The Ph.D. program is offered to students with an excellent academic background and a capacity for independent research. Doctoral students tailor a highly individualized program of study directed toward completion of a dissertation that is expected to make an important contribution in their selected area.

Doctoral degrees are offered in civil engineering, environmental engineering, and engineering science and mechanics.

After consultation with the appropriate specialty group, the associate chair for graduate programs may grant the applicant admission to the appropriate doctoral program within the School. Applicants must have received an acceptable undergraduate or master's degree in engineering, mathematics, computer science, or the physical sciences from a recognized institution.

Students currently pursuing a master's degree who wish to continue studies toward the Ph.D. degree must get written approval from the head of the appropriate specialty group. Admission to the Ph.D. program does not constitute admission to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.