top mse phd programs

Best Materials Engineering Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Engineering Schools

Materials engineers creatively find new ways to use

Materials engineers creatively find new ways to use products and may specialize in a specific material, such as plastics, ceramics or steel. These are the top graduate schools for materials engineering. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

For full rankings, GRE scores and student debt data, sign up for the U.S. News Engineering School Compass .

Here are the Best Materials Engineering Programs

Massachusetts institute of technology, northwestern university (mccormick), stanford university, university of california, berkeley, university of illinois urbana-champaign (grainger), university of california--santa barbara, cornell university, georgia institute of technology, university of michigan--ann arbor.

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Cambridge , MA

• # 1 in Materials Engineering
• # 1 in Best Engineering Schools

$57,590 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,222 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $75 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $57,590 per... Read More »

Engineering school

Tuition and fees (master's).

$57,590 per year (full-time)

ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

Average quantitative gre.

Evanston , IL

• # 2 in Materials Engineering  (tie)
• # 17 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$62,163 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$7,372 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,188 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $95 for U.S. residents and $95 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $62,163 per... Read More »

$62,163 per year (full-time)

$7,372 per credit (part-time)

Stanford , CA

• # 2 in Best Engineering Schools

$66,297 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,469 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $125 for U.S. residents and $125 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $66,29... Read More »

$66,297 per year (full-time)

Berkeley , CA

• # 3 in Best Engineering Schools

$11,700 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$26,802 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,673 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $135 for U.S. residents and $155 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $11,700... Read More »

$11,700 per year (in-state, full-time)

$26,802 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Urbana , IL

• # 11 in Best Engineering Schools

$19,320 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$36,798 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,812 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $70 for U.S. residents and $90 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $19,320 per... Read More »

$19,320 per year (in-state, full-time)

$36,798 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Santa Barbara , CA

• # 6 in Materials Engineering
• # 27 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$12,852 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$27,954 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

789 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $135 for U.S. residents and $155 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $12,85... Read More »

$12,852 per year (in-state, full-time)

$27,954 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Ithaca , NY

• # 7 in Materials Engineering  (tie)
• # 13 in Best Engineering Schools

$29,500 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,602 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,617 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at Cornell University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $105 for... Read More »

$29,500 per year (full-time)

$2,602 per credit (part-time)

Atlanta , GA

• # 5 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$14,064 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$29,140 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,784 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $85 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $14,064 per... Read More »

$14,064 per year (in-state, full-time)

$29,140 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Ann Arbor , MI

• # 7 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$29,466 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$55,276 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,800 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at University of Michigan--Ann Arbor has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$29,466 per year (in-state, full-time)

$55,276 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena , CA

• # 10 in Materials Engineering

N/A TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

548 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $100 for international students. The 2022 Ph.D. student-faculty ratio... Read More »

Pennsylvania State University--University Park

University Park , PA

• # 11 in Materials Engineering
• # 32 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$26,062 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$43,260 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,209 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at Pennsylvania State University--University Park has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$26,062 per year (in-state, full-time)

$43,260 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie)

Pittsburgh , PA

• # 12 in Materials Engineering

$52,100 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,172 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,843 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Carnegie Institute of Technology at Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$52,100 per year (full-time)

$2,172 per credit (part-time)

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More Schools in this List (Alphabetical)

Air force institute of technology.

Wright Patterson AFB , OH

• in Materials Engineering
• Unranked in Best Engineering Schools

N/A ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

Read More »

Alfred University--New York State College of Ceramics (Inamori)

Alfred , NY

• # 183-202 in Best Engineering Schools

$23,400 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$840 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

29 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering at Alfred University--New York State College of Ceramics (Inamori) has a... Read More »

$23,400 per year (full-time)

$840 per credit (part-time)

Arizona State University (Fulton)

• # 41 in Best Engineering Schools

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$32,656 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,464 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $70 for U.S. residents and $115 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $12,01... Read More »

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time)

$32,656 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Auburn University (Ginn)

Auburn , AL

• # 55 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$10,386 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$31,158 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

636 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering at Auburn University (Ginn) has a rolling application deadline. The application... Read More »

$10,386 per year (in-state, full-time)

$31,158 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson)

Binghamton , NY

• # 112 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$11,310 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$23,100 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,095 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science at Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson) has a rolling... Read More »

$11,310 per year (in-state, full-time)

$23,100 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Boise State University

• # 132 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$10,068 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$27,405 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

181 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at Boise State University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $65 for... Read More »

$10,068 per year (in-state, full-time)

$27,405 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Boston University

Boston , MA

• # 34 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$61,050 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$1,908 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,230 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $95 for U.S. residents and $95 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $61,050 per... Read More »

$61,050 per year (full-time)

$1,908 per credit (part-time)

Brown University

Providence , RI

• # 63 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$9,132 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$9,132 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

The School of Engineering at Brown University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $75 for U.S... Read More »

$9,132 per credit (full-time)

$9,132 per credit (part-time)

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Consistently ranked among the top 10 materials science and engineering graduate programs by  U.S. News & World Report (currently #8), the Cornell Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) graduate field offers students a world-class education in a world-class research environment. We invite you to explore our  three graduate degrees : M.Eng., M.S., and Ph.D.

Our MSE graduate field includes more than 40 faculty members across three colleges and 10 departments, and our faculty routinely conduct interdisciplinary research with members of other departments. For our graduate students, this provides exposure to a broad spectrum of concepts and the experience of an unusually collaborative culture.

MSE graduate students master a set of core concepts and principles critical to a fundamental understanding of materials science and engineering, but also have tremendous flexibility in designing a sequence of coursework and research. With guidance and approval, programs are tailored to meet particular needs and interests across four strategic research areas: Energy Production and Storage, Electronics and Photonics, Bio-inspired Materials and Systems, and Green Technologies.

Admissions Questions? Email: [email protected]

Contacts for the Graduate Programs: 

Cornell University Materials Science & Engineering 210 Bard Hall Ithaca, NY 14853-1501

Eve Donnelly Director of Graduate Studies (MS, PhD)

Shefford Baker Director of MSE MEng Program

[email protected] Graduate Field Representative

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Academics   /   Graduate Study Materials Science and Engineering (PhD)

The PhD program in materials science and engineering was the first in the world and is internationally renowned for the excellence of its graduates.

To pursue a broad range of research, we actively seek students with diverse backgrounds and undergraduate training, including physicists, chemists, and engineers from other disciplines.

Learn more about the department's research areas

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Download a PDF program guide about your program of interest, and get in contact with our graduate admissions staff.

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Biotechnology Training Program

The biotechnology training program is an interdisciplinary and interdepartmental program that provides select graduate students with greater research and training opportunities than those available through individual departments.

Management for Scientists and Engineers certificate program

The Graduate School collaborates with the Kellogg School of Management to offer the management for scientists and engineers certificate program taught by Kellogg School faculty that will equip promising doctoral students with necessary business and leadership skills.

Career Paths

With a PhD in materials science, students can choose the career path best for them. Graduates work in academia, national laboratories (Argonne, Los Alamos, NIST, Sandia), find industry jobs (Apple, Boeing, GE, Intel), work for the government, and work for non-profits.

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Materials Science and Engineering, PhD

Whiting school of engineering, admission requirements.

To be admitted to graduate study in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, students must submit credentials sufficient to convince the faculty that they have the potential to successfully complete the program requirements.

A graduate student pursuing a Ph.D. with the Department of Materials Science and Engineering who is funded by the department as a teaching assistant or research assistant may not enroll simultaneously in a master’s program in another department, unless they receive written approval from their advisor, the DMSE Doctoral Program Committee, and the department chair/head.

Please visit the WSE Graduate Admissions website for more information.

Program Requirements

To receive the Ph.D. degree, the candidate must fulfill the requirements below. The department must be satisfied that all academic requirements have been satisfied by the candidate before a recommendation will be made to the University Graduate Board to confer the Ph.D. degree.

• Students who have an undergraduate degree in Materials Science & Engineering may waive EN.510.615.
• Students who have completed prior graduate-level coursework substantially similar to one of the other courses,   EN.510.601 Structure Of Materials , EN.510.602 Thermodynamics Of Materials or EN.510.603 Phase Transformations of Materials  or EN.510.610 Fundamentals of Biomaterials may waive that couse. 
• Students desiring a waiver of a required course must submit their petition no later than the end of the first semester after matriculation.  If the petition requests a waiver on the basis of graduate-level coursework taken elsewhere, documentation of the course level, content (syllabus) and grade received must be included in the petition

​​2.   Successful completion of three advanced (600-level or higher) elective courses in materials science and engineering or a related field .

• Elective courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher, but there is no cumulative GPA requirement. Any 600-level or higher regular course in materials science and engineering may be used to fulfill this requirement.  Courses from other departments may also be used, but must either appear on the list of approved electives (available from the Academic Program Administrator) or be approved by the Doctoral Program Committee. Students wishing to use a course not on this list must submit a request to the Doctoral Program Committee no later than the end of the first week of the semester in which the course is taken. 

The following courses may not be used to fulfill the Ph.D. elective course:

• Undergraduate courses, unless cross-listed at 600-level or higher
• Graduate Research (EN.510.807 or EN.510.808)
• Courses in part-time graduate programs (Engineering for Professionals in WSE or Advanced Academic Programs in KSAS), unless by rare exception by the Doctoral Program Committee with an endorsement from the student's advisor;
• Seminars (courses with fewer than three contact hours per week

Waiver of elective courses:   Students who have completed prior graduate-level coursework may petition the Doctoral Program Committee to waive one of the elective courses. Students desiring such a waiver must submit a petition, no later than the end of the first semester after matriculation, describing the course they wish to use to fulfill this requirement.  Documentation of the course level, content (syllabus) and grade received must be included in the petition. In some cases, an advisor may require a student to complete additional coursework, beyond the four required courses and three electives described above.

3. Coursework required by Whiting School of Engineering policy. These include the following:

• Responsible Conduct of Research training ( AS.360.624 Responsible Conduct of Research (Online) or AS.360.625 Responsible Conduct of Research ) in accordance with Whiting School of Engineering policy. Details about this requirement, including the criteria for determining whether the online or in-person course must be taken, are provided in the  description of the policy .
• Training on academic ethics in accordance with Whiting School of Engineering  policy . This requirement can be satisfied by passing EN.500.603 Graduate Orientation and Academic Ethics .
• Attendance is required at the weekly Department of Materials Science & Engineering Seminar (EN.510.803 or EN.510.804)

4.  Teaching Assistant Requirement: Students in their second year in the department will be required to act as teaching assistant for two courses .

5.  Successful completion of a comprehensive oral examination.  The exam is offered semiannually, usually the week before the beginning of the fall semester and the spring semester.  The exam covers three areas of materials science and engineering:

• Structure of Materials
• Thermodynamics of Materials
• Either Kinetics and Phase Transformations in Materials​ OR Biomaterials (at the student's choice) ​

Although these subject areas correspond to the four core courses, the topics covered in the exam are not strictly limited to material covered in those courses.  Furthermore, each section may include questions related to the properties of materials at a level similar to that covered in EN.510.615 (Physical Properties of Materials).

Additional information about the oral exam is provided in the document Information for Doctoral Students regarding the oral comprehensive examination , available from the Academic Program Coordinator.

6.  A proposal for a research project to form the basis of the candidate’s dissertation . Each student must write a dissertation proposal and present it orally at a public seminar no later than the end of the sixth semester following matriculation. The written dissertation proposal must be submitted to the department no later than two weeks prior to the scheduled date of the oral presentation. The public seminar will be followed by a closed session with a committee consisting of the research advisor and two other faculty members (to be selected in consultation with the advisor). During the closed session, the committee members will ask questions about and provide comments on the proposed plan of research. The thesis proposal is also an examination, with the committee testing the candidate’s depth of knowledge in their area of specialization (and not only on the proposed research). Students who do not successfully complete the dissertation proposal requirement by the end of the sixth semester following matriculation will be placed on probation, with a specified time limit (ordinarily no more than six months) within which to complete this requirement and be removed from probation. Students on probation who do not complete the dissertation proposal requirement within the specified time limit will be dismissed from the program.

7.  Completion of an original research project, documented in a dissertation that is defended by the candidate in a public presentation . Candidates must write a dissertation conforming to university requirements that describes their work and results in detail. A public defense of the dissertation is required, and will be followed by a closed examination session. The committee for the closed examination shall consist of five faculty members, chosen by the Doctoral Program Committee, with at least two members being from outside the department. The outcome of the closed examination will be decided by majority vote of the committee. Because the closed examination session fulfills the university Graduate Board Oral (GBO) examination requirement, all procedures pertaining to GBOs as established by the University Graduate Board must be followed. The committee may impose certain conditions (e.g. changes to the dissertation) for the candidate to meet prior to final certification that they have passed the exam. For this reason, the thesis defense must be scheduled for a date at least two months prior to any personal or university deadline for degree completion. A complete draft of the dissertation must be submitted to all committee members no later than two weeks prior to the defense. The dissertation in its final form must be read and approved in writing by two members of the committee (the advisor and one other member to be chosen by the committee as a whole).

PhD Admissions

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The PhD program provides training through advanced coursework and an in-depth thesis research experience. Applicants with an undergraduate degree or a Master’s degree in Materials Science or a related field (e.g., physics, chemistry, engineering) are welcome to apply. All PhD students in good standing receive financial support, including a living stipend/salary, full tuition, and a health insurance subsidy.

Application submissions for Autumn 2024-2025 open on September 15. Apply Now.

Review our Frequently Asked Questions   BEFORE posing your questions!

TOEFL: Please note Applicants whose first language is not English must submit an official test score from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Please see  Stanford's Graduate Admissions Student Affairs Website (Required Exams ) for information regarding Minimum TOEFL Requirements, Exemptions, and Waivers. Please note we DO NOT process TOEFL or TOEFL Waivers at the Department Level. This is handled by Stanford Graduate Admissions. You must request a waiver within the online application. 

GRE: Students who wish to apply for admission to our graduate (PhD and MS) program 2024-2025 academic year are  not required  to take the GRE or submit a GRE score report as part of their application process.

APPLICATION FEE AND FEE WAIVERS:  The fee for online graduate applications is $125. Any graduate program applicant may apply for a fee waiver through the Stanford School of Engineering. Additionally, all US applicants who qualify for a GRE Fee Reduction or were participants in one of the Diversity Programs listed automatically qualify for a  graduate application fee waiver . We do not consider application fee waivers within the Department - this is processed through Stanford Graduate Admissions. 

Graduate fee waiver

The university application is on the Graduate Admissions website. Please read all the information provided before applying (any general graduate admission information given on the Materials Science and Engineering website is subject to revision by the Graduate Admissions Office). TOEFL tests must be taken early enough for us to receive the test scores by the application deadline. No late test scores, recommendation letters, transcripts, or other applicable supporting materials will be accepted.

The application consists of the following required materials, all of which must be received by the appropriate deadline for the application to be considered complete:

• Online application completed
• Statement of purpose 
• Please submit your unofficial transcript(s) from all post-secondary institutions you have attended for at least one year. If admitted to the MSE program, you will be asked to provide an official transcript(s). You'll be asked to provide a second official transcript if you get admitted to the program.
• A minimum of three (3), maximum of six (6) recommendation letters submitted online directly by the recommenders.* These letters can come from a wide range of individuals, such as research and academic advisors, instructors, and workplace supervisors.
• Stanford's institution code is 4704; no department code is needed.

In light of the current situation with the ongoing COVID-19 health concern, Stanford reaffirms its commitment to perform an individualized, holistic review of each applicant to its graduate and professional programs. We recognize that students may have faced significant challenges during the period of disruption caused by the pandemic, and we will take such individual circumstances into account during the application review. Importantly, we will respect decisions regarding the adoption of Credit/No Credit and other grading options during this unprecedented period of COVID-19 disruption, whether they are made by institutions or by individual students. Our goal remains to form graduate student cohorts that are excellent and encompass a diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences that enrich the graduate educational experience.

We are aware of some school closings in areas impacted during the period of the Coronavirus pandemic, and that it may have delayed some courses of study as well as the reporting of official school documents. If you have been impacted by this, please contact our office to request an extension: [email protected] . We will do our best to work with you and your department.

Due to COVID-19, the testing of TOEFL iBT has experienced disruptions in many locations throughout countries. To accommodate test-takers, Educational Testing Services (ETS) is offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition. The TOEFL iBT is typically required of all applicants to graduate study when English is not the first language and the applicant does not qualify for an exemption; this is a University requirement. The TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition is a safe and convenient option for students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT test at a test center due to public health concerns. Stanford will temporarily accept the TOEFL iBT® Home Edition from any applicants who are unable to sit for the TOEFL iBT. This exception is only for the 2023-2024 application cycle. If you are offered admission and accept the offer, you may be asked to take an English Placement Exam at Stanford.

We urge you to apply early and make every attempt to get your questions answered early. Please refer to Frequently Asked Questions and our tips and tricks BEFORE submitting your questions. Due to the volume of inquiries that we receive, we have compiled the most asked questions and have summarized the answers into these two documents. Please refer to our Program Requirements page before submitting your questions about programmatic requirements. Should your question not be answered in our Frequently Asked Questions and tips and tricks, please direct your questions to: [email protected] . Late applications on a space-available-only basis. We may accept late applications only if there is still space in our incoming class.

This situation is extremely rare. Please contact the department with specifics of why you were unable to apply by the deadline (eg. a medical emergency that started before the application opened and lasted until the application closed). For the PhD program, financial aid is highly unlikely if you miss the original application deadline. Reinstatement Application for Reinstatement in Graduate Study (PDF) If you are an admitted graduate student who has not maintained continuous registration (or been on an approved leave of absence), you must apply for reinstatement. After completing this form, submit it to your department for approval and then submit it to Graduate Admissions. If approved for reinstatement, you will be billed for the reinstatement fee.

PhD Program Specific Q&A:

Q: What is the best way to contact faculty and find out about their research?

A: All of the faculty members have public pages on the Stanford online directory, including contact information, and many have links to their labs. The web is a great place to start. The MSE website also has links to our faculty.

Q: Does your department consider diversity, equity, and inclusion during the admissions process?

A: We invite excellent students from all backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented groups in engineering, to consider Stanford University for their graduate studies. In making admissions decisions, the Department of Materials Science and Engineering will comply with the requirements of the law as determined by the Supreme Court of the United States, evaluating each applicant based on their "experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race.” We continue to value a diverse student body that benefits the educational experience of our students and our mission of generating knowledge at Stanford University. 

Q: I want to apply now, but I will not be able to start until next Autumn (September 2025). Should I still apply?

A: If you know you are unable to start next Autumn quarter, please do not apply. We generally do not offer deferrals to PhD students unless there is an urgent, valid medical/family reason.

Q: If I am admitted, can I defer for a quarter or two?

A: The PhD program starts in Autumn. If you need to defer, you will need to request a whole-year deferral. Deferral requests are not always approved. If you know in advance that you cannot start school the following Autumn, please wait to apply in a future year.

Q: I cannot afford graduate school. How can I apply for a fellowship?

A: We provide full financial support to all of our PhD students for the duration of their program, contingent on maintaining satisfactory degree progress. This financial support includes a living stipend/salary, full payment of tuition, and a health insurance subsidy. We strongly encourage all applicants to apply for outside fellowships, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Q: Is it possible to get a teaching or research assistantship?

A: Yes! All PhD students without fellowships are placed in teaching or research assistantship positions. The selection of a research topic is carried out by mutual agreement between the student and the advisor(s). This financial support includes a living stipend/salary, full payment of tuition, and a health insurance subsidy.

Q:  What are your acceptance rates?

A:  A typical admit class is about 20-25 PhD students per year. 

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 31
• Students: 91 Ph.D., 50 M.S.
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100% of Ph.D. Students, 10% of M.S. students
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Spring, Fall
• Application deadlines: Spring: October 2; Fall: December 14
• Learn about our PhD program at mems.duke.edu/phd .
• Email the PhD program

Program Description

Graduate students in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science (MEMS) work in close collaboration with world-renowned faculty on state-of-the-art, interdisciplinary research programs. The low faculty-to-student ratio provides a close-knit scholarly community while an active Graduate Student Committee provides peer mentorship and support. The graduate curricula are uncommonly flexible whereby the students can define the academic path that best suits their professional goals. 

Learn more about our faculty, research, and student projects at the departmental website: http://mems.duke.edu/

Concentrations/Research Specialties

PhD in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

• Aerospace Engineering
• Dynamics, Controls & Robotics
• Materials Science & Biomaterials
• Mechanics, Design & Computing
• Thermal Fluids & Energy
• Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Spring, Fall

Application Deadlines:  Spring: October 2; Fall: December 14

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required (See department guidance below)
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Statement of Purpose

Write a statement (single-spaced, 12-point font) addressing the questions below.

1.    Please describe your past research experience at your college/university, REU, or relevant industry experience (500 words max). What questions were you working to address? What experimental, computational, or theoretical skills did you learn? 

2.    For any grades lower than a B, please explain the circumstances of this grade and any steps you took to make sure you learned the material (50 words max).

3.    Why are you interested in pursuing a PhD? And why at Duke? Which faculty members and research areas are you interested in and why? (200 words max)

4.    Earning a PhD is a challenging and intense experience. Please share a past experience where you have had to overcome challenges and how you addressed the challenges (200 words max).

5.    (Optional) Duke MEMS is a welcoming community of students, faculty, and staff. How will you contribute to this community (100 words max)? Possible examples include past leadership roles in student groups, volunteer work, demonstrated ability to work with teams, teaching and tutoring experience, etc.

6.    (Optional) Please describe your current career goals (100 words max). Duke MEMS prides itself in the success of our PhD students in industry and academia. Many students do internships in industry or national labs during their PhD. In addition, the new Thomas Lord Engineering in Service to Society Fellowship provides funding for PhD internships in government, policy, and non-profits.   

Writing Sample None required

Additional Components Masters: Providing a recorded video response is required. The video recording platform is available within the online application.

PhD: Providing a recorded video response is optional. For international students, completion of a video can potentially negate the need for a live language interview later on in the application process. If you choose to include a video, the video recording platform is available within the online application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying:  Departmental Application Guidance (PhD)

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

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• Graduate Catalog /
• School of Engineering and Applied Science /

Materials Science and Engineering, PhD

Materials science is a highly versatile discipline that enables innovations across a wide variety of technologies from cell phones to solar energy to bioimplants to airplanes. Applying insights from the basic sciences, this discipline designs new materials and fabrication methods to continually expand the scope and combination of mechanical, electrical, optical and transport properties available in materials. The newer fields of nanotechnology, biomaterials and quantum materials are providing materials scientists with an entirely new palette of atomic, molecular, organic, biological and inorganic building blocks to engineer materials with unique functionalities. The research and academic programs in the MSE Department and the broader MSE Graduate Group at Penn reflect these exciting new developments and our goal is to provide students enrolling in our program with a broad and multidisciplinary training so that they can be part of this materials revolution and contribute to solving the 21st century challenges.

For more information: http://www.mse.seas.upenn.edu/current-students/masters/doctoral-degree.php

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs .

Required Courses

Students are required to take at least 10 graduate level courses, including courses outside of their research area to gain a broader understanding of materials science and engineering. Doctoral students with a Master's degree may transfer up to eight credits as course units to the Ph.D. program upon the approval of the Graduate Group Chair. However, a maximum of five transferred courses count toward the 10 courses required for the Ph.D. program.

Non-core courses may be selected from offerings within MSE and other departments in SEAS, as well as the physical, biological, and mathematical sciences.

Courses must be at the 5000 level or greater.

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

Sample Plan of Study 

The Qualifying Examination will be held at the end of May after the second semester.

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A PDF of the entire 2023-24 catalog.

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2020 Best Materials Engineering Graduate Programs Ranking by U.S.News (2016 - 2020)

Posted by MSE Supplies Admin on Mar 25, 2019

• The top 10 schools on the list remain the same year over year.  Among the top 10 schools, University  of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has advanced the most on the rankings over the last year, leaping from No. 6 to No. 3. In contract, University  of California—Berkeley moved from No. 3 to No. 6.  
• Harvard University, moved back to No. 14 after being ranked at No. 11 last year. 
• Colorado  School of Mines climbed up over the year from No. 30 to the current spot of No. 22. 
• Rice  University is now ranked at No. 26 as compared to No. 33 a year ago.  
• Among the top 50 programs, University  of Tennessee - Knoxville gained an impressive 17 spots from last year.

Review the list below to see the detailed ranking numbers compiled by   MSE Supplies  ( www.msesupplies.com ) . 

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20 Best Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering

Ready to find your ideal master's program.

www.mastersprogramsguide.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

• their properties
• their applications
• economic elements
• environmental elements
• social elements elements
• information technology
• manufacturing
• sustainability
• changes affecting the natural environment
• research centers and institutes
• specialized laboratories that offer MSE equipment for students to use
• make discoveries in and contributions to the field of materials science
• the use of materials in contemporary society
• the textures and structures that shape the manmade environment

See Also:  10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

• computer modeling and simulation
• emerging technologies
• laboratory experiments
• attention to detail
• independence
• persistence
• three letters of recommendation
• a written statement outlining the applicant’s personal background, academic and professional background, research interests, and/or career goals

A current resume or curriculum vitae is required for some programs. 

• guide them in their research
• conduct research alongside the student
• serve on the thesis committee
• prior academic performance
• standardized test scores
• professional background
• career goals
• research interests

See Also: Best Master of Environmental Science

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

• $5,000 toward the recipient’s MSE education
• $1,000 travel stipend to the society’s annual conference
• two materials processing and manufacturing scholarships of $2,500 each year
• seven yearly George A. Roberts scholarships of $6,000 each
• Lucille & Charles A. Wert Scholarship of up to $10,000 for one year of study
• annual American Society for Metals International Outstanding Scholars Awards to three promising students
• materials science
• any engineering discipline
• an engineering discipline
• undergraduate background
• beginning studies as grad students

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE IN MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING? 

• biomedical field
• health and human welfare sector
• energy, environment, and sustainable systems
• electronics or transportation industries
• defense and security sector
• design studios
• research and development laboratories
• create proposals
• plan budgets
• write reports
• analyze data
• ceramic engineers
• composites engineers
• metallurgical engineers
• plastics engineers
• semiconductor processing engineers
• internships
• cooperative learning experience
• hands-on research experience
• advanced degrees
• specialized knowledge
• cutting-edge research experience
• chemical process engineering
• engineering design
• manufacturing process engineering
• product development

A PhD degree is not typically needed for a material science and engineering management position.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING DEGREES?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. Georgia Institute of Technology

Master of science in materials science and engineering.

Georgia Tech’s College of Engineering houses the School of Materials Science and Engineering. Its research centers and facilities include:

• Georgia Tech Polymer Network
• Renewable Bioproducts Institute
• Soft Matter Incubator
• Strategic Energy Institute

The school’s research areas focus on materials such as:

• biomaterials
• nanomaterials

The school conducts research activities relating to areas such as energy storage and harvesting and biomedical implants and drug delivery. 

The MSE School has been in place for over a century. The school’s Master of Science degree program, however, is a relatively new and contemporary program. 

Applicants to the MS in Materials Science and Engineering program must submit their scores from the general portion of the Graduate Record Exam. Students must submit their GRE scores within five years of taking the exam. Applicants typically hear back about admittance in the spring and enter the following fall semester. It begins in mid-August.

The MSE program focuses on materials research. Almost half of the MSE School’s faculty members specialize in polymers. Students enrolled in the program can choose between three track options:

• industrial internship

The degree program also offers opportunities for:

• cooperative learning
• study abroad experiences

Students have options to get involved on campus through Georgia Tech’s Student Advisory Council or Materials Umbrella Society. 

The curriculum covers:

• functional materials
• thermodynamics

Course examples include:

• Advanced X-Ray Diffraction
• Integrated Low-Cost Microelectronics System Packaging
• Scattering Theory
• Transmission Electron Microscopy

Graduate MSE students can also expect to complete a teaching practicum, which requires them to teach at least three lectures in a particular subject area. 

Most MSE courses meet two or three times per week, during the day, on the university’s campus in midtown Atlanta, GA. Students may pursue their degree on a part-time basis, but part-time students do not qualify for financial aid.

Graduates of the Georgia Tech MSE program often go on to work for leading academic institutions, business organizations, and government research laboratories worldwide. 

The Georgia Tech MSE program offers a joint Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in materials science and engineering program. This allows students to pursue the BS and MS concurrently at an accelerated pace. The school also offers a Doctor of Philosophy MSE program. The Ph.D. program welcomes students from a variety of MS backgrounds, including those with majors in:

• biomedical engineering
• chemical engineering
• mechanical engineering
• polymer engineering
• textile engineering

Students interested in financial aid information can find it here .

#2.  Texas A&M University

The interdisciplinary Master of Science program combines creativity and research in the field and offers students the choice between a thesis or non-thesis option. The Master of Engineering in materials science and engineering is a non-thesis program open to students who hold a Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline. The M.Ed. degree program requires students to complete one or two written reports on research in their materials science and engineering area of study. The 36-credit MS program requires up to six credit hours of directed studies courses. The 30-credit M.Ed. program allows for a maximum of three credits of directed studies.

Both programs require students to complete courses in Fundamental Materials Science and Engineering and Quantum Mechanics for Materials Scientists. Students must also choose four designated electives and two free electives in subjects relevant to their research areas. Designated elective options include:

• Crystallography and Crystal Structure Determination
• Surface Science
• Thin Film Science and Technology

Each student must also successfully complete one mathematics course and an MSE seminar. 

Most graduate students enrolled in programs through the university’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering engage in research assistantships. This involves conducting professor-supervised research in an area of materials science and engineering interest. Students can expect to be offered multiple hands-on research opportunities on the university’s campus in College Station, TX. Students also have the option to complete a real-world internship in the field.

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering operates and maintains relationships with research facilities and laboratories throughout the Texas A&M campus. In 1977, Vladimir Segal invented the Equal Channel Angular Extrusion process in the former Soviet Union. Segal went on to work as an associate in the TAMU Equal Channel Angular Extrusion Laboratory. TAMU Deformation Processing Laboratory researchers continue to conduct research on the process, which involves deforming plastic in uniform ways to avoid majorly disrupting geometric shape. 

Other notable Texas A&M MSE-related labs include:

• High Bay Structural and Materials Testing Laboratory
• Materials Characterization Facility
• Polymer Technology Consortium
• Soft Matter Facility

Many of these labs are interdisciplinary. They are operated by and/or affiliated with various disciplines within the university. This includes:

• aerospace engineering
• agriculture

Recent and ongoing research efforts within the Department of Materials Science and Engineering relate to areas such as:

• chronic wound repair
• dental implants
• jet engine efficiency
• airplane noise

Texas A&M also offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree program in Materials Science and Engineering. 

#3.  University of Illinois

Master of science in materials science & engineering.

The university’s Materials Science and Engineering department is the second-largest materials department in the United States. It serves a student body of approximately 200 students. It emphasizes interdisciplinary research and nationwide collaboration. Materials faculty and students conduct specialized research in areas such as:

• electronics

The graduate program welcomes students with undergraduate backgrounds in various scientific and engineering disciplines, including:

Applicants to the program will be evaluated based on:

• undergraduate academic performance
• letters of recommendation
• statements of purpose

Applicants must submit:

• undergraduate transcripts
• a single-page written statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals

Applicants must demonstrate a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The average incoming GPA is 3.65. Individuals who demonstrate a GPA of at least 3.5 may request an application fee waiver. Upon application, individuals must indicate their area of specialized research interest. The application deadline is December 15 of each year.

The MS in materials science and engineering program is generally a non-thesis degree program Students may pursue a master’s research thesis under special circumstances. The MS program with a thesis component requires a total of 32 credit hours of study. The non-thesis option requires 36 credit hours. Research assistantships are not typically permitted for non-thesis students.

MSE students may choose to specialize in:

• biomechanics
• cancer nanotechnology
• computational science and engineering

Each MSE student must engage in four semesters of Materials Colloquia and Hard Materials Seminars and Soft Materials Seminars in each summer of residence. 

The MS in materials science & engineering curriculum covers areas including:

• computational materials
• electronic materials
• polymers and soft materials
• Atomic Scale Simulations
• Dynamics of Complex Fluids
• Physical Inorganic Chemistry
• Structure and Spectroscopy

The degree program includes qualification, preliminary, and final exams in areas such as:

• dynamics of macromolecular fluids
• optical properties of materials
• physical metallurgy

Students can typically earn their MS in materials science and engineering from Illinois in one and a half to two years of study. The degree program is designed to prepare graduates to conduct innovative research in academia, industry, and/or national laboratories.

The Materials Science and Engineering department hosts seminars in colloquia in various areas of materials science and engineering. The department’s current research projects include the development of faster-charging lithium-ion batteries through three-dimensionally nanostructured electrodes. Departmental research facilities include the Frederick Seitz Materials Research Laboratory. It boasts world-class equipment and strong research training. 

Students interested in financial aid information can find it  here .

#4.  University of California, Los Angeles

UCLA is home to the Samueli Department of Materials Science and Engineering within its School of Engineering and Applied Science. The department primarily serves graduate students. There is a current grad student population of more than 200 students. 

The Samueli Department also houses 14 different research facilities, including specialized centers and laboratories. Centers include:

• Functional Engineered Nano-Architectonics Focus Center
• Broad Stem Cell Research Center
• California NanoSystems Institute

Labs include:

• Archaeomaterials Group
• Electronic Materials Group
• Electronic Thin Film Lab
• Soft Materials Research Lab

Current and recent research endeavors explore areas such as:

• ancient artwork analysis
• hydrogen cars
• car cooling

Faculty research areas include:

• fiber optics
• optical materials

The degree program admits applicants for the fall quarter only. Applicants should have a Bachelor of Science degree in materials science and engineering or a related field. They should have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The application also requires a written statement of purpose spanning no more than two pages double-spaced. The MS program requires at least three letters of recommendation. These should ideally be from professors who taught the applicant in their junior and senior years of undergraduate study. Official GRE scores are required within five years of taking the test. Applicants must also submit transcripts and a current resume.

Upon admission, students are assigned a faculty adviser. UCLA graduate MSE students may choose from three areas of specialization:

• ceramics and ceramic processing
• electronic and optical materials
• structural materials

They also have the choice between a capstone plan and a thesis plan. The MSE curriculum covers areas including:

• analytical imaging
• diffraction methods
• organic polymers
• wall art properties

The program does not include teaching or field experience requirements.

The capstone plan consists of nine courses for a total of 36 units. The curriculum must include six courses—or 24 units—of graduate-level coursework from within the department and three upper-division courses. The capstone plan culminates in a capstone project or written comprehensive exam. The thesis plan also requires 36 units of study with 24 units at the graduate level, and it culminates with two courses of thesis research. The thesis program requires students to conduct original research in an area of interest. The capstone option does not. The entire degree program can typically be completed in five or six years.

#5.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Applicants to the MS in materials science and engineering program must submit standard materials including:

• official transcripts

Each applicant must also answer the Department of Materials Science and Engineering questions in writing. All applications must be submitted by December 1 of each year. Admitted students enter the program in September for the fall semester. 

The MS in materials science in engineering program requires a minimum of 66 units of study at the graduate level. Students culminate their studies in a materials-related research thesis with an accompanying public presentation. The degree program typically requires one and a half to two years of study, including thesis research.

The Materials Laboratory allows MSE students to explore the connections between material structure, processing, and performance. The Materials Project Laboratory is team-based, with student teams designing and creating prototypes for materials and documenting their progress.

One of the MSE department’s course offerings, Passion Projects: Living in a Material World, is a project-based inquiry seminar that includes proposing a question, analyzing materials, creating a website, and sharing results through a final presentation. Courses such as Atomistic Computer Modeling of Materials involve applying computer simulations toward building an understanding of material properties. Other course examples include:

• Materials in Human Experience
• Materials, Societal Impact, and Social Innovation
• Industrial Ecology of Materials
• Organic and Biomaterials Chemistry

Graduate MSE students may prepare to teach others about the discipline through a Teaching Fellows Seminar and/or a course in Teaching Materials Science and Engineering. The Teaching Fellows Seminar prepares individuals for the process of academic- and industry-based instruction, including:

• preparing lectures
• course materials
• presentations
• assignments

The teaching MSE course allows degree candidates to gain hands-on, supervised teaching experience in classroom or laboratory environments. Students may also gain real-world experience through industry internships.

The MIT Materials Science and Engineering department is also associated with interdisciplinary programs in:

• archaeology and archaeological materials
• polymers and soft matter
• technology and policy

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering also participates in the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society.

MIT materials science and engineering areas of research include:

• high-performance structural materials and alloys
• materials for energy and the environment
• materials economics
• nanotechnology, nanodevices, and nanomaterials

Current and recent research developments apply materials science and engineering to copper production, hydrogels from mussels, and stretchy electronics.

Beyond graduation, individuals may go on to pursue MIT’s Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Science degree in materials science and engineering.

#6.  North Carolina State University

Master of materials science and engineering.

Most applicants to the NC State MMSE program hold a Bachelor of Science degree in:

• materials science and engineering
• a different engineering discipline
• a relevant technical discipline such as chemistry or physics

GRE scores are not required for admittance to the program. However, all applicants must demonstrate a minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0. This is especially in their last 60 semester hours of undergraduate study. Applicants must also submit:

• three letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional contacts
• a statement of purpose

Students may transfer in up to 12 credits from another institution.

Upon enrollment, each student must complete 30 credit hours of coursework, including 18 credit hours of 500- and 700-level courses. The remainder of required credit hours may be completed in materials science and engineering or a different technical discipline. Enrolled students must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. Students must leave the program if they complete 18 credit hours with a GPA below 2.78, more than 18 hours with a GPA below 2.67, or 30 hours with a GPA below 3.0.

The Master of MS&E program follows a non-thesis, coursework-only program plan. Projected MSE courses for the fall semester include:

• Ceramic Processing
• Elements of Crystallography and Diffraction
• Nanoscale Simulations and Modeling

Projected spring courses include:

• Defects in Solids
• Modern Concepts in Materials Science
• Phase Transformations and Kinetics

Four courses are projected for the typical MSE summer session:

• Composite Materials
• Mechanical Behavior of Engineering Materials
• Polymer Technology and Engineering

The NC State materials science and engineering is home to various research centers and labs. Its research facilities include:

• Analytical Instrumentation Facility
• Nanofabrication Facility
• PULSTAR Reactor Facility

The department’s research centers include:

• Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics
• Molecular Education, Technology, and Research Innovation Center

Laboratory facilities include:

• Chemical Analysis and Spectroscopy Laboratory
• Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science Analytical Services Laboratory

The department’s research areas include:

• computational materials science
• energy materials, soft and biomaterials

North Carolina State University is currently ranked among the top 25 graduate engineering schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report . The site also ranks the university’s online engineering programs at No. 7 nationally. 

#7.  University of California Riverside

• Departments of Bioengineering, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
• Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics

The degree program welcomes applicants from both engineering and non-engineering backgrounds. Admission decisions are primarily based on:

• academic record
• prior relevant experience
• statement of purpose
• test scores

Acceptance is only applicable for one quarter, and admitted students may not defer enrollment.

The interdisciplinary MSE program allows students to study and conduct research in departments such as:

• bioengineering
• electrical engineering
• crystallography
• spectroscopy
• photophysics
• photochemistry
• targeted drug delivery
• solar energy conversion

UCR MSE research facilities include resources for characterization, high-performance computing, materials synthesis, and processing. Facilities include the Center for Nanoscale Science and Engineering and the Central Facility for Advanced Microscopy and Microanalysis. UCR students have access to resources and equipment including:

• optical microscopes
• polisher grinder
• low-speed saw
• probe station

Students may follow a program plan that culminates in a master’s research thesis or a comprehensive exam. Both plans consist of 36 units of graduate coursework, including a maximum of six units in directed studies. The thesis plan includes a maximum of 12 units of graduate research, while the exam plan does not include a research component. The written comprehensive exam is conducted at the same time as the doctoral preliminary exam. It emphasizes fundamentals of materials engineering.

Students plan their programs of study with input from a faculty advisor. They can also offer non-degree guidance in areas such as housing and career development. The MSE graduate advisor and research advisor must approve the course of study each quarter. 

The program curriculum is comprised of five key areas of study:

• crystal structure and bonding
• functional materials: semiconductors, materials characterization techniques, materials synthesis and processing
• thermodynamic foundations of materials
• Applied Quantum Mechanics
• Imperfections in Solids
• Electron Microscopy and Analysis
• Spintronics and Nanoscale Magnetism
• Structure and Bonding in Inorganic Chemistry

All MSE graduate students must take an overview course in Materials Science and Engineering and enroll in Materials Science and Engineering colloquia each quarter. Students in the MSE program can also expect to gain hands-on experience through a laboratory in nanoscale materials characterization and processing. 

 The degree program can typically be completed in six quarters, or two years. Graduates of the program will be prepared for careers in:

• aerospace industries
• automotive industries
• biomedical industries
• nanotechnology industries
• government agencies
• research laboratories

#8.  University of California, Berkeley

Master of engineering in materials science & engineering.

The M.Eng. in materials science and engineering is offered jointly between Berkeley’s College of Engineering and the university’s Fung Institute for Engineering Leadership. It is designed to prepare individuals for leadership positions in professional engineering. Most program applicants are engineers with industrial experience seeking career advancement. 

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree or equivalent with a major in:

• engineering
• related field

The degree must be from an accredited college or university. Individuals must demonstrate a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2. Applicants must submit:

• all official college transcripts
• statement of purpose spanning no more than two pages

Prospective students must also demonstrate a sufficient score on the general GRE, ideally in the 85th percentile or higher. Relevant work experience is also helpful for admittance to the program.

The MSE program focuses on:

• opto-electronic materials
• materials for advanced energy systems at the nano, micro, and macro levels

Degree candidates may specialize in:

• electrochemical
• computational

The graduate MSE program offers technical concentrations in:

• advanced structural materials
• chemical and electrochemical materials
• electronic, magnetic, and optical materials

Alternatively, students may follow a general track toward the degree. 

The degree program includes 25 semester units total, including eight units in core leadership studies, 12 in technical expertise, and five units of work on the culminating capstone project. Students can expect to explore engineering leadership areas such as accounting and entrepreneurship as they relate to technology-driven projects. The core curriculum includes courses such as:

• Communications for Engineering Leaders
• Entrepreneurship for Engineers

The program includes interactive, intensive pre-semester “boot camp” sessions. Students can expect to analyze case studies and explore areas of engineering leadership such as:

• negotiations
• organizational behavior

The program culminates in a nine-month capstone experience. Students work in teams of three to six to apply engineering principles and technologies toward contemporary issues in the materials science and engineering field.

The MSE degree program is delivered in an accelerated format. Prospective students are required to indicate their desired program plan upon application. This will not influence the admissions decision. Students may choose to enroll in the program on a full-time basis in order to earn their degree in one year. Working professionals may opt to complete the program on a part-time basis. 

The Berkeley MSE department also offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree program. Also, a fifth-year dual degree program in which students can pursue a Master of Science degree concurrently with a Bachelor of Science degree. Berkeley does not typically offer a standalone or terminal MS program.

Find financial aid information here .

#9.  Carnegie Mellon University

In 1900, Carnegie founded Carnegie Mellon University. It evolved from a technical school into the private research university it is today. Located in Philadelphia, PA, the university has been at the forefront of such innovations as artificial intelligence and Wi-fi. 

CMU offers a Master of Science degree program in materials science and engineering. Prospective students should have an undergraduate degree in materials science and engineering or a related discipline.  They should have a B average, for a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Required application materials include:

• written answers to essay questions
• a current resume
• official GRE scores

The MSE degree program is coursework-based and designed to be completed on a full-time basis. Students can expect to learn about the processing, properties, and structure of materials and how they can be applied to various areas of engineering. Students will also have opportunities to pursue their own individual research interests. Students typically complete the degree program in two 15-week semesters of full-time study. Individuals with special circumstances who would like to pursue the degree on a different timeline may do so with director approval. 

The curriculum consists of 96 credits of graduate study, comprised of:

• 24 units each of core courses
• elective courses
• approved MSE-related courses
• approved graduate courses

All students must also enroll in a graduate seminar each semester. Students must maintain an overall average grade of B for an average GPA of at least 3.0. 

The core curriculum covers:

• structure of materials

Graduate MSE electives include:

• Materials for Nuclear Energy Systems
• Mechanical Behavior in Extreme Environments, Soft Materials, and Tissue Engineering
• Chemistry and Light
• Mechanics of Fracture and Fatigue, Nanoparticles, and Polymer Physics
• Energy Demand and Utilization
• Energy Policy and Economics
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Technology
• Medical Devices

The MSE degree program is housed in the university’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering within its college of engineering, the Carnegie Institute of Technology. The department hosts a materials science and engineering seminar series. In its spring 2020 series, seminar topics included atom-to-solid evolution, magnetism and optical pulses, and phase diagrams of complex materials. The department also hosts four research centers :

• the Center for Iron and Steelmaking Research
• the Data Storage Systems Center
• the NextManufacturing Center
• the Engineering Research Accelerator

The department conducts interdisciplinary research in four core MSE areas:

• inorganic functional materials
• manufacturing and materials microstructure
• materials for healthcare

Recent research highlights have included a footstep-sensing invention, a smart heating and cooling technology, and an app that bridges the gap between a patient’s physiological signals and the nearest healthcare facility.

#10.  Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Master of science in materials science and engineering; master of engineering in materials science and engineering.

Rensselaer offers prospective students the option to pursue either a Master of Science or a Master of Engineering degree in materials science and engineering. Both programs are offered through the institute’s School of Engineering. Each MSE degree program requires candidates to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate study. 

MSE degree candidates must take at least three courses from the five-course core MSE graduate curriculum, which consists of engineering courses in:

• Advanced Electronic Properties
• Advanced Kinetics
• Advanced Mechanical Properties
• Advanced Structure and Bonding
• Advanced Thermodynamics

Students must also take at least six credits of MSE electives. An academic adviser must approve each student’s elective course selection. The remainder of the required credits toward the degree may be fulfilled through any 6000-level courses within the School of Engineering and/or School of Science.

The Master of Science degree program requires a written research thesis accompanied by an oral presentation. The final oral thesis presentation is given to the scientific community in a setting such as a professional or scientific conference or workshop, or during a seminar at Rensselaer. The Master of Engineering does not require a thesis. Instead, it culminates in a capstone independent study project. Typically students complete it in an industry or government setting. The project is completed over one semester, for a total of three to four credits.

Rensselaer’s department of Materials Science and Engineering is home to the Materials Science Graduate Society . The student society organizes and hosts a Graduate Student Seminar Series on the third Thursday of each month. Each seminar evening involves two 30-minute presentations given by graduate students, followed by a dinner. 

The Materials Science and Engineering department houses four distinct materials engineering laboratories for students and faculty research:

• Electron Microscopy Laboratory
• Materials Analysis Laboratory
• Mechanical Testing Laboratory
• Metallographic Laboratory

The department is affiliated with a number of research centers , including:

• Center for Materials, Devices, and Integrated Systems
• Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies
• Center for Computation Innovations
• NYS Center for Future Energy Systems

The MSE graduate department focuses on six key areas of research :

• advanced synthesis and processing
• glasses and ceramics
• metallurgy and corrosion
• polymers and biomaterials

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. university of tennessee – knoxville.

Location: Knoxville, TN

Degree: Master’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering

#12. Stony Brook University

Location: Stony Brook, NY

Website     

#13. Purdue University

Location: West Lafayette, IN

Degree: Master’s Degree in Materials Engineering

Website      

#14. University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Website     

#15. Rutgers University

Location: Piscataway, NJ

Website       

#16. University of California – Irvine

Location: Irvine, CA

Website        

#17. Michigan State University

Location: East Lansing, MI

Website    

#18. University of Wisconsin Madison

Location: Madison, WI

#19. University of California – San Diego

Location: San Diego, CA

#20. Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, IL

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTERS IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING & THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTERS OF ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT !

Michael Templeton Managing Editor

Kacey Reynolds Schedler Contributing Editor

RIT graduate programs ranked among best in nation by ‘U.S. News & World Report’

Scott Hamilton/RIT

'U.S. News & World Report' ranked RIT’s Saunders College of Business among the best graduate programs in the nation.

Graduate degree programs at Rochester Institute of Technology were named among the best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

In the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools 2024 , RIT’s Saunders College of Business tied for 97th as one of the top full-time MBA programs .

New methodologies for ranking full-time MBA programs placed more emphasis on earnings. This ranking factor assessed how each school’s post-graduate salaries across different professions compared with other schools’ post-graduate salaries in those professions.

This change was made to account for the importance of compensation for prospective business school students, the varying vocational interests of students at different schools, and to more fully refine the impact business schools have on their graduates’ starting salaries.

U.S. News is delaying the publication of this year’s best engineering schools due to questions about new ranking indicators pertaining to bibliometric data. Concerns arose about the consideration of affiliated institutions in this area. Results for the best medical schools are also under review.

Typically, US News & World Report ranks annually graduate programs in six fields—business, education, engineering, law, medicine, and nursing to help prospective students make informed decisions. These data-driven rankings have been based on enrollment numbers, job placement rates, faculty statistics, and other indicators.

U.S. News also periodically ranks programs in 12 academic disciplines based on academic reputation. This year, RIT’s computer science MS program in the Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences tied 70th in the nation.

RIT programs ranked in prior years, based on peer assessment, remain tied:

• 65th for the health care management MS program offered by the College of Health Sciences and Technology;
• 78th for physics ( astrophysical sciences and technology Ph.D. program) offered by the College of Science;
• 188th for the physician assistant MS program offered by the College of Health Sciences and Technology .
• 6th for photography and 23rd among fine arts MFA program, offered in the College of Art and Design ; and
• 119th for the bioinformatics MS program offered by the College of Science.

Peer assessment data regarding the academic quality of programs came from deans, program directors, and senior faculty. U.S. News also surveyed professionals who hire or work with new graduates with degrees from the six disciplines ranked annually.

The complete rankings are available at U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools .

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U.S. News ranks 9 WKU graduate programs among nation's best

• Friday, April 19th, 2024

Nine Western Kentucky University graduate programs have been ranked among the best in the country in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings .

WKU graduate programs on the 2024 rankings include:

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), No. 100, up from No. 113 last year.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), No. 101, up from No. 106.
• Speech-Language Pathology Program, No. 136, up from No. 189.
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), No. 137.
• Master of Social Work (MSW), No. 142.
• Master of Public Health (MPH), No. 172.
• Public Affairs programs, No. 191.
• WKU’s graduate programs in education as well as the online Master of Business Administration program also were included on the U.S. News list of best programs.

The 2024 rankings include six programs from the College of Health and Human Services as well as programs from Potter College of Arts & Letters, the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences and the Gordon Ford College of Business.

“These rankings are well-deserved acknowledgment of WKU’s excellence in graduate education,” said Dr. Jenni Redifer, Interim Associate Provost for Research & Graduate Education. “I am grateful to our WKU community of educators, as well as to our partner organizations, who provide invaluable real-world experiences during students’ graduate studies. The span of these rankings across numerous disciplines is evidence of the positive impact of WKU’s graduate programs throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.”

College of Health and Human Services

“I am thrilled that six of our graduate programs in the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) have been recognized this year by the U.S. News and World Report for their academic excellence,” said Dean Tania Basta. “Our CHHS mission to prepare health and human services professionals who will work to improve the quality of life in their communities and beyond, so this recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff in preparing our students to meet the rapidly changing needs of the health and human services workforce both regionally and nationally.”

The Nursing Master of Science (MSN) graduate program at WKU was ranked No. 100 in the nation, up from No. 113 last year. The College of Health and Human Services offers a Master of Science in Nursing that builds upon the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and seeks to develop expertise in advanced nursing practice. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSNS) concentration is for individuals who wish to be certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. The innovative MSN-Master’s Entry Professional Nursing (MEPN) allows a student with a previous baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing to obtain an MSN degree and become eligible for licensure as a registered nurse.

WKU’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program was ranked No. 101, up from No. 106. The program is designed to prepare nurses who are already working in the field to become leaders in nursing practice and administration. The program has two tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Executive.

WKU’s Speech-Language Pathology Program was ranked No. 136, up from No. 189. The speech-language pathology program is accredited by the Council of Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology. This program is designed to prepare speech-language pathologists to meet the needs of those presenting with communication delays, differences, and/or disorders in a range of settings including hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities, or schools.

WKU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) was ranked No. 137. The DPT Program is designed to prepare students to plan and administer treatment to help patients regain diminished physical function lost secondary to injury or disease, to promote soft tissue healing, and to relieve pain.

U.S. News ranked WKU’s Master of Social Work (MSW) No. 142. The program at WKU is available to working professionals as well as recent college graduates and prepares them for a career as social work practitioners in a variety of contexts, including individual, family, group, organizations, and community.

Also making the list was WKU’s Master of Public Health (MPH), which was ranked No. 172. The program is part of a field that seeks to protect and improve the health of families and communities through the promotion of healthy lifestyles, research for disease and injury prevention, and detection and control of infectious disease.

Potter College of Arts & Letters

U.S. News ranked WKU’s programs in Public Affairs at No. 191. The Potter College of Arts & Letters (PCAL) is home to WKU’s nationally recognized Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. The MPA program prepares graduate students for a variety of leadership positions in federal, non-profit, local, and state organizations.

The Potter College of Arts & Letters (PCAL) provides graduate programs in Organizational Communication (Master of Arts), Communicating in Healthcare (Graduate Certificate), Communicating in Organizations (Graduate Certificate), Creative Writing and English (Master of Fine Arts), History (Master of Arts), Music: Education, Conducting, or Pedagogy (Master of Fine Arts), Public Administration (Master of Public Administration), and Local Government Administration (Graduate Certificate). Each program offers robust degree offerings that prepare students for industry-level and/or graduate employment. Additionally, undergraduate students can elect to begin graduate studies earlier with the Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP). JUMP provide students the opportunity to complete a graduate degree while completing their undergraduate degree.

College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Also included on the U.S. News list of best programs is WKU’s education graduate program. The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences is home to WKU’s nationally recognized clinical preparation programs which focus on the community’s future teachers, counselors, psychologists, and leaders. Graduate degrees, including those at the master’s and doctoral level, are offered in Advanced Teacher Education, Counseling and Student Affairs, Educational Leadership, Gifted Education and Talent Development, Instructional Design, Literacy Education, Organizational Leadership, Psychology, Special Education, and Teacher Education.

Gordon Ford College of Business

WKU’s online Master of Business Administration also is listed among the best graduate programs. The Gordon Ford College of Business offers a diverse range of graduate degrees and certificates tailored to provide students with the essential skills needed to thrive in today's ever-evolving business landscape. From Accountancy & Data Analysis (MADA), Economics, Cybersecurity, to Master of Business Administration (MBA), the GFCB’s flexible programs empower students to explore specialized fields, acquire invaluable expertise and credentials, and pursue their passions.

Ogden College of Science & Engineering

The Ogden College of Science & Engineering offers graduate programs that prepare students to be the critical thinkers, knowledgeable experts, and confident leaders needed to flourish in any workplace or in an array of doctoral programs. OCSE offers Master of Science degrees in Agriculture, Biology, Chemistry, Geoscience, Mathematics, Homeland Security Sciences, Psychology, Computer Science, and Engineering Management as well as a Master of Arts in Mathematics aimed at math educators. WKU’s Biology Department offers a nationally top-ranked online MS in Biology. These degree programs are complemented by graduate certificates in Biology, Scientific Data Analytics, Lean Sigma, and a unique certificate in Emergency Management and Disaster Science.

For more about WKU graduate programs, visit the WKU Graduate School at www.wku.edu/graduate

Contact: Jace Lux, (270) 745-4295

Western Kentucky University prides itself on positioning its students, faculty and staff for long term success. As a student-centered, applied research university, WKU helps students expand on classroom learning by integrating education with real-world applications in the communities we serve. Our hilltop campus is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky , which was recently named by Reader’s Digest as one of the nicest towns in America, just an hour’s drive from Nashville, Tennessee.

  Back to News

Apr 22nd, 2024

“She has overcome every hurdle. And I am not sure people appreciate how difficult it is to remain so focused when you are separated from your family, friends and loved ones because they live thousands of miles away in a war-torn country."

“I have always wanted to have a community that I can call home - a community that is large and welcoming - people that I can always rely on."

Apr 19th, 2024

Ryan Messenger, a double major in the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS), in Exercise Science and Dietetics, has been selected to attend the Gilman Foreign Policy in Focus: Global Food Security seminar in Washington, DC, this June.

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U.S. News & World Report Ranks Baruch College Graduate Programs Among the Best for 2024-25

April 9, 2024

Baruch College continues to build upon its national reputation for academic excellence with another round of top rankings from U.S. News & World Report .

Baruch’s Zicklin School of Business and Marxe School of Public and International Affairs have once again secured top spots in U.S. News’s coveted “ Best Graduate Schools ” list for 2024, underscoring the exceptional quality of graduate education provided at both schools.

Zicklin School of Business: MBA Programs Top the Rankings Again

For the sixth year in a row, both the Evening MBA and Full-Time MBA programs were rated #1 among public institutions in New York City and New York State.

On the U.S. News list, the Zicklin School’s Part-Time (Evening) MBA program placed #40 nationwide, advancing three positions from last year. The Full-Time MBA, meanwhile, ranked #53 among 124 public and private institutions throughout the country.

“Maintaining and lifting rankings reflects the Zicklin School’s commitment to excellence in our programs and our dedication to the success of our graduates,” said Bruce W. Weber, PhD, the Willem Kooyker Dean of the Zicklin School. “Our impressive faculty, supportive staff, and fiercely loyal alumni help our talented, ambitious MBA students unlock their potential and prepare for the business challenges of tomorrow.”

Marxe School of Public and International Affairs: All Programs Rise in National Rankings

All graduate degree programs for the Marxe School saw its rankings jump year-over-year, with the MPA up one spot among all public and private institutions. The non-profit management and urban policy programs ranking also rose nationwide, up nine and one position, respectively.

The Marxe School also ranked in the public policy analysis category this year, coming in as the #1 program among public institutions in New York City.

“The Marxe School’s graduate education provides an invaluable educational foundation propelling our students into leadership roles in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors,” said Marxe School Dean and Professor Sherry Ryan. “The Marxe degree programs invite students to think critically about today’s most pressing societal issues and assess alternative policy solutions through an equity and justice lens.”

Ryan adds, “Our phenomenal rankings reflect the true quality and dedication of our faculty, students, and staff. The Marxe School is on the move to advance public service, equitable urban policies, and nonprofit management in New York City and beyond. And we do all of this while raising up first generation and minority students, a truly inspiring accomplishment.”

Rankings At-a-Glance

• Zicklin School of Business

Full Time MBA

Among public institutions:

• #1 in New York
• #27 nationwide (tie)

Among all institutions:

• #3 in New York City and #5 in New York State
• #53 nationwide (tie) out of 124 schools ranked

Part-time MBA (Evening)

• #27 nationwide
• #2 in New York City and #2 in New York State
• #40 nationwide (tie) out of 269 schools ranked
• #18 nationwide
• #4 in New York City and #5 in New York State
• #41 nationwide (tie)
• Marxe School of Public and International Affairs
• #2 in New York City and #3 in New York State
• #38 nationwide (tie)
• #4 in New York City and #7 in New York State
• #52 nationwide (tie) out of 271 schools ranked

Non-profit Management

• #1 in New York City and #1 in New York State
• #13 nationwide (tie)
• #18 nationwide (tie)

Public Policy Analysis

• #1 in New York City and #2 in New York State
• #21 nationwide (tie)
• #3 in New York City and #6 in New York State
• #35 nationwide (tie)

Urban Policy

• #9 nationwide (tie)
• #14 nationwide (tie)

Learn more about all of Baruch College’s Graduate Programs:

• Weissman School of Arts and Sciences

Methodology

U.S. News & World Report surveyed in fall 2023 and early 2024 all 506 institutions with master’s-level business programs in the United States accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International. To calculate an overall score, the ranking indicators used the following factors:  career placement success, student excellence, and quality assessment. Learn more about the business ranking methodology.

The rankings of public affairs programs are based solely on peer assessment survey results sent in fall 2023 and early 2024 to deans, directors and department chairs representing 271 master’s programs in public affairs and administration. Read more about a full explanation of each ranking methodology.

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Deadline to apply to Penn State Additive Manufacturing and Design (AMD) graduate program

Penn State’s Additive Manufacturing and Design (AMD) graduate program offers a Master of Science (MS) degree, Master of Engineering (MEng) degree, and Graduate Certificate, providing students and working engineers a unique opportunity to become technically outstanding experts in additive manufacturing (AM) in residence at University Park or online via Penn State World Campus.  

With more than 60 leading AMD faculty  working in emerging areas of additive manufacturing and design, our program prepares engineers to enhance and advance manufacturing concepts. Our 1-2 year program options  integrate core courses across the multidisciplinary fields integral to AM so you can grow as a leader in AM and help accelerate industry advancement and adoption of AM.  

To learn more about the AMD program, please visit amd.psu.edu .   

Upcoming Fall 2024 application deadlines:

Thank you,   

Dr. Beese and Jaclyn 

Allison M. Beese, Ph.D.  

Professor, Materials Science and Engineering and Mechanical Engineering 

Associate Head for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Materials Science and Engineering 

Director, Additive Manufacturing & Design Graduate Program ( http://www.amd.psu.edu ) 

Co-Director, Penn State CIMP-3D ( http://www.cimp-3d.org ) 

Associate, Institute for Computational and Data Sciences 

Pennsylvania State University | 327 Steidle Building, University Park, PA 16802  

https://sites.psu.edu/beeseresearchgroup/  

Jaclyn Stimely  

Assistant Director, Additive Manufacturing & Design Graduate Program  

Pennsylvania State University

The 230 Building, Room 104, Innovation Blvd. University Park, PA 16802 

Master of Software Engineering Programs

Software and societal systems department.

The software systems that empower society require more than clever programmers. Now, more than ever, advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and autonomous systems demand engineers who can build reliable and trustworthy systems. Our program taught by top faculty at the #1 School of Computer Science will teach you to see the big picture and cut through vast quantities of information so you can negotiate trade-offs and build bridges faster.

The scale of modern software is unprecedented and multi-disciplinary. Our program will teach you to integrate engineering, managerial, and communication skills that top tech companies are eagerly competing for. With an integrated approach to engineering applied to real-world, industry-sponsored projects, you can grow to lead teams and master the design, construction and maintenance of complex systems without compromising quality.

Let your imagination guide us to a better future. From robotics to usability, machine vision to natural language processing — you will learn from, and build, lasting relationships with the world’s top experts. Becoming part of our alumni network will break down professional barriers and provide an instant connection to hundreds of accomplished, influential software engineering mentors and professionals across the globe.

The Master of Software Engineering degree from CMU is a strategic investment toward your future goals and ambitions. Find out how we can help you achieve your career dreams .

I am interested in...

• Becoming more competitive by continuing my education as a recent graduate
• Building on my experience as a current software developer
• Balancing work and life with a part-time, online program
• Earning a Graduate Certificate
• What the programs costs
• How a degree from the MSE will help my career
• Taking a tour of the MSE

By the Numbers

2021 grads hired within 3 months of graduation, grads promoted to senior positions within 5 years after graduation, grads (2017-21) hired directly into senior software engineering positions, average time to a senior level position (up to 12 months faster than non-cmu masters), average years of project mentor experience in software engineering and project management, alumni working in software engineering positions worldwide, programs at a glance, mse – scalable systems.

For entry-level developers with less than two years experience, or equivalent internship/project experience. Students study scalable systems, including large-scale, intelligent systems.

Duration: 16-months, on-campus, full-time, internship during program required Median Starting Salary: $128,250 Employed by: Amazon/AWS, Aurora, Dremio, Google, Interactive Brokers, Loom, Meta, Microsoft, Outreach, Roblox, Uber

MSE – Embedded Systems

For entry-level developers with less than two years experience, or equivalent internship/project experience. Students study embedded systems, including Internet-of-Things (IoT) and cyber-physical systems.

See MSE-Scalable Systems data.

MSE for Professionals

For experienced software developers with at least two years of full-time professional experience. 

Duration: 16-months, on-campus, full- or part-time, no internship required Median Starting Salary: $140,000 Employed by: BeaconFire, CMU Robotics, Hivemapper, LinkedIn, Nimble Robotics 

Duration:  24-months, online, part-time, no internship required

This program requires students to write a term paper as a reflective practice.

MBA/MSE Dual Degree

For engineering or science professionals who have at least two years of full-time professional experience.

Duration: 24-36 months, on-campus, full-time, internship during program required

Meet our Alumni

IS-MSE Accelerated Master's Program

For undergraduates majoring in Information Systems in the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Carnegie Mellon. 5th year AMP students may choose either the Scalable Systems or Embedded Systems program.

What makes the MSE programs special?

Take it to the next level and deliver..

The software systems that drive our modern world are not built on clever code alone. Our approach to learning takes you beyond foundations and teaches you how to build massive software systems that are on spec, on budget, and on time. Applying lessons learned in requirements gathering, project scoping, estimation, team management, architectural design, and assurance, our graduates are perfectly suited to do what few others can: DELIVER .

Don’t just join a program. Join a community.

The MSE is a family, a tribe. That's no joke! The MSE community is one of the largest, most accomplished, and most engaged of any graduate program across our campus. While you are here, you are going to form bonds that will last a lifetime — friends and colleagues you can call on. And, as a part of our alumni network, you will have an instant connection to hundreds of accomplished, influential software engineering professionals across the globe.

Collaborate with the absolute best and brightest.

Our department, the Software and Societal Systems Department (S3D), was established within the School of Computer Science over twenty years ago for one purpose: Transdisciplinary Collaboration. And that purpose will suffuse your experience in the MSE. You are going to work with the best and brightest; not just from software engineering, but across the entire tech spectrum. From robotics to HCI, ML to NLP — you are encouraged to tap the expertise and call upon the guidance of some of the foremost minds in their respective fields.

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MSE Special Seminar: Designing Sustainable Soft Matter from the Molecule Up

Abstract:  Soft matter constructed by nature harnesses chemically complex molecular subunits to generate finely tuned chemical, dynamical and mechanical properties over nano- to macro-scales, motivating the use of bottom-up strategies to realize functional synthetic materials. Here, I present how a molecule-up approach to the design of supramolecular and covalent polymers elicits unique structure-property relationships in materials to address urgent challenges in water treatment and plastics waste. First, I discuss the development of aramid amphiphiles, self-assembling small molecules that incorporate a Kevlar-inspired domain to impart strong, cohesive intermolecular interactions between molecules. Aramid amphiphiles spontaneously organize in water to form nanoribbons with suppressed dynamic mobility and mechanical properties rivaling silk. Combining the aramid amphiphile motif with chemistries to tune interfacial behavior enables the synthesis of high (~200 m2/g) surface area nanomaterials capable of treating thousands of liters of lead-contaminated water per gram of material. Next, I explore how the molecular design of lignin-derivable methacrylates enables the chemical recycling of the resulting covalent polymers, ‘closing the loop’ on high (> 100 °C) glass-transition temperature materials obtainable from industrial waste. Influences of monomer chemistry and reaction atmosphere are investigated to enable quantitative thermal depolymerization to monomer with high purity. The reclaimed monomers are then upcycled to narrow-dispersity and block polymers, demonstrating valorization of lignin-derivable molecules over multiple life cycles. Employing a molecule-up approach to soft matter formulation offers a pathway to realize novel properties in synthetic soft materials toward addressing generational challenges in sustainability.

Bio:  Ty Christoff-Tempesta is a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Delaware, where he researches performance-advantaged and closed-loop polymeric systems from renewable feedstocks. Previously, he completed his Ph.D. in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where his research focused on molecular design to produce robust molecular assemblies and their application to pressing challenges in water treatment. Outside of research, Christoff-Tempesta has been actively involved in DEI initiatives and plastics sustainability efforts, including organizing the inaugural LGBTQ+ research symposium at the Spring 2024 MRS National Meeting and collaborating on single-use plastics policy as a fellow with the Massachusetts state government. He is a recipient of the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, the Martin Society Fellowship for Sustainability, the Hugh Hampton Young Fellowship and the ACS CAS Future Leaders award.

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Upcoming events.

• 24 Apr MSE Special Seminar: Architecting 3D Complex Materials for Sustainability
• 25 Apr MSE Special Seminar: Decarbonizing Industries for a Climate-resilient Future - From Renewable Energy to Sustainable Material Recovery
• 26 Apr CBE 298 Seminar: The Wisdom of the Crowd: Watching Bacterial Collectives (Re)shape Themselves
• 26 Apr CEE Seminar: BIM and the Digital Twin
• 29 Apr MSE Special Seminar: Revolutionizing Battery Technology - Engineering Quantum Materials for Enhanced Safety and Performance in Solid Electrolytes

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