Electrical Engineering, Ph.D.

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Major Code: 9042	Degree Awarded: Doctor of Philosophy
Delivery Mode(s): Classroom	Age Restriction: No
Admission Status: Graduate	Location(s): Main Campus - Melbourne
Admission Materials: 3 letters of recommendation, résumé, objectives, GRE

The doctor of philosophy degree is offered to students who want to pursue advanced research in an area of existing faculty expertise. The doctoral degree is granted in recognition of high achievement in a program of study, required examinations and original research in the field of electrical engineering.

Admission Requirements

Admission to doctoral study is granted to applicants who have received master’s degrees in electrical engineering or related fields from accredited institutions or from international institutions that provide suitable preparation for doctoral-level studies.

Included with the application should be a short, clear statement of the applicant’s interests and objectives. An on-campus interview is highly recommended, although not required for admission.

General admission requirements and the process for applying are presented in the Academic Overview section.

Degree Requirements

The degree of doctor of philosophy is conferred primarily in recognition of creative accomplishment and ability to investigate scientific or engineering problems independently, rather than for completion of a definite course of study. The work will consist of advanced studies and research leading to a significant contribution to a chosen research area.

The doctoral program in electrical engineering may be completed with a minimum of 48 credit hours beyond the master’s degree. Each student must complete an approved program of study beyond that required for a master’s degree, pass a comprehensive written examination, complete a program of significant original research, and prepare and defend a dissertation concerning the research. In addition, to demonstrate the achievement of new knowledge in the field, a publication in a professional journal of conference proceedings is required.

General degree requirements are presented in the Academic Overview section.

Coursework and Dissertation Summary

Doctoral coursework minimum beyond master’s degree Credit Hours: 24
Doctoral research and dissertation Credit Hours: 24

Total Minimum Beyond the Master’s Degree: 48

Curriculum

A minimum of 24 credit hours of coursework and at least 24 credit hours of Dissertation Research (ECE 6999 ) beyond a master’s degree are required. Up to nine credit hours outside of electrical and computer engineering can be counted toward the degree.

The student’s advisor and the department head must approve a program of study. A wide degree of latitude is allowed in course selection and research interest within the capability of the university and the student’s academic background. This requirement is imposed at the discretion of the doctoral committee.

After admission to doctoral candidacy, a yearly seminar demonstrating progress must be presented to the graduate faculty.