University of Pretoria - Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
PhD Mechanical Engineering
Pretoria, South Africa
PhD
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About : The PhD in Mechanical Engineering offers a rigorous exploration of advanced engineering principles and applied research. Students will engage in cutting-edge projects, working closely with faculty to drive innovation in diverse areas like robotics, materials science, and thermodynamics. The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to tackle complex engineering challenges.
Career Outcomes : Graduates may pursue various career paths such as academic positions, research and development roles, or consultancy in engineering firms. Opportunities also exist in sectors like aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing, where they can contribute to advancements in technology and sustainability.
- Research Topics and Supervisors for PhDs
- Centre for Asset Integrity Management
- Topics centred on design for reliability, data acquisitioning, condition monitoring, diagnostics and prognostics, life cycle management etc.
- Vehicle Dynamics Group
- Topics centred on vehicle ride stability, ride characterisation, tyre characterisation, vehicle suspension, overall vehicle dynamics, etc.
- Clean Energy Research Group
- Topics centred on clean energy systems (e.g., solar collection, solar storage, nuclear, thermal energy storage) and wastewater processing, all analysed through the sciences of heat transfer, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics.
- Aerospace Group
- Topics centre on airframe propulsion, aerodynamics of natural systems, etc.
- Ultrasonics Research Laboratory (URL.UP)
- Topics focus on the application of ultrasonic waves in various use cases.
- Solar Thermal Energy & Power Systems (STEPS)
- Topics focus on solar thermal energy power generation
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Year 1
Core modules
- Thesis: Mechanical Engineering 990
Final year
Core modules
- Thesis: Mechanical Engineering 990
Credits:360


