PhD Admissions

ISE graduate students working together in lab with faculty.

The doctoral program provides advanced study and training to prepare students to be research scholars with expertise in operations research, human factors/ergonomics or production systems & manufacturing. 

On this page:

US News and World Report Best Grad Schools Industrial/Manufacturing/Systems Engineering 2024.

Admissions Requirements

  • A baccalaureate degree in engineering or a related technical field, such as math, physics, behavioral sciences or health sciences. Appropriate academic background varies by graduate specialization
  • A minimum grade point average of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) for all undergraduate work undertaken during the last two years of the applicant's studies.
  • GRE scores are optional for PhD program admissions
  • We will also consider demonstrated practical engineering experience and demonstrated leadership skills
  • A master's degree or demonstrated research experience is preferred for admission to the PhD Program

In addition to the above requirements, proficiency is required in mathematics through the level of multivariate calculus, probability and statistics considered from a calculus point of view, and computer programming. Students whose backgrounds have not adequately prepared them to enter the graduate curriculum directly may be asked to take appropriate undergraduate courses. Credit for these courses will not be applied toward the minimum number of hours required for the MS/ME degrees. In exceptional cases, the department may admit an applicant who does not meet all these requirements; in such cases, the department will set special performance criteria for continuing in the program.  

Application Materials

Please do not mail application materials. All items should be submitted with your application form or after you've submitted it via your Application Status Portal. We recommend logging in frequently to ensure all your supporting documents have been received. If any additional materials are required, they will be listed in your checklist in the Application Status Portal and you will be contacted via email. Applications will not be reviewed until all the necessary materials have been received.

Application Deadlines

The Graduate Admissions Committee will consider applicants whose application packages are complete by the following deadlines:

For Fall Admission:

  • February 15: Full consideration
  • We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year

For Spring Admission:

  • October 1: Full consideration
  • We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year
Questions?

For questions about admissions requirements or your application, please contact gradeng@buffalo.edu.