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MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

 
 

Academic Programs

Graduate Degree Programs in Materials Science

The Master of Science Degree typically requires two years of full-time study to complete. Two plans of study leading to this degree are available. Full-time students usually select Plan A, the M.S. degree with thesis. Requirements for this option include completion of six graduate courses (grade point average of at least 2.75/4.0); a written thesis of original research; and an oral thesis defense. The Plan B option is designed to accommodate part- time students, who generally have extensive lab experience but may need additional academic work. Plan B does not require a thesis. It does, however, require two additional classes and completion of a special project with a written project report.

Graduate students in pursuit of a Ph.D. must fulfill additional research and classroom responsibilities. A student becomes a candidate for the Ph.D. degree by successfully completing a written Qualifying Exam and by defending a proposed thesis project. Completing the requirements for the Ph.D. degreetypically requires three years beyond the M.S. The requirements for the Ph.D. degree are:

  • Six graduate courses in addition to those of the M.S. program (graduate course work must include two courses in basic sciences, and fulfillment of depth and breadth guidelines, intended to ensure exposure to the many areas of Materials Science and Engineering)
  • Completion of an original research project, culminating in submission of a written dissertation and an oral defense
  • On-campus residency of at least one year

Both Masters and Ph.D. students typically take two courses each semester in addition to working on their thesis research.