The master’s degree is offered under Plan A (thesis option) and Plan B (non-thesis option). Candidates for the degree under Plan A must complete 24 credit hours of course work and submit and defend a thesis that demonstrates research ability. The required course work includes the materials science core (MSE 632, 635, 650, 781) as well as appropriate electives selected in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies. In certain exceptional cases (as determined by the faculty), a non-thesis M.S. may be undertaken (Plan B). The non-thesis option requires 30 hours of course work that includes the materials science core, and is only available to those students with prior research or industrial experience. For both Plan A and Plan B, at least half of all graduate course work must be at the 600 level or above. 

Admission to the M.S. and Ph.D. degree programs is on a competitive basis, and financial assistance is available through teaching and research assistantships, as well as a limited number of fellowships. Applicants should have a minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 on all undergraduate work. Persons with backgrounds in any physical science or engineering discipline are encouraged to apply, as each applicant’s qualifications are reviewed individually. Minimum requirements for admission include a bachelor’s degree and four semesters of university-level calculus, calculus-based physics, and chemistry. Please note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as acceptance is on a competitive and space-available basis.

• CV
• Personal Statement
• Three letters of recommendation

The GRE is not required for admission to the M.S. and Ph.D. programs in Materials Science and Engineering.

Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Fall: February 1

Spring: August 1