PhD in Aerospace Engineering
About This Programme
A research doctorate (60 credits with a master's, 72 direct from a bachelor's) in aerospace engineering. Funding: competitive merit-based scholarships may cover tuition in full or in part and carry a monthly stipend for research students.
Course Highlights
- Research spans unmanned aerial systems, computational fluid dynamics, astrodynamics, propulsion and power, and composite/adaptive structures
- Aligned with the UAE space programme and national aerospace R&D priorities
- 60 credits entering with a master's or 72 for direct entry from a bachelor's, built around a large doctoral dissertation
- Competitive merit-based PhD scholarships: a full or partial tuition waiver plus a monthly stipend for admitted researchers
What You'll Study
Research doctorate: coursework + comprehensive exam + dissertation; competitive merit-based funding (a full or partial tuition waiver, plus a monthly stipend)
Coursework
- Required coursework and PhD seminar
- Comprehensive / qualifying examination
Research Areas
- Unmanned Aerial Systems
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
- Astrodynamics and Orbital Mechanics
- Propulsion and Power
- Composite and Adaptive Structures
- Aeroelasticity and Structural Dynamics
- Robotics and Control
Dissertation
- Doctoral Dissertation
Entry Requirements
PhD scholarships are competitive and merit-based: awards may carry a full or partial tuition waiver and a monthly stipend, whose amount Khalifa University does not publish, with an Abu Dhabi pension for UAE nationals. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an award.
Careers
Graduates move into academia, national space and defence agencies such as the UAE Space Agency and satellite programmes, and aerospace industry R&D.
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
UAE CAA (Ministry of Education)
Programme Details
Award
PhD in Aerospace Engineering
Start Date
August 2026 (Fall)
Typical Offer
Master's CGPA >=3.25/4.0 (or direct-entry bachelor's >=3.5 + GRE quant >=150) + TOEFL 91 / IELTS 6.5
Duration
4 years
Qualification
Doctorate
Subject Area
Engineering
Campus
Abu Dhabi
Course Type
Doctor of Philosophy
Study Pattern
Full time
Delivery Format
In person
Tuition Fee
AED 95,000/yr
Apply online via ku.ac.ae with transcripts, references and a statement of purpose. Scholarships are assessed automatically at admission. Master's awards may cover tuition in full or in part and carry no stipend; PhD awards are competitive and merit-based, and may carry a full or partial tuition waiver plus a monthly stipend whose amount Khalifa University does not publish.