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PhD in Engineering in Europe

Explore 12+ programs from leading European universities — compare fees, duration, and entry requirements.

23
PhD programs in Engineering from 5 universities · updated for 2026
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A PhD in Engineering in Europe is a 3–5 year research degree — and one of the most financially accessible doctoral paths in the world. In Northern and Western Europe, PhD positions are typically employment contracts: you receive a monthly stipend (commonly €1,200–€2,500 depending on country) plus social security and healthcare, rather than paying tuition or taking on debt. You begin original research immediately, without the coursework years required by the US system.

Dedicated funding programs strengthen that picture: the EU's Marie Curie Doctoral Networks offer stipends above €3,000/month to cohorts of early-stage researchers; the European Research Council (ERC) backs individual projects at leading universities; and national schemes — Germany's DFG, France's CIFRE, the Netherlands' NWO — fund doctoral researchers directly. Many Engineering PhD programs run entirely in English, and some offer cotutelle agreements allowing joint supervision with a university in your home country.

Explore the Engineering doctoral programs below to find research groups, supervisors, and funding packages that match your academic profile. PhD applications typically require a research proposal and a CV — reaching out to a potential supervisor before applying is strongly recommended.

Featured PhD Programs in Engineering

A selection of programs available across Europe — explore details, fees, and requirements.

Energetics and Power Engineering

Kaunas University of Technology – KTU Kaunas, Lithuania

PhD English 4 years
EU: €12,680 Per year Non-EU: €12,680
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Energetics and Power Engineering Kaunas University of Technology – KTU

This doctoral program is designed for early-career researchers who want to combine theory and practice to develop innovative and efficient energy technologies. Key research areas include sustainable energy, the thermo-engineering of transport processes, and smart technologies for electrical power systems, with students gaining hands-on experience with state-of-the-art research equipment and participating in interdisciplinary projects. Current research topics include fundamental and applied research on transfer phenomena in thermal engineering, hybrid model- and data-driven methods for reliable monitoring and control in future decentralized power grids, and the analysis of methods for identifying the causes of disturbances and faults in high-voltage power grids.

Core coursework covers power systems reliability models, sustainable energy and environment, and thermodynamics, providing essential grounding in the field. Students can deepen their focus through alternative modules addressing combined transfer processes in fluid flows, the dynamics and stability of power systems, and the simulation of accidental thermal-hydraulic processes, or further individualize their studies through elective modules covering electromagnetic processes in electrical power systems, power system planning and control, and the thermal hydromechanics of single-phase flow.

Alongside these subject-specific modules, students build core research competencies through a dedicated set of skills modules, including academic and technical research writing, design thinking in research, digital tools for research writing and publication, research data management, research ethics, grant management for research projects, science communication for public audiences, and systematic literature review methods.
Applicants must hold a master's degree or an equivalent higher education qualification in technological sciences or in a natural sciences field such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, informatics, biophysics, or ecology and environmental studies.

Admission is based on a weighted competition score combining the weighted grade point average from the applicant's diploma supplement (35%), their research experience (30%), and a motivation interview (35%). Applicants must reach a minimum competitive score of 8.0 to be admitted. As part of the broader application process, applicants are generally expected to submit materials such as a completed application specifying their preferred research topic, a CV, two letters of recommendation from researchers in the relevant field, evidence of prior scientific publications or an original research paper where publications are not available, a copy of a valid passport or identity document, and proof of payment of the application fee, and all applicants are required to attend an interview with the doctoral admissions committee.
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Civil Engineering

Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies Jelgava, Latvia

PhD English 3 years
EU: €4,000 Per year Non-EU: €4,000
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Civil Engineering Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies

This doctoral program in civil engineering focuses on deepening expertise in areas such as construction materials and technologies, structural engineering, geodesy, and systems for heat, gas, and water supply. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework in research methods, data analysis, and scientific communication with substantial independent research work, including the completion of a doctoral thesis. Students engage in activities like preparing scientific publications, presenting findings, and passing promotion exams. Research directions include advanced engineering systems, composite structures, and real property management. Graduates are expected to produce original research, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and demonstrate high-level competencies in both scientific and professional applications.
This doctoral program in civil engineering is open to candidates holding a master’s degree or equivalent in civil engineering. Applicants with a background in a different branch of engineering must pass an entrance exam in the chosen civil engineering sub-discipline.
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Smart Power Systems

Riga Technical University Riga, Latvia

PhD English 4 years
EU: €11,210 Per year Non-EU: €11,210
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Smart Power Systems Riga Technical University

This PhD program prepares students to become highly qualified experts in the field of power and electrical engineering, with strong research and innovation capabilities. It includes in-depth theoretical courses, technical innovations, and training in scientific communication and pedagogy. Students conduct original research culminating in a doctoral thesis. Coursework covers automation, smart power systems, electrical machine dynamics, and system protection. Graduates are equipped to work in academic and industrial settings, capable of managing complex engineering projects and conducting internationally recognized research.
To apply for this doctoral program, applicants must hold a master's degree in engineering or have comparable education.
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Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering

Riga Technical University Riga, Latvia

PhD English 4 years
EU: €12,330 Per year Non-EU: €12,330
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Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering Riga Technical University

This PhD program focuses on preparing researchers in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, and physics. It includes scientific seminars, academic writing, and the development of an original research article, along with elective courses and extensive research work leading to a doctoral thesis. Students gain expertise in advanced theories, methods, and equipment, and are trained to plan, conduct, and present original scientific research. Graduates are equipped for careers in industry, research institutions, or academia, with the ability to lead projects and develop innovative technologies and solutions.
This PhD program is open to candidates with a completed master's degree in engineering, natural sciences, or an equivalent qualification. Applicants with a background in medicine or health sciences must additionally pass an entrance exam. The program prepares students for high-level research and innovation in fields such as chemistry, materials science, and physics. It includes scientific writing, seminars, and original research work, aiming to equip graduates with the expertise to lead projects, contribute to technological advancements, and pursue academic or industrial research careers.
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Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics

Riga Technical University Riga, Latvia

PhD English 4 years
EU: €11,210 Per year Non-EU: €11,210
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Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics Riga Technical University

This PhD program offers advanced research opportunities across several specialization tracks, including manufacturing technologies, applied mechanics, machine dynamics and design, heat power engineering and heat technology, medical engineering, and nanotechnology. Students engage in in-depth coursework such as combustion theory, fracture mechanics, dynamics of machines, and biomaterials. Training includes scientific writing, experimental design, and protection of research results. The curriculum supports multidisciplinary research, culminating in a dissertation based on independent scientific investigation.
This PhD program is open to candidates with a master's degree in engineering science or a comparable qualification and requires English language proficiency at a minimum CEFR B2 level. The program supports advanced scientific training through a combination of compulsory and elective courses and intensive research work. Emphasis is placed on original research, interdisciplinary methods, and developing solutions to complex engineering problems, culminating in a doctoral dissertation.
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Electronics

Riga Technical University Riga, Latvia

PhD English 4 years
EU: €11,210 Per year Non-EU: €11,210
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Electronics Riga Technical University

This PhD program trains researchers to address challenges in electronics through advanced study and scientific research in areas such as solid-state electronics, signal processing, and electrodynamics. Students take compulsory and field-specific elective courses covering topics like wireless power transfer, mobile communication systems, and nonlinear dynamics. The program emphasizes independent research, experimental methods, and presentation skills, culminating in a doctoral thesis. Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, research, or industry, with expertise in developing and managing modern electronic systems.
This PhD program is open to applicants with a master's degree in electronics or a related field, and admission also requires passing an entrance exam. English proficiency at CEFR B2 level is required for studies in English. The program focuses on solid-state electronics, signal processing, and electrodynamics, with specialization through research and elective courses in areas such as wireless power transfer, microwave applications, and mobile communications. Students gain advanced research and technical skills, preparing them for academic, research, and high-level industry roles.
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Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Kaunas University of Technology – KTU Kaunas, Lithuania

PhD English 4 years
EU: €12,680 Per year Non-EU: €12,680
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Electrical and Electronic Engineering Kaunas University of Technology – KTU

This doctoral program is designed for researchers tackling modern engineering challenges, with a focus on high-level research and advanced technologies used in aviation, energy, and biomedicine. Studies aim to deepen understanding of signal processing, image acquisition, and industrial monitoring and control systems.

Core coursework centers on electrical measurement techniques for non-electrical quantities, providing essential grounding in the field. Students can deepen their focus through a range of alternative modules covering digital signal processing methods and applications, electronic information systems, innovation and the global knowledge economy, metrology and measurement methodology, non-destructive testing methods, and ultrasonic measurements.

Alongside these subject-specific modules, students build core research competencies through a dedicated set of skills modules, including academic and technical research writing, design thinking in research, digital tools for research writing and publication, research data management, research ethics, grant management for research projects, science communication for public audiences, and systematic literature review methods.
Applicants must hold a master's degree or an equivalent higher education qualification, and must submit a research proposal on their selected topic as part of the application.

Admission is based on a weighted competition score combining the weighted grade point average from the applicant's diploma supplement (35%), their research experience (30%), and a motivation interview (35%). Applicants must reach a minimum competitive score of 7.5 to be admitted. As part of the broader application process, applicants are generally expected to submit materials such as a completed application specifying their preferred research topic, a CV, two letters of recommendation from researchers in the relevant field, evidence of prior scientific publications or an original research paper where publications are not available, a copy of a valid passport or identity document, and proof of payment of the application fee, and all applicants are required to attend an interview with the doctoral admissions committee.
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Agricultural Engineering

Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies Jelgava, Latvia

PhD English 3 years
EU: €4,000 Per year Non-EU: €4,000
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Agricultural Engineering Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies

This doctoral program in agricultural engineering is structured over three years and emphasizes independent research, scientific publication, and international engagement. The first year focuses on research methodology, language preparation, and establishing the foundation for the PhD thesis. In the second year, students deepen theoretical and experimental work while publishing and presenting findings both nationally and internationally. The third year is dedicated to finalizing the dissertation, including formatting, and continuing international scientific contributions. The program equips doctoral candidates with advanced research skills for academic and professional careers.
To apply for this doctoral program, applicants must hold a master's degree in Engineering, specifically in agricultural mechanization, transport, energy, machinery, or a closely related field. Those with degrees in other fields are eligible but must pass an entrance exam. English language proficiency is required, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, TOEFL score of 547, or TOEFL-iBT score of 76. These requirements ensure applicants are prepared for the advanced research and academic demands of the program.
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Materials Engineering

Kaunas University of Technology – KTU Kaunas, Lithuania

PhD English 4 years
EU: €12,680 Per year Non-EU: €12,680
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Materials Engineering Kaunas University of Technology – KTU

Doctoral students in this program study nanotechnologies, new biological, functional, and composite materials, and energy-efficient solutions aimed at improving material efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The program addresses the challenges of sustainability, materials recycling, and innovative manufacturing technologies, characterized by an interdisciplinary approach and a focus on globally significant research. Current research includes the development of 3D-printed, personalized dose-gel-filled anthropomorphic phantoms, for organs such as the lungs or prostate, used in advanced radiation therapy.

Core coursework centers on the physics of materials, providing essential grounding in the field. Students can deepen their focus through alternative modules addressing the adhesion of polymers, fibre physics, materials for organic optoelectronics, and rheology, or further individualize their studies through elective modules covering determined chaos theory, emission phenomena in surface analysis methods, mathematical foundations for engineering experiment theory, the physics and structural modelling of textile materials, plastics utilization technologies, and the theory and practice of experimentation with fibrous materials.

Alongside these subject-specific modules, students build core research competencies through a dedicated set of skills modules, including academic and technical research writing, design thinking in research, digital tools for research writing and publication, research data management, research ethics, grant management for research projects, science communication for public audiences, and systematic literature review methods.
Applicants must hold a master's degree or an equivalent higher education qualification, and must submit a research proposal on their selected topic as part of the application.

Admission is based on a weighted competition score combining the weighted grade point average from the applicant's diploma supplement (35%), their research experience (30%), and a motivation interview (35%). Applicants must reach a minimum competitive score of 7.5 to be admitted. As part of the broader application process, applicants are generally expected to submit materials such as a completed application specifying their preferred research topic, a CV, two letters of recommendation from researchers in the relevant field, evidence of prior scientific publications or an original research paper where publications are not available, a copy of a valid passport or identity document, and proof of payment of the application fee, and all applicants are required to attend an interview with the doctoral admissions committee.
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PhD program in Engineering and Science

University of Agder Kristiansand, Norway

PhD English 3 years
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PhD program in Engineering and Science University of Agder

This PhD program offers advanced research training across several disciplines, including engineering sciences, ICT, mathematical sciences, and natural sciences. It combines theoretical and methodological coursework (minimum 30 ECTS) with supervised original research leading to a doctoral dissertation, trial lecture, and public defense. Specializations include civil and structural engineering, mechatronics, renewable energy, AI, mobile communications, mathematics, mathematics education, molecular biology, and ecology. Each specialization provides tailored courses to support the doctoral work, with research projects often conducted in collaboration with public and private institutions. The program is designed to develop deep expertise and contribute to scientific advancement.
To be eligible for this PhD program, applicants must hold a master’s degree in a relevant subject area from a recognized institution. Admission normally requires a minimum average grade of C or equivalent in the bachelor's degree, and a B or higher for both the master's coursework and thesis. If an applicant does not meet the grade criteria, the hosting research group must justify the candidate’s potential to complete the program, possibly with additional admission conditions. All applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognized tests such as TOEFL (minimum 92 iBT or 600 PBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.5), unless exempt under national guidelines.
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Applied Mechanics

Slovak University of Technology – STU Bratislava, Slovakia

PhD English 3 years
EU: €3,500 Per year Non-EU: €3,500
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Applied Mechanics Slovak University of Technology – STU

This doctoral degree focuses on applied mechanics within the broader field of mechanical engineering, combining structured coursework with supervised research culminating in a dissertation, delivered full-time over three years in English.

The first year covers foundational and specialized coursework, including selected topics in dynamics, experimental methods in mechanics, and mathematics, along with at least one course chosen from areas such as the controlled vibration of mechanical systems, the flexibility and strength of materials, applied fluid mechanics, machine dynamics, or the reduction of noise and vibration. Further optional coursework is available in applied thermomechanics, nonlinear continuum mechanics, or random vibration. Foreign language study and a series of supervised research projects run throughout this first year.

In the second year, students complete the written part of the PhD examination and continue their supervised research projects alongside dedicated scientific work that builds toward the dissertation. The third year continues this research work through further supervised projects and scientific work, concluding with the public defense of the completed PhD dissertation.
Applicants must hold a completed master's or engineering-level degree. For part-time study, at least two years of relevant work experience after graduation is also required. Foreign applicants' graduation documents must be legalized by apostille and accompanied by an official assessment confirming that their completed studies are equivalent to the required level.

Applications are submitted electronically and must include a completed application form, a curriculum vitae, recognition of the master's diploma, and, for part-time applicants, proof of relevant work experience. Admission is decided through an assessment of the candidate's motivation for scientific work, a language test, and an examination of the candidate's knowledge of the field, including discussion of potential dissertation topics, which are published in advance and directly shape the focus of the entrance exam. Multiple application rounds are held over the course of the year, and applicants with specific needs may request a modified format for the entrance examination.
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Civil Engineering

Riga Technical University Riga, Latvia

PhD English 4 years
EU: €13,450 Per year Non-EU: €13,450
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Civil Engineering Riga Technical University

This PhD program focuses on advanced topics in civil engineering and offers specialization tracks in five areas: construction of civil buildings, building materials and construction technology, structural analysis, geodesy and geoinformatics, and land transport and infrastructure. Each track includes specialized courses and research seminars, allowing students to develop deep knowledge in their chosen area. The curriculum also includes compulsory courses in numerical methods and advanced materials, elective study units, and extensive research work leading to the final examination.
This PhD program is designed for candidates with a strong background in civil or transportation engineering. The program requires a professional master’s degree or equivalent and English proficiency at a minimum of CEFR B2 level. It focuses on specialized research in areas such as structural analysis, construction materials, geoinformatics, and transport infrastructure. Students develop independent research skills through seminars, in-depth coursework, and extensive dissertation work aimed at advancing engineering knowledge and innovation.
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