Ph. D.

From Ph. D. to Academia

Hear from several University of Michigan Ph. D. alum, including Macromolecular Science and Engineering alumni Rose Cersonsky (’19), about their journey to academia!

Ph. D. Degree Requirements

Choosing an Advisor: Macro Ph.D. students may directly join a lab group during their first term or can complete two semester-long research rotations before making a final selection of a research group.

Coursework: Students are required to complete a minimum of 25 credit hours of coursework.*

12 credit hours of coursework in Macromolecular Science & Engineering which includes Macro 512, 530, 538, and one additional course
12 credit hours of coursework in the student’s chosen course option
1 credit of Macro 690 or 790

*Effective beginning with the Fall 2019 cohort

Course Plan Options

Students can elect course plans in Biomaterials, Biomedical, Chemical, and Materials Science Engineering in addition to Chemistry, Organic Electronics and Photonics, and Physics. Students who have already earned a Master’s degree or wish to pursue to different course plan may propose an individualized course option. These course plans are outlined in the student handbook.

When considering elective courses beyond the Macro core requirements students are not limited to just the College of Engineering. Students can elect courses in the Center for Entrepreneurship, Ross School of Business, and other applicable areas in science and medicine.

Additional Degree Requirements

Students must successfully complete 18 course credits in residence, the Macro comprehensive exam, and the Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship (RCRS) Workshops before advancing to candidacy. Dissertation research will be conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor following the completion of course requirements.

*Students must also adhere to other degree requirements as outlined by the Rackham Graduate School and in the Macro Student Handbook.

Funding

Doctoral students receive full financial support during their graduate career providing they remain in good standing with the program. Students with a Bachelor’s degree are provided five years of funding, students who have earned a Master’s degree are provided four years of funding. Funding packages include tuition and healthcare coverage in addition to a monthly stipend.

Research assistantships (GSRA) are one of the most common forms of support in addition to teaching positions (GSI). Students are encouraged to also seek out funding from the College of Engineering, Rackham Graduate School, and external organizations.

Questions?

Interested in knowing more about the program, application, or just need some clarification? Contact us at macroprogram@umich.edu for more information.