PhD in Mechanical Engineering
This document sets out the requirements of the Mechanical Engineering Department for students undertaking the PhD Degree.
Information and enquiries
The University Calendar should be consulted for the complete University regulations.
Although admissions and enrolments are the responsibility of the Dean of Engineering, doctoral research and progress is managed by the Department's Director of PostGraduate Studies and the student’s supervisor. Enquiries should be addressed to Department Postgraduate Directors of Studies, Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Course structure
The PhD Doctoral degree is a research only degree. A candidate must spend at least 2 years on advanced study and research, directly supervised by a member of the academic staff. Most candidates find they need at least 3 years full time work to complete a Doctorate.
In special cases, approved by the Director of Postgraduate Studies and the Dean of Engineering, a high-achieving Masters of Engineering student may upgrade their degree to the PhD.
Students must enrol full-time for not less than 2 years and no more than 4 years.
Part-time students undertaking this degree must complete their studies in not less than 3 years and no more than 6 years.
Admission Requirements
Students with degrees from universities other than those within New Zealand must first obtain permission to enrol (Admission ad-eundem) before being allowed to enrol for a postgraduate degrees. This requires the submission of a completed application form and supporting papers to the University, details of which may be obtained from the Registry or this Department.
It is important to be aware that admission to this Department as a postgraduate student is dependent not only on the academic level of the candidate but also on the availability of a supervisor in the candidate’s area of interest. The areas of interest must be clearly specified by the candidate when applying for admission. A candidate is strongly advised to contact an appropriate supervisor and arrange a topic for research. The supervisor and topic should be named in the application letter.
Once accepted into the program, Doctoral students can begin their studies at any time during the year.
How to Apply
For further information and to apply please go to www.canterbury.ac.nz/postgrad/