Doctoral Degree

The requirements for the Ph.D. and Eng.Sc.D. degrees are identical. Both require a dissertation based on the candidate’s original research, conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. The work may be theoretical or experimental or both.

Students who wish to become candidates for the doctoral degree in electrical engineering have the option of applying for admission to the Eng.Sc.D. program or the Ph.D. program. Students who elect the Eng.Sc.D. degree register in the School of Engineering and Applied Science; those who elect the Ph.D. degree register in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Doctoral candidates must obtain a minimum of 60 points of formal course credit beyond the bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree from an accredited institution may be accepted as equivalent to 30 points. A minimum of 30 points beyond the master’s degree must be earned while in residence in the doctoral program.

More detailed information regarding the requirements for the doctoral degree may be obtained in the department office and at www.ee.columbia.edu.