Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ava Wilson
A Ph.D. in Engineering Management prepares students for roles in academia, industry, and beyond. They develop the skills needed to contribute to engineering management through coursework and research.
An online Ph.D. in Engineering Management offers an advanced and comprehensive education, blending advanced engineering principles with intricate management concepts. The curriculum delves into advanced engineering courses such as statistics, dynamics, and materials science, coupled with in-depth studies in management principles and advanced project management strategies. The program emphasizes practical, real-world applications, equipping graduates with the expertise to tackle complex challenges in diverse industries. Potential career paths for Ph.D. in Engineering Management graduates include roles as research leaders, academic scholars, industry consultants, and executives. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [1] indicates a positive 4% job outlook for professionals in this field, aligning with the average for other occupations.
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Find the Best Ph.D. in Engineering Management Programs
Opting for a Doctorate in Engineering Management lays a strong groundwork for a vibrant career in leadership and innovation within the engineering sector. Selecting the ideal program is vital, given the escalating need for proficient engineering managers across diverse industries. Our FBD team meticulously evaluates each program, examining accreditation, curriculum depth, faculty expertise, online learning flexibility, technological resources, and student support services. This comprehensive assessment, guided by our proprietary methodology, equips individuals to make informed decisions and pursue a successful path toward attaining the finest engineering management degree. Here are some of the best online Ph.D. programs in engineering management:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| George Washington University | 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052 | $35,100 | 85% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Ph.D. in Engineering Management Program
A Ph.D. in Engineering Management is a program that emphasizes advanced research, innovation, and making substantial contributions to the existing knowledge in the field. The primary goals include fostering research excellence, contributing significantly to academic and practical aspects of a chosen engineering specialization, and developing expertise in advanced research methodologies, critical thinking, and scholarly writing. The credit requirements for a Ph.D. can vary but generally involve a combination of coursework, comprehensive exams, and the completion of an original dissertation. On average, a minimum of 75-90 semester credits is required, encompassing master’s degree work and credits for dissertation and research. The program typically takes 4 to 6 years to complete, depending on individual progress, research complexity, and specific program requirements. After graduation, Engineering Management Ph.D. holders can pursue various roles, including research scientists/engineers, university professors, industry consultants, or innovation leaders.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
The curriculum of a Ph.D. in Engineering Management is designed to empower students to become highly professional researchers and educators in engineering. They work collaboratively with their respective cohorts, guides, or professors throughout the doctoral degree on challenging research projects. The program generally requires graduates to work with cutting-edge technologies in the research facilities of their institutions or even government and private laboratories that have tie-ups with schools.
The coursework differs from institution to institution; however, some sample courses can include metabolic systems biotechnology, interfacial science with applications to nanoscale systems, thermodynamics, statistical mechanisms, and more. Some of the standard course completion requirements that students may find familiar to all Ph.D. engineering management programs include:
Coursework
The coursework could vary from institution to institution. However, individuals can expect an average of 36 hours of graduate-level coursework, including advanced studies in engineering disciplines relevant to the chosen specialization and in-depth exploration of advanced engineering principles and applications. Advanced management courses include focusing on leadership, strategic management, organizational behavior, and innovation management. Courses on research design, methodologies, and statistical analysis are also taught in most institutions.
Preliminary exam
Everyone must pass their preliminary exam to be considered a candidate for the degree. This exam is typically taken after most of the required coursework is finished. Following clearance of the exam, they can start working on their dissertation research proposal from the second year onwards. If they fail to pass the exam after a specific number of attempts, they may be disenrolled from the degree.
Research and Laboratory
Research is one of the critical aspects of a doctorate. Most institutions have laboratory facilities and specialized research and analytical equipment to help students academically. Throughout the program, graduates are expected to establish a strong base of analytical and research knowledge that helps them develop a marketable skill set and enables an easy move into the workforce after graduation.
Dissertation
Individuals brainstorm their research topics with their advisors and submit a proposal to the research committee. They must sit for oral preliminary exams to assess their understanding of the field. They must also defend the proposal through a public presentation in front of faculty members. Developing and presenting a comprehensive research proposal outlining the planned dissertation work is crucial to coursework. Conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results will also be required, along with original and in-depth research on a specific topic within engineering management.
Publication Requirement
Doctoral candidates must prepare, modify, and submit publications before making a dissertation defense. They must be the first author in these publications; at least one of them is generally required for a peer-reviewed journal. Most colleges require candidates to publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, present them at conferences, and share their research contributions with academic and professional communities.
To meet graduation requirements, doctoral applicants must typically have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher; this doesn’t include dissertation credits. Each college has specific guidelines for proposal defense, data defense, etc. A dissertation is the most critical requirement of this program, and therefore, students should discuss their coursework and other program needs with their admissions guide or appointed faculty advisor. Some of the common topics that they can research include:
- Sustainable construction
- Remote and hybrid work
- Learning and development
- Risk management
- Sustainable engineering practices
- Integrated water management model
- Operations management
- Lean manufacturing
- Optimization theory
- Agile and DevOps
- Team Lead EM
- Supply chain management
- Data analytics and decision support
- Entrepreneurship and technology commercialization
To understand more about doctoral degree requirements, read the Guide to Ph.D. Programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
In a Doctoral program in Engineering Management, students acquire advanced knowledge, research skills, and expertise in integrating engineering principles with management concepts. The curriculum is designed to prepare for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, industry, and consultancy.
A Ph.D. in Engineering Management is a rigorous and comprehensive program that prepares individuals to make substantial contributions to academia, industry, and research in the dynamic and evolving field of engineering management. By the end of the program, a doctoral student develops the ability to:
- develop advanced research skills to contribute significantly to the academic and practical aspects of engineering management;
- demonstrate understanding of how to integrate engineering principles with management theories, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving;
- analyze complex engineering and management challenges and propose innovative solutions;
- critically evaluate existing research and contribute to theoretical advancements;
- demonstrate scholarly writing skills to communicate research findings, theories, and contributions effectively;
- demonstrate teaching skills to educate future engineers and contribute to academic programs;
- engage in mentorship activities, guiding students and junior researchers in their academic and professional development;
- explore advanced methodologies and strategies for project planning, execution, and control in complex engineering contexts;
- contribute to the development of new project management theories and practices;
- investigate innovation processes and management strategies in engineering organizations.
Areas of Specialization for Engineering Management Ph.D. Students
Pursuing specialized areas within a Ph.D. program in Engineering Management offers numerous benefits, enhancing academic and professional trajectories. Specializations allow students to delve deeply into aspects of engineering management, such as project management, operations research, technology and innovation management, or sustainable engineering practices. This focused expertise enables them to contribute original research to address industry-specific challenges and advance knowledge in their chosen fields. Additionally, specialization makes graduates highly attractive to employers seeking experts with in-depth knowledge and skills tailored to their organizational needs. Some specializations that Engineering Management doctoral programs online offer include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Project Management | The specialization strongly emphasizes risk assessment and mitigation, ensuring participants identify and address potential challenges during project execution. Leadership and communication skills are honed, enabling individuals to effectively guide project teams, resolve conflicts, and motivate team members. | Occupations as a project manager, program manager, operations manager, and more. |
| Innovation Management | The specialization strongly emphasizes fostering collaboration through open innovation concepts, encouraging engagement with external partners and stakeholders to enrich the innovation landscape. Managing research and development initiatives becomes a core competency, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. | Risk manager, innovation manager, research and development manager, etc. |
| Supply Chain Management | Students in this specialization explore the nuances of supplier relationship management, emphasizing creating strong and collaborative partnerships with suppliers. Lean and agile supply chain management principles are integrated, enabling participants to implement efficiency measures and adapt to dynamic market demands. | Various roles in polymer industries for Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Manager, Procurement Specialist, Operations Analyst., and more. |
| Technology or Cybersecurity Management | The specialization strongly emphasizes leadership within technology organizations, emphasizing effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Cybersecurity management becomes a critical competency, with professionals trained to safeguard organizational assets against cyber threats and ensure the integrity of technology systems. | Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Technology Manager, IT Project Manager, and more. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs
The average time it would take for students to finish Ph.D. Engineering Management is between 4 to 5 years. It could also be completed within four years in an accelerated format, and others could take up to 6 years to complete if the degree is not undertaken full-time. Ph.D. candidates must do detailed coursework and research work regardless of the timeframe within which they complete the Ph.D. Here is a quick overview of the usual time required to complete Engineering Management Ph.D. programs in the U.S.:
- Minimum time required for full-time Ph.D. in Engineering Management: 4 years average
- Maximum time required for Ph.D. in Engineering Management: up to 6 years
- Typical time frame to complete a Ph.D. in Engineering Management: 4 to 6 years.
Accelerated Engineering Management Ph.D. Programs
Accelerated programs at the Ph.D. level will help students complete their degrees in less time than the usual 4 to 6 years. By completing an accelerated Engineering Management Ph.D. degree, they can complete their research and doctoral coursework in four years or less. However, finishing the dissertation and fieldwork could take up to an additional year after finishing the coursework, depending on the individual. Candidates begin their Ph.D. coursework while completing their master’s program. The Master’s thesis can also be upgraded and continued during the research work of the Ph.D. The number of credits completed during their coursework could also determine the length of the program. Some Ph.D. programs can be regarded as accelerated programs when the number of credits is divided between coursework and dissertation and is faster than the traditional curriculum. Some institutions that provide accelerated tracks to Engineering Management Ph.D. are:
Admission Requirements for Ph.D. in Engineering Management Programs
There are different requirements to get into the Engineering Management program. Students who have completed their master’s and bachelor’s degrees from ABET-accredited colleges are preferred for candidature to Ph.D. programs. However, some programs don’t make a master’s degree mandatory to apply to doctoral programs. Since this field is sought after, those with diverse profiles are encouraged to apply to the program. Some of the common requirements for admission requirements for Ph.D. in Engineering Management programs are listed below:
- Online application form and fee
- Academic transcripts from universities attended before
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (usually three are required)
- Scores of standardized tests like GRE scores
- TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume (highlighting relevant experience in data science)
- Writing sample (required for some programs)
Ph.D. in Engineering Management No GRE Programs
The Graduate Record Examination or GRE scores assess if a student can complete their coursework during the timeframe of graduation or Ph.D. independently. Different institutions across the United States do not ask for a GRE score as a minimum requirement at the time of admission. However, some colleges either waive the requirement of the GRE or make it an optional requirement where students can apply their discretion on whether to submit their scores. Some institutions that provide Ph.D. Engineering Management no gre program include:
How to Ensure a Ph.D. in Engineering Management is Accredited
While selecting online Engineering Management Ph.D. students can check if the Accreditation Board accredits these programs or ABET [6]. Some regional organizations providing accreditation for doctoral electrical engineering degrees include:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) [7]
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) [8]
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC) [9]
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) [10]
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) [11]
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) [12]
- Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) [13]
Where to Find Free Engineering Management Courses
Engineering Management courses offer a range of benefits that can significantly enhance engineers’ professional and personal development. These are designed to blend technical expertise with managerial skills. This dual focus helps engineers transition into leadership roles where they can effectively oversee projects, teams, and operations. Understanding a project’s technical and business aspects ensures better decision-making and strategic planning. There are some free Engineering Management courses that those pursuing doctoral degrees in Engineering Management could seek to gain a thorough understanding of the subject, including:
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Project Management [14] | Coursera | This course explores the intricacies of budget creation and control, and emphasizes the critical importance of monitoring costs throughout the project lifecycle. Participants will learn to develop comprehensive project plans, allocate resources efficiently, and identify and mitigate potential risks. |
| MITx: Management in Engineering: Strategy and Leadership [15] | edX | Acknowledging the pivotal role of managerial skills in technology-driven industries, particularly within an increasingly global and diverse business environment, this course offers a strategic overview of management issues specifically tailored for graduate engineers. It addresses topics relevant to various career paths, whether as an engineering practitioner, manager, or entrepreneur. |
| Management In Engineering [16] | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | A significant focus of this course is dedicated to technology strategy, providing participants with a strategic understanding of aligning technological initiatives with overall business goals. The curriculum also covers the intricacies of managing innovation, highlighting the importance of staying at the forefront of technological advancements. |
Ways to Pay for a Ph.D. in Engineering Management Program
For those pursuing an online Ph.D. in Engineering Management, securing financial aid and exploring funding options are vital steps to ensure educational access. Emphasizing affordability when selecting a degree highlights the importance of understanding various financial assistance avenues. By exploring different options and combining multiple funding sources, candidates can make their doctoral journey more accessible and financially viable, investing in their education and future career prospects.
Scholarships
Merit-based and need-based scholarships from universities, professional organizations, and engineering associations provide crucial financial support for doctoral candidates. Early application is essential to maximize these opportunities.
Employer Tuition Assistance
Employer-sponsored programs can offer financial support for further education. These programs provide full-time employees opportunities to advance their engineering management careers while receiving financial aid.
Grants
Federal, state, and private grants, such as the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), offer non-repayable aid based on financial need. Diligent research and timely applications are vital to securing this funding.
Personal Savings and Payment Plans
Utilizing personal savings and flexible payment plans helps offset tuition expenses. Spreading payments over time can ease financial burdens and make managing costs more feasible.
Student Loans
Federal loans with favorable terms can bridge financial gaps. However, careful consideration and understanding of loan terms are crucial to avoid excessive debt post-graduation. Some donors help candidates with their loans.
Work-Study Programs
Federal work-study opportunities allow candidates to earn income while studying, providing financial support that complements their academic pursuits.
Financial Aid
Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) opens doors to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs based on income and need. These options significantly reduce tuition costs and offer opportunities to earn while studying.
Doctoral candidates can also seek donors who are willing to help. By leveraging these diverse funding sources, doctoral candidates in Engineering Management can manage costs effectively and focus on their academic and career goals, ensuring a rewarding and successful educational journey.
Fully Funded Ph.D. in Engineering Management
Obtaining a fully funded Ph.D. in Engineering Management is a significant achievement and requires a combination of research skills, academic excellence, and securing financial support. However, a fully funded Engineering Management Ph.D. in the U.S. is rare. Candidates can find external scholarships that cover tuition, provide a stipend for living expenses, and which may include additional benefits such as health insurance.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating From a Ph.D. in Engineering Management Program
The online doctorate in Engineering Management is designed to educate students to become top-notch professionals in Engineering Management and related fields. Graduate-level expertise can help them gain expertise and knowledge in engineering and management disciplines. Taking up specializations will further demonstrate the skills gained during the program.
Graduates with a PhD in Engineering Management can explore a range of fulfilling roles, including:
- Technical Sales Manager
- Systems Engineer
- Supply Chain Manager
- Quality Assurance Manager
- Project Manager
- Product Development Manager
- Operations Manager
- Manufacturing Manager
- Facilities Manager
- Engineering Consultant
- Business Analyst
Some of the job roles that individuals can pursue after completing an online Ph.D. in Engineering Management include:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Managers [17] | Analytical, communication, math, organizational, and detail-oriented skills | $165,370 | 4% (as fast as average for other occupations) | Professionals direct, plan, and coordinate activities and determine training, equipment, and staff needs. They propose the budgets for programs and projects and may hire and supervise staff. |
| Project Management Specialists [18] | Communication, interpersonal, analytical, critical-thinking, organizational, and time-management skills | $95,580 | 6% (faster than the average for other occupations) | Project Management Specialists ensure proficiency extends to the meticulous production and distribution of project documents, and they play a pivotal role in the closure phase, reviewing financial statements, contracts, and other essential documents. Through their strategic approach, project management specialists contribute significantly to the successful initiation, execution, and completion of diverse projects. |
| Management Analysts [19] | Analytical, communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and time-management skills | $98,580 | 6% (faster than average for other occupations) | Management analysts develop practical solutions, recommend new systems or procedures, and facilitate organizational changes. With a capacity for specialization in areas like inventory control or industry-specific focus, management analysts play a pivotal role in shaping efficient and effective organizational structures. |
| Budget Analysts [20] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, math, and writing skills | $84,940 | 3% (faster than average for other occupations) | Budget analysts support top managers in analyzing proposed plans, providing alternatives when necessary, and employing cost-benefit analyses to assess financial requests and explore alternative funding methods. Vigilant in their oversight, they monitor organizational spending to guarantee adherence to budgetary constraints and inform program managers of the status and availability of funds. |
| Financial Managers [21] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, math, and organizational skills | $156,100 | 16% (much faster than average for other occupations) | Financial managers analyze market trends, strive to maximize profits, and identify expansion opportunities, offering strategic insights to senior management in the decision-making process. Their role extends beyond number-crunching, requiring a profound understanding of industry-specific topics, tax laws, and regulations pertinent to their organization or sector. |
Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in Engineering Management Graduates
Pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering Management is a significant achievement that equips individuals with advanced knowledge and skills in both engineering and management. However, to maximize career opportunities and professional growth, it is also essential for Ph.D. students to consider obtaining relevant certifications and licenses. These credentials can enhance their expertise, credibility, and marketability in a competitive job market. Some certifications that help a graduate with a Ph.D. Engineering Management include:
Safety and Engineering Management Education (SAChE) Certificate Program [22]
Engineering management professionals should be aware of the risks associated with technical and management concerns of process safety. Through the certification, they learn about anticipating what has gone wrong, the severity of consequences, and steps to prevent or mitigate such impacts.
Professional Engineering Licensure [23]
This certification will help establish your professional competence and knowledge of ethical rules and regulations that help protect the public’s safety, welfare, and health. It is critical to understand the laws governing this field as the culture of Engineering Management changes over time.
Reliability Engineer Certification [24]
This certification helps students understand the principles of performance evaluation and predict improved systems or products for reliability, maintainability, and safety. It includes knowledge about failure mode effects and analysis, operation, analysis and planning of reliability testing and field failures.
Sigma Green Belt [25]
This certification is popular amongst professionals versed in Lean Six Sigma’s methodology, leading or supporting improvement projects. It helps to understand different aspects of interpreting and performing Six Sigma tools that many companies globally recognize.
Principles and Practice of Engineering
There is also the option of licensing available for engineering management professionals. To become a licensed Professional Engineer or PE, individuals must demonstrate competence by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Those who want advanced credentials can also apply for the Principles and Practice of Engineering[26]. The requirements to become a PE can differ from state to state, and therefore, they must evaluate the criteria of their respective state thoroughly. Additionally, those who want to teach at a college level should find relevant licensure in their state.
Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Engineering Management Graduates
Pursuing a doctoral degree in Engineering Management offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond the core curriculum. Additional resources, such as access to cutting-edge research facilities, collaboration with leading experts, and participation in professional networks, significantly enhance the educational experience. These resources allow doctoral candidates to engage in groundbreaking research, gain practical insights, and develop a robust professional network. Candidates enrolled in the Engineering Management doctoral program can join and follow professional organizations in engineering to expand their knowledge and expertise in the field. Some of the organizations across the U.S candidates can join include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) [27] | The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) is a prominent organization dedicated to serving and advancing the interests of professional engineers in the United States. It plays a crucial role in advocating for the ethical and professional practice of engineering, promoting licensure, and providing valuable resources for the ongoing development of its members. |
| Society of Women Engineers [28] | The Society of Women Engineers is a global catalyst for advancing women in engineering and technology. The organization is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment and promotes diversity within its ranks and throughout the broader engineering community. |
| American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM) [29] | ASEM is a professional organization with a dedicated focus on advancing engineering management. Its members gain access to a diverse range of technical resources and avenues for professional growth. The society serves as a collaborative platform, fostering networking, knowledge exchange, and cooperation among professionals in the field of engineering management. |
| Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology [30] | ABET, one of the seven engineering societies established by the Engineers Council for Professional Development, comprises 35 professional and technical members across various disciplines. Their role involves overseeing the accreditation process for colleges and contributing to a high-quality learning experience for students. |
FAQs About Ph.D. in Engineering Management Programs
Can you do an Engineering Management Ph.D. program online?
Scholars pursuing a Ph.D. typically do so because they are motivated to contribute to that field’s academic and professional community. Pursuing a doctorate in Engineering Management can open the doors to many educational opportunities and give you similar benefits as your traditional curriculum. It also costs less than other conventional programs.
Do I need a master’s in Engineering Management before joining a Ph.D.? Program?
Is there any practical exposure given during Ph.D.?
Is a Ph.D. in Engineering Management hard?
What can I do after a doctorate in Engineering Management?
Is an online Engineering Management degree worth it?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Architectural and Engineering Managers
University of Massachusetts Amherst
The George Washington University
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Engineering Project Management-Coursera
MITx: Management in Engineering: Strategy and Leadership-edX
Management In Engineering-Massachusetts Institute of Technology
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Architectural and Engineering Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Project Management Specialists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Management Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Budget Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Financial Managers
Safety and Engineering Management Education (SAChE) Certificate
Professional Engineering Licensure
Reliability Engineer Certification
Principles and Practice of Engineering exam test
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)