Most students entering the program will have a master of science degree. The program will accept students into the program with a bachelor of science degree on a very selective basis.

Program requirements for students with MS degree

• The student has to take a minimum of six courses (18 credits) including at least one graduate level mathematics course and a systems engineering course. The actual courses and any additional courses will be listed in a program of study that will be drawn up by the student's Guidance Committee.
• The student will be required to register for 30 credits of research.
• The student will be required to take a qualifying examinations preferably before the end of the second semester or as determined appropriate by his/her Guidance Committee. This examination will be in three areas; mathematics, systems engineering and a discipline specific exam. A maximum of two attempts is permitted to pass this examination.
• In addition, he/she is required to defend a proposal of dissertation as well as a final dissertation defense.

Timeline for a Ph.D. Applicant with a MS degree

1. Admission
2. Read the Ph.D. Handbook
3. Identify a Faculty Adviser.
4. Ph.D. Program Checklist (this form).
5. Qualifying Exams
6. Form Advising  Committee.
7. Plan of Study.
8. Comprehensive Examination.
9. Advancement of Candidacy.
10. Final Oral Defense.
11. Final  Dissertation Submission.

Program Checklist/Timeline

Program requirements for students with BS degree entering directly into the Engineering Doctoral Program

This path is highly selective and limited to only the most highly qualified candidates.

• The student has to take a minimum of fourteen courses (42 credits) including at least one graduate level mathematics course and a systems engineering course. The actual courses and any additional courses will be listed in a program of study that will be drawn up by the student's Guidance Committee.
• The student will be required to register for 30 credits of research.
• The student will be required to take a qualifying examinations before the end of the fourth semester or as determined appropriate by his Guidance Committee. This examination will be in three areas: mathematics, systems engineering and a discipline specific exam. A maximum of two attempts is permitted to pass this examination.
• In addition, he/she is required to defend a proposal of dissertation as well as a final dissertation defense.

The degree requirements must be completed within six years following the passing of the qualifying examination.