Bolstered by its proximity to the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), the nation’s leading site for underground nuclear and particle physics, the Ph.D. program at South Dakota Mines provides unique opportunities for research into the underlying principles of the natural world. Our internationally recognized faculty lead students in searches for the dark matter of the universe, studies of the nature of the neutrino and the origin of the chemical elements, as well as research into condensed matter, e.g. phase transitions in ferroelectric and magnetic materials or quantum materials. Graduate students can also investigate topics in atmospheric physics. For more on the departmental research click here.

Students must elect to pursue a specialization in Geology, Geological Engineering, or Mining Engineering. Those interested in paleontology at the PhD level enroll in the Geology Specialization. Each specialization has different background and program requirements. The available coursework and current faculty expertise support the following areas of concentration.

The doctor of philosophy program in materials engineering and science (MES) offers a student the opportunity to expand his/her knowledge and understanding of the science and technology of materials production, behavior, and applications. The student will undertake multidisciplinary approaches, combining the basic elements of both engineering and science, to the solution of materials-related problems. Because such problems are found in every science and engineering discipline, the degree applicant has considerable flexibility in the selection of the department in which to pursue dissertation research, within the confines of the applicant‘s academic preparation and interests. Candidates will study either a science or engineering emphasis within the MES Ph.D. program. For example, research emphasis may be placed on improving processes for the production of metallic, polymeric, ceramic, or other structural or electronic materials. Alternatively, the degree candidate may investigate mechanisms for improving material properties, which in turn, could lead to new or better applications. Classroom and individualized instruction will provide the necessary theory to complement such creative activities.

Our department's research environment is vibrant and growing, and holds more promise with the recently-formed PhD program in chemical and biological engineering. This program is different from the majority of chemical and biological/biomolecular engineering (i.e., CBE) departments across the country. Generally, CBE departments require PhD students to take the core chemical engineering graduate courses for their degree, and provide elective courses in biology, microbiology, biotechnology, etc., to supplement the training of students focusing on biological-related dissertations. In our program, students are required to take both chemical engineering and biology/biological engineering graduate courses to fulfill their degree requirement. At a minimum, students will take two courses from the following biological engineering topics: biochemical engineering, industrial microbiology and biotechnology, metabolic engineering, biocatalysis, bioseparations, and molecular biology. This structure ensures that graduates have the foundation and skill set to be proficient as both a chemical and biological engineers.

Admission to the nano-SE PhD program requires a bachelor's or master's degree in an engineering or science discipline based on physical science. The Introduction to Nanoscience course is offered for students from a range of backgrounds as an introduction to nanotechnology. Check with your department to determine whether credit for this course may be applied towards your degree.

The Ph.D. in Data Science and Engineering is a joint collaborative program betweenElectrical Engineering and Computer Science,Industrial Engineering, andMathematicsdepartments. Data science is a rapidly growing interdisciplinary field that involves researchers from many STEM disciplines with applications found throughout science and engineering. The advancement in business analytics can be attributed to data science and has proven to unlock actionable intelligence and insights.

The Civil and Environmental Engineering PhD (CENE PhD) degree program provides opportunities for students to gain expertise in a broad range of research areas that support state initiatives, closely tie to campus research thrusts, and align with federal funding sources such as NSF, DoE, DoD, USDA and NASA. Doctoral students work with faculty advisors mentors to develop personalized programs of study and make significant contributions to the Civil and Environmental Engineering body of knowledge through their research. The requirements for the PhD CENE degree are found in our course catalog. For additional information about the CENE PhD degree program please refer to the CEE PhD Handbook.

The PhD program in electrical engineering prepares students for a career in academia or research-focused careers in electrical engineering that support research commercialization prospects, drive innovation, and increase entrepreneurial opportunities.

The Mechanical Engineering (ME) PhD program at South Dakota School ofMines and Technology allows students to reach the highest level of academicachievement. In addition to teaching in academia, program graduates canpursue careers at research centers in national laboratories and research &development (R&D) centers in automotive, aerospace, oil, and gas. Studentswill have a chance to work with faculty involved in research at the forefront oftheir fields and to publish in acclaimed journals.

Today, security environments evolve quickly and demand strategic thinkers equipped with the confidence and problem-solving skills to lead their organizations safely and securely into the future.