Michigan Technological University

What you'll study

The programme combines core materials science fundamentals with advanced coursework and hands‑on laboratory or research experience. Students typically choose between a thesis (research) and a non‑thesis (coursework/project) track. Core topics emphasise relationships among structure, processing, properties and performance, while elective courses allow specialisation in areas such as structural materials, electronic and energy materials, polymers and biomaterials.

• Typical core and elective modules: Materials thermodynamics and kinetics; mechanical behaviour of materials; phase transformations and microstructure; materials processing and manufacturing; materials characterisation techniques (including X‑ray diffraction and electron microscopy); corrosion and surface engineering; computational materials science and modelling; polymer, ceramic and composite materials.
• Laboratory and characterisation work: Practical training in microscopy, diffraction, thermal analysis, mechanical testing and surface analysis is central to the programme, supporting both coursework and thesis projects.
• Research and project work: Thesis students undertake an original research project supervised by faculty in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Non‑thesis students complete advanced coursework and a capstone design project or professional practicum.
• Interdisciplinary options: Opportunities exist to collaborate with nearby departments and research centres on topics such as energy storage, additive manufacturing, nanomaterials and biomedical materials.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in materials science, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, physics or a closely related discipline. A solid foundation in calculus, physics and general chemistry plus introductory materials or engineering science is expected.

• Academic record: A competitive undergraduate record in relevant coursework is required; specific grade thresholds are assessed by admissions on a case‑by‑case basis.
• Evidence of preparation: Applicants lacking particular prerequisite courses may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete preparatory coursework.
• Application documents: Official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, a current CV or résumé, and letters of recommendation are required.
• English language proficiency: Non‑native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through recognised tests unless exempted by institutional policy.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles in industry, government and academia. Common positions include materials engineer, process or manufacturing engineer, failure analysis engineer, quality engineer, corrosion specialist, and research scientist. Graduates work in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, electronics, biomedical devices, defence and advanced manufacturing. Many alumni also continue to doctoral study or take technical leadership and product development roles within high‑technology companies and national laboratories.

Why study at Michigan Technological University

Michigan Tech is known for its applied engineering focus and hands‑on learning culture. The university’s Materials Science and Engineering faculty run active research programmes across structural materials, electronic and energy materials, biomaterials and computational materials science. Students benefit from modern characterization facilities, laboratory access for experimental research, and collaborative links with regional and national industry partners.

The campus environment supports close faculty supervision and opportunities for paid research assistantships, internships and collaborative projects. Located in a region with strong manufacturing and engineering activity, the programme prepares graduates to meet practical industry needs while providing a pathway to further academic research.