Last Updated: 02/26/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

The Ph.D. program is designed for outstanding students like you who are passionate about independent study and research. As a result, you will develop deep expertise in your chosen area.

In this program, you will complete:

• Coursework across the field of industrial engineering
• Coursework outside your main discipline
• Advanced courses that support your specific research interests

Throughout the program, you will complete several major milestones. For example, you will complete:

• A written qualifying exam
• A written and oral comprehensive preliminary exam
• Extended in depth research
• A written dissertation
• A final oral defense of your research

ISE PRO TIP: As a Ph.D. student, you will receive priority consideration for assistantship awards.

Matriculation into the Ph.D. Program

If you are an MS student who wants to continue to the Ph.D., contact the Director of Graduate Programs. Then, request a review of your file for admission. Typically, you should make this request during your final semester of your master’s degree.

Because faculty input is essential, you should include letters of support when you request a departmental review. Therefore, ask faculty members early so they have time to prepare strong letters. By planning ahead, you can strengthen your request for admission.

You may also apply through the Direct Path from BS to Ph.D. This option allows you to skip the master’s degree. In this case, you may choose to complete an en route MIE degree while progressing toward the Ph.D.

Research Advisory Committee

You must form a Research Advisory Committee with at least four faculty members who hold Graduate Faculty Status. In addition, three members must be ISE faculty. At least one member must be affiliated with a department outside ISE. An ISE faculty member will serve as the chair of your committee. However, you may also choose a co-chair who does not need to be from ISE.

You may include additional members from outside the university. However, speak with the Director of Graduate Programs if you need clarification. In addition, every committee includes a Graduate School Representative. Although this person is not a voting member, they protect your interests and those of the committee and the Graduate School. Therefore, the representative serves as an unbiased resource whom the dean may consult for guidance and decisions.

Got Questions? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Exam Structure

Prequalifying Phase

Prior to passing the Qualifying Exam, you should take a few important steps.

Although you are not required to do so yet, it is a good idea to select a faculty member as your research advisor. By choosing an advisor early, you can begin shaping your research direction. Then, enter your selection through the “Committee” link in the Graduate Degree Planner.

In addition, review your Degree Audit carefully. Make sure it correctly lists your courses and program requirements. By confirming this information early, you can avoid delays and stay on track in the program.

Pre-Candidacy Phase

After you pass the Qualifying Exam and before you take the Preliminary Oral Exam, complete the following steps.

First, set up your Ph.D. advisory committee using the “Committee” link in the Graduate Degree Planner. By confirming your committee early, you can move forward with confidence.

Next, write your dissertation proposal. Although this document is not archival, you should use the required Graduate School format. Microsoft Word and LaTeX templates are available through the Graduate School. Therefore, download the appropriate template before you begin writing.

Following ISE Department custom, give your committee a copy of your proposal at least two weeks before the oral exam. In addition, review the “Notification of the Graduate School” section below for instructions to schedule your proposal exam. By completing these steps on time, you can stay on track for this important milestone.

Candidacy Phase

After you pass the Preliminary Oral Exam, you will move into the final stage of your Ph.D. program.

First, finish writing your dissertation. As you complete your document, ensure it follows the required Graduate School format. By following the formatting guidelines early, you can avoid delays later.

Following ISE Department custom, provide your committee with a copy of your dissertation at least two weeks before your final oral exam. Then, present and defend your dissertation before your committee.

After your defense, submit your dissertation in the required ETD format. In addition, you must submit an initial draft within 24 hours after your oral exam. Therefore, prepare your files in advance so you can meet this deadline.

ISE PRO TIP: Consider submitting research papers to a professional peer reviewed journal. By doing so, you can strengthen your academic profile and share your work with the broader community.

Got Questions? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Notification of Graduate School

Complete the Request for Approval Form and send it to the Graduate Services Coordinator to schedule your Preliminary and Final Oral Exams. By submitting this form early, you can avoid scheduling delays.

Next, choose an exam time when all committee members can attend. In addition, confirm that the Graduate School Representative is available. Because Graduate School policy requires all members to be present at the start, you must coordinate schedules carefully.

Finally, confirm the exam time with each faculty member the day before your exam. By double checking attendance, you can ensure a smooth and professional experience.

Got Questions? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.