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Systems Engineering, PhD

Systems Engineering, PhD

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Systems Engineering, PhD

Energy Management, Engineering, Humanitarian Applications, Process and Assembly Manufacturing, approved for STEM-OPT extension, complex systems

Program description
Degree awarded: PHD  Systems Engineering

The PhD in systems engineering is a transdisciplinary graduate program offered by the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks.

The program is aimed at advancing the understanding of complex engineering systems and where these systems are inclusive of technological aspects, as well as social, cultural, environmental and other interacting components that impact the input, output and interactions within a system. The program prepares students to identify, model, analyze, interpret, optimize and manage the multidimensional interactions of the ever-increasing complexity of modern technological and societal challenges.

A typical incoming student in this doctoral program would have a master's degree in engineering or related discipline. Applicants with strong research background may be admissible directly from a bachelor's degree in engineering or related discipline. The core curriculum provides the foundation for systems thinking, systems identification, systems modeling and systems design and analysis using diverse disciplinary methodological approaches. Students in this program use their capacity to evaluate complex systems and a depth of mathematical maturity to study problems for which complexity is impeding progress.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Degree requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam and a dissertation

Required Core (9 credit hours)
EGR 602 Principles of Independent Research (3)
EGR 608 Advanced Simulation (3)
EGR 611 Complex Engineering Systems (3)

Technical Electives (3 credit hours)

Electives and Research (60 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours)
EGR 799 Dissertation (12) or
MFG 799 Dissertation (12) or
RAS 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information
When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used toward this degree. If students do not have a previously awarded master's degree, the 30 credit hours of coursework are made up of electives to reach the required 84 credit hours.

Students are required to take 12 credit hours of EGR 792, MFG 792 or RAS 792 as part of their research coursework.

Elective coursework should be directly in support of the student's research as advised by the supervisory committee.

Students with a BS degree coming into the doctoral program in systems engineering must complete at least nine credit hours of approved mathematics courses after the completion of their bachelor's degree. Students select appropriate elective courses in consultation with the academic unit.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a minimum of a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering from a regionally accredited institution, or if they have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree from an international institution that is officially recognized by that institution's country in engineering, physical sciences, mathematics or a similar field.

Applicants without a master's degree in engineering or a closely related field must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, coupled with a record of research or leadership accomplishments (or both). Applicants with a master's degree in engineering or a closely related field must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the applicable master's degree program. Exceptional undergraduates are encouraged to apply after completion of a BS degree.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts from each college or university attended
  3. two letters of recommendation
  4. GRE scores
  5. statement of purpose
  6. resume or curriculum vitae
  7. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. Applicants should see the graduate admission services website.

Global Launch at ASU offers an online alternative to standardized testing for international students who are seeking admission to ASU and need proof of English proficiency.

A GRE waiver may be requested if the applicant received a bachelor's degree in a related field with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better from an institution in the U.S. Engineering program graduates must have a bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited program. Applicants should email msngrad@asu.edu to request a waiver. An approved waiver does not guarantee admission.

ASU does not accept the GRE® General Test at home edition.

Unofficial transcripts may be submitted at time of application. If admitted, applicants must then submit official transcripts to ASU graduate admission services.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 01/15Priority
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 08/15Priority
Career opportunities

Graduates of the doctoral program in systems engineering are prepared for industry careers in areas such as:

  • automotive systems
  • energy systems, including alternative energy and grids
  • manufacturing
  • robotics
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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