Industrial engineering is a field of study that examines different kinds of production processes. The goal is to find ways to improve these processes in terms of machines, materials, and energies used as well as improving the human element of manufacturing. The PhD in Industrial Engineering is an advanced degree that prepares you to become a researcher in the realm of industrial engineering, either in academia, the private sector, or the government. Below, we will explore several PhD in Industrial Engineering programs that all are located in the United States, noting specific requirements and areas of focus.
PhD in Industrial Engineering Programs in the USA
University of South Florida
Located in Tampa, Florida, the University of South Florida has a 90-credit PhD in Industrial Engineering program. Some of the core course topics for this program include statistical design models, network optimization, performance analysis, and linear programming. Other requirements include comprehensive and qualifying exams as well as a dissertation with a proposal and dissertation defense. You must also have at least two journal publications submitted, and one accepted, in order to meet graduation requirements.
Wichita State University
Wichita State University, located in Wichita, Kansas, has an 84-credit hour program that allows you to earn a PhD in Industrial Engineering. At this university, you can choose a major and a minor within your overall PhD degree, including topics in human systems engineering, manufacturing engineering, production and supply chain analytics, quality and reliability systems, or operations research. Required core courses include classes on research writing and statistical methods. Also, along with coursework, you will need to complete a dissertation and take several exams, including preliminary exams, comprehensive exams, a dissertation approval exam, and an oral exam based on your dissertation.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, located in Urbana, Illinois, has two pathways for earning a PhD in Industrial Engineering. If you enter the program with an approved bachelor's degree, you will need to earn 96 total credits for your PhD, and you will earn a master's degree during your PhD program. If you already have a master's degree, you will need to earn 64 total credits. This program offers a flexible curriculum that allows you to work with faculty members who share your research interests. Some of the areas of industrial engineering you could focus on include design and manufacturing and decision and control systems. A dissertation and exams are also requirements for this program.
Oregon State University
Located in Corvallis, Oregon, Oregon State University offers a PhD in Industrial Engineering that will require 108 credits. In this program, you will take core coursework in production planning, project management and engineering, and industrial optimization. Your other coursework could be in one of the program's graduate concentrations, which include human systems, information systems, manufacturing systems, and advanced manufacturing. It is also possible to choose a minor for a total of 18 credits that is outside the field of industrial engineering. Like other programs, a dissertation and exams are required.
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
The University of Alabama in Huntsville offers a PhD in Industrial Engineering with three concentrations to choose from: systems engineering, engineering management, or industrial engineering. This is a 48-credit hour program beyond the bachelor's degree with a master's thesis option. Your coursework will depend on your chosen concentration. For example, a systems engineering concentration may require you take classes in engineering systems and systems analysis and modeling. No matter your concentration, you will be required to complete written and oral exams as well as a dissertation.
Common Entrance Requirements
Although each PhD in Industrial Engineering program will have its own specific entrance requirements, there are some common admission materials that include an application, letters of recommendation, transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. You will also need to submit your official GRE test scores. Most PhD in Industrial Engineering programs will also require that you hold an undergraduate degree in engineering or a related field, such as statistics, computer science, or mathematics. International students might also need to meet a minimum score on the TOEFL test, with the exact score needed dependent on the university.
PhD in Industrial Engineering programs that are located within the United States will require that you take core and elective coursework, pass several exams, and complete a dissertation. To apply to this type of program, it's best, if not usually required, to hold an undergraduate degree in a field related to industrial engineering.