Online Doctor of Philosophy in Systems Engineering

Program Description

The online Ph.D. in Systems Engineering develops a deep expertise in designing, analyzing, and managing complex systems for students seeking advanced academic study. This program is designed for individuals who aim to conduct groundbreaking research in the field. They contribute to developing innovative methodologies and solutions for systems engineering challenges. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating concepts from engineering, management, and computer science.

Doctoral candidates are expected to engage in substantial research projects. These projects culminate in a dissertation that adds original knowledge or understanding to the field of systems engineering. This research is typically characterized by a strong analytical and problem-solving focus, addressing issues in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, or environmental systems. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in academia or research institutions. They can also excel in high-level consultancy roles, applying their expertise to solve complex systems problems, influence policy, or educate the next generation of systems engineers.

Curriculum

The program consists of a minimum of 60 credit hours divided into two stages: the classroom phase (24 credit hours) and the research phase (36 credit hours). During the research phase, the student writes and defends research on a topic related to Systems Engineering. The topic is selected by the student and approved by the research advising committee.

Learn More About the Courses

SEAS 8215 Uncertainty Modeling: Fundamental probability concepts, including probability laws, conditional probability, and Bayes’ theorem. It explores probability distributions and joint distributions, with applications in real-world scenarios. Simulate distributions and apply probabilistic methods to queueing theory and reliability modeling. (4 credit hours) 

SEAS 8225 Computational Modeling: Techniques for modeling and simulating complex systems, covering data generation, Monte Carlo methods, system dynamics, agent-based and discrete event simulation. Optimization techniques, including linear and nonlinear optimization with sensitivity analysis, and apply forecasting methods for predictive modeling. (4 credit hours) 

SEAS 8305 Advances in Systems Engineering: Analysis of advanced systems engineering topics; system lifecycle models, INCOSE Vision 2025, requirements types and processes, architectural design processes and frameworks, DoDAF artifacts, enterprise architecture and enterprise systems engineering, complex adaptive systems (CAS), modeling languages and SysML, and Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). Applications of systems engineering tools and techniques. (4 credit hours) 

SEAS 8310 Systems Integration: Principles, methodologies, and technologies for integrating complex systems. Topics include interoperability, data integration, security, and validation. Students will apply best practices to design, test, and optimize integrated systems.​ (4 credit hours) 

SEAS 8315 Digital Engineering: Digital Engineering principles, including model-based systems engineering (MBSE), digital twins, and data-driven decision-making. Students explore tools, methodologies, and applications in engineering design, analysis, and lifecycle management​. (4 credit hours) 

SEAS 8399 Praxis Development for Systems Engineering Aims and purposes of the praxis. Development of praxis research strategies; Developing Chapters 1 & 2 of the praxis; Overview of research methods and required data; Restricted to students who have completed all required coursework for the Doctor of Engineering. (4 credit hours)

EMSE 8999 Dissertation Research: Independent research in systems engineering culminating in the writing of the dissertation and successful defense of the Dissertation. (36 credit hours)

Classroom Phase Schedule

Classroom courses last 14 weeks each and meet on Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM—12:00 PM and afternoons from 1:00—4:00 PM (all times Eastern). All classes meet live online through synchronous distance learning technologies (Zoom). All classes are recorded and available for viewing within two hours of the lecture. This program is taught in a cohort format in which students take all courses in lock step. Courses cannot be taken out of sequence, attendance at all class meetings is expected, and students must remain continuously enrolled. Leaves of absence are permitted only in the case of a medical or family emergency, or deployment to active military duty.

Please see below for the dates of our upcoming cohort.

Semester	#Courses	#Credit Hours	Tentative Dates
Fall 2025	2	8	September  13 — December 20, 2025
Spring 2026	2	8	January 17 — April 18, 2026
Summer 2026	2	8	May 16 - August 14, 2026

No classes on Thanksgiving weekend; Asynchronous class on July 4th.

Research Phase Schedule

Upon successful completion of the classroom phase, students are admitted to candidacy for the Ph.D. and will be registered for a minimum total of 36 credit hours (ch) of EMSE 8999 Dissertation Research: 9 ch in Fall 2026, 9 ch in Spring 2027, 3 ch Summer 2027, 6 ch Fall 2027, 6 ch Spring 2028, 6 ch Fall 2028, and 3 ch Summer 2028.  More than 36 credit hours of EMSE 8999 may be approved, depending on the candidate’s progress. Approved candidates will be registered for the standard number of ch per semester of extension.   

Tuition

Tuition is billed at $1700 per credit hour for the 2025-2026 year. A non-refundable tuition deposit of $995, which is applied to tuition in the first semester, is required when the student accepts admission.