Materials Science and Engineering Curriculum & Degree Requirements

Materials Science and Engineering Curriculum

MSE students learn materials science and engineering fundamentals, research skills and scientific communication in preparation for careers in industry and academia. Students typically complete their coursework during the first year and focus on research in subsequent years. Students are expected to choose a research advisor by the end of their first semester.

Coursework

All MSE students must complete the courses listed below. Courses presented to satisfy degree requirements must have a grade-point average of at least 3.0 (B).

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Complete one of the following courses in materials structure and properties.

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Complete at least two elective courses, half of which must be MSE courses. 

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New elective starting spring 2025:

Master of Science Requirements

To earn an MS degree, students must complete 30 credits and satisfy the Graduate School residence requirements.

  • Thesis option: 24 coursework credits plus research leading to a master's thesis (6 research credits). There will be a public presentation of a seminar on the subject of the thesis and its oral defense. 
  • Project option: 26 coursework credits plus research leading to a scholarly written report (4 research credits). There will be a public presentation of a seminar on the subject of the research project and its oral defense.
  • Coursework-only option: 30 coursework credits.

Further information can be found in the MSE handbook.

PhD Requirements

The PhD program places an emphasis on in-depth training, with the expectation of a significant original research contribution. PhD students are required to complete 24 coursework credits and at least 6 credits of dissertation research. To advance to candidacy, students must pass a set of written examinations and a prospectus examination. 

Minimum Requirements for PhD

  • Completion of required coursework and Graduate School residence requirements.
  • Meet the proficiency in teaching requirement.
  • Satisfaction of comprehensive exam requirement.
  • Submission of proposal/prospectus and presentation on proposed research.
  • Acceptance of prospectus outlining dissertation research.
  • The completion of an original piece of work in a specialized area of materials. 
  • Submission of dissertation.
  • Successful defense of dissertation at oral examination.

Further information can be found in the MSE handbook.