College of Engineering

Materials Science & Engineering

Undergraduate Degrees

B.S. Materials Science & Engineering

Our faculty are recognized worldwide for their excellence in teaching and research. Their commitment to excellence provides you with the very best opportunities for realizing your own academic pursuits.

During your first two years you will build a strong foundation in chemistry, math, and physics courses. Placement exams are given at the beginning of each semester in the areas of chemistry and mathematics.

Students who have not taken an advanced placement exam in these areas while in high school are encouraged to take the exams prior to the start of classes.

Upper division courses will teach you how to apply the principles of chemistry to engineering design, and prepare you to design your own solutions to many of the world's chemical and biological challenges.

Graduate Degrees

The Materials Science and Engineering program offers the Master of Science (M.S.) and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in materials science and engineering. These programs include a mix of theoretical and practical study most appropriate to each student. Studies include topics on nanotechnology, electronic materials, alternative energy materials (nuclear, solar, etc.), and advanced materials processing techniques, as well as other traditional materials science areas, such as corrosion, welding, powder metallurgy etc.. Some students prefer to work on applied problems that are presented by industry or research establishments in the area, generally with funding from outside sources. Studies can be tailored to individual interests.

These advanced studies are financed by research grants, an industry sponsor, or occasionally by departmental funding. They are designed to train the individual in research methods and investigative procedures that will later enhance his or her ability in industrial or research environments or in teaching. The master's program involves both class work and research; the latter being designed to familiarize the student with research methods. In the doctoral program, the student is expected to break new ground and advance the field both scientifically and to maintain the competitive technological lead enjoyed in the U.S. for so many years. The master's program generally requires 12 to 24 months beyond the baccalaureate degree and the doctoral program usually entails at least three years beyond the baccalaureate degree.

Graduate studies in this department are highly diversified in order to accommodate the needs of most students who have a good basic background in the physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Areas of expertise include chemical reaction engineering; simulation, optimization and process design especially for the pulp and paper and food applications; hazardous waste characterization and bioremediation; membrane, nano-science, fluid mechanics, biochemical engineering; and mass transfer research.