Materials Science Engineering is an interdisciplinary field focusing on the development of new materials and the improvement of existing materials for applications in all engineering fields. The processing and testing of materials are core subjects in our curriculum which stresses “hands-on” learning though laboratory classes that introduce students to modern processing and characterization techniques.
Why study MSE?
We believe our students are the future of materials science and engineering. It’s our goal to provide you with all the necessary resources and support to guide you on your path to success––from the classroom to your career and beyond. As an interdisciplinary study, MSE academic programs offer students the chance to explore the processing and testing of materials through hands-on laboratory classes, utilizing their skills to solve tomorrow’s most complex problems. We are seeking applicants ready to bring academic fervor and fresh ideas as they learn and grow alongside our world-class faculty.
Interdisciplinary Examples
Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering constantly demands new materials that withstand extreme temperatures, pressures, and forces encountered in aerospace environments. One of the biggest challenges in aerospace is reducing the weight of aircraft and spacecraft to improve fuel efficiency and payload capacity. Materials science provides solutions through the development of lightweight materials without compromising strength or reliability and improves safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Computer engineering and data science
Materials science is a cornerstone in the evolution and enhancement of computer engineering and data science through the development of new and improved materials for computing hardware, data storage, processors and sensors. As we edge closer to practical quantum computing, materials science is at the forefront of discovering and developing materials that can support quantum bits (qubits) and maintain their coherence, a key challenge in the field.
Environment, sustainability, and energy
Materials Science and Engineering offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of developing solutions that address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Innovations in materials science lead to the creation of sustainable materials that have a lower environmental impact and the development of materials that improve energy efficiency, from building insulation to more efficient photovoltaic cells for solar panels. Materials science is at the heart of almost every clean energy technology such as solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries for electric vehicles. Advancements in materials enable these technologies to be more effective, affordable, and accessible.
Health and medicine
Materials Science combines principles of engineering and science to solve medical challenges, improve patient care, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare. The development of lighter, stronger, and more adaptable materials for prosthetics and orthotics is a key contribution of materials science, significantly improving the quality of life for individuals with limb loss or mobility issues. Materials Science also plays a crucial role in the advancement of diagnostic tools and devices, such as MRI machines, ultrasound equipment, and biosensors. These improvements lead to more accurate, faster, and less invasive diagnostics. Advances in materials science enable the creation of innovative drug delivery systems, such as nanoparticles and biodegradable polymers, which can target specific areas of the body, release drugs at controlled rates, and reduce side effects.
Infrastructure, transportation, and society
Materials science is central to the development of advanced construction materials, such as high-strength concrete, corrosion-resistant alloys, and smart materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, and long-term wear and tear. The field also plays a crucial role in the transportation sector by creating lighter, stronger, and more durable materials for vehicles, whether they are cars, trains, ships, or airplanes. This leads to improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced safety.
Robotics and manufacturing
Materials science is crucial in developing lightweight and high-strength composite materials for robotics. Materials science also plays a key role in the development of smart materials that can change properties in response to external stimuli (like temperature, pressure, or electrical signals) to create responsive and intelligent robotic systems.
Career Outlook
Materials science is a rapidly growing industry with opportunities at every corner for the next generation of engineers. Interested in getting a better look at your future? Check out the stats below.
- Starting Median Salary: $81,200*
- Mid-career Median Salary: $135,300**
- Number of Jobs: 22,100 and rising
*These figures include the median salary of engineers with 0-5 years of experience. The data comes from payscale.com, December 2023.
**These figures include the median salary of engineers with 10+ years of experience. The data comes from payscale.com, December 2023.