Ph.D. Program
Industrial engineers design, develop and improve integrated systems that include people, materials, information, equipment and energy. In addition to these issues, graduates learn to address communications throughout the organization while completing their specialized education. Work at the doctoral level includes independent research, dissemination of findings and preparation for research and teaching careers.
The Industrial Engineering Department at Clemson University offers a traditional Ph.D. designed for students pursuing careers in research, teaching, and advanced technical work. Graduates of the program enter careers in academia, industry, and government.
Our students pursue their research agendas with the support of expert faculty and advanced research lab facilities. The Industrial Engineering Department at Clemson University is very active in research, producing an average of over 7 Ph.D. IE graduates annually.
Research Focus Areas
- Energy Systems Design and Security
- Healthcare Systems Engineering
- Production, Manufacturing Systems, and Quality
- Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics
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Degree Requirements
Requirements
Students complete a core of required coursework in either Human Factors or Operations Research, along with electives designed to prepare students for their own research and professional goals. In addition to coursework, students participate in departmental seminars and devote significant time to independent research in preparation for their dissertation.
Ph.D. students without an M.S. Degree
- 18 credits minimum dissertation research (IE 9910)
- 12 credits minimum of coursework
- 30 credits remaining divided between coursework and dissertation hours based on the recommendation of the advisory committee
60 credits minimum beyond the bachelor's degree
Ph.D. students with an M.S. Degree
- 18 credits minimum dissertation research (IE 9910)
- 12 credits minimum of coursework
30 credits minimum beyond the master's degree
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Applying to the Ph.D. Program
Required Documents
- Online Application
- Unofficial Transcripts - Official Transcripts are required upon acceptance. Do not send official transcripts until you have received your letter of acceptance.
- Letters of Recommendation
The GRE is not required for Ph.D. applications, but you may include scores if you believe it will strengthen your application.
Admissions FAQHow to Apply
Students interested in applying to the IE doctoral program must be accepted to the Clemson University Graduate School. Application information and forms can be found on the Graduate School website. International students are welcome to apply and must meet Graduate School requirements for TOEFL and GRE scores.
Additional information concerning deadlines and program contacts can be found in the Industrial Engineering Graduate Handbook.
Apply | Graduate School