Programs

Students may pursue master of science (M.S.) and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in materials science and engineering. For materials science, the thesis work emphasizes the fundamental aspects of material behavior. Alternatively, for materials engineering, the thesis focuses on engineering and developmental aspects of materials. Students with full-time jobs in industry or at government labs can arrange to study for a master's degree without a thesis.

Areas of specialization include the following: nanotechnology, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanoparticles; energy storage, energy conversions, and photovoltaics; fiber optics and lasers; structure and properties of glass; relation of microstructure and properties of materials; sintering mechanisms; rheology of slips; slip casting; preparation and properties of powders; dielectric materials, including ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and ferromagnetic ceramics; sol-gel processing; thin films; high-temperature materials; strength, toughening, and impact resistance; nanomechanics and nanoscale structure of metals, ceramics, and organics; ceramic-metal systems and composites; and biomaterials.

The facilities of the program include approximately 25,000 square feet of well-equipped laboratories. Students have access to field-emission scanning electron microscopes; high-resolution TEM Raman microprobe; FITR; micro-Raman spectroscopy; thermoanalyzers; X-ray diffraction equipment; X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy equipment; hot isostatic presses and spark plasma sintering furnace; mechanical testing machines; optical benches and lasers; and glass processing facilities.

The focus of much of the research is on the science and technology of synthesizing advanced materials. Processing from powders includes synthesis and characterization of powders, green forming (slip casting, tape casting, rapid prototype methods, injection molding, and spray drying/powder compaction), and densification of powder preforms (sintering, hot pressing, hot isostatic pressing, and preceramic polymer pyrolysis). In addition, materials are synthesized directly from sol-gels and used for coatings, filters, and battery components. Materials are characterized mechanically, electrically, optically, and thermally. Students study surfaces using scanning tunneling microscopes and atomic force microscopes and by employing computer simulations using molecular dynamics. Ceramic composites are being studied to develop stronger, tougher ceramics, such as ceramic armor. Materials with nanocrystalline microstructures are being studied. Dielectric, ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and other active/functional materials are being developed for electronic substrates, capacitors, actuators, sensors, and smart/intelligent materials.

Graduate assistantships and fellowships are available for both first-year and advanced graduate students. Generally, all full-time doctoral students receive financial support and tuition remission. Support usually is associated with sponsoring grants or contracts. Master's students are typically self-supporting or receive support from their employer. Further information may be found on the program website.

A prospective Ph.D. candidate must spend a minimum of one academic year in residence as a full-time student taking courses or pursuing research.