Browse Doctoral Programs

Program Finder

About the PhD Program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is designed for outstanding scholars who wish to prepare for a career in research, applied engineering, or academia. Learn more about the PhD degree program in the Columbia Bulletin.

About the EngScD program

The Doctor of Science in Engineering (EngScD or DES) program is designed for motivated professionals who want to hone the skills necessary for a career in academic research. This program is particularly appropriate for working professionals who can earn a degree part-time. Learn more about the EngScD degree program in the Columbia Bulletin.

About the MS/PhD Track

If you have not already earned an MS degree and are looking to pursue a doctoral degree, you can apply for admission to the MS/PhD track program.

View Application Requirements

 Finding Departmental Information

Columbia Engineering fosters a unique atmosphere of cross-departmental research and collaboration. You’ll be able to focus your doctoral studies to match your interests and career goals while gaining a broader perspective informed by exposure to other relevant disciplines. Individualized mentoring will build your competence as a researcher and engineering professional and give you confidence for the next stage in your career. 

Our academic departments can provide the most up-to-date information about current doctoral programs. Please visit one of the department websites below to find contact information and specifics on applying for a doctoral program.

• Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics
• Computer Science
• Earth and Environmental Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
• Mechanical Engineering

We also offer two joint programs at the doctoral level in partnership with Columbia's College of Dental Medicine and the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.

• DDS/PhD in Dental Science and Biomedical Engineering
• MD/Ph.D. in Medicine and Biomedical Engineering

Doctoral Funding

There are a wide range of national and international fellowship opportunities for which you can apply to cover the costs of your studies. Departments within Columbia Engineering also offer funding in the form of fellowships, assistantships, and grants.  

Learn More

How Does the Program Work?

As a highly motivated and qualified Columbia Engineering undergraduate student, you’ll apply during your junior year. Then, in your senior year, you’ll carefully coordinate your course selections to satisfy prerequisites and even begin your MS coursework, with up to six credits counting toward both your BS and MS degrees. 

A primary benefit of the program is simplicity and efficiency. You need only complete a brief application and you can continue your studies without disruption in a place and community that are familiar — and that offer one of the world’s best graduate engineering educations.

The application deadline for all programs is April 30. 

Available Programs

• Integrated BS/MS in Biomedical Engineering
• Integrated BS/MS in Electrical Engineering
• Integrated BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering

Applying Is Easy

Juniors who have a 3.4 GPA may apply using a simple online application. No GRE or TOEFL is required, nor is there an application fee.

Apply Now

Explore Accelerated Pathways

Columbia Engineering offers two accelerated pathways to graduate study. 

• MS Express offers broader flexibility across disciplines and graduate program options, including recent alumni.
• Integrated BS/MS is designed for current students in certain majors pursuing both degrees in the same field.

Both pathways provide an efficient route to advanced study.

Compare the Two Pathways