PhD Aeronautics and Space Engineering at California Institute of Technology

Programme overview

Research doctorate with major study areas including physics of fluids, solid mechanics and materials, structural mechanics, space technology, computational fluid dynamics and solid mechanics, aeronautical engineering and propulsion, biomechanics and control of aerospace systems.

Faculty: Division of Engineering and Applied Science | Department: Lynn Booth & Kent Kresa Department of Aerospace | Study mode: full-time | Intake: Fall | Location: Pasadena, CA, United States

What you will study

Each student designs a program of fundamental courses and electives with an adviser, then passes a candidacy examination and a thesis examination before a committee of four examiners.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in science or engineering related to the option; transcripts from each institution attended, three letters of recommendation, CV and essays; GRE policy is set by each graduate program; English proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, PTE Academic, IELTS) expected for applicants whose native language is not English; application fee $100 (waivers available). Admission is once a year with fall-term enrollment; deadlines vary by program from December 1 to January 15. PhD matriculation requires evidence of US work authorization unless alternative support is arranged with the option. Programme-specific: Entering students should have a thorough background in undergraduate mathematics, physics and engineering science.

USD 68,574 a year (2026-27). Annual graduate tuition rate for all Caltech graduate students (Fall, Winter and Spring terms at $22,858 each); no programme-specific rate; excludes mandatory fees ($2,448). The same page states that PhD financial packages cover tuition and mandatory fees Source

Graduate admission takes place once each year, with enrollment starting in the following fall term.

Graduate applications are accepted between December 1 and January 15 for enrollment the following fall term, with deadlines varying by programme. The application fee is $100, with fee waivers for a limited number of applicants. Applications are submitted online.

Apply through the official page: https://www.gradoffice.caltech.edu/admissions/applyonline

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