Doctorate vs Ph.D.

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Gain Valuable Research and Leadership Skills

Purdue University’s online Doctor of Engineering (DEng) degree bridges the gap between academic research and industry practice. Unlike a traditional Ph.D., which generally focuses on theoretical research, the DEng program emphasizes applied research, hands-on projects, and collaboration with industry partners. The interdisciplinary program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals.

The 90-credit-hour program—60-credit-hours for those with a relevant a master’s degree—features research methodology coursework, advanced mathematics and statistics, a choice of hundreds of engineering and other courses, and a culminating research project. The program enables learners to tailor the degree and research project to their professional area of focus. In the process, students can gain significant knowledge, experience, and capability in a particular technology or technical domain directly related to their career goals. The full curriculum can be found here.

Engineering Doctorate Holders Are Highly Valued

Earning Purdue’s DEng will open doors to higher salaries, leadership positions, and consulting opportunities. Professionals with a doctoral-level degree in engineering earned approximately $25,000 more per year in 2023 compared with individuals who have attained a master’s degree.

Learning Outcomes

The doctorate features research methodology and professional development coursework, advanced mathematics and statistics, a wide variety of engineering courses, and a culminating applied research project. Upon completion of the DEng, students will be able to:

  • Envision, plan, and conduct applied research and development activities.
  • Identify, comprehend, analyze, evaluate, and synthesize research and professional practice in one or more engineering disciplines.
  • Employ quantitative, qualitative, analytic, and statistical techniques in solving engineering problems.
  • Communicate effectively and employ constructive professional and interpersonal skills.
  • Apply advanced leadership practices to organizational challenges. Identify and execute ethical and responsible research and professional practices.

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Why Choose Purdue’s D. Eng. Program?

  • Ranked among the top: Purdue's graduate engineering programs are consistently ranked in the top 3 nationally by U.S. News & Report, which also ranks Purdue as a top 10 most innovative school.
  • Industry Relevance: Our curriculum is designed in consultation with industry experts, ensuring that you acquire skills directly applicable to today’s engineering challenges.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Explore diverse fields within engineering. Our program encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration.
  • Faculty Expertise: Learn from world-class faculty who are not only accomplished researchers but also industry practitioners who bring real-world insights to the classroom.
  • Research Opportunities: Engage in innovative research projects, collaborate with industry partners, and contribute to technological advancements.
  • Professional Development: Enhance your leadership, communication, and project management skills. Our program prepares you for leadership roles in academia, industry, or government.

 

Admissions Requirements

Below includes a few admissions requirements, please find all requirements here.

Criteria for Admissions

  • Minimum GPA of a 3.0 in graduate and/or undergraduate degree program(s)
  • Math Background: One semester each of Calculus I, Calculus II and either Linear Algebra or Differential Equations
  • Engineering Background: undergraduate degree and master’s degree in Engineering, Science, Mathematics or Technology. At least one degree conferred must in engineering.
  • Minimum five years’ professional experience in a relevant engineering field.

Full admissions criteria here

Application Requirements

Below includes a few admissions requirements, please find all requirements and how to apply here.

Application Deadlines

  • For Fall Start: July 1
  • For Spring Start: November 1
  • For Summer Start: April 1

Tuition*

  • Resident of Indiana: $1,139 per credit
  • Nonresident of Indiana: $1,459 per credit
  • Domestic students and permanent residents may qualify for the following types of financial aid: US federal financial aid, Military, veterans, and military-connected students

*The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.

Student Stories

Thomas McNamara, a Purdue alumnus with a bachelor's in biomedical engineering and a master's in interdisciplinary engineering, has embarked on his third degree—a Doctor of Engineering—through Purdue's inaugural online cohort. Balancing full-time work as a biomedical engineer at the FDA, McNamara exemplifies the program's flexibility and commitment to advancing engineering education. His journey underscores the seamless integration of Purdue's rigorous curriculum with professional aspirations, highlighting the university's role in fostering continuous learning and career development.

Read more about MnNamara

Frequently Asked Questions

You would earn a Doctor of Engineering (DEng).

Enrolled students will work with their academic advisor to complete a transfer request form, proposing how transfer credits will be utilized towards the DEng plan of study. Doctoral programs allow up to 30 transfer credits to be applied. For students who hold an existing master's degree in engineering or a related STEM field, 30 credits will be accepted in most cases.

You need to register for at least one credit to be considered an active student. If you do not enroll for more than two consecutive semesters, you will lose your student status and must reapply.

No, all courses are not available every term. You can see our course availability on the Courses List page.

The program requires 90 credits (60 credits if you hold a master’s degree and a full 30 credits are approved for transfer). You may complete the program as a full-time or part-time student. A full-time student takes at least 8 credit hours every term and may be able to complete this program within 3-4 years (90 credit program) or 2-3 years (60 credit program). A part-time student takes less than 8 credit hours every term (on average 3-6). As a part-time student, you may complete the program within 5-10 years—the upper range likely for 90-credit-hour program students and the lower range likely for 60-credit-hour program students.

You may take a maximum of two consecutive semesters off. If you take more than two semesters, you will need to reapply to the program.

The courses will be offered asynchronously. We upload recordings of live lectures for you to view on your time. You will follow along weekly to complete your assignments, projects, and/or exams. Exams may require a proctor (virtual or in-person depending on the instructor’s preference).

Scholarships and funding are not available through Purdue. U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents are eligible for federal financial aid. The Purdue Division of Financial Aid can answer your questions. Veterans can visit the Dorothy Stratton Veteran and Military Success Center to learn more about wrap-around support services for Purdue students who are veterans, members of the military, or benefit-using family members.

Please visit the admission criteria page for information.

Yes, students will have access through the Purdue Center for Career Opportunities.

Students enrolled in the online Doctor of Engineering program, which is supported by Purdue University Online, receive robust support from a dedicated team of student engagement professionals. All students have an assigned academic advisor, who is available for one-on-one support and to helps students with academic-related questions or issues. Academic advisors also offer workshops on topics relevant to academic planning and preparation, including plan of study workshops and specialty information sessions for students enrolled in specific programs.

Additionally, students have an assigned student success coach, whose role is to support students who may be struggling in the online learning environment. Students can access their assigned success coach from the point where they accept their enrollment offer through graduation. Success coaches also work to build community among online students, offering networking events, resources, and opportunities for professional development.