Although course work beyond the master's degree level is expected, the primary focus of the doctoral program is the dissertation which must represent a significant contribution to current knowledge. Both admission and degree requirements follow those established by the Graduate School. The Structural Engineering program for the PhD degree in Engineering seeks to combine the approaches of classical engineering mechanics with the increasingly sophisticated computational and analytical techniques required for modern structural engineering design. The faculty for the program come from the civil and environmental engineering, mathematical sciences, and mechanical engineering-engineering mechanics departments. Unfunded research is taking place in the reliability of bolted wood connections, dynamic behavior of flexible joints, and advanced analysis methods.
Financial aid is available in the form of research and teaching assistantships.
Applicants for this program are judged by their previous achievements in academic course work and research. They must hold a degree in either engineering, mathematics, or the natural or physical sciences. The academic record should indicate superior achievement in course work related to structural engineering, such as physics, mathematics, and mechanics. The program of course work and research will be developed by the student and his or her Advisory Committee on an individual basis. Although there are no specific course or credit requirements, the level of competence demanded is such that the superior student will usually require at least three calendar years of full-time study and research beyond the bachelor's degree to complete the doctoral program.