PhD in Mechanical Engineering Overview

A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at UMass Lowell prepares students to become leaders in research, innovation, and advanced engineering practice. Doctoral students collaborate with world-class faculty on cutting-edge projects—from clean energy to biomedical devices—while gaining hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories. Graduates go on to drive discovery in industry, national labs and academia.

For complete program details and course descriptions, please visit the Academic Catalog.

For program-specific questions and to connect with our current students, please contact the Doctoral Graduate Coordinator.

Faculty Research

The Mechanical & Industrial Engineering faculty conduct research that impacts the following national needs: Energy and Sustainability, Defense and Security, Manufacturing and Industry and Engineering Education. Explore our faculty-led Research Centers and Research Labs below to learn more.

Funding Opportunities

The Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Department strives to provide full financial support for all admitted Ph.D. students. The first two years are typically funded through a combination of Research Assistantships (RA) and Teaching Assistantships (TA) plus summer research support. Funding for subsequent years is focused on Research Assistantships (RA). 

Admissions Requirements

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Meet Our Students

Stephen Johnson at Commencement
Stephen Johnson '21
Mechanical Engineering

After 35 years at General Electric, Stephen Johnson earned a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, where he developed a software tool that shows wind turbine blade manufacturers whether automation can save time and money.

The lifelong learning approach keeps you mentally on top of things.
Read More About Stephen Johnson 
Connor Pozzi in a lab, shows his device
Connor Pozzi ’22, ’26
Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering Ph.D. student Connor Pozzi is working to help the country’s transition to renewable energy.

The faster we can switch to renewable energy resources, the better chance we have at slowing and possibly stopping irreversible damage to our planet due to climate change.
Read More About Connor Pozzi 

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Questions? Contact Us!

Phone:
800-656-4723 (U.S. Students)
978-934-2390 (International Students)

Email
Graduate_Admissions@uml.edu