online phd geotechnical engineering

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• Geotechnical Engineering

Doctoral Programs

Geotechnical Engineering Ph.D.

The field of Geotechnical Engineering, as a partial preparation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering, covers the subject matter decribed below. Although the requirement is defined in terms of a list of subjects and/or recommended reading, emphasis is placed on an understanding of the fundamentals of the areas studied, and on the ability to correlate and apply the acquired knowledge.

Minimum Preparation for Major Field Students

Students electing Geotechnical Engineering as their major field will be responsible for the body of knowledge contained in the courses C&EE120, C&EE 121, C&EE 128L, C&EE220, C&EE 221, C&EE 222, C&EE 223, C&EE 225, and C&EE 228L.

Topical Outline of the Geotechnical Engineering Major Field

*Numerals in parenthesis refer to textbooks in the reference list which follows.

1. Fundamental Principles of Soil Mechanics

* Soil as an engineering material (1,2,10)*, C&EE 120 * Soil formation (1,7,10), C&EE 120 * Composition, index properties and classification of soils (1,2,7,10) C&EE 120, C&EE 128L * Effective stress principles (1,2,4) C&EE 120, C&EE 220 * Capillary action (1,2,3,10) C&EE 120 * Seepage and drainage (1,2,3,10) C&EE 120 *Numbers in parenthesis refer to references listed at the end of this document.

2. Engineering Properties of Soils

* Laboratory testing techniques (18,19) C&EE 120, C&EE 128L, C&EE 220, C&EE 222, C&EE 228L * In-situ testing of soils (10) C&EE 121, C&EE 220 * Stress-strain behavior of soils, static conditions (1,7,10) C&EE120, C&EE 128L, C&EE220, C&EE 228L * Stress-strain behavior of soils, dynamic conditions (5,10) C&EE 222, C&EE 225 * Shear strength (1,2,7,10) C&EE 120, C&EE 128L, C&EE 220, C&EE 228L * Cyclic loading strength (18) C&EE 222, C&EE 225 * Compressibilty (1,2,3) C&EE 120, C&EE 128L, C&EE 220, C&EE 228L * Permeability (1,2,3,10) C&EE 120, C&EE 228L

3. Applications of Geosynthetics

* Types of Geosynthetics (20) C&EE 121 * Geosynthetic functions and properties (20) C&EE 121 * Applications for filtration, separation, drainage and reinforcement (2) C&EE 121 * Reinforced soil retaining walls (8,20) C&EE 121, C&EE 223

4. Stability Analysis

* Slope stability and its analysis (1,2,3,4,8,12) C&EE 121, C&EE 220, C&EE 225 * Bearing capacity (1,2,3,4,8,12,15) C&EE 121, C&EE 221 * Retaining structures (1,2,6,8,12,15) C&EE121, C&EE 223

5. Foundation Design

* Theory of consolidation (1,3,4,10) C&EE 120, C&EE 220 * Compaction (1,2,8,10,12) C&EE 121, C&EE 221 * Stress distribution below loaded structures (1,3,8,9,10,15) C&EE 120, C&EE 221 * Settlement analysis (1,2,3,8,9,12,15) C&EE120, C&EE 121, C&EE 220, C&EE 221 * Shallow foundations (2,3,8,9,12,15) C&EE121, C&EE 221 * Piles and piers (2,8,9,12,13,14,17) C&EE 121, C&EE 221

6. Lateral Pressures

* Theories of earth pressures (1,2,4,8,9) C&EE 120, C&EE 121, C&EE 223 * Seepage pressures (1,2,8) C&EE 120, C&EE 121, C&EE 220, C&EE 223 * Rigid and flexible walls (6,8,9) C&EE 223 * Excavation support systems (1,2,6,8,9) C&EE 223

7. Soil Dynamics/Earthquake Engineering

* Behavior of soils under dynamic/cyclic loading (5,8,16,18) C&EE 222, C&EE 225 * Response of soil deposits to earthquake loads (5,11,16,18) C&EE 222, C&EE 225 * Seismic response of foundations, retaining structures, earth dames, and other earth structures, (16) C&EE 225 * Liquefaction (16,18) C&EE 222, C&EE 225

A written and oral examination on material encompassed by the above six areas will be required. Each student in this major field will be required to pass a written preliminary PhD exam consisting of a four-hour closed book examination followed by a four-hour open book examination given within the same day. Additional details are available from the Geotechnical Engineering PhD Field Committee.

Minor Fields

Students majoring in Geotechnical Engineering will be expected to complete two minor fields composed of three courses each, or one minor field composed of five courses selected in accordance with the requirements of the respective minor fields. Additionally, they will be expected to fulfill the requirements of the departments administering the minor fields.

Minimum Preparation for Minor Field Students

Students electing Geotechnical Engineering as a minor field will be held responsible for the body of knowledge contained in C&EE 220, C&EE 221, and C&EE 222 or C&EE 223.

Students electing Geotechnical Engineering as a minor field will be given a written examination on their preparation as described above. Minor field students will be exempted from this examination if they obtain a grade point average of at least 3.25 in their minor field courses.

1. Lambe, T.W. and R.V. Whitman, Soil Mechanics, Si Version, Wiley, 1979. 2. Terzaghi,K., R.B. Peck, and G. Mesri, Soil Mechanics in Engineering Practice, 2nd Edition, Wiley, 1996. 3. Taylor, D.W., Fundamentals of Soil Mechanics, Wiley, 1948. 4. Terzaghi, K., Theoretical Soil Mechanics, Wiley, 1943. 5. Foundations, Prentice Hall, 1970. 6. Tschebotarioff, G.P., Foundations, Retaining and Earth Structures, 2nd Edition, McGraw Hill, 1973. 7. Mitchell, J.K., Fundamentals of Soil Behavior, Wiley, 2nd Edition, 1993. 8. Fang, H.-Y., Foundation Engineering Handbook, Van Nostrand Reinhold, 2nd Edition, 1990. 9. Bowles, J.E., Foundation Analysis and Design, McGraw Hill, 1977. 10. Holtz, R.D. and W.D. Kovacs, An Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering, Prentice Hall, 1981. 11. Wiegel, R.L., Earthquake Engineering, Prentice Hall, 1970. 12. Liu, C. & Evett, J.B., Soils and Foundations, Prentice-Hall, 4th Edition, 1998. 13. Prakash, S. & H. D. Sharma, Pile Foundations in Engineering Practice, Wiley, 1990. 14. Tomlinson , M.J., Pile Design and Construction Practice, 4th Edition, Chapman-Hallm 1994. 15. Coduto, D.P., Foundation Design, Principles and Practice, Prentice-Hall, 1994. 16. Kramer, S.L., Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering, Prentice-Hall, 1996. 17. Poulos, H.G., & E. H. Davis, Pile Foundation Analysis and Design, John Wiley & Sons, 1980. 18. Ishihara, K., Soil Behavior in Earthquake Geotechnics, Clarendon Press, Oxford, 1996. 19. Bardet, J.P., Experimental Soil Mechanics, Prentice-Hall, 1997. 20. Koerner, R.M., Designing with Geosynthetics, Prentice-Hall, 3rd Edition, 1994.

Journals and Proceedings

The list below contains journals that included topics of interest to students in Geotechnical Engineering.

1. ASCE Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, ASCE. 2. Geotechnique, England 3. Canadian Geotechnical Journal 4. Soils and Foundations, Japan 5. Geotechnical Testing Journal, ASTM 6. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics 7. Computers and Geotechnics 8. International Journal of Earthquake Engineering and Soil Dynamics 9. Earthquake Spectra, EERI 10. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, SSA 11. Proceedings of the International Conferences on Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering 12. Proceedings of the Panamerican Conferences on Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering 13. Proceedings of the European Conferences on Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering 14. Proceedings of the ASCE Geotechnical Engineering Division Specialty Conferences 15. Proceedings of the International Conferences on Numerical Methods in Geomechanics 16. Special Technical Publications, ASTM and other relevant journals and specialty conference.

CEE Online Geotechnical Engineering

The MS Degree requires 36 credit hours, 12 of which must be at the 500-level. Course selection is flexible and students are encouraged to individualize their program in coordination with their advisor. See the full listing of classes on the Geotechnical area website .

Sample Plan of Study - 9 classes of the following

CEE 483 Soil Mechanics and Behavior, Fall & Spring CEE 484 Applied Soil Mechanics, Spring CEE 580 Excavation and Support Systems, Spring (even years) CEE 581 Earth Dams, Fall CEE 585 Deep Foundations, Spring (odd years) CEE 586 Rock Mechanics and Behavior, Fall (even years) CEE 588 Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering, Fall (even years)  CEE 589 Computational Geomechanics, Spring (odd years)  CEE 590 Geotechnical Field Measurements, Fall (odd years) CEE 593 Tunneling in Soil and Rock, Spring (even)

Top 25 Doctorate in Engineering Programs

Engineers use their math and science knowledge to develop practical solutions to technical and mechanical problems. Organizations hire engineers to develop commercial applications based on current and emerging scientific research and discoveries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most engineers earn higher annual median salaries than the national average for all other workers. The BLS projects average growth rates for many jobs in the engineering sector between 2019 and 2029. In addition to on-campus programs, several universities now offer online Ph.D. in engineering programs. Well-trained engineers can expect to enter a job market that offers robust financial and professional opportunities.

Top 10 Doctorate in Engineering Programs

What is a doctorate in engineering.

A doctorate in engineering allows students to conduct groundbreaking research and devise solutions for problems in a range of fields, including the environment, technology, healthcare, and aerospace. Engineers’ work directly impacts the lives of people from all walks of life.

A doctorate in engineering typically takes 3-5 years to complete. Several factors influence program length, including a student’s enrollment status and work background, the specific engineering field, and the degree’s requirements. Professionals with a doctor of engineering degree often qualify for technical leadership roles in private and public sectors or tenure-track academia positions.

Why Get a Degree in Engineering?

Although a doctorate in engineering requires a significant investment of time and money, the benefits often outweigh the costs. Engineers with a doctoral degree often enjoy several advantages, including the five below.

• Higher Salary: According to the BLS , professionals who hold doctoral degrees earn roughly 17% more than professionals with master’s degrees and about 30% more than those with bachelor’s degrees.
• Increased Research Opportunities: Doctor of engineering programs give enrollees ample opportunities to perform in-depth research on a range of topics with far-reaching implications.
• Improved Employment Opportunities: BLS data reveals that doctoral degree-holders enjoy the second-lowest unemployment rate among U.S. workers at 1.7%. Only holders of professional degrees, such as doctors and lawyers, enjoy a lower unemployment rate (1.5%).
• Professional Advancement: Companies are more likely to offer leadership positions to engineers with a doctorate because of their extensive training and breadth of knowledge in the field.
• Job Security: Tenure-track faculty positions in U.S. colleges and universities often require candidates to hold a terminal degree in their field. A doctorate in engineering meets this requirement.

Accreditation for a Doctorate in Engineering

Accreditation attests to the quality of an institution’s academic programs. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) acknowledges six regional accrediting bodies throughout the United States, each one in charge of a specific section of the country. Most nonprofit degree-oriented institutions seek regional accreditation. The ED also recognizes accrediting bodies that grant national accreditation to career-oriented, for-profit vocational or trade schools.

Accreditation also matters because the ED channels federal financial aid only to accredited institutions. Students who plan to apply for any type of government financial assistance must be enrolled in or accepted by an accredited school or program. Accreditation affects students who plan to transfer credits. Regionally accredited institutions usually accept credits earned only at schools holding the same type of accreditation.

To date, no accrediting body specifically accredits doctoral engineering programs. Therefore, prospective students should explore doctoral degrees offered by regionally accredited institutions since this type of accreditation covers all of a school’s academic programs. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits schools that offer at least 51% of their programs entirely online.

Courses for a Doctorate in Engineering

Many doctor of engineering programs require learners to complete at least 90 credits beyond a bachelor’s or 60 credits beyond a master’s. Schools offering an on-campus and online Ph.D. in engineering typically maintain the same coursework requirements for all students, regardless of which delivery schedule their program follows.

Each school offers a curriculum that supports their academic objectives and engineering specialization, so students take a variety of classes. The courses below comprise some of the more common classes in a doctor of engineering program.

Engineering Optimization: Methods and Applications

Students learn how to maintain a balance between theory and application when working with complex systems in civil, electrical, environmental, and industrial engineering fields. The course includes different types of optimization methods, such as linear programming, network flow algorithms, mathematical modeling, and interior point methods. The course requires familiarity with Python and MATLAB as computational tools for classwork and course projects. Students can take advantage of built-in tutorials.

Engineering Project and Program Management

Students explore the different aspects of program management as the practice relates directly to highly technical engineering projects. The course covers topics such as risk assessment, costing options, control strategies, and work breakdown structures. Practitioners who are part of or managing a technical team gain additional skills in analyzing and enhancing team efforts, coordinating project requirements, and setting realistic objectives. The class prepares students to sit for the certification exam administered by the Project Management Institute.

Engineering Risk Analysis

This course focuses on identifying and quantifying risks involving engineering systems and projects. Students learn how to reduce system uncertainty and anticipate possible risks by employing proven mitigation strategies. The course includes relevant case studies that demonstrate effective and timely risk response in a variety of industries and scenarios. Students learn how to prioritize and implement risk management measures according to costs and benefits.

Simulation Modeling

Students learn how to use a variety of tools to model different types of engineering applications. The course provides ample opportunities for students to improve their ability to complete engineering and scientific computations for research and design. The course covers topics such as integrated modeling, verification and validation of computational models, synthesis and simulation, and multidisciplinary optimization. Students gain practical experience in enhancing the capabilities of their simulation projects.

Systems Engineering Architecture

This course provides an overview of the principles of object-oriented design and the fundamental aspects of a model-based system architecture process. Students learn how to develop new or optimize existing architecture to support complex information-intensive systems. Topics include enterprise architectures, information assurance, implementable architecture models, and reference frameworks. Degree-seekers must show mastery of course topics by completing an architecture project on a system of their choosing.

How Much Do Engineering Majors Make?

According to the BLS, petroleum engineers are among the field’s highest-paid professionals. They earned an annual median salary of $137,720 in 2019. Marine engineers earned a lower annual median salary ($92,400). Generally speaking, engineers earn an annual median salary that is higher than the national average, no matter their engineering specialization.

Length of professional experience also impacts earning and career potential. Just like in most fields, practitioners with longer work histories usually earn higher salaries. For example, according to PayScale , mechanical engineers at the beginning of their career (less than one year of experience) earn an annual income of about $63,000. Mid-level mechanical engineers with 10 years of experience earn significantly higher salaries ($90,000), and top-level professionals (more than 20 years of experience) earn even more ($101,000).

Career and Salary Outlook for Engineering Majors

Engineers make significant contributions in professional arenas such as agriculture, aerospace, electronics, and computer hardware. Engineers with advanced degrees often qualify for top salaries and leadership positions in addition to access to cutting-edge research in their specialization area. The four engineering jobs below make up a small percentage of possible career choices for well-qualified engineers.

• Mechanical Engineer : These professionals design and maintain different types of power-producing and power-using machines such as turbines, electric generators, internal combustion engines, refrigerators, and air conditioning systems. They also test mechanical and thermal devices and sensors and implement improvement or maintenance procedures. Mechanical engineering features several subspecialty areas, including automotive, robotics, and HVAC systems engineering.
• Environmental Engineer : Often working with urban planners, hazardous waste technicians, and scientists, these engineers study and devise solutions to problems such as ozone depletion, carbon dioxide emissions, and climate change. Environmental engineers working for local governments often evaluate the impact of construction projects on the environment, design systems for treating and containing hazardous waste material, and craft long-term sustainability plans.
• Electrical and Electronics Engineer : These engineers use their knowledge of engineering equipment and design software to solve multiple engineering challenges. They focus on designing electrical equipment such as radar and navigation systems, power generators, and electric motors. Electronics engineers design electronic devices such as communications and recording equipment, GPS instruments, and computer hardware.
• Postsecondary Teacher : These professionals draft course syllabi, prepare lectures and other classroom activities, and assess students’ progress. They also keep up with their field’s latest research findings and developments. Most postsecondary teachers work with their colleagues in other fields to find common areas of instruction and expose their students to interdisciplinary learning.

Source: BLS

Scholarships for a Doctorate in Engineering

Many colleges and universities that offer doctorate in engineering degrees also provide funding for doctoral students, often in the form of fellowships. However, several independent organizations and private philanthropic associations offer a variety of financial assistance packages. The five programs below represent some potential financial aid opportunities for students pursuing a doctorate in engineering.

AAUW Dissertation Fellowship Who Can Apply: Doctoral candidates who identify as women can apply to this program sponsored by the American Association of University Women. Applicants must be in the final year of writing their dissertation. The program welcomes applicants pursuing a doctorate in any area of study, but doctoral candidates in science, technology, engineering, and math fields are especially encouraged to apply. Amount: $20,000

AGC Education and Research Foundation Graduate Scholarship Who Can Apply: Administered by the Associated General Contractors of America, this program accepts applications from students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in construction management or construction engineering. Applicants must submit two completed evaluation forms from an academic advisor and a current (or recent) employer along with other application requirements. Amount: $3,750-$7,500 per year

ASCE Trent R. Dames and William W. Moore Fellowship Who Can Apply: The American Society of Civil Engineers accepts applications from practicing engineers and earth scientists currently enrolled in a graduate engineering program. Applicants must be ASCE members in good standing. The fellowship requires applicants to submit a research proposal, preferably addressing the geotechnical engineering aspects of environmental, political, or socioeconomic issues. Amount: $2,000-$6,000

Dwight David Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship Program Who Can Apply: The program accepts applications from students pursuing a master’s or doctorate related to the transportation industry. Several engineering fields qualify, including civil, environmental, mechanical, and structural engineering. U.S. citizens and international students can apply. Applicants must maintain full-time enrollment status throughout their participation in the program. Amount: $35,500

The Link Foundation Ocean Engineering and Instrumentation Ph.D. Fellowship Who Can Apply: The program welcomes applications from doctoral students pursuing a program in ocean engineering and instrumentation full time. Fellowships help doctoral students with living expenses. Recipients cannot use the fellowship award for tuition, overhead research costs, salary for support staff, or compensation for a research advisor. Amount: $30,000

1. Boston University

Boston University offers online Ph.D. programs in engineering in six fields: biomedical, computer, electrical, materials science, mechanical, and systems engineering. Admission requires transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE results, a current resume, and a statement of purpose. Each program may require applicants to submit additional documents or meet specific educational criteria.

With the exception of the doctoral program in mechanical engineering, all the programs accept applicants with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in their specific field. Boston University’s doctoral programs in engineering offer innovative options for students to pursue. For example, the biomedical department offers a dual MD and Ph.D. program that allows students to earn two degrees simultaneously.

Some programs offer areas of concentration, such as the doctorate in materials science and engineering. Students can choose to focus their studies on biomaterials, electronic/photonic materials, nanomaterials, and materials for energy and environment. Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

2. Clarkson University

The doctorate in engineering offered at Clarkson University includes studies in mechanical, environmental science, chemical, and electrical and computer engineering. Applicants must hold a master’s degree or show proof of enrollment in a postgraduate engineering program for consideration. The doctorate in materials science and engineering exempts applicants from this requirement.

The electrical and computer engineering program offers an online delivery option, thus opening enrollment to non-resident doctoral candidates. The materials science and engineering doctoral program offers research and teaching assistantships to qualified students. The assistantship comes with a stipend and full tuition waiver.

The Ph.D. in environmental science and engineering program maintains a strong interdisciplinary component. Delivered by the university’s Institute for a Sustainable Environment, the program draws from other disciplines, including social and natural sciences. Clarkson University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

3. Clemson University

Clemson University offers 12 Ph.D. in engineering programs through the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences. Programs offered include bioengineering; environmental engineering; and earth science, industrial, and mechanical engineering.

The doctoral program in civil engineering offers six areas of concentration including construction engineering and management, geotechnical engineering, risk engineering and system analytics and transportation systems engineering. The program accepts applicants holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree

The electrical and computer engineering program offers several research focus areas, including applied electromagnetics, communications systems and networks, computer systems architecture, and digital systems processing. Students pursuing a PhD. in environmental engineering and earth sciences work with their advisors to craft an individualized plan of study. Since the program is interdisciplinary, students enroll in classes in a variety of areas including physics, geology, mathematics, and biology.

Clemson University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

4. Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia offers two doctoral degrees in engineering — a doctor of engineering science and a doctor of philosophy in engineering. Students pursuing the doctor of engineering degree have several areas of specialization to choose from, including industrial engineering and operations research, earth and environmental engineering, and materials science and engineering.

Both programs require applicants to hold an MS in engineering (or a relevant field) for consideration. Students currently enrolled in an MS in engineering at Columbia may apply for the doctoral program after completing at least 15 credits of coursework.

Working closely with their advisors, doctoral students customize a learning plan that supports their research and career objectives. The university encourages students to craft a cross-program collaborative study plan that takes advantage of Columbia’s rich academic offerings. Departmental requirements for degree completion may vary, but all doctoral students must complete and defend their dissertation to graduate from the program. Columbia is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

5. Duke University

Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering offers doctor of engineering programs in five areas: mechanical engineering and materials science, biomedical, civil and environmental, electrical and computing engineering, and materials science and engineering.

In addition to a doctorate in biomedical engineering, the university also offers a combined MD/Ph.D. program for highly qualified students. Funded by the National Institutes of Health, the program typically takes 7-8 years to complete. The civil and environmental engineering program offers five tracks of study: computational mechanics; hydrology and fluid dynamics; systems, risk, and decision; environmental geomechanics and geophysics; and environmental health engineering.

The university provides Ph.D. students with generous financial support throughout five continuous years of enrollment. Students receive a living stipend, health insurance, and full tuition and fees remission. Students still enrolled in a doctoral program after five years can apply for departmental and/or external funding. Duke University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

6. George Washington University

George Washington University offers eight Ph.D. in engineering and computer science degrees through the School of Engineering and Applied Science. Students can pursue a doctor of engineering management and a Ph.D. in systems engineering online.

The Ph.D. program comprises at least 54 credit hours that students complete in two phases. The classroom phase follows a cohort model and consists of eight courses. Students enroll in two classes per 10-week session. Coursework covers topics such as advanced systems engineering, data analysis, discrete systems simulation, and knowledge management. Students must achieve a minimum 3.4 GPA during this phase. Those who receive a grade below a B- are dropped from the program.

The second phase consists of at least 30 credit hours of research, culminating in a dissertation that students must defend before a faculty panel. Students must also pass an oral exam and publish at least one scholarly article in an approved industry journal. George Washington University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

7. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Georgia Tech offers a Ph.D. in engineering in 19 fields of study, including nuclear engineering; machine learning; algorithms, combinatronics, and optimization; and engineering science and mechanics.

The industrial engineering doctorate offers three tracks: applied statistics, supply chain engineering, and systems informatics and control. The nuclear engineering program offers a specialization in medical physics and nuclear enterprise management. Students enrolled in the machine learning program enroll in classes at the College of Engineering and across several schools and colleges at Georgia Tech.

Georgia Tech participates in the Ocean Visions program, giving students pursuing the ocean science and engineering degree the chance to participate. The program brings together leading scientists and researchers from all over the country to draft actionable solutions to the world’s current and emerging ocean problems. Georgia Tech is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

8. Johns Hopkins University

The Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University offers an off-campus, full-time doctor of engineering degree. The program is a collaboration between the school and the student’s employer. Working closely with school and company advisors, students craft a customized plan of study that directly relates or contributes to their current position or workplace environment.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree in engineering or a closely related area of study and have significant work experience in the field. Applicants must include a research proposal identifying possible faculty advisors and a letter of support from the applicant’s employer or second outside advisor. Current research topics include analytics and machine learning to secure the Internet of Things; cyber resilient autonomy; and wireless security through anomaly detection.

The program requires students (including online enrollees) to attend two conferences in Baltimore per year. Students use these conferences to build their professional network, take oral exams, consult with advisors, and attend social events. Johns Hopkins University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Lehigh University

Lehigh University offers a Ph.D. in engineering through the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. Students can pursue doctoral studies in areas such as environmental engineering, bioengineering, industrial and systems engineering, and polymer science and engineering.

The college accepts students either as regular or associate enrollees. Regular students meet all admission requirements and are admitted as degree candidates. Associate graduate students must meet certain requirements before becoming degree candidates or regular enrollees. Many programs require associate enrollees to complete the first nine credits with no more than one grade below a B-. Students who earn a grade of C or below are dropped from the program.

Doctoral students can take advantage of the university’s resources for their research and coursework requirements. For example, the Institute for Cyber Physical Infrastructure and Energy gives engineering students the chance to collaborate with experts in sociology, psychology, and economics. Together, they explore complex issues like the effect of humans and society on existing energy systems and surrounding infrastructure.

Lehigh University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

10. Missouri University of Science and Technology

The College of Engineering and Computing at the Missouri University of Science and Technology offers a Ph.D. in engineering . Students can pursue doctoral studies in traditional engineering arenas such as civil, aerospace, chemical, and mechanical engineering. The college also offers doctorates in less common sub-fields such as geological, metallurgical, and explosives engineering. The explosives engineering program is the only one of its kind offered at the doctoral level.

Although admission requirements vary, most doctoral programs in engineering require the following: a bachelor’s in engineering, GRE scores no older than five years, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.5, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs accept students on a probationary status. Ph.D. students must pass a qualifying exam, a comprehensive exam, and complete all degree requirements within eight years from the date of initial enrollment.

Missouri University of Science and Technology is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

11. New Jersey Institute of Technology

New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Newark College of Engineering offers a Ph.D. in engineering in 10 areas of study. The college requires all doctoral candidates to pass a qualifying exam taken at the end of their second semester. Students needing to retake the exam must do so by the end of their third semester in the program.

The biomedical engineering program is jointly offered by NJIT, Rutgers University, and the New Jersey Medical School. Students gain access to each university’s facilities and resources as well as the chance to engage in collaborative research.

The environmental engineering program only accepts applicants holding an MS in engineering or a closely related field. On rare occasions, the program accepts exceptional applicants with a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Bachelor’s-trained enrollees must complete an additional 36 credits of coursework (the equivalent of a master’s degree) prior to enrolling in doctoral classes. New Jersey Institute of Technology is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

The College of Engineering at North Carolina State University at Raleigh offers a Ph.D. in engineering in 12 areas. These include nuclear, industrial, environmental, and biomedical engineering.

Faculty and doctoral students in the industrial engineering program pursue research in several areas such as advanced manufacturing, systems analytics and optimization, and supply chain logistics. Doctorate in mechanical engineering students can select from six areas of specialization, including aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, propulsion, and space exploration systems.

The Department of Nuclear Engineering crafted the first educational curriculum in the nuclear engineering field. It currently offers four focus areas: reactor systems engineering, radiation interactions and detection, plasma science and engineering, and nuclear fluids and materials.

The university offers several financial aid opportunities to outstanding doctoral students. Doctoral fellowships typically include tuition and health insurance coverage as well as a living stipend. North Carolina State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Purdue University-Main Campus

The College of Engineering at Purdue University offers several Ph.D. in engineering programs in fields like agricultural and biological, environmental and ecological, industrial, and materials engineering.

The Wheldon School of Biomedical Engineering offers a doctoral program with four major research areas: imaging, engineered biomaterials and biomechanics, instrumentation and quantitative cellular, and systems engineering. Students enrolled in the doctoral program in biomedical engineering can apply for financial assistance in the form of fellowships from the NIH, the College of Engineering, and the Indiana University School of Medicine.

The doctoral program in electrical and computer engineering accepts applications from bachelor’s and master’s degree-holders. The College of Engineering recently established the Dean’s Fellowship, a new financial assistance program specifically for doctoral students in electrical and computer engineering.

Purdue University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. Stevens Institute of Technology

The Schaefer School of Engineering & Science at Stevens Institute of Technology offers a Ph.D. in engineering in nine diverse fields of study. Students can pursue a doctorate in electrical, chemical, materials science, and ocean engineering, among others.

The ocean engineering program currently supports five active research areas: coastal engineering, naval architecture, living shorelines, physical oceanography, and computational fluid dynamics. The chemical engineering program offers courses on topics like biofuels, pharmaceutical manufacturing, nanotechnology, and biomedical applications of processed polymers.

Stevens Institute of Technology was the first school in the country to offer a degree in mechanical engineering. This doctoral program gives students the chance to participate in cutting-edge research in fields like robotics, sustainable energy systems, and bioengineering.

Most doctoral engineering programs consist of 84 credits beyond a bachelor’s degree, or 54 credits beyond a master’s degree. Core coursework and approved electives make up at least 30 credits and dissertation research accounts for the rest. Stevens Institute of Technology is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

15. SUNY Polytechnic Institute

SUNY Polytechnic Institute offers a Ph.D. in nanoscale engineering with tracks in nanoelectronics, optoelectronics and photonics, nanobiology engineering and technology, and four other areas. The program requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, mathematics, computer science, or a related science field. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Although applicants are encouraged to submit their most recent GRE scores, it is not a requirement.

SUNY Poly also offers a combined MD/Ph.D. in medicine and nanoscale science or engineering. The seven-year program requires students to enroll in doctoral coursework between the didactic and clinical years of medical school. Students apply simultaneously at SUNY Poly and the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree (preferably in a science or pre-med field) with exceptional academic performance. However, the program also accepts applications from nontraditional students with diverse training and professional experience.

SUNY Polytechnic Institute is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

16. Syracuse University

The College of Engineering and Computer Science at Syracuse University offers a Ph.D. in engineering in six areas of study including computer/information science and engineering, mechanical and aerospace engineering, and electrical and computer engineering. Students must take a qualifying exam after completing a certain number of credits before they can proceed with the remainder of the program. This minimum credit requirement varies among programs.

The college maintains several financial assistance packages for qualified doctoral students including fellowships, research grants, and teaching assistantships. Many of these programs cover tuition and also provide a living stipend. Students must show satisfactory progress in their program to qualify for assistance each year. Doctoral engineering programs require the completion of at least 42 credits of coursework. With few exceptions, the college gives students up to five years to earn their Ph.D.

Syracuse University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

17. University of Denver

The University of Denver offers Ph.D. in engineering degrees through the Daniel Felix Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science. Students can pursue a doctorate in electrical and computer engineering, mechatronic systems engineering, and mechanical engineering.

The doctoral programs accept applications from master’s degree-holders, preferably in engineering or a closely related science or technology field. Bachelor’s degree-holders can apply, but they must be willing to enroll in preparatory classes. Preparatory courses do not carry credit toward the doctoral degree.

The mechatronic systems engineering program currently supports research in robotics and unmanned systems. The robotics research focuses on service robotics, actively addressing problems such as autism and Alzheimer’s disease. Current research in the mechanical engineering program focuses on biomedical devices and technologies. The university allows mechanical engineering students to craft an individualized plan of study that supports specific career objectives.

The University of Denver is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

18. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers Ph.D. in engineering programs through the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. The doctoral programs cover several fields of study including aerospace, chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

The college requires applicants to submit their most recent GRE scores along with a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a resume. Specific programs may have additional requirements. The college offers several fellowship opportunities and assistantships that include full tuition, fees waivers, and a stipend. Applicants are automatically considered for any financial aid package for which they qualify.

The doctoral program in agricultural and biological engineering offers four specialization areas: agricultural production, information systems, biological engineering, and land and water resources. The coastal and oceanography engineering program supports several research focus areas, including estuarine and coastal physics, inlet morphodynamics and wave-current interactions, and storm surge and inundation.

University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers several Ph.D. in Engineering programs through the Grainger College of Engineering. The college provides guaranteed financial assistance for doctoral students through a funded appointment such as a research or teaching assistantship. Students who meet the minimum eligibility requirements receive financial assistance for the first five years of enrollment. The financial aid provides a stipend and full or partial tuition waiver.

The bioengineering program offers optional specializations in biomechanics, cancer nanotechnology, and computational science and engineering. Students can apply to the program with a master’s or bachelor’s degree. The doctoral program in environmental engineering offers 10 areas of specialization including construction management, sustainable and resilient infrastructure systems, societal risk and hazard mitigation, and structural engineering.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

20. University of Massachusetts-Amherst

UMass-Amherst offers a Ph.D. in engineering in six areas: industrial engineering and operations research, polymer science and engineering, and chemical, civil, mechanical, and electrical and computer engineering.

The doctorate in industrial engineering and operations research accepts applications from master’s and bachelor’s degree-holders. The Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Department administers the program. Current research fields supported by the department include biomedical and healthcare engineering, fluid dynamics, robotics and mechatronics, and renewable energy.

The Civil and Environmental Engineering Department offers four areas of specialization: environmental and water resources, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering and mechanics, and transportation engineering. The Chemical Engineering Department offers Ph.D. enrollees a full graduate research assistantship, which typically includes a full tuition waiver, health care coverage, and a living stipend. The assistantship requires no additional work beyond regular coursework and dissertation research.

University of Massachusetts-Amherst is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

21. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering and in environmental sciences and engineering. The university administers the doctorate in biomedical engineering jointly with North Carolina State University. The program requires applicants to submit their most recent GRE scores. To be competitive, applicants must achieve at least 50%, 70%, and 30% respectively on the verbal, quantitative, and written components of the test. Applicants must also submit a 1-2 page statement about their research background and interests.

The doctoral program in environmental sciences and engineering currently supports active research in many critical issues and concerns. Students can explore topics such as molecular approaches to addressing diseases caused by toxic substances, engineering and policy solutions to environmental risks, and developing practical solutions to health problems in developing countries. Designed as an interdisciplinary degree, the doctorate draws from three main areas of study: air quality and atmospheric process, sustainable water resources, and human exposure and health effects.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

22. University of Southern California

The Viterbi School of Engineering at the University of Southern California offers Ph.D. in engineering degrees across 11 subfields including aerospace, petroleum, computer, and mechanical engineering. The majority of doctoral students at USC receive some type of financial support through fellowships and assistantships.

The doctorate in aerospace engineering offers several research areas, including in dynamical systems and controls, robotics, computational engineering, and fluid mechanics and aerodynamics. The program accepts applications from students with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, math, or a related hard science field. Admission also requires GRE scores from an exam taken no longer than five years prior to the date of application.

The environmental engineering program offers four areas of specialization: sustainable development; water quality, access, and distribution; disasters and extreme events; and coupling of complex systems. Students gain access to several research labs and centers, including the Air Quality Lab and the Tsunami Research Center. The University of Southern California is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

23. Villanova University

Villanova University offers a Ph.D. in engineering program in eight subfields, including mechanical, civil, biochemical, and computer engineering. Many of the programs accept full- and part-time enrollees and are delivered both on campus and online.

The College of Engineering receives funding from institutions like the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Environmental Protection Agency, and various local businesses and private foundations. Students reap several benefits from these partnerships in terms of funding, knowledge exchange, and future employment opportunities.

Every doctoral program in engineering at Villanova performs research in specific arenas within an engineering subfield. For example, research areas in mechanical engineering include topics such as thermal science, nanotechnology, and dynamics and controls. This research generally revolves around four major areas: water, energy, and food security; materials for a sustainable future; smart and resilient infrastructure systems; and better medicine and improved healthcare delivery systems.

Villanova University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

24. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

The College of Engineering at Virginia Tech offers a Ph.D. in engineering across 15 areas of study. These include biological systems engineering, industrial systems engineering, and aerospace engineering.

The College of Engineering partners with federal agencies, private organizations, and local industries to help fund graduate research and special projects. The college offers numerous research and teaching assistantships, fellowships, and grants to support doctoral students. Many of these funding opportunities include a tuition and fees waiver, health insurance coverage, and a living stipend.

The college maintains several research centers and laboratories for its students, including the Center for Space Science and Engineering Research and the Innovative Particulate Materials Laboratory. Doctoral students also have access to several research institutes located on the university campus. Engineering students often access the facilities of the Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

25. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

The College of Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers 12 Ph.D. in engineering programs. Students can pursue a doctorate in fire protection engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and robotics engineering, among several others.

Along with the University of Massachusetts Medical School, WPI jointly offers the doctorate in computational biomedical sciences and engineering. Students enrolled in this highly individualized program craft a plan of study that reflects and supports their career and educational objectives. Students must demonstrate expertise in three core competency areas: computational biology and physiology, math and statistics (including integral/differential calculus), and molecular techniques and algorithms.

The College of Engineering offers most of the courses for the doctorate in systems engineering online. Courses follow a synchronous delivery schedule, and professors conduct classes in a virtual classroom at specific times. Applicants with an MS in systems engineering and a minimum 3.5 GPA have the best chance of admission to the Ph.D. program.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

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Doctor - Geotechnical Engineering

Distance degree programs for adults & professionals., bircham international university - adult degree programs online., doctor ph.d. degree - engineering & technology, geotechnical engineering via distance learning.

This Doctor Ph.D. Degree focuses on the utilization of natural materials for civil engineering and construction. Historically, the geotechnical engineering Doctor Ph.D. Degree focused on structural foundations, slope stability, and earth dams. Today, the program's scope of activities has expanded to include natural and man made hazard mitigation, advanced techniques for site and material characterization, modeling of natural materials, design of pavement systems, and environmental assessment and remediation.

Academic Supervisor : Abbas Abbaszadeh Shahri More information about this academic supervisor at Bircham University Human Network. More info...

The Doctor Ph.D. Degree online via distance learning offers students the highest level of specialization a discipline can offer. More info...

* 45 to 72 academic credits above a Master's program. * Average Duration: 24 months. * Program Structure: 70% textbooks + 30% Thesis. * Admission is open for adults over 27 years of age. * Master's degree or international equivalent (5 years of study) is required for admission.

Fees include all: Program of study, textbooks, study guide, evaluation and assessment, diploma, and transcript. Cost per BIU earned postgraduate credit: 130 Euros (170 US$) Cost per transferred credit from previous education and/or professional experience if required: 20 Euros (25 US$)

45 ... 72 Academic credits Tuition Fee :Min. 5.850 Euros (7.650 US$) ... Max. 9.360 Euros (12.240 US$).

"Companies of today value those who demonstrate the will power, responsibility, motivation and capacity for self-improvement required by distance learning higher education." Business Today.

Payment plans are available upon request up to 36 monthly installments. More info...

Faculty of Engineering & Technology via distance learning

• Doctor Ph.D. Degree

45 ... 72 Academic credits required for this distance learning degree program.

Composition:.

+ 36 Academic credits - Geotechnical Engineering Online + Other additional subjects + 18 Academic credits - Research methodology and final project or thesis.

+ 36 Academic credits: Geotechnical Engineering Online

BIU Earned Credits Credits earned through the completion of academic work at Bircham International University (Reports, Projects and Thesis).

1 BIU Earned Credit = 1 USA Semester Credit (15 hours of learning) = 2 ECTS Credits (30 hours of study). Courses list (each subject accounts for 3 academic credits): You may study any subject as an independent online continuing education course. More info...

Postgraduate level continuing education course. Previous knowledge in this field of study is required.

601GET - Surveying 602GET - Ground Mechanics 603GET - Geotechnical Analysis 604GET - Geology 605GET - Ground Retaining Structures 606GET - Urban Geospatial Analysis 607GET - Hydrology 608GET - Soil Science 609GET - Foundation Engineering 610GET - Soil Improvement 611GET - Geotechnical Engineering 612GET - Structural Engineering More info...

Bibliography: Geotechnical Engineering via distance learning The corresponding textbooks are included in the fees. Once the fee has been paid, the books may take between two to five weeks to reach your address. Bircham International University offices may inform you at any time of the status of your books. If the book is in English, the required report must be written in English unless you have requested to write it in other language and have gained Bircham International University authorization. More info... Click here to access the recommended bibliography.

+ Additional courses may be selected from other modules in the Faculty of Engineering & Technology from Bircham International University if required. This selection must be approved by the Distance Learning University Education Board. For example: Mining Engineering .

Research work resources and network - Doctor - Geotechnical Engineering:

AAEE - Australasian Association for Engineering Education ABGEA - Associação Brasileira de Geologia, de Engenharia e Ambiental ABMS - Associação Brasileira de Mecânica dos Solos e Engenharia Geotécnica AEG - Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists AGS - Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists AGSSEA - Association of Geotechnical Societies in SouthEast Asia ASEE - American Society for Engineering Education BGA - British Geotechnical Association BTA - British Tunnelling Society CFGI - Comité Français de Géologie, de l’Ingénieur et de l’Environnement CFMR - Comité Français de Mécanique des Roches CFMR - Comité Français de Mécanique des Sols et de la Géotechnique EAGE - European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers EEGS - Environmental and Engineering Geophysical Society EFFC - European Federation of Foundation Contractors ENGC - Engineering Council (UK) FEBRAE - Federação Brasileira de Associações de Engenheiros FEIGS - Federation of International Geo-Engineering Societies FPS - Federation of Piling Specialists IACEE - International Association for Continuing Engineering Education IAENG - International Association of Engineers IAMG - International Association for Mathematical Geology IESF - Ingénieurs et Scientifiques de France IET - Institution of Engineering and Technology IFEES - International Federation of Engineering Education Societies IGS - International Geosynthetics Society ISSMGE - International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering ITA - International Tunneling Association LACCEI - Latin American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions NAAAEA - National Arab American Association of Engineers and Architects NSBE - National Society of Black Engineers SEFI - Societé Européene pour la Formation des Ingénieurs SEMSIG - Sociedad Española de Mécanica del Suelo e Ingeniería Geotécnica. SHPE - Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers  SWE - Society of Women Engineers WFEO - World Federation of Engineering Organizations More info...

Joining the proper association is the best way to become an updated professional. Bircham International University graduates may join many professional associations. Membership requirements for each association may vary depending on the degree program, specialization and graduate resume en each occasion. BIU can not guarantee membership in all instances. BIU does not intermediate in these procedures. Bircham International University provides a list of available memberships and professional references from each faculty where some BIU graduates may belong. Contact directly the ones you select. More info...

+ 18 Academic credits (Research methodology and final project or thesis. More info... ).

Admission requirements: Doctor - Geotechnical Engineering

Bircham International University distance learning degree admission requirements differ depending upon the Faculty and the major of study. There is no discrimination with respect to race, color, sex, beliefs and/or religion. A minimum of 30% of the total number of credits required by any adult degree program syllabus has to be transferred from previous education and/or validated from professional experience in order to gain admission. A maximum of 20% of the total number of credits required by the distance learning degree program can be transferred from professional and life experience. More info...

Click to Download... Application for Admission

Learning outcomes: Doctor - Geotechnical Engineering

The following learning outcomes are compatible with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) for lifelong learning and continuing education. The EQF directives facilitate acceptance of this course credits by many higher education institution. These learning outcomes are achieved after completion of this course with a passing grade. Better grades will demonstrate higher analysis, evaluation and critical thinking skills. More info...

EQF LEVEL 6. Advanced knowledge and critical understanding. Outcome resulting from course content assessment and its applicability to problem solving. The student's ability to combine the different parts of the text and to form a new coherent and harmonic final report will determine the critical understanding of the subject and an advanced knowledge of Geotechnical Engineering. The student written report style, content, and structure play an important role in the assessment and applicability of the knowledge about Geotechnical Engineering to different Engineering & Technology decision making scenarios and problem-solving. More info...

EQF LEVEL 7. Advanced knowledge and critical thinking. Outcome resulting from written critical thinking and its applicability to problem solving. The student will contrast and evaluate the learned material with his/her own knowledge and experience to express an opinion about Geotechnical Engineering, to consider the practical application of the key concepts, and to argue the conclusions along the written report. Personal judgments and opinion should be based on sound criteria and must be clearly discussed. More info...

BIU adapts each Distance Learning Higher Education degree program to the needs of each student. More info...

Geotechnical Engineering Online

Recognition - Distance degree programs - More info... Accreditation - Distance Learning University - More info... Degree Legalization - Graduate Services - More info... Acceptance of these Distance Learning Higher Education academic credits is always the prerogative of the receiving institution or employer. Recognition criteria differ depending on each educational institution, or company policy, or country legal framework.

Academics   /   PhD Program Geotechnical Engineering

Geotechnical engineering phd specialization.

All facilities are built on, in, or with earth materials. As such, the science and engineering of soil and rock, and of the water and other fluids that permeate them, are critical for addressing national and global issues, including infrastructure construction and reconstruction, mitigation of natural hazards, and frontier exploration and development.

Geotechnical engineering is a branch of civil engineering that generally deals with problems involving soil and rock. Examples include the design of foundations for structures, tunneling, excavations, disposal of waste products by burial, dams, and a variety of similar earth-related topics.

Our goal is to educate graduate students to become leaders in geotechnical engineering practice and academia. We strive to provide a broad and fundamental educational experience. To achieve these goals, we maintain a balance between research and teaching in our program. Theory and practice, experimental and analytical techniques, and traditional and cutting-edge ideas are integrated within our research and teaching.

Explore the curriculum

Our geotechnical faculty focus on the science and engineering of soil and rock, and of the water and other fluids that permeate them, in order to address national and global issues. These include infrastructure construction and reconstruction, mitigation of natural hazards, and frontier exploration and development.

We have three faculty active in this research area:

• Giuseppe Buscarnera
• Federico Ciardo
• Alessandro Rotta Loria

View faculty who are recruiting PhD students for fall 2025

Eligibility and Admissions

Students studying geotechnical engineering earn a doctor of philosophy in civil and environmental engineering through Northwestern University's Graduate School. To be admitted to the PhD program in geotechnical engineering, the student must either hold a master of science in engineering or a non-engineering degree with the coursework described in the MS section covering mathematics through differential equations, fluid mechanics, first-year, college-level chemistry, and statics and dynamics.

These course requirements for admission may be met at Northwestern, but credits from these courses cannot be applied to the graduate degree. In addition, each applicant must meet the usual requirements of The Graduate School and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

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Contact Info

Graduate admissions.

Giuseppe Buscarnera Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Director of Graduate Studies Phone: +1 847 491 5884 Email Professor Buscarnera

Area Coordinator

Alessandro Rotta Loria Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Phone: +1 847 467 1340 Email Professor Rotta Loria

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Purdue University launches new online engineering doctorate

Highly customizable program is designed for tailoring to a learner’s career goals

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University’s highly ranked College of Engineering is offering its first 100% online doctoral degree in a highly customizable program designed for professionals who want to enhance their careers while gaining skills with practical application in their current jobs.

The new online Doctor of Engineering program from Purdue features coursework on research methodology and advanced mathematics and statistics in addition to hundreds of engineering and other courses, all culminating in a research project.

The program enables learners to tailor their courses and research project to maximally benefit their professional development goals. In the process, students can gain significant technical depth, research experience and advanced capabilities in a particular technology or technical domain directly related to their career goals.

“Over the years we’ve heard from many students that they want to pursue a doctoral degree but do not want to leave the jobs they are passionate about to devote four or more years to a PhD,” said Milind Kulkarni, professor and the Michael and Katherine Birck Head of Electrical and Computer Engineering. “Purdue’s online doctoral program gives these folks an opportunity to pursue cutting-edge applied research in the context of their work at their current company and gain that higher credential that will let them advance at work, take up teaching and more.”

The online program bridges the gap between academic research and industry practice, with the research project leading to a final report or dissertation focused less on fundamental theory and more on engineering practice and application related to on-the-job process improvements, scalability, new designs or many other potential topics.

“Cutting-edge advances in technology are rapidly emerging at the interface between traditional fields,” said Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, the Marta E. Gross Professor of Biomedical Engineering and associate dean of graduate and professional education in Purdue’s College of Engineering . “The new interdisciplinary Doctor of Engineering degree was specifically designed for working professionals who seek to gain new skill sets in these emerging areas or to deepen their knowledge base in their areas of specialization by exploring new applications.”

While the program provides a strong foundation of theoretical, quantitative and statistical knowledge, a wide array of technical courses is available to Doctor of Engineering students. Purdue’s program also includes the opportunity to gain important professionalization skills, such as leadership development; project management; new product development; technical, report and grant writing; and pedagogical theory and practice.

To qualify for admission, applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in an engineering or related discipline and have a minimum of two years of professional experience in a relevant field. A master’s degree in engineering or a related discipline is strongly preferred. Up to 30 credits of the 90-credit doctoral program can come from a previous master’s degree, pending approval.

A significant market need exists for engineers with a doctoral degree. Earning Purdue’s online Doctor of Engineering can open doors to higher salaries, leadership positions and consulting opportunities. Professionals with a doctoral degree in engineering earned approximately $25,000 more per year in 2023 compared with individuals who have attained a master’s degree.

Purdue’s College of Engineering routinely ranks among the best in the country as a whole and in numerous individual engineering disciplines. Purdue is consistently ranked as having a top three online engineering graduate program by U.S. News & World Report.

“The Doctor of Engineering builds on Purdue’s globally recognized expertise in engineering and online education,” said Dimitrios Peroulis, senior vice president for partnerships and online. “This rigorous program pairs the deep knowledge of the world-class faculty on our flagship campus with the skill of award-winning course designers to make a high-quality doctoral experience available at scale to learners wherever they are.”

To learn more about Purdue’s online Doctor of Engineering degree, visit the program website .

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a public research institution demonstrating excellence at scale. Ranked among top 10 public universities and with two colleges in the top four in the United States, Purdue discovers and disseminates knowledge with a quality and at a scale second to none. More than 105,000 students study at Purdue across modalities and locations, including nearly 50,000 in person on the West Lafayette campus. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue’s main campus has frozen tuition 13 years in a row. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap — including its first comprehensive urban campus in Indianapolis, the Mitch Daniels School of Business, Purdue Computes and the One Health initiative — at https://www.purdue.edu/president/strategic-initiatives . 

Media contact: Brian Huchel, [email protected]

More Purdue News

Purdue confers more than 3,600 degrees during winter commencement ceremonies

December 16, 2024

Trustees approve Chiang’s performance metrics for 2024-25

December 13, 2024

Trustees approve residence hall construction project for PNW, expanded housing lease for Purdue University in Indianapolis

Berghoff presides over final trustees meeting as board chair

• Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Engineering (PhD)
• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Canadian Immigration Updates

Review details about the recently announced changes to study and work permits that apply to master’s and doctoral degree students. Read more

Go to programs search

Our program delivers an interdisciplinary experience, combining principles of geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology and geology, to provide a versatile set of skills needed to solve a wide range of practical problems related to engineering interactions with the earth environment.

Faculty members in the Geological Engineering program have research interests in the following general areas:

• landslides, debris flows, runout analysis, hazard assessment
• groundwater hydrology, groundwater contamination & remediation, reactive transport modeling, environmental geochemistry
• rock mechanics & rock engineering, open pit & underground mine design, tunnelling

Other research areas include geotechnical engineering, environmental geology, economic geology and applied geophysics. Students are encouraged to consult individual faculty members for information about current research areas.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

Geological Engineering is an interdisciplinary field, in which principles of geoscience are used to solve engineering and environmental problems. It connects geology, physics and chemistry with civil engineering and other fields (e.g. mining, geography, forestry) to provide a versatile set of skills applicable to a wide range of contemporary problems. The qualifications of a geological engineer are similar to those of a civil engineer with geotechnical or environmental specialization; however, our graduates have the advantage of better understanding of geological processes.

UBC is my favourite not only because it is one of the most prestigious universities across the country but because it offers one of the best programs in geological engineering.

Sahar Ghadirianniari

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, 1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.0

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, january 2026 intake, september 2026 intake, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

• Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Engineering (PhD)

Citizenship verification.

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research facilities.

The Geological Engineering program is housed in the recently constructed Earth Science Building and the associated buildings EOAS-Main and EOAS-South. The $75 million Earth Sciences Building was designed to inspire collaboration and creativity across disciplines.  Research facilities include the Environmental Interfaces laboratory (EIL), the Centre for Experimental Studies of the Lithosphere (CESL), a wet lab and field staging areas. We have access to cluster-computing facilities in our own department, as well as high-performance computing facilities both at UBC and at large computing centers across Canada. In addition, software licenses paid by UBC covers powerful desktop data analysis, programming, and visualization apps.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

All full-time Ph.D. students who begin a UBC-Vancouver PhD program in January 2021 or later will be provided with a funding package of at least $25,500 for each of the first four years of their PhD. The funding package consists of any combination of internal or external awards (NSERC scholarships, UBC Four Year Fellowships, departmental awards, etc.), teaching-assistantships and research assistantships. In addition, tuition will be covered for the first four years of the program through a scholarship.  

Average Funding

• 2 students received Teaching Assistantships. Average TA funding based on 2 students was $9,719.
• 4 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 4 students was $16,118.
• 1 student received Academic Assistantships valued at $5,395.
• 5 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 5 students was $13,790.
• 1 student received external awards valued at $35,000.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

7 students graduated between 2005 and 2013: 1 graduate is seeking employment; for 1 we have no data (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016). For the remaining 5 graduates:

Sample Employers Outside Higher Education

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The Ph.D. program in Geological Engineering is designed to prepare graduate students for employment in academia, industry, consulting companies, or the public sector. Recent graduates have taken positions in national labs, geotechnical and environmental consulting companies, mining and oil and gas companies, as well as provincial and federal government offices.

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Engineering (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Ameli, Ali (Geology; Applied Hydro-geochemistry; Climate Changes and Impacts; Environmental Tracer; Ground Water and Water Tables; Groundwater Ecohydrology; Groundwater-Surfacewater & land Interaction; Hydro-geological Engineering; Hydrological Cycle and Reservoirs; Numerical analysis; Watershed Management)
• Beckie, Roger (Other environmental engineering and related engineering; Hydrogeology; Mine drainage; physical hydrogeology; groundwater geochemistry; groundwater contamination)
• Eberhardt, Erik (Geotechnical engineering; Mining engineering; Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering; Deep Underground Excavations; Rock Slope Engineering; Block Cave Mining)
• Mayer, Ulrich (Geology; groundwater contamination; groundwater remediation; hydrogeology; low-temperature geochemistry; mine waste management)
• McDougall, Scott (Other earth and related environmental sciences, n.e.c.; Geotechnical engineering; Debris flows / floods; Geohazards; Landslide-generated waves; Landslides; Natural and man-made geological hazards; Rock avalanches; Shoreline erosion; Tailings dam breaches)

Doctoral Citations

Sample thesis submissions.

• Quantitative life-loss risk evaluation for landslides
• Large fluid injection induced seismicity events : empirical and numerical investigation of causes, mechanisms and mitigation strategies
• Improved empirical and numerical predictive modelling of potential tailings dam breaches and their downstream impacts

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Master of Applied Science in Geological Engineering (MASc)
• Master of Engineering in Geological Engineering (MEng)

Same Academic Unit

• Doctor of Philosophy in Atmospheric Science (PhD)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Sciences (PhD)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Geophysics (PhD)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Oceanography (PhD)
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Geological Engineering (GCAGE)
• Master of Applied Science in Geophysics (MASc)
• Master of Science in Atmospheric Science (MSc)
• Master of Science in Geological Sciences (MSc)
• Master of Science in Geophysics (MSc)
• Master of Science in Oceanography (MSc)

Further Information

Specialization.

Geological Engineering applies earth sciences principles to engineering problems. Research interests include

• landslides, debris flows, engineering geology, slope stability
• groundwater hydrology, groundwater contamination and remediation, reactive transport modeling, environmental geochemistry
• rock engineering, rock slopes, and tunneling

Other research areas include geotechnical engineering, environmental geology, engineering geology, economic geology, and applied geophysics. The specific fields of study may involve geomorphology and terrain analysis, groundwater hydrology, natural hazards, slope stability, petroleum and coal geology, coalbed methane, mineral prospecting and valuation, and other similar subjects.

UBC Calendar

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Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

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