Emory University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines required core modules with elective choices to allow specialisation. Typical topics and activities include:

• Structure and Properties of Materials — crystallography, defects, phase diagrams and the links between microstructure and macroscopic behaviour.
• Materials Characterisation — electron microscopy, X-ray techniques, spectroscopy and thermal analysis used to probe composition and structure.
• Nanoscale Materials and Nanotechnology — synthesis and properties of nanoparticles, thin films, self-assembly and surface functionalisation.
• Polymers and Soft Materials — polymer chemistry, rheology, hydrogels and their use in coatings, devices and biomedical applications.
• Metallurgy and Composites — alloy behaviour, processing routes, failure analysis and design of multi-phase materials.
• Biomaterials and Tissue Interfaces — biocompatibility, drug delivery platforms, scaffolds and materials for medical devices, reflecting Emory’s biomedical strengths.
• Laboratory and Research Project — extended laboratory modules and an independent research project or thesis supervised by faculty, emphasising experimental design and data interpretation.
• Professional Skills — seminars on research communication, ethics, regulatory pathways for medical materials and project management.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in materials science, chemistry, physics, chemical or mechanical engineering, or a closely related science or engineering discipline. Successful candidates typically demonstrate a strong academic record in core quantitative subjects (for example, thermodynamics, solid-state chemistry or mechanics).

Admissions commonly consider the whole application package, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement that explains research interests and career goals, and a résumé or CV. Where relevant, applicants may be asked to provide examples of laboratory experience or undergraduate research. International applicants should present evidence of English language proficiency according to the university’s standard requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across industry and research. Typical pathways include:

• Materials engineer or scientist in sectors such as biomedical devices, electronics, aerospace, automotive and energy systems.
• R&D scientist or technologist in industry, developing new materials, coatings, composites, or polymer formulations.
• Quality, failure analysis and materials characterisation specialist in testing laboratories and manufacturing firms.
• Regulatory and translational roles for biomaterials and medical-device development, working with clinical and commercial partners.
• Progression to doctoral study and academic research in materials science, chemistry, physics or engineering disciplines.

Why study at Emory University

Emory combines a strong tradition in biomedical research with collaborative ties across basic science and engineering, offering materials students ready access to interdisciplinary laboratories, clinical partnerships and shared instrumentation. The university’s location in Atlanta provides connections with industry clusters, research hospitals and neighbouring institutions, enabling internships and collaborative projects. Faculty-led research emphasises translational impact, making this programme a good choice for students who want to apply materials science to real-world technological and healthcare challenges.