QS Rank:

243

Dartmouth College

New Hampshire
,United States

Program Rank

18

Program Name
PhD in Aerospace Engineering
Overview

The PhD in Aerospace Engineering program at Dartmouth College is meticulously designed to train innovative leaders in the aerospace industry. This rigorous program encompasses an extensive curriculum that not only covers fundamental theories but also emphasizes advanced research methodologies, critical for addressing contemporary challenges in the field. Enrolled students benefit from access to cutting-edge technologies and unique research opportunities that are pivotal in shaping the future of aerospace engineering. Over the course of approximately 60 months, students delve into specialized topics such as flight dynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and aerodynamics, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of aerospace engineering.
A major highlight of the program is its interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering, computer science, and materials engineering. The curriculum features specialized courses such as:
- Advanced Aerodynamics
- Propulsion Engineering
- Aircraft Design
- Spacecraft Dynamics
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
- Aerospace Systems Engineering
The faculty at Dartmouth's Thayer School of Engineering are renowned experts with extensive backgrounds in both academia and industry. Their dedication to teaching is complemented by their commitment to research, ensuring that students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical insights. The faculty's diverse expertise spans various areas of aerospace engineering, which allows them to guide students in pioneering research projects that can lead to significant advancements in the field. The teaching methodologies employed foster a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to engage actively with their professors and peers, promoting a rich academic discourse that enhances the learning experience.
Research opportunities abound within the PhD program, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories that facilitate groundbreaking studies in aerospace engineering. Students are encouraged to partake in collaborative research projects that often involve partnerships with industry leaders and governmental agencies, further solidifying their practical knowledge and experience. Research areas include, but are not limited to, aerodynamics, acoustic analysis, propulsion technologies, and materials innovation. Consequently, students not only contribute to the advancement of aerospace engineering but also build substantial portfolios that enhance their employability in a competitive job market.
Internship possibilities and industry connections are a significant advantage of studying at Dartmouth. The university has established partnerships with leading aerospace organizations, enabling students to gain practical experience through internships and cooperative work placements. These invaluable experiences not only enhance students' resumes but also provide networking opportunities that can lead to future employment. The program's robust career support services assist students in navigating their career pathways, ensuring they are well-prepared for various roles in sectors like research, design, and manufacturing.
Prospective graduates can look forward to diverse career pathways upon completion of their PhD in Aerospace Engineering. Many alumni have successfully pursued positions such as Research Scientists, Aerospace Engineers, and Design Engineers. With a job placement rate of 96% and a graduation rate of 95%, the program boasts strong outcomes, demonstrating its effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce. Notable alumni from the program have gone on to work with prestigious organizations such as NASA, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin, often taking on leadership roles that influence the future of aerospace technology.
Why Study PhD in Aerospace Engineering at Dartmouth College
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and advanced technologies that foster innovation in aerospace engineering.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates principles from different engineering fields to provide a holistic education.
- Expert faculty with extensive industry experience, ensuring students receive relevant and practical knowledge.
- Strong industry connections that facilitate internships and job placements, enhancing employability.
- Proven track record of successful alumni who have advanced to significant positions in top aerospace companies.
- Vibrant academic community that promotes collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking.
To apply for the PhD in Aerospace Engineering, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria and submit a comprehensive application. Important requirements include a Statement of Purpose, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores for IELTS or TOEFL, depending on the applicant's background. The average base salary for graduates stands at an impressive $104,000, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in this field.
Dartmouth College continues to provide an enriching environment for aspiring aerospace engineers, making it an excellent choice for those looking to advance their academic and professional careers in aerospace engineering.

Duration
60 Months

Median Salary
$68,200
Ranking
#12
US World and News Report
#123
The World University Rankings
#243
QS World University Rankings

Intake
Winter ( Jan - Mar )

Intake
Spring ( Apr - June )

Intake
Summer ( July - Sept )
Class Profile

Class Size
20

Average Age
31

Average Work Experience
2 Years
Students
December 15
priority deadline for Fall term admission; applications are accepted on a rolling basis after December 15
Diversity
Midwest:
20%South:
15%West:
10%International:
10%Others:
15%New England:
40%Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation
$68,200 / year

Graduation Rate
95%

Job Placement
96%
Prospective Job Roles
Research Scientist
Assistant Professor
Aviation Manager
Mechanical Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Design Engineer
Propulsion Engineer
Engineering Consultant
Aerodynamics Engineer
Academic Researcher
Materials Engineer
Flight Test Engineer
Automotive Engineer
Top recruiters
















Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
100
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 90
Transcript
Statement of Purpose
GRE
Passport
Resume
IELTS
Provisional Certificate
Degree Certificate
Semester wise Marksheet
General LOR
General LOR
General LOR
Application Deadlines
Space Available | |
---|---|
Spring | N/A |
Summer | N/A |
Winter | N/A |
Fees and Funding

Overall Cost
$20,136 / year
Scholarships
Scholarship, Fellowship & Grant Programs
These scholarship, fellowship and grant programs, established through the generosity of alumni, friends, foundations, and corporations, are awarded to engineering students with financial need who have demonstrated academic ability and show promise of contributing to the engineering profession.
FAQs
All incoming first-year students received an invitation to register via their Dartmouth email at the end of June. Deadline to register will be mid-July. We’ll have more news soon!
Supporting your transition to both academic and co-curricular life at Dartmouth is a priority for New Student Orientation. Faculty, staff, student mentors, and community members are working together to create an exciting and informative program to help support that transition. Our commitment to celebrating the many paths you have taken to get to Dartmouth can be seen throughout all of the programming. We are so excited to welcome you to our community! During New Student Orientation, you will have an opportunity to: Learn about the campus, our community, and each other with space for self-care, wellbeing, focus, and reflection. Begin to find and establish an identity within the Dartmouth community. Meet each other and have fun! Learn about the many resources available to you. Connect with faculty, upper-level students, and staff. Elect fall term courses, supported by programs and advising beforehand. Explore the variety of ways you can become involved on campus. Additionally – and with equal importance – we expect that you will learn about your rights and responsibilities as a member of the Dartmouth community. A simple introduction to those rights and responsibilities is this: you have the right to learn, grow, and experiment here. You also have the responsibility to engage in these pursuits in a way that does not come at the cost of others. By engaging with the New Student Orientation online Canvas site* over the summer and then the in-person New Student Orientation programs with your new classmates and Orientation Leaders, you will learn – together – what it means to be a member of our community and contribute to what is best about Dartmouth. And soon you, too, will be a very important part of “what is best about Dartmouth.” * All incoming students will be invited to the New Student Orientation Canvas site in early June! Canvas is Dartmouth's learning management system - you will use it often as a student.
• Founded in 1769 and member of the Ivy League. • Consistently ranked among the best universities in the world. • Four-year undergraduate private, liberal arts program with more than 40 academic departments. • Graduate schools of arts and sciences (Guarini), medicine (Geisel), engineering, and business (Tuck). • Total Enrollment: Approximately 2,000 graduate; 4,500 undergraduate
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