Below is a brief overview of the doctor of philosophy degree requirements within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. For a full explanation of requirements, please visit the Graduate School’s Doctor of Philosophy requirements page.
Coursework
- A minimum of 60 credits of approved coursework and research (30 credits beyond a Master’s Degree) is required.
- If you already have an MS:
- 18 classroom (non EE 6990) credits are required with a minimum of 9 credits in EE 5000-6000, and a minimum of 3 credits being 4000-level or higher from the College of Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science. Note: that in general credits counted for the MS can NOT also be counted towards the 30 credits required beyond the MS.
- If you do not have an MS:
- A minimum of 21 credits in EE 5000-6000 (non EE 6990), and a minimum of 6 credits being 4000-level courses or higher from the College of Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science, is required.
- You must earn a grade of B or better in all courses.
- You must have your advisor's approval. See Recommended course sequences for various research options.
Examination
- Pass the PhD qualifying exam
- You must have an advisor before taking this exam.
- Your first attempt must be made by the third semester.
- Submit the Report on Qualifying Exam
- Dissertation Research Proposal Defense:
- This is an oral presentation of the dissertation proposal and an oral examination on the proposed research by the advisory committee.
- The proposal defense must be passed within one year of passing the PhD qualifying exam
- Submit the Report on Research Proposal Exam
- Dissertation Defense:
- Make your public presentation and defense of the dissertation research.
- Submit the Verification of Final Degree Requirements
Additional Requirements
- Official final transcripts showing proof of your previous degrees, if not from Michigan Tech.
- Fill out and complete a Patent, Research and Proprietary Rights form.