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The doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering at ³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ offers a broad-based, integrative education with emphases in energy, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, autonomous systems, and advanced materials. Students receive research training in a creative knowledge environment and gain hands-on experience in national laboratory or industry settings.

Unlike conventional Mechanical Engineering doctoral programs focused on developing future educators, ³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ's program is built around training future technology leaders for industry. Students trained in technology entrepreneurship and leadership will partner with industry to create new jobs and strengthen the innovation ecosystem for regional, state, and national economic growth.

All Ph.D. candidates must complete a written dissertation and successfully defend it in a public dissertation defense. Coursework requirements are intentionally flexible so the program can meet the changing needs of students and industry stakeholders.

• Bachelor's degree — B.S. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related engineering field (or equivalent)
• Two-page CV — summarizing your academic background, research experience, and professional accomplishments
• TOEFL (international applicants) — minimum 550 paper-based or 213 computer-based, required if English is not your first language and your degree was not earned at an English-speaking institution
• Statement of purpose — a written statement of your academic and professional interests and goals
• Three letters of reference — from individuals qualified to evaluate your capability for doctoral-level work
• Official transcripts — from all colleges and universities previously attended

The ³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ ³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ School accepts applications year-round. For best funding consideration, submit by March 1 (fall) or September 1 (spring). Apply at .

³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ invests in your doctoral education by providing tuition remission to eligible students. This benefit covers tuition costs for qualified doctoral students who work as graduate assistants — no application required. If you meet the eligibility requirements, remission is automatically applied to your student account.

Eligibility requirements:

• Full-time enrollment — minimum 9 SCH of coursework or 3 SCH of dissertation
• ³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ assistant appointment — 20 hours per week, covering the full semester
• Good academic standing — minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and satisfactory milestone progress
• Current FAFSA on file — required for U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Funding structure:

• Up to 66 SCH total covered across the doctoral program
• Years 1–3 — up to 9 SCH per semester (18 SCH/year)
• Years 4–5 — up to 3 SCH per semester (6 SCH/year)
• Summer semesters are not eligible for tuition remission
• Grant-funded positions may allow remission beyond the 66 SCH limit

For full details on eligibility, funding sources, and FAQs visit the Doctoral Tuition Remission page or contact the ³ÉÈËÍ·Ìõ School at gradfund@utep.edu.

All Ph.D. applicants are automatically considered for Research Assistantships (RA) and Teaching Assistantships (TA) — no separate application required. We strongly encourage applicants to contact ME faculty directly about research interests and possible RA funding opportunities.

• Research Assistantships (RA) — funded through research grants and contracts
• Teaching Assistantships (TA) — limited availability
• Scholarships, training stipends, and fellowships
• On-campus and off-campus positions for eligible students