Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Engineering at the University of Auckland is a prestigious research degree designed for individuals seeking to advance knowledge and expertise in various engineering disciplines. This program provides an opportunity for students to engage in innovative research that addresses complex technical challenges facing society today. Throughout their candidature, PhD candidates work closely with leading academics and industry experts to develop original contributions to their field. The curriculum emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and scholarly communication, culminating in the submission of a substantial thesis that demonstrates significant findings and advances in engineering knowledge. Students can choose to specialize in areas such as civil, mechanical, electrical, electronic, computer, or environmental engineering, among others. The program typically requires the completion of comprehensive coursework, research training, and the development of a research proposal, followed by an extensive period dedicated solely to research activities. The University of Auckland provides state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and multidisciplinary collaboration opportunities to support doctoral students in their investigations. Candidates benefit from mentorship from experienced supervisors and have access to a vibrant academic community committed to pushing the boundaries of engineering science and technology. The PhD program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, industry, government, or research institutions, equipping them with advanced problem-solving skills, innovative thinking, and the ability to lead cutting-edge projects. Admission requirements generally include a relevant master’s degree or equivalent, a strong academic record, and a research proposal outlining the intended study focus. Graduates of the program will be recognized as experts capable of contributing to technological advancements, sustainable development, and the effective management of engineering projects worldwide. The University of Auckland’s commitment to excellence ensures that doctoral candidates receive comprehensive support throughout their transformative research journey, enabling them to become influential leaders in the engineering field.

Subject areas

• Bioengineering
• Chemical and Materials Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Systems Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Engineering Science
• Mechanical Engineering 
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Operations Research

Entry requirements

The PhD can be taken either after bachelor or a masters degree awarded with First Class Honours or Second Class (Division 1) at the University of Auckland or an equivalent qualification.

Students should refer to the PhD statute before applying.

English language requirements for 2017

• IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5 and all bands 6.0 or better
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): Overall score of 90 plus a written score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL: Overall score of 575 plus Essay (TWE) of 4.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Overall score of 176 and all bands 169 or better
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 58 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50. 
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): 85

There are several types of postgraduate scholarships: 

• University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarships
• Van-Thanh Nguyen Postgraduate Engineering Scholarship
• University of Auckland Marsden Grant PhD Scholarship in Imaging Coronary Anatomy
• University of Auckland Marsden Grant PhD Scholarship in Computational Modelling of Coronary Blood Flow

The Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering at the University of Auckland is a research-focused doctoral degree designed to advance knowledge in various engineering disciplines. This prestigious program provides students with the opportunity to engage in independent research under the supervision of experienced faculty members. Candidates are expected to make original contributions to their chosen field, often resulting in publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences. The program typically requires the completion of coursework in research methods, ethics, and specialized technical subjects relevant to the student's area of study, although the primary emphasis is on original research leading to a thesis.

Applicants to the PhD program in Engineering should possess a relevant master’s degree or an equivalent qualification with a strong academic record. Admission often involves an assessment of the proposed research project, which must align with the university’s research priorities and the expertise available within the faculty. The duration of the program usually spans three to four years if pursued full-time, though flexible options may be available for part-time candidates.

The university offers several engineering specializations within the PhD program, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, chemical and materials engineering, and environmental engineering. Students are integrated into a vibrant research community, benefiting from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research funding, and collaborative opportunities with industry partners.

Throughout the program, students are mentored by academic supervisors who provide guidance on research design, methodology, data analysis, and academic writing. The program culminates in the submission and successful defense of the doctoral thesis, which must demonstrate significant scholarly contribution and meet the university's standards for originality and academic rigor. Graduates of the PhD in Engineering from the University of Auckland are well-equipped for careers in academia, industry, research institutions, and consultancy, contributing innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.