UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · UNITED STATES
Doctoral Program in Materials Science and Engineering
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 48 units of graduate courseworkCoursework Requirement
- Two-stage examination process (Comprehensive and Qualifying)Examinations
- Dissertation defense requiredFinal Requirement
- Minimum 3.00 GPAAcademic Standing
- Focus on research and teaching preparationCareer Focus
The Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering at UC San Diego is designed to prepare students for research and teaching careers. The program requires 48 units of graduate-level coursework, equivalent to 12 courses, to be completed by the end of the second academic year. Students must also complete MATS Academy I and II, and MATS 200 seminars. Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.00 (B average) is required for good academic standing and graduation. The curriculum emphasizes rigorous coursework and comprehensive examinations to ensure students meet degree requirements and are prepared for advanced research.
Curriculum
Students must complete 48 units of graduate coursework (12 courses) by the end of their second academic year. All coursework must be at the 200-level or higher and taken for a letter grade, with exceptions for MATS 200 and MATS 299 which can be taken Pass/No Pass or Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Students are advised to use the MATS Graduate Curriculum checklists to plan their courses and consult with their faculty advisor/PI for elective approvals. Courses must be 4 units each, in an engineering-related field. Students admitted before Fall 2024 have specific core course requirements.
- Years 1-2 (Pre-Fall 2024 Admissions)
- Mandatory Core CoursesMATS 201A, MATS 201B, MATS 201C, MATS 227
- Elective Core Courses (Select at least two)MATS 205A, MATS 213A, MATS 231, MATS 236, MATS 251A, MATS 251B, MATS 252, MATS 253, MATS 254, MATS 255, MATS 256, MATS 257, MATS 261A, MATS 261B, MATS 269, PHYS 152A
- MATS 200 SeminarsMATS 200
- Advanced Graduate Courses (Advisor Approved)
Careers
The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in research and teaching. Alumni are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills to contribute to academia or industry.
- Researcher
- Professor
- Scientist
- Educator
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic qualifications needed for the Materials Science and Engineering PhD program?
- A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. Applicants must also have a minimum GPA of 3.00 (B average) for good academic standing. GRE scores are typically required for US graduate programs, but specific program details should be confirmed.
- What English proficiency tests are accepted for international applicants?
- International applicants typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Specific minimum score requirements are not explicitly stated and should be checked with the UC San Diego Graduate Division.
- How long does the PhD program in Materials Science and Engineering typically take?
- The program requires 48 units of graduate coursework (equivalent to 12 courses) to be completed by the end of the second academic year. The overall duration includes dissertation research and defense.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
- The program prepares graduates for careers in research and teaching. Potential roles include Researcher, Professor, Scientist, and Educator in academia or industry.
- When is the application deadline for the PhD program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is November 30. Interviews typically occur in February and March, with admission notifications usually sent by April.
- What are the tuition and living costs for international students?
- Tuition and living costs are not detailed in the provided program information. Prospective students should consult the UC San Diego Graduate Division or the Financial Aid office for the most current cost of attendance figures.
Entry requirements
Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)Not specified, but typically required for US graduate programs. Check specific program details.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
Minimum GPAA minimum GPA of 3.00 (B average) is required for good academic standing.
TOEFLMinimum scores not explicitly stated, but typically required for international applicants. Check Graduate Division requirements.
IELTSMinimum scores not explicitly stated, but typically required for international applicants. Check Graduate Division requirements.
International applicants must meet UC San Diego's general graduate admission requirements, including English proficiency. Specific departmental requirements may vary. Applicants with prior graduate credit or an M.S. from another institution will have their records reviewed by a faculty advisor.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees for international students are not specified on the provided pages. Please refer to UC San Diego's Graduate Division for detailed cost of attendance information.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees for domestic students are not specified on the provided pages. Please refer to UC San Diego's Graduate Division for detailed cost of attendance information.
LivingEstimated living costs for graduate students are not specified on the provided pages. Please refer to UC San Diego's Graduate Division for detailed cost of attendance information.
Tuition and living costs are not detailed in the provided program information. Prospective students should consult the UC San Diego Graduate Division or the Financial Aid office for the most current and accurate cost of attendance figures.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the UC San Diego Graduate Application form online. Ensure all required sections are completed accurately, including contact information.
2. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all necessary documents as required by the graduate division and the Materials Science and Engineering program. This typically includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose.
3. Application ReviewThe Admissions Committee will review your complete application. Ensure your contact details are up-to-date as you may be contacted for interviews.
4. InterviewsSelected applicants are invited to campus for interviews with faculty members in February and March.
Scholarships
Chancellor's Associates ScholarshipUp to $20,000 per year
Chancellor's Associates Scholarship: Enrolled Members of Federally Recognized Tribes—
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic qualifications needed for the Materials Science and Engineering PhD program?
+
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. Applicants must also have a minimum GPA of 3.00 (B average) for good academic standing. GRE scores are typically required for US graduate programs, but specific program details should be confirmed.
What English proficiency tests are accepted for international applicants?
+
International applicants typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Specific minimum score requirements are not explicitly stated and should be checked with the UC San Diego Graduate Division.
How long does the PhD program in Materials Science and Engineering typically take?
+
The program requires 48 units of graduate coursework (equivalent to 12 courses) to be completed by the end of the second academic year. The overall duration includes dissertation research and defense.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
+
The program prepares graduates for careers in research and teaching. Potential roles include Researcher, Professor, Scientist, and Educator in academia or industry.
When is the application deadline for the PhD program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is November 30. Interviews typically occur in February and March, with admission notifications usually sent by April.
What are the tuition and living costs for international students?
+
Tuition and living costs are not detailed in the provided program information. Prospective students should consult the UC San Diego Graduate Division or the Financial Aid office for the most current cost of attendance figures.