The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida offers a welcoming, research-focused environment for Ph.D. students ready to take the next step in their academic journey.
Here’s how to apply:
Choose your program. Explore UF’s Ph.D. offerings to find the right fit for your research interests.
Submit your online application. Complete the UF Office of Admissions application and pay the $30 fee (fee waivers may be available by department).
Priority deadline: Dec. 5, 2026 for fall admission
Supporting materials due: Jan. 5 (unofficial transcripts accepted until then)
Gather your materials. You’ll need:
Transcripts and degree(s) earned before enrollment
Statement of Purpose
Three Letters of Recommendation
Resume or CV
Proof of English proficiency (for international applicants, TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5, UF code 5812)
U.S. applicants can request a fee waiver through UF’s online form, while international applicants should contact their department directly.
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Programs and Specializations for a Ph.D. in Engineering
Explore the Ph.D. programs offered through the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, each featuring its own specialized focus areas that allow you to tailor your research, deepen your expertise, and make an impact across emerging fields of engineering.
UF is a proud member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) — an elite group representing less than 2% of universities nationwide, recognized for driving economic growth, national security, and global well-being since 1900.
World-Class Faculty With Real-World Expertise
Our faculty aren’t just professors. They’re industry leaders who actively advise government agencies like the Department of Defense and Veteran Affairs, as well as top private sector companies. As a Gator engineer, you’ll learn directly from these experts and collaborate in a culture built on mentorship and real-world innovation.
High-Impact Education Focused on Your Success
You will join a tight-knit, talented cohort of engineers. This fosters meaningful connections, rich collaboration, and a learning environment that challenges and supports you every step of the way.
Cutting-Edge Resources & Lifelong Growth
At UF Engineering, you’ll have access to HiPerGator, one of the fastest university supercomputers in the world, plus the latest AI tools and hands-on research opportunities tailored to your interests. Beyond graduation, the Engineering for Life pathway keeps you connected to continued learning, career development, and a global network of innovators — so you stay ahead in an ever-changing world.
Career Outcomes & Opportunities for Ph.D. Engineering Graduates
Academic and Research
Join UF’s community of over 300 expert faculty and contribute to groundbreaking studies, interdisciplinary teaching, and high-impact research supported by more than $1.26 billion in annual research funding.
Industry and Innovation
Collaborate with global partners through UF’s innovative research centers and apply your expertise to developing new technologies in fields such as AI, sustainability, and materials science.
Government and National Labs
Lead large-scale research initiatives and technological solutions that address society’s most important challenges, supported by UF’s strong reputation as a top-tier public research institution and “New Ivy” (Forbes, 2024).
Are YOU the Ideal Candidate for UF’s Engineering Ph.D.?
The ideal candidate for the University of Florida’s Engineering Ph.D. program is a highly motivated scholar with a strong foundation in engineering or a closely related field who demonstrates both academic excellence and research potential.
We seek applicants who are:
Research-Driven Innovators: Motivated scholars with strong academic backgrounds in engineering or related fields who are passionate about advancing knowledge through interdisciplinary research.
Collaborative Leaders: Individuals eager to work alongside world-class faculty and industry partners to develop innovative, real-world solutions.
Global Thinkers: Students prepared to contribute to a top-tier research community and make a lasting impact in academia, industry, or government.
It all comes down to this: If you’re passionate about discovery, driven by purpose and ready to engineer change, you BELONG here!
Meet the Leaders
Meet the innovators, mentors, and researchers who are shaping the future of engineering! They are ready to offer YOU the unparalleled opportunities only a UF Engineering Ph.D. can provide.
Greg Kiker
Department Chair & Professor Department of Agriculture & Biological Engineering
Cherie Stabler
Department Chair & Professor, J. Crayton Pruitt Family & UF Foundation Preeminence Professor J. Clayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering
Richard Dickinson
Interim Department Chair & Professor Department of Chemical Engineering
Kevin Butler
Department Chair & Professor Department of Computer & Information Science & Engineering
José Fortes
Acting Department Chair, Professor and AT&T Eminent Scholar Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
Kurtis Gurley
Interim Director & Professor Engineering School or Sustainable Infrastructure & Environment
Idalis Villanueva Alarcón
Department Chair & Professor Department of Engineering Education
Iris Rivero
Department Chair and Professor, Paul and Heidi Brown Preeminent Chair Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering
Michael Tonks
Department Chair & Professor Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Douglas Spearot
Interim Department Chair and Newton C. Ebaugh Professor Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Apply Today
Ready to take the next step in your engineering journey?
Contact us today to apply and learn more about our Ph.D. programs, research opportunities, and how you can shape the future of engineering.
