doctor of engineering vs phd in engineering

PhD vs. DEng (Doctor of Engineering): What’s the Difference?

Choosing between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Engineering and a Doctor of Engineering (DEng) is a crucial decision for many aspiring engineers, affecting their career trajectory and professional development. Both degrees offer distinct paths with their own set of benefits and challenges. 

While a PhD is traditionally research-oriented, focusing on advancing knowledge and technology through rigorous study and experimentation, the Doctor of Engineering is designed to propel professionals into high-level problem-solving and management roles within the industry. 

Understanding the key characteristics of each doctorate degree will help prospective students make an informed decision tailored to their career aspirations.

Table of Contents

PhD in Engineering vs. Doctor of Engineering: Definitions

Each of these programs offers a unique approach to engineering education, catering to different types of students and career goals. 

What Is a PhD in Engineering?

A PhD in Engineering is considered the pinnacle of academic achievement in the engineering field. The degree has the following characteristics:

• Research-focused : The degree is aimed at generating new knowledge and technologies through extensive research.
• Academically oriented : Candidates are expected to contribute original findings to the broader engineering community through peer-reviewed publications.
• Long-term commitment : It typically requires four to six years of study, involving coursework and a significant original research project culminating in a dissertation.

What Is a Doctor of Engineering?

The Doctor of Engineering, on the other hand, is tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their technical expertise and lead engineering projects in the industry. The degree has the following characteristics:

• Application-driven : It focuses on applying research to practical problems in engineering.
• Professionally oriented : The degree is geared towards those who wish to excel in high-level industry positions rather than academic roles.
• Integration with industry : It often requires candidates to engage directly with engineering companies or projects, applying advanced concepts to real-world challenges.

Comparing PhD in Engineering and Doctor of Engineering

There are a number of similarities and differences between the two doctorate degrees .

Key Similarities

Although the PhD in Engineering and the DEng degrees cater to different career paths, they share several foundational elements:

• Advanced engineering knowledge : Both degrees require a deep understanding of advanced engineering principles.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving : Students must exhibit exceptional analytical skills to tackle complex engineering challenges.
• Commitment to ethics : Each program instills a strong commitment to ethical practices in both academic and professional settings.

Key Differences

The core distinctions between a PhD in Engineering and a DEng highlight their unique orientations and objectives:

• The PhD in Engineering emphasizes theoretical research and academic contributions.
• The DEng focuses on practical application and industry impact.
• PhD students complete a dissertation based on original research.
• DEng students typically undertake a project that solves a practical industry problem.
• PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia or research institutions.
• DEng holders typically seek leadership roles in engineering firms or technical consultancy positions.

PhD in Engineering vs. Doctor of Engineering: Education Structure and Curriculum

By exploring the structures and curriculums of the degrees, prospective students can gain a clearer understanding of what each degree entails and which might best suit their career goals.

PhD in Engineering Structure and Curriculum

The educational structure of a PhD in Engineering is designed to cultivate expert researchers and academics. Coursework focuses on advanced topics in engineering, mathematics, and related sciences to prepare students for independent research.

Significant time is dedicated to conducting original research , leading to new insights and technological advancements. The culmination of the PhD is a comprehensive dissertation that makes a novel contribution to the field of engineering.

Doctor of Engineering Structure and Curriculum

The curriculum of the Doctor of Engineering is structured to integrate advanced engineering theory with practical application. The advanced practice-oriented coursework is designed to enhance technical and management skills, preparing students for high-level industry roles.

Project work emphasizes solving real-world engineering problems, often in collaboration with engineering firms or through internships. The degree typically culminates in a substantial capstone project that demonstrates the application of engineering principles to industry challenges.

PhD in Engineering vs. Doctor of Engineering: Accreditation

Accreditation is an important aspect of all engineering degrees, and should be considered carefully by prospective students.

PhD in Engineering Accreditation

Accreditation for a PhD in Engineering ensures the quality and rigor of the academic program:

• Importance of accreditation : Accreditation verifies that the educational program meets specific standards of quality and rigor, essential for academic and professional recognition.
• Accrediting bodies : Major accrediting bodies for engineering programs include the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and regional accrediting organizations.
• Impact on career : Holding a degree from an accredited institution enhances a graduate’s prospects in academia and research fields, ensuring their qualifications are recognized and respected globally.

Doctor of Engineering Accreditation

Accreditation for the Doctor of Engineering focuses on both academic standards and industry relevance:

• Professional standards : Ensures that the program provides education that is relevant and up-to-date with industry standards.
• Accrediting organizations : Similar to the PhD, DEng programs are often accredited by ABET and may also seek accreditation from industry-specific bodies that recognize professional engineering qualifications.
• Professional recognition : Accreditation is crucial for DEng graduates to be recognized as qualified professionals in the engineering industry, potentially influencing hiring decisions and career advancement.

Career Options for PhD in Engineering and Doctor of Engineering

Both degrees prepare graduates for different professional paths. Students need to recognize the importance of choosing a degree that aligns with one’s engineering career aspirations and personal strengths.

PhD in Engineering Careers

A PhD in Engineering opens doors to a range of career opportunities, primarily in academia and research:

• Academic positions : Many PhD graduates become university professors, contributing to academic knowledge and educating the next generation of engineers.
• Research institutions : Some may hold positions in government or private research institutions where they can continue to develop new technologies and solutions.
• Specialist roles : Highly specialized industries such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, or renewable energy often seek PhD graduates for their advanced research capabilities.

Doctor of Engineering Careers

The career paths for Doctor of Engineering graduates are oriented toward industry and applied engineering solutions:

• Engineering management : Graduates may pursue leadership roles within engineering firms, overseeing projects and teams.
• Project management : Some may find jobs managing large-scale projects, ensuring they meet technical specifications, budgets, and timelines.
• Consultancy : Some graduates take positions providing expert advice in specific areas of engineering, often as an external consultant to various industries.

PhD in Engineering vs. Doctor of Engineering: Salary and Job Outlook

Examining the salary and career prospects related to the PhD in Engineering and DEng degrees can help prospective students gain insight into degree outcomes.

PhD in Engineering Salary

Graduates holding a PhD in Engineering are positioned for competitive salaries, especially in academia and specialized research roles:

• Average annual salary : According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for postsecondary engineering teachers was approximately $106,910 as of May 2023, though this can vary widely depending on the specific field and location.
• Salary range : Professor of engineering salaries can range from about $49,000 to over $182,000.
• Factors affecting salary : Industry, geographic location, and the specific engineering discipline significantly influence salary outcomes.  

Doctor of Engineering Salary

The Doctor of Engineering degree typically leads to higher-paying positions in the industry due to its focus on applied engineering and management:

• Average annual salary : The median annual salary for architectural and engineering managers was approximately $165,370 as of May 2023, according to the BLS.
• Salary range : Starting salaries begin around $107,000, with potential to exceed $233,000 in senior management or consulting roles.
• Industry variance : Salaries can be particularly high in sectors such as aerospace, manufacturing, and systems engineering.

PhD in Engineering Job Outlook

The job outlook for PhD in Engineering graduates remains positive, reflecting the ongoing need for advanced expertise in research and development:

• Growth projection : The BLS projects that engineering teaching positions , commonly held by PhDs, will grow by 9% from 2022 to 2032.
• Emerging fields : Significant growth is expected in areas like renewable energy, robotics, and biomedical engineering, driving demand for research and development experts.
• Academic opportunities : The academic sector continues to offer opportunities, although competitive, for tenure-track positions.  

Doctor of Engineering Job Outlook

Doctor of Engineering graduates have a strong job outlook in various industry sectors, especially those that value practical engineering leadership:

• Growth projection : Engineering management positions are expected to expand by about 4% over the decade, indicating stable demand for engineering leaders.
• Professional advancement : The degree is particularly valuable for professionals looking to ascend to executive-level positions in technical companies.
• Sector-specific demand : High demand in sectors such as construction, consulting services, and government projects.

This section highlights the salary expectations and job prospects for graduates of both PhD in Engineering and Doctor of Engineering programs, underscoring the potential financial and professional rewards of each path.

Tips for Choosing Between a PhD in Engineering and a Doctor of Engineering

Choosing between a PhD in Engineering and a Doctor of Engineering depends largely on individual career goals and personal interests. Here are some considerations to help prospective students make this important decision:

• Assess career goals : Consider whether your interest lies in academic research or practical industry applications. A PhD is ideal for those interested in research and teaching, while a DEng suits those aiming for senior engineering management roles.
• Consider industry requirements : Some industries may value the practical skills of a DEng more highly, whereas academia and research institutions typically require a PhD.
• Evaluate long-term objectives : Think about where you want to be in 10-15 years. Does one degree align better with your envisioned career path?
• Seek advice : Talk to current students and professionals in both tracks to understand the realities and demands of each path.
• Financial and time commitments : Be realistic about the time and financial investment each degree requires and what you can commit to.

What are the main differences between a PhD in Engineering and a Doctor of Engineering?

• Focus : PhD programs are research-oriented, ideal for those interested in academic careers or deep specialization in a field. DEng programs are application-oriented, designed for professionals aiming for high-level industry positions.
• Outcome : PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia or specialized research, while DEng graduates typically move into senior management or consultancy roles in engineering.

How long does it typically take to complete a PhD in Engineering versus a Doctor of Engineering?

• PhD in Engineering : Generally takes between four to six years, depending on the research project and dissertation requirements.
• Doctor of Engineering : Typically completed in three to five years, as it often integrates professional experience and may have a more structured curriculum.

Can a Doctor of Engineering degree lead to a teaching position in universities?

Yes, although less common than PhD holders, DEng graduates can teach, especially in universities that emphasize practical skills and applied engineering. However, tenure-track positions may prefer candidates with a PhD.

What kind of financial investment is involved in pursuing these degrees?

The cost can vary widely depending on the institution and the country. Generally, PhD programs may offer more funding opportunities, such as scholarships and stipends, due to their research focus. DEng programs may have less funding available but are often shorter in duration.

Is it possible to switch from a DEng to a PhD program or vice versa?

Switching between the programs is possible but may require fulfilling additional prerequisites or adjustments in one’s research focus. It’s important to consult academic advisors to understand the implications and requirements.

Are there online options available for either degree?

Yes, many universities now offer online or hybrid versions of both PhD and DEng programs. These options provide flexibility but require self-discipline and may have different networking opportunities compared to traditional on-campus programs.

Explore the PhD in Engineering vs. Doctor of Engineering Differences

Both the PhD in Engineering and the Doctor of Engineering offer valuable pathways to fulfilling and lucrative careers in their respective fields. The choice between a research-oriented PhD and a practice-oriented DEng should be guided by personal career aspirations, industry demands, and lifestyle considerations. 

By carefully evaluating these factors and utilizing the resources available, prospective students can make an informed decision that best suits their professional goals and personal preferences. This careful deliberation will ensure that they embark on a path that not only meets their academic and professional needs but also enriches their personal growth and career satisfaction.

For further exploration and to aid in decision-making, the following resources can be helpful:

• Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology : ABET provides a list of accredited engineering programs, which is crucial for ensuring the quality of your education.  
• Professional associations : Organizations like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) offer resources for engineering students and professionals.
• Career planning tools : Organizations like Payscale and the BLS offer valuable tools for researching potential careers and salary data.
• University career services : Most universities offer career services to their students, which can help in understanding the prospects and requirements of both degrees.

What Is the Benefit of an EngD Degree vs. a Traditional PhD Degree?

Krystle Dodge

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Going to school to earn a doctoral degree is a huge endeavor. Engineering doctoral students must also make a huge decision about which type of doctorate degree they will pursue. There is the traditional Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree to consider, but there is also the Doctor of Engineering degree, also called the EngD or DEng degree.

As you may expect, there are several similarities between the EngD and PhD paths. Both of these degrees are considered terminal degrees, which means that they are the highest level of academic study available. Either the Ph.D. or the D.Eng. can help you advance your engineering career, but the differences between these two doctoral degree programs are significant. If you choose the Doctor of Engineering degree over the Ph.D. program, some of the benefits you will receive include a stronger focus on practical application in professional engineering practice, more extensive preparation for industry job opportunities and differences in when in their careers students undertake doctoral study and how long it takes to earn their degrees.

What Is a Doctor of Engineering Degree?

Just about everyone has heard of the PhD, the type of doctoral degree that is, to most people, more recognizable than any other doctorate besides the ones granted to physicians by medical schools. The PhD is a type of doctorate that is awarded in all kinds of fields, from science and math to history, English and education. A PhD is traditionally a research-focused degree, although not all PhD holders go on to work in academic research.

The Doctor of Engineering degree is less well-known than the PhD, but it’s still a good option to consider for many engineers. EngD degrees are professional-focused, rather than research-focused, areas of doctoral-level study. As such, they emphasize applied engineering knowledge and research over basic research meant primarily to advance knowledge of the field. Generally, Doctor of Engineering degree programs are intended for engineering practitioners who want to advance their skills in industry work rather than preparing for opportunities in academia.

All in all, 10,476 students earned some sort of doctorate in an engineering discipline in 2020, according to the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics . 

Doctor of Engineering vs. PhD Degree Programs

When pursuing either a Doctor of Engineering or a PhD in engineering degree, you will undertake challenging coursework that delves deep into an engineering discipline and develop your skills in conducting engineering research. However, there’s no question that these degrees have major differences, particularly in their areas of focus, the job opportunities for which they prepare graduates and the time it takes to earn the doctorate degree.

Professional vs. Research Focus

The most critical difference between the Doctor of Engineering and Doctor of Philosophy degrees is that the EngD is a professional degree, while the PhD is a research degree. A traditional Doctor of Philosophy focuses on engineering theory and scholarship, heavily emphasizing original research work that can take years. A professional doctorate, sometimes called an applied doctorate , focuses on developing specialized skills for practical application in the engineering workforce.

EngD degree programs are sometimes offered in different areas of specialization. For example, if you want to move up into a leadership position, you might choose to earn a Doctor of Engineering degree in engineering management. A  Doctor of Engineering in manufacturing  can be beneficial if you are one of the more than 578,000 engineers working in the manufacturing industry, which is the top employer of engineers, the  United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported. You could also seek a Doctor of Engineering degree  in an engineering discipline such as biomedical, civil, electrical, chemical or mechanical engineering, just as you would typically pursue a PhD in a particular branch of engineering.

Any professional doctorate in engineering degree will focus on analyzing and applying research and theory to solve real-world industry problems. That isn’t to say that students in a Doctor of Engineering program get out of doing research. In fact, depending on your engineering school, you might need to submit a dissertation that presents original research for your EngD degree just as you would for a traditional PhD degree. However, the outcome of earning an EngD degree isn’t preparation for a career in theoretical research and academia but rather the cultivation of technical leadership skills.

Some  Doctor of Engineering programs culminate in a portfolio that consists of the students’ plans, prototypes, user manuals, computer simulations and patent applications. This engineering portfolio can be used to demonstrate your skills and vision to potential employers or, if you aspire to launch your own startup, to investors. 

Job Opportunities Outside of Academia

Historically, Ph.D. degrees in engineering were meant for engineers who were seeking tenure-track academic or industrial research careers. Engineers working in private industry and the corporate sector were the ones who would pursue a Doctor of Engineering degree. This terminal degree could potentially allow engineers to teach at the college level, but more typically, it prepared them for advancement to highly technical engineering practice roles or leadership opportunities.

Now, though, the  differences between a professional doctorate and a Ph.D. in terms of career outcomes are not as clear-cut. Some PhD graduates work in the private sector, and some colleges and universities hire candidates with an EngD degree for academic research and teaching roles. This overlap in career opportunities shows that both doctoral degree paths in engineering are decently versatile. It also makes it easier for prospective doctoral students to decide whether they want to pursue a PhD or an EngD without having to worry that choosing the “wrong” educational path could limit their career options too much.

Generally, though, if conducting new research is what most appeals to you, the Ph.D. is the more appropriate career path, while students eager to move up in industry roles find the Doctor of Engineering degree to be more beneficial. The EngD degree is a good choice when you want to develop advanced technical skills and knowledge in a specialized area that would put you in a senior-level role. You can also use this education to cultivate the leadership skills necessary for high-ranking managerial positions in engineering, such as engineering director or engineering program manager.

Another distinction between the two degree paths is the source of research funding. Ph.D. projects are often funded by grants, while an industry or public sector organization might provide the funding for research done by Doctor of Engineering students.

Differences in Timing and Duration of Degree

The time it takes a student to earn a degree, and the time when an engineer begins his or her doctoral studies, also differentiate the EngD from the PhD degree. Generally, a professional doctorate degree in engineering takes at least three years of study—but still significantly less time than a PhD program takes.

While PhD programs are often structured to take three to five years to complete, they can also take longer. In fact, CBS News reported that the average doctoral student takes more than eight years to complete their PhD degree, and just 57 percent of PhD students will complete their doctoral studies within 10 years. Those who don’t manage to finish their PhD degree during this timeframe frequently drop out of school without receiving their degree, often with nothing to show for their many years of study and effort.

A shorter timeline to earning a degree does more than improve your odds of actually finishing the program as planned. Getting your degree in fewer semesters can save you the costs of additional tuition and fees, which can quickly add up to thousands—and potentially, tens of thousands—of dollars. It also allows you to start putting your doctoral education to work sooner, which means you start recouping on your investment in an advanced education earlier. Aside from the costs of actually going to school, there is an opportunity cost from being out of the workforce, especially if you plan to work in industry rather than academia. Shortening the time you’re in school can decrease this opportunity cost.

The time it takes to get your degree isn’t the only difference pertaining to the timing involved in earning a doctorate in engineering. There are also distinctions in the age and career level at which students typically begin working toward their EngD vs. their PhD. Generally, students pursuing a traditional Ph.D. degree often start their graduate coursework early in their careers. This typically means pushing back their entry into the workforce by several years. Students in a Doctor of Engineering program are often mid-career industry practitioners. As such, these doctoral students have a good deal of work experience under their belts already. Often, students pursuing a professional Doctor of Engineering degree are using graduate school to help them advance to senior-level roles.

On average, PhD students who start their degrees by age 25 are 33 by the time they graduate, and they typically have comparably little work experience outside of school. On the other hand, EngD students are often significantly older when they start working toward their doctorate, but as mid-career professionals, they bring plenty of work experience with them. Thus, a newly enrolled EngD student might be older than PhD graduates in their field, but they are still likely to spend less time in school overall and have more work experience.

The length of time it takes to earn your doctoral degree matters in part because so many students who begin pursuing a doctorate degree in engineering never complete their studies, according to U.S. News & World Report .

What to Expect From Doctorate of Engineering Curricula

As a doctoral student in engineering, you will take some of the most challenging upper-level classes available at a university. The exact curriculum you complete will vary depending on the school you enroll in and the discipline of engineering you choose to study at the doctoral level. Since doctoral program curricula often allow for considerable specialization and customization, the exact blend of classes you take may be unique to you.

A student pursuing a Doctor of Engineering Management degree , for example, might take classes in entrepreneurship and technology, logistics planning, research formulation for engineering management, technology commercialization, data analysis in engineering, applied optimization modeling and uncertainty analysis in engineering and cost engineering. Students pursuing a Doctor of Engineering in Systems Engineering might study the foundations of systems engineering, systems engineering processes, leadership and innovation in systems engineering, engineering project and program management and engineering risk analysis. Beyond their mandatory core coursework, though, these students may choose technical electives and depth or concentration courses that match their interests in areas ranging from cybersecurity to the grid integration of wind power systems.

Lessons that take place in a classroom or laboratory only make up part of the work that constitutes a Doctor of Engineering curriculum. Generally, students in these programs will have some opportunity to practice applying what they have learned in areas of praxis research or in the form of a professional internship experience. The student typically chooses the research area of their praxis, working in conjunction with an advisor, and then devotes considerable time and effort—though usually not on the same level as you might encounter in a PhD program—to conducting this research. Among Doctor of Engineering degree programs that require an internship instead of praxis research, the internship may be lengthy, often taking up to a year to complete. Naturally, the coursework you complete in the classroom and the lab and the work you do in research or a professional internship should fit together neatly for you to gain the full benefit of the Doctor of Engineering education and experience.

Whether you need a master’s degree or can jump straight to doctoral studies from your bachelor’s degree depends on different institutions, not only EngD vs. PhD programs. Some schools offer programs that follow both structures. Generally, a Doctor of Engineering degree program that accepts master’s degree students expects these applicants to have already completed graduate-level technical elective coursework, while programs that pick up where bachelor’s degrees leave off include this coursework. Keep this difference in mind when comparing the credit requirements and target graduation time between different Doctor of Engineering programs. A shorter EngD degree program is likely to require students to already hold a master’s degree, which means that you may be looking at another one to two years of study—and potentially even more, if you pursue a master’s degree part-time—than what the Doctor of Engineering program itself entails.

Where a PhD student must write and defend a dissertation, a student pursuing the EngD degree might instead work on a project or praxis research. 

Related Resources: 

Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Careers

How Advanced Does My Degree in Engineering Need to Be to Get a Good Job?

What Is the Demand for a Graduate Degree in Engineering?

What Is the Fastest School for a Doctoral Degree in Engineering?

What Degree Do You Need to Be a Biomedical Engineer?

What Civil Engineering Courses Will I Have to Take for a Degree in Civil Engineering?

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