PhD in Materials Science and Engineering

The Interdisciplinary Graduate Program (IDGP) in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) offers a PhD that prepares highly talented and motivated students for industry careers in MSE.

Students can pursue coursework, obtain equipment and instrumentation training from dedicated staff, and perform original research at the forefront of MSE in state-of-the-art research laboratories and shared facilities at UMass. 

PhD Requirements:

• Course credits: Complete a minimum of 48 credits that include classes (4 core and 4 elective classes), thesis research (minimum 18 credits), and research seminar attendance (6 credits).  
• Qualifying Exam: By the end of the second year, pass an exam administered by your dissertation committee and advance to candidacy. 
• Proposal: Prepare and present to your dissertation committee a written proposal that includes a literature review and describes the research to be performed for your dissertation. 
• Dissertation: Prepare a written document and present your original research in an open forum; pass an oral exam conducted by your dissertation committee.  

Explore the MSE Graduate Student Handbook for specific requirements and recommended timetables.