Materials Science
Overview
Materials science programs prepare people to use math and science to test and analyze solids.Materials science programs include topics such as:
- Stress and failure factors
- Polymer structures
- Biomaterials including proteins and cellulose
- Properties of metals, ceramics, and electronic materials
- Thermodynamics of solids
- Compound materials
- Industrial applications of specific materials
Schools
Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in materials science. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.
Several colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in materials science. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.
Many universities offer graduate degrees in materials science. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Ceramic Sciences and Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemical Technology
- Chemistry
- Composite Technology
- Engineering Technology, General
- Engineering, General
- Laser and Optical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Metallurgical Technology
- Nondestructive Testing
- Physics
- Plastics Technology
- Polymer and Plastics Engineering
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
- Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Chemical Equipment Operators
- Chemical Plant Operators
- Engineering Technicians
- Safety Engineers
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Biology
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Computer Science and Programming
- English Composition
- Physics
Graduate Admissions
Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree in chemistry or engineering, good grades, and good test scores.
Additional requirements at some schools include:
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
- Letters of recommendation
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Electronic Properties of Materials
- Engineering Physics
- English Composition
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Linear Differential Equations
- Mechanical Properties of Materials
- Mechanics
- Senior Design Project
- Solid State Physics
- Structures of Materials
- Thermodynamics of Materials
Graduate Program Courses
A master's program typically includes the following:
- Required courses
- Thesis
Things to Know
Most jobs in this field require a lot of writing and clear communication. Taking writing and other humanities courses will develop your communication skills.
This program resembles a materials engineering program and can lead to a career in engineering. To be licensed by your state to work as an engineer, you must have a degree from an accredited engineering program and must pass an exam. You also need several years of work experience.
Schools
East Side Area
Washington State University - Pullman
- Chemistry--Materials Option
- Materials Science and Engineering
King-Snohomish Area
University of Washington - Seattle
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Materials Science--Nanoscience & Molecular Engineering Option