Doctor of Engineering
Purdue University's online Doctor of Engineering (DEng) program prepares experienced engineers to tackle real-world challenges and lead in their fields through a flexible, interdisciplinary approach. Students can customize their studies by selecting from various specialties and advance their technical and management expertise while accelerating their careers.
Doctor of Engineering
Purdue University’s online Doctor of Engineering (DEng) program prepares experienced engineers to tackle real-world challenges and lead in their fields through a flexible, interdisciplinary approach. Students can customize their studies by selecting from various specialties and advance their technical and management expertise while accelerating their careers.
Doctor of Engineering Overview
Purdue University’s online Doctor of Engineering (DEng) program is designed for experienced engineers seeking to advance their careers through the practical application of engineering principles. Unlike a traditional PhD, which focuses on academic research, the DEng emphasizes real-world problem-solving and implementation. This professional doctoral degree prepares engineers to tackle complex industry challenges by enhancing their technical expertise and leadership capabilities. Graduates are equipped with advanced knowledge to drive innovation and efficiency in engineering practice. The program offers a flexible online format, allowing professionals to earn their degree while maintaining their careers.
By completing coursework tailored to industry needs, students gain both technical proficiency and essential management skills, preparing them for leadership roles in engineering organizations. Whether aiming to lead large-scale engineering projects, optimize processes or influence strategic decision-making, graduates of Purdue’s DEng program are positioned to make a significant impact in their fields.
Thomas McNamara, a Purdue University alumnus with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biomedical engineering, has joined the inaugural online cohort of Purdue’s Doctor of Engineering program while working full-time as a biomedical engineer at the FDA.
His journey from completing his bachelor’s to pursuing a doctorate has been marked by a strong commitment to integrating engineering principles with regulatory science. His experience has enhanced his research skills and competitiveness for high-level roles.
For many professionals, earning a master’s degree can provide a big return-on-investment. In addition to financial benefits like salary increases and promotions, master’s degrees also help professionals learn in-demand skills, which can improve their job prospects, help them pivot to a new industry, or help them stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Many employers value the advanced skills that master’s programs teach, and research shows that job candidates with master’s degrees have average salary increases from 25% to more than 75% in select fields. Ask your enrollment counselor for details on Purdue’s online master’s programs or learn more about the benefits of earning a master’s here.
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More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
The 90-credit-hour program—reduced to 60 credit hours for those with a relevant master’s degree—includes coursework in research methodology, advanced mathematics and statistics, and a wide selection of engineering and related courses.
A culminating research project enables students to apply their learning to their professional area of focus, deepening their expertise in a specific technical domain. This tailored approach equips graduates with the knowledge and experience to make a significant impact in their fields.
Further details can be found here:
- Core Curriculum and Foundational Courses (12 credit hours): Includes research methodology, professional development, advanced mathematics and statistics.
- Technical Depth Courses (27 credit hours): Offers a wide selection of engineering courses to deepen technical expertise.
- Professional and Applied Courses (12 credit hours): Focuses on areas like technical writing, project management and leadership development.
- Research Project (30 credit hours): A culminating applied research project conducted in collaboration with an industry partner and faculty advisor.
Criteria of Admissions
- Applicants should possess both a masters and bachelors degree; one of which must be in an engineering discipline.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- At least five years of professional engineering experience.
Application Requirements
- Transcripts from all universities attended
- 3 recommenders with at least one recommender familiar with candidate’s academic performance.
- Academic Statement of Purpose
- Personal History Statement
- A professional resume
- Proof of English Proficiency, if applicable.
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
Engineering is a broad and dynamic field that prepares professionals for impactful careers such as Industrial Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Civil Engineers, and Computer Hardware Engineers. These roles span industries from manufacturing and infrastructure to technology and energy, driving innovation, improving systems, and building the foundation of modern society.
Top Industries
Graduates in engineering are highly sought after across leading sectors such as Aircraft Manufacturing, Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical Systems, Semiconductor, Research and Development, and Education. These top industries rely on engineering expertise to innovate advanced technologies, strengthen infrastructure, drive scientific discovery, and prepare the next generation of technical professionals.
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