PhD Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering at Harvard University

Programme overview

The programme ranges from fundamental solid and fluid mechanics to materials, mechanical systems and biomechanics, with strong links to Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Earth and Planetary Sciences and Chemistry. Conferred as a PhD in Engineering Sciences: Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering through Harvard Griffin GSAS; no independent master’s degree is offered.

Faculty: Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences | Department: Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering | Study mode: full-time | Intake: Fall | Location: Cambridge, MA, United States

Career pathways

Graduates have founded startups in health care and robotics and entered law, industry, government and academia.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants typically have bachelor’s degrees in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, or engineering. Supplemental SEAS Application Form required. GRE General: Optional.

USD 59,048 a year (2026-2027). Full tuition rate for the first two years of study (reduced in years 3-4); PhD students typically receive grants covering tuition. Source

Intake: Fall

Apply through the official page: https://gsas.harvard.edu/apply

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