Prospective MSE Undergraduate Students

Societies have been defined by their ability to utilize and control materials, for example the Bronze Age, Industrial/Iron Age, and Silicon Age. New materials enable technological advances and improve the quality of life in many ways. As a student in Materials Engineering you will learn why materials behave the way they do and learn how to make new and improved materials. For instance, you can help solve 'grand challenges' such as developing materials that mimic nature's complex design, laying the foundation for new biotechnology. Additional examples that impact nearly every aspect of our daily lives include transportation, infrastructure, medicine, and food, where peoples' lives literally depend on well-engineered materials.

Materials engineering is based on a broad understanding of materials, including processing, properties, microstructure, thermodynamics, phase diagrams, mechanics, characterization, industrial processing, failure analysis, and the art of engineering design. We also are knowledgeable in broad classes of materials including: metals, ceramics, polymers, electronic materials, biomaterials, and composites.

Materials engineers are employed in every facet of technological innovation. Our undergraduates are well prepared to pursue advanced degrees and have taken diverse positions in product development, process engineering, manufacturing, quality control, lab management, medicine, and research and development. Their broad background leads to productive careers and rapid career advancement even to the top levels of management. Invention is the pinnacle of scientific discovery and engineering design, and many of our graduates have been recognized as innovators in their field.

More Information

Links to sites where you can learn More about Materials Engineering

Survey finds MSE among top starting salary for engineering disciplines

MSE undergraduate Curriculum

Student Organization

Certificate programs

Department brochure