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

UMass Lowell strives to provide financial support for all admitted Ph.D. students. This includes funding through Teaching Assistantships (TA), Research Assistantships (RA) and summer research support. Assistantships are contingent upon availability and may be subject to change.

Admissions

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Meet Our Students

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 
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 
Kay Wojtowicz uses a split-Hopkinson pressure bar in UMass Lowell's mechanical engineering research lab.
Kay Wojtowicz '25
Mechanical Engineering

Kay Wojtowicz ’25 is carrying on a family legacy at UMass Lowell by pursuing a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, focusing on cutting-edge materials research with real-world impact.

I’ve always learned better by teaching other people.
Read More About Kay Wojtowicz 

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Questions? Contact Us!

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

Email
Graduate_Admissions@uml.edu