Ranked 42nd nationally in materials engineering graduate programs, by US News & World Report
Advanced Degrees in Materials Science and Engineering
Materials science and engineering focuses on the synthesis, processing, properties, and applications of engineering materials—from the production of primary metals to the development of microelectronic nanomaterials with novel properties. Michigan Tech granted its first PhD in Metallurgy in 1934 and remains a leader in research and graduate education, now offering PhD and MS degrees in Materials Science and Engineering.
The graduate program offered by the Department of Materials Science and Engineering provides an outstanding foundation for careers in research, academia, materials production, and manufacturing. Current Michigan Tech undergraduate students can earn a MS degree with just a single year of study beyond the BS through the Accelerated Master's Program.
Graduate students have the opportunity to study composite materials, ceramics, metals and alloys, electronic and optical materials, and polymers. Research topics include synthesis and processing of primary materials, thermodynamics and kinetics of microstructural evolution, and material properties and performance, to name a few. Current research spans the entire spectrum of materials engineering and involves more than twenty-five government and industry partners. Students interact closely with automotive and primary metals industry.
Fast Facts
- Ranked among the best in the nation by US News & World Report
- Faculty are nationally and internationally recognized for their teaching, research, and professional service. Many have received prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER Awards and are recognized by professional societies.
- The ratio of graduate students to faculty is 2.5:1.
- Excellent research facilities
- Close interaction between faculty and graduate students
- Successful alumni in industry, academia, and entrepreneurship
- This program is available as an accelerated master's degree.
Degree Options
Online Degree Programs
MSE offers graduate online programs for non-thesis MS, thesis MS, and PhD degrees on a case-by-case basis. The online degree track is typically available to candidates who would receive tuition and research support from their employer. Online graduate degrees have the same credit requirements as the on-campus degree programs. The research component of an online MS or PhD degree is carried out at the place of the candidate's employment, involving co-advisors from the workplace and a Michigan Tech faculty member. There is no specified residency requirement for this program, although the candidate for a research degree is expected to travel to the campus of Michigan Tech for the thesis/dissertation defense and qualifying exams (PhD).