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The doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering at ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ offers a broad-based, integrative education with emphases in energy, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, autonomous systems, and advanced materials. Students receive research training in a creative knowledge environment and gain hands-on experience in national laboratory or industry settings.

Unlike conventional Mechanical Engineering doctoral programs focused on developing future educators, ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ's program is built around training future technology leaders for industry. Students trained in technology entrepreneurship and leadership will partner with industry to create new jobs and strengthen the innovation ecosystem for regional, state, and national economic growth.

All Ph.D. candidates must complete a written dissertation and successfully defend it in a public dissertation defense. Coursework requirements are intentionally flexible so the program can meet the changing needs of students and industry stakeholders.

• Bachelor's degree — B.S. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related engineering field (or equivalent)
• Two-page CV — summarizing your academic background, research experience, and professional accomplishments
• TOEFL / English proficiency (international applicants) — Evidence of English-language competency is required if you did not attend high school in the United States and your most recent institution of learning was not located in an English-speaking country.

  • Minimum score of 550 on the paper-based TOEFL (pBT). Some programs require 600 or better.
  • Minimum score of 79 on the internet-based test (iBT), and minimum of 6.5 on IELTS.
  • Minimum score of 53 on the Pearson PTE.
  • Minimum score of 110 on the Duolingo test.
  • Test scores are valid for 2 years.
  • Official test scores must be submitted directly from the testing agency. The University's institutional test code is 6829.
  • For more information visit the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ Graduate School.
• Statement of purpose — a written statement of your academic and professional interests and goals
• Three letters of reference — from individuals qualified to evaluate your capability for doctoral-level work
• Official transcripts — from all colleges and universities previously attended

The ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ Graduate School accepts applications year-round. For best funding consideration, submit by March 1 (fall) or September 1 (spring). Apply at .

¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ invests in your doctoral education by providing tuition remission to eligible students. This benefit covers tuition costs for qualified doctoral students who work as graduate assistants — no application required. If you meet the eligibility requirements, remission is automatically applied to your student account.

Eligibility requirements:

• Full-time enrollment — minimum 9 SCH of coursework or 3 SCH of dissertation
• Graduate assistant appointment — 20 hours per week, covering the full semester
• Good academic standing — minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and satisfactory milestone progress
• Current FAFSA on file — required for U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Funding structure:

• Up to 66 SCH total covered across the doctoral program
• Years 1–3 — up to 9 SCH per semester (18 SCH/year)
• Years 4–5 — up to 3 SCH per semester (6 SCH/year)
• Summer semesters are not eligible for tuition remission
• Grant-funded positions may allow remission beyond the 66 SCH limit

For full details on eligibility, funding sources, and FAQs visit the Doctoral Tuition Remission page or contact the Graduate School at gradfund@utep.edu.

All Ph.D. applicants are automatically considered for Research Assistantships (RA) and Teaching Assistantships (TA) — no separate application required. We strongly encourage applicants to contact ME faculty directly about research interests and possible RA funding opportunities.

• Research Assistantships (RA) — funded through research grants and contracts
• Teaching Assistantships (TA) — limited availability
• Scholarships, training stipends, and fellowships
• On-campus and off-campus positions for eligible students