Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics PhD at Northwestern University

Programme overview

The PhD prepares students for independent applied mathematics research at the highest level with flexibility in research areas; students can earn a master's degree after the first year.

Faculty: McCormick School of Engineering | Department: Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics | Duration: Average about 5 years | Study mode: full-time | Location: Evanston, IL, United States

What you will study

Core applied mathematics plus special topics courses chosen to support the student's research; first-year students complete two quarters of research with two different faculty members (requirements being updated from 2025-2026).

Career pathways

Professors at research universities, liberal arts college teaching, national labs and agencies, and industry.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The Graduate School baseline English proficiency for PhD applicants: IELTS Academic 7.0; TOEFL iBT minimum 90 for PhD and 80 for master's (exams before 21 Jan 2026; 4.5 on the newer scale after that date); MET 61 for PhD and 54 for master's; scores taken within two years of entry; Duolingo and TOEFL Essentials not accepted; waived for applicants with a degree from an institution where English is the language of instruction. Programmes may set higher minimums.

Requirements published at program group level.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications for 2026-27 open September 15, 2026; deadlines vary by programme. The Graduate School application fee is $95 and nonrefundable, paid by credit or debit card.

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