University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines advanced coursework with a sustained, original research project leading to a doctoral dissertation. Students take a mix of core and elective modules that build deep knowledge in fundamental materials science and provide practical training in contemporary characterisation and modelling methods.

• Core topics: advanced thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, crystallography and phase transformations, mechanical behaviour of materials, and materials characterisation techniques (electron microscopy, X‑ray diffraction, spectroscopy).
• Electives and specialisms: nanomaterials and nanotechnology, polymers and composites, corrosion and surface engineering, electronic and functional materials, biomaterials, and materials for energy systems.
• Modelling and computation: finite‑element methods for materials, atomistic and mesoscale simulation methods, and materials informatics/data‑driven approaches.
• Laboratory training: hands‑on experience with synthesis and processing methods, microstructural characterisation, mechanical testing, thermal analysis and surface analytical techniques.
• Research and dissertation: after coursework and qualifying assessments, students undertake an original research programme under faculty supervision, culminating in a written dissertation and oral defence.
• Professional development: opportunities to gain teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant, present at conferences, and contribute to grant‑funded projects in collaboration with on‑campus research centres.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree in materials science, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry or a closely related discipline. Exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree and significant research experience may also be considered.

• Academic transcripts: evidence of strong academic performance in undergraduate and any postgraduate study.
• Research experience: prior laboratory or research project work is highly desirable and competitive for admission.
• Supporting documents: a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests or proposal, and at least three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• English language proficiency: required for applicants whose first language is not English; accepted tests and minimum scores follow university policy.
• Funding and assistantships: admission is often linked to available funding such as research assistantships or fellowships; prospective students should contact potential supervisors to discuss research fit and funding opportunities.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Materials Sciences go on to varied careers that make direct use of their advanced technical and analytical skills:

• Academic and research careers: university faculty positions, postdoctoral research roles and scientific staff at national laboratories.
• Industry roles: R&D scientist or engineer in sectors such as aerospace and defence, energy and oil & gas, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors and biomedical devices.
• Technology and consultancy: technical specialist roles in materials testing, failure analysis, product development and materials selection for engineering projects.
• Other pathways: roles in intellectual property/patent law (with supplementary qualifications), technical management, and science policy or regulatory positions.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota provides an environment suited to PhD‑level materials research through a combination of accessible faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration and on‑campus research facilities. Students benefit from collaborative links across engineering disciplines and with regional research centres that focus on energy, aerospace and manufacturing challenges.

• Research facilities: access to modern characterisation and fabrication laboratories and opportunities to work on grant‑funded, industry‑oriented projects.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: collaboration with departments and research centres across engineering, physics and the applied sciences to address applied and fundamental materials problems.
• Supportive cohort and supervision: smaller research groups allow close supervisory relationships and tailored mentoring through the duration of the doctoral programme.
• Professional preparation: emphasis on publishing, presenting research, and developing the teaching and leadership skills sought by employers in academia and industry.