Massachusetts Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous coursework with independent research. Core topics emphasise the fundamental principles that govern material behaviour and the tools used to design and characterise materials.

• Fundamentals: thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, crystallography, phase transformations, and mechanical behaviour of solids.
• Characterisation and instrumentation: electron microscopy (TEM/SEM), X-ray diffraction, spectroscopy and advanced imaging techniques for microstructure and defect analysis.
• Processing and synthesis: bulk and thin-film processing methods, powder metallurgy, additive manufacturing and scale-up considerations.
• Functional materials: electronic and photonic materials, energy materials (batteries, fuel cells, photovoltaics), and biomaterials for medical applications.
• Polymers, ceramics and composites: structure–property relationships and tailored design for mechanical, thermal and chemical performance.
• Computational materials science: density functional theory, molecular dynamics, phase-field modelling and data-driven approaches for materials design.
• Laboratory and research training: hands-on lab modules, research rotations or a supervised thesis project using advanced facilities.
• Seminars and electives: specialist seminars, cross-disciplinary electives in areas such as microelectronics, bioengineering or chemical engineering.

Programme structure normally involves a period of required and elective coursework followed by an independent research thesis under the supervision of a faculty member. Students are encouraged to engage with interdisciplinary centres and use shared facilities for fabrication and characterisation.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: a good undergraduate degree in materials science/engineering, physics, chemistry, mechanical, chemical or electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Preparation: strong foundations in mathematics, physics and basic materials topics; prior laboratory experience and coursework in thermodynamics, solid state or materials processing are advantageous.
• Application documents: official transcripts, curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and academic references from instructors or research supervisors.
• English language proficiency: demonstrated for applicants whose first language is not English, in line with the institute’s general admissions policy.
• Research fit: a clear alignment between the applicant’s research interests and the department’s faculty strengths improves prospects; applicants are advised to review faculty profiles and research groups.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of technical and leadership roles. Typical career paths include:

• R&D and materials engineering roles in sectors such as semiconductors, aerospace, automotive, energy storage, and medical devices.
• Advanced process and manufacturing positions, including scale-up and quality engineering for materials production.
• Computational materials and modelling roles in companies developing simulations, materials informatics and design tools.
• Positions in national laboratories and research institutes, or continuation to PhD study and academic careers.
• Specialist technical roles in consulting, intellectual property and regulatory affairs where deep materials knowledge is required.

The department’s strong links with industry, startup ecosystem and national labs assist students in finding internships, collaborations and employment after graduation.

Why study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• World-class research environment: the department is embedded in an ecosystem of interdisciplinary research centres and offers access to leading facilities for nanoscale fabrication, advanced microscopy and materials characterisation.
• Faculty and collaboration: faculty are active in areas from atomic-scale theory to large-scale processing and translation, enabling students to work at the interface of disciplines.
• Facilities and resources: access to shared laboratories, specialised cleanrooms and national-user class equipment supports both fundamental and applied projects.
• Entrepreneurship and industry connections: proximity to a vibrant innovation ecosystem and strong industry partnerships helps students translate research into commercial and translational outcomes.
• Career support: dedicated career services, department networks and alumni connections provide mentoring and pathways into industry, national labs and academia.