A Doctor of Engineering (DEng) journey promises unparalleled opportunities for engineers. From cutting-edge research to leadership roles, this program equips aspiring individuals in this field to address global challenges and shape the future of technology. Let’s explore the significance of pursuing EIT’s DEng Program and why the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) is a compelling option.
Make no mistake. Pursuing a doctorate in engineering is a substantial undertaking.
A doctorate in engineering may be right for you if you are ready to perform research and development at the highest level, use cutting-edge technology, and strive to address humanity’s pressing issues through technological innovation.
Engineering is a broad field of study containing hundreds of disciplines. Among the largest and best-known engineering subfields are:
Electrical: Designing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and devices, including power generation, transmission, and electronics.
Computer: Developing and improving computer hardware and software systems, including programming, networking, and cybersecurity.
Industrial: Optimizing production processes and systems to enhance efficiency and productivity in manufacturing and other industries.
Mechanical: Designing and analyzing machinery and mechanical systems for various applications, from engines to manufacturing equipment.
Civil: Planning, designing, and constructing infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and dams to support society’s needs.
Chemical: Applying chemistry and engineering principles to develop processes and products involving chemicals, from pharmaceuticals to fuels.
Why Get a Doctorate in Engineering?
In the vast arena of engineering, a bachelor’s degree serves as the foundation, providing access to a myriad of career paths. Yet, as professionals progress, the value of hands-on experience becomes paramount, reminiscent of the time-honored apprenticeship model.
For those aspiring to accelerate their trajectory or transition into academia or managerial roles, pursuing a master’s degree is a strategic move. However, for the select few driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire to pioneer transformative breakthroughs, the allure of a doctorate in engineering beckons.
A doctorate in engineering is not strictly reserved for bold innovators and visionary leaders. It signifies a commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge. The payoff is worth it, as doctoral students receive advanced education to become experts in their field of study.
With doors opening to extensive fields of advanced specialization, academia, and the highest echelons of industry leadership, this distinguished credential serves as a beacon for those poised to shape the future of engineering.
With a doctorate in engineering, you can:
• start a company based on your innovation
• can contribute to their current organization depending on the focus of their DEng
• teach as a professor at a university
• work in a government or industrial research lab
EIT’s DEng Program Versus a Ph.D.
The EIT DEng program offers a hands-on, professional approach tailored to address industry challenges directly.
“EIT’s DEng program stands as a professional doctorate in engineering and applied science,” the institute’s Deputy Dean Indumathi V underscored, emphasizing its alignment with industry needs. She contrasted this with the traditional Ph.D., noting its focus on engineering theory, blue sky research, and scholarship, which appeals more to those eyeing academic or industrial research paths.
Regarding structure, she delineated the EIT DEng’s three-year trajectory, featuring four 12-week terms per year, with one-third focusing on coursework and the rest on research. In contrast, she elucidated a typical Ph.D. structure involving mainly research with one or two units on research methodology and/or subject matter extension.
Addressing outcomes, the Deputy Dean stressed that the aim of the DEng graduates is to make original and significant contributions to development, with direct relevance to industry. Conversely, she remarked on traditional Ph.Ds., highlighting their goal of generating “new knowledge through foundational research,” often disseminated through academic publications.
While prestigious institutions like MIT, Cambridge, or Oxford offer outstanding Ph.D. programs suited for academic or research careers, the EIT DEng program caters specifically to engineering professionals eager to tackle real-world problems. Concerns surrounding conventional Ph.Ds. include limited supervision, lack of practical outcomes, and lengthy completion times.
EIT DEng In Action: A Student’s Story
Indumathi V also highlighted that the EIT DEng program aims to distinguish graduates as professionals who are adept in high-quality applied research and poised to make significant contributions to industry and society.
And where better to hear more about this experience than from a second-year EIT doctorate program student? In a recent interview with South Africa-based EIT DEng student Garth Greubel, he told us about the benefits of studying at EIT, the challenges of pursuing a rigorous doctorate degree while running his own business, and his future career aspirations.
We have since contacted Garth to learn how the program has contributed to his professional and personal development. Here is what he had to say.
“The DEng and the pre-course have, from a personal point of view, allowed me to transition to a new set of skills. The DEng course work has been both interesting and relevant, and it promotes professional development. The delivery mechanism works well, and the structured nature of the course is one of the reasons I chose EIT for my doctoral studies.”
In our earlier interview, Garth shared insights into his decision to pursue a DEng through EIT and the factors influencing his choice. He told us that several years ago, he had completed the Professional Certificate of Competency in Smart Grids course and found the distance-learning format utilized by EIT to be highly effective.
Interactions with EIT’s Dean of Engineering, Dr. Steve Mackay, during this course sparked his interest further. Subsequently, when Garth contemplated the possibility of pursuing a doctoral research idea, he sought guidance from Dr. Mackay, who provided valuable counsel and connected him with other professional staff at EIT for further exploration.
On how he envisions leveraging the skills and knowledge gained from the EIT DEng program to drive innovation and growth within his business ventures, Garth said his research has a practical application and, therefore, he anticipates implementing his ideas into business once he has completed his DEng degree.
In his home country, the persistent issue of frequent and severe load shedding has prompted him to explore innovative solutions. He is investigating the implementation of a VPP (virtual power plant) to effectively manage the balance between electricity demand and supply across various regions in the country. Through his research, he seeks to develop a sustainable solution that can alleviate the burden of electricity shortages and enhance the reliability of the power grid infrastructure.
“My research will hopefully lead to a proven concept that can be commercialized. It may necessitate some policy adjustments, but at least it will be proven from a technical and economic point of view. It will hopefully make the South African grid more resilient, assist the system operator, and provide a tangible benefit to the customer while promoting a greener future,” said Garth.
The EIT DEng Difference
EIT Deputy Dean Indumathi V highlighted the extensive support provided to DEng students. She emphasized the importance of mentorship, stating, “Mentorship is fundamental to our approach,” and outlined the allocation process for supervisors, which is crucial for student success.
She also noted EIT’s commitment to resources, including online libraries and remote laboratories. She emphasized networking opportunities. “We organize events that bring together industry experts and professionals, facilitating valuable connections for students.”
Regarding scholarly activities, Indumathi V stressed the significance of bi-annual DEng conferences, providing a platform for sharing best practices. She reiterated EIT’s focus on fostering a conducive environment for research and scholarly activities. “The DEng program is designed to equip graduates to take a leading role in developing research investigations.”
Study Options: They Just Make Sense
Indumathi V provided insights into the study options available for the institute’s Doctor of Engineering program. She listed them as follows:
Study Mode: “The program was designed with working professionals in mind,” she emphasized, offering flexibility with online and on-campus options, catering to both full-time and part-time schedules.
Duration: Indumathi V outlined the program’s timeline, stating that full-time enrollment spanned three years, consisting of four 12-week terms per year, while part-time study typically extended over six years.
Remote Labs: “EIT’s remote labs are integral to our teaching approach,” she noted, highlighting the accessibility of specialized engineering software and hardware through the lab hosting platform. These labs, primarily based in Perth, Australia, with additional facilities in Johannesburg and London, facilitate practical assessments crucial for student learning.
Intakes: Indumathi V. shared that the next intake for the DEng program was slated for 22 July 2024, offering prospective students an opportunity to embark on their academic journey with EIT.
