Materials Science and Engineering Master of Science Degree

The objectives of the materials science degree are threefold:

• With the advent of new classes of materials and instruments, the traditional practice of empiricism in the search for and selection of materials is rapidly becoming obsolete. Therefore, the program offers a serious interdisciplinary learning experience in materials studies, crossing over the traditional boundaries of such classical disciplines like chemistry, physics, and electrical, mechanical, and microelectronic engineering.
• The program provides extensive experimental courses in diverse areas of materials-related studies.
• The program explores avenues for introducing greater harmony between industrial expansion and academic training.

RIT’s Materials Science Master’s Degree

Our materials science master’s degree spans across three colleges: Science, Engineering and Sustainability. This gives you broad access that is not found in other programs that might be in a single college. In addition, the applied nature of the research and our co-op connections are unrivaled.

• Take part in extensive experimental courses in diverse areas of materials-related studies.
• Explore avenues for introducing greater harmony between industrial expansion and academic training.
• Gain the independent thinking and project management skills to grow professionally and prepare yourself for a wide range of careers.

Materials Science and Engineering Master’s Courses

The materials science degree includes three required core courses, graduate electives, and either a thesis or project.

Courses: The core courses are specially designed to establish a common base of materials-oriented knowledge for students with baccalaureate degrees in chemistry, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, and related disciplines.

There also is an emphasis on experimental techniques, with one required experimental course as part of the curriculum. This aspect of the masters in materials science will enhance your confidence when dealing with materials-related problems.

Electives: Elective courses may be selected from advanced courses offered by the School of Chemistry and Materials Science or, upon approval, from courses offered by other RIT graduate programs. Elective courses are scheduled on a periodic basis. Transfer credit may be awarded based on academic background beyond the bachelor’s degree or by examination, based on experience.

Thesis/Project: Choose to complete a thesis or a project as the conclusion to your program. If you pursue the thesis option, you will take four graduate electives, complete nine credit hours of research, and produce a thesis paper. Alternatively, the project option includes six graduate electives and a 3 credit hour project.

Part-Time Study: The materials science degree offers courses in the late afternoon and evenings to encourage practicing scientists and engineers to pursue the program without interrupting their employment. (This may not apply to courses offered off campus at selected industrial sites.) Students employed full time are normally limited to a maximum of two courses, or 6 credit hours, each semester. If you wish to register for more than 6 credit hours, then you must obtain the permission of your advisor.