering may vary depending on the institution. However, the following are the general selection criteria:

Academic record and research experience.

Letters of recommendation from professors or employers.

Research proposal outlining the area of research interest.

Performance in the entrance exam and/or interview.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering How to Apply

To apply for a Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering, applicants should follow these general steps:

Research institutions offering Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and their admission requirements.

Prepare the required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal.

Take the required entrance exam and/or interview.

Submit the application and required documents online or by mail.

Wait for the admission decision.

In conclusion, pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering requires a strong academic background, research experience, and passion for research. Applicants should carefully research the institution and program requirements, prepare the necessary documents, and perform well in the entrance exam and/or interview.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Admission Process

The application process for a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering typically involves completing an online application form and submitting required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, research proposals, and test scores. Some institutions may also require a statement of purpose or a personal essay. Applicants should carefully review the application requirements for each institution and submit the necessary documents before the deadline.

Each university follows its own admissions process. In most cases, admission is determined based on the grades earned after graduation. However, some universities require you to take an entrance exam.

Some of the most popular entrance tests are GATE and NET UGC. Once you pass the entrance test, you will be asked to proceed to the next step in the admissions process.

Most applications will be published in June. Applications must be submitted by the deadline. Detailed information on admission procedures can also be found on the official websites of each university.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Course Fee

The application fee for a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering may vary depending on the institution. The fee typically ranges from $50 to $100, but some institutions may charge more.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Syllabus:

The syllabus for a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering may vary depending on the institution and the student's area of research. However, the following are the general topics covered in the program:

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Salary and Jobs:

The salary and job opportunities for a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering may vary depending on the institution and the student's area of research. However, graduates with a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering can pursue a variety of high-paying jobs, such as:

Professor/Researcher in academia

Research and Development Engineer in industry

Senior Engineer in a technology firm

Product Manager in a manufacturing company

Aerospace Engineer in the aviation industry

The median annual salary for mechanical engineers in 2020 was $88,430, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, those with a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering typically earn more.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Career Opportunities

The career opportunities for a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering are vast and diverse. Graduates can pursue careers in academia, research and development, product design, manufacturing, and consulting. Some common job titles include:

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Top Colleges

The top colleges offering Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering include:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Stanford University
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• University of California, Berkeley
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
• Purdue University-West Lafayette
• University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Texas A&M University-College Station

PhD in Mechanical Engineering Admission Procedure

• Application for the entrance exam 
• Result declaration
• Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
• Provisional registration for pre-Ph.D. course work classes
• Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
• Course work examination
• Result declaration of coursework
• Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
• Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
• A registration letter shall be issued
• Research work started by scholar
• 6 progress reports shall be submitted
• Soft copy thesis submit
• plagiarism report check by the university
• Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
• After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
• After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
• Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Documents Checklist For PhD in Mechanical Engineering

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD in Mechanical Engineering Program 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.