Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

What you'll study

This master's programme combines taught coursework with a substantial research project or thesis. Core topics typically cover materials structure and characterisation, thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, mechanical and electronic properties, and processing methods. Students choose from specialist modules such as nanomaterials and nanotechnology, biomaterials, polymers and composites, ceramics and glass science, semiconductor and electronic materials, surface science and thin films.

Laboratory and practical training are central: students gain hands-on experience with modern characterisation and fabrication techniques, including electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), spectroscopy methods, thermal analysis, and clean-room processes for thin films and microfabrication. The programme emphasises problem-solving, data analysis and scientific communication. The research component lets students work on a supervised project in a research group, producing a thesis that can range from applied development to fundamental investigation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in materials science or engineering, physics, chemistry or a related engineering discipline. A good academic record in core undergraduate subjects such as solid state physics, materials chemistry, mechanics of materials and laboratory methods is typically required.

Selection usually takes into account academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency via standard tests or equivalent qualifications. In some cases applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to provide a short research proposal if they are seeking placement with a specific supervisor.

Career prospects

Graduates from this master's programme go on to varied careers in industry, research and academia. Typical roles include materials engineer, research and development scientist, process engineer, failure analysis engineer, quality assurance specialist and applications scientist. Employers range from high-technology companies (including semiconductors, photovoltaics and electronics), medical device manufacturers and polymer/ceramics producers, to national research institutes and university doctoral programmes.

The programme prepares students both for immediate technical roles and for further research training leading to a PhD. Practical experience with advanced characterisation and fabrication tools is particularly valuable for positions in product development, materials testing laboratories and interdisciplinary teams tackling energy, biomedical and electronic materials challenges.

Why study at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Ben-Gurion University hosts active materials research groups and cross-disciplinary institutes that connect materials science with nanotechnology, energy and bioengineering. Students benefit from access to modern core facilities for microscopy, spectroscopy, X-ray analysis and clean-room fabrication, as well as supervised research projects across department laboratories.

The university’s location in the Negev provides proximity to a growing high-technology and advanced manufacturing ecosystem, offering opportunities for industry collaboration, internships and applied research. The academic environment is research-focused and collaborative, with opportunities to work alongside faculty engaged in both fundamental and applied materials challenges relevant to industry and society.