Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The master's programme combines core coursework, laboratory experience and a choice of thesis or project routes to build competence in materials fundamentals and specialised application areas. Core topics typically include thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, crystallography and structure–property relationships, materials characterization techniques (microscopy, spectroscopy, diffraction), and materials processing and selection.

Students select electives to pursue concentrations such as biomaterials and biomedical devices, polymers and soft materials, nanomaterials and nanotechnology, electronic and photonic materials, or materials for energy and sustainability. Coursework is complemented by hands‑on laboratory modules and computational methods for modelling material behaviour and designing experiments.

Two degree pathways are commonly available: a thesis route emphasising original research under faculty supervision, and a coursework/project route oriented toward industry‑relevant skills and an applied capstone. The programme can be completed with a combination of lectures, seminars, lab rotations and independent research, giving students flexibility to tailor training to academic or professional goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry or a closely related discipline. Strong applicants demonstrate solid foundations in mathematics, thermodynamics, mechanics and basic materials science.

• Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic background, research or professional interests, and goals for graduate study.
• Letters of recommendation, usually two or three, from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant's preparation for graduate work.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent institutional criteria.
• Some applicants, particularly those without a conventional materials background, may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework or demonstrate relevant laboratory experience. Admissions committees may consider GRE scores where provided, but policies on the GRE can vary and applicants should check current department guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the master's in Materials Engineering are prepared for roles in research and development, product and process engineering, quality and failure analysis, and materials selection and testing. Employers include medical device firms, semiconductor and electronics companies, energy and battery developers, aerospace and defence contractors, polymer and coatings manufacturers, and national laboratories.

Typical job titles held by alumni include materials engineer, process engineer, R&D engineer, failure analysis engineer, materials scientist, and quality assurance or testing specialist. Many graduates also use the master's as a stepping stone to doctoral study or positions that cross disciplines, such as biomedical engineering, chemical engineering or applied physics.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers a materials programme with strong interdisciplinary connections across engineering, medicine and the physical sciences. Students benefit from faculty active in diverse research areas — including biomaterials, polymers, nanotechnology, electronic materials and energy materials — and have access to extensive laboratory facilities for microscopy, spectroscopy, processing and testing.

The university's location provides close collaborations with clinical and industrial partners, enabling translational projects and internships with medical device companies, energy firms and regional manufacturers. Small class sizes and faculty mentoring support hands‑on research opportunities, while the broader campus fosters cross‑disciplinary projects and entrepreneurship for students aiming to translate materials innovations into products.

Overall, the programme is suited for students seeking rigorous technical training, research experience and industry‑relevant skills that prepare them for technical leadership in materials science and engineering sectors or for continuation into doctoral research.