Ph.D. Aerospace Engineering at University of South Florida

Programme overview

The Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering trains graduates for independent research in aeronautics and space industries, academia and advanced technical positions. Applicants may enter after an M.S. or directly after the bachelor's degree. It shares a core with the Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering.

Faculty: College of Engineering | Department: Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering | Duration: 72 credit hours post-bachelor's (shorter with an M.S.) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Tampa, FL, United States

What you will study

Shared core of 6 hours, 3 hours of mathematics, 9 hours of aerospace courses (aerospace systems, advanced aerodynamics, aircraft stability and control), at least 18 hours of electives, a qualifying examination, and at least 20 dissertation hours plus additional coursework or dissertation hours. Students admitted with an M.S. complete 12 elective hours, 20 dissertation hours and 10 further hours.

Career pathways

Research, academia, and advanced technical positions in aeronautics and space industries.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Must meet USF graduate admission and English proficiency requirements. B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field. GRE required with a minimum 60th percentile on quantitative and a minimum average 60th percentile on verbal and quantitative. Minimum GPA 3.00/4.00 in the last two years of coursework from an ABET-accredited engineering major (non-ABET graduates evaluated case by case). At least three recommendation letters, a one-page statement of purpose/research interest and a one-page resume.

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.

Doctoral admission is offered for Fall, Spring and Summer semesters.

Final university deadlines for doctoral programmes: February 15 for Fall, October 15 for Spring, February 15 for Summer. Programme-specific priority deadlines apply for funding and consideration.

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