UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · UNITED STATES
Graduate Programs in Materials Science and Engineering
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- State-of-the-art facilities in Wilsdorf and Jesser HallsFacilities
- Research in corrosion, structural, electronic, and soft materialsResearch Areas
- Emphasis on synthesis, characterization, computation, and informaticsCore Strengths
- Collaborative research environment mirroring industry and government labsEnvironment
- Guidance from dedicated faculty advisorsAdvising
The University of Virginia offers graduate programs in Materials Science and Engineering designed for students seeking advanced knowledge and research experience. These programs aim to foster timely progress towards a degree, emphasizing academic rigor, research collaboration, and professional development within state-of-the-art facilities. Students will engage in research that addresses core strengths in areas such as corrosion and electrochemistry, structural materials, electronic/magnetic/optical properties of materials, and soft materials, supported by expertise in synthesis, characterization, computation, and materials informatics. The curriculum is structured to provide a deep understanding of materials science principles, with opportunities for specialization through research. Students are supported by faculty advisors who guide their academic planning and research endeavors. The program encourages students to develop technical excellence and leadership skills, preparing them for impactful careers in academic, government, and industrial research settings.
Curriculum
Graduate programs in Materials Science and Engineering require students to complete coursework and engage in research. Students must maintain academic progress towards their degree and adhere to program-specific time limits. Specific course details can be found in the MSE Course Catalog.
- Year 1
- Graduate Research9999
- Specialized MSE Courses
- Year 2
- Graduate Research9999
- Dissertation/Thesis Research9970
Careers
A graduate degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Virginia prepares students for diverse and impactful career paths. The program emphasizes research skills and professional development, aligning with the demands of advanced roles in various sectors.
- Materials Scientist
- Research Engineer
- Materials Development Specialist
- Product Engineer
- Academic Researcher
- Industry R&D Professional
Frequently asked questions
- What are the typical career paths for graduates of the Materials Science and Engineering program?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Materials Scientist, Research Engineer, Product Engineer, or an Academic Researcher. The program also prepares students for Industry R&D Professional positions.
- How long does the Master's program in Materials Science and Engineering typically take to complete?
- The program is structured over two years, with students completing graduate research and specialized coursework in the first year, and dissertation/thesis research in the second year.
- What are the application deadlines for the Materials Science and Engineering graduate programs?
- Application deadlines vary by program, and prospective students should consult the Graduate Admission website for specific dates. The application period typically opens in the Fall for admission the following Fall.
- Are there specific English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants whose first language is not English may need to take the University of Virginia English Language Proficiency Exam (UVELPE) or the SPEAK test, especially for Teaching Assistant roles. Specific score requirements depend on the intended level of teaching duties.
- What are the tuition and living costs for international students?
- Specific graduate tuition rates vary by program and residency status and can be found on the University of Virginia Student Financial Services website. Estimated living costs are available through Student Financial Services and university housing resources.
- How do I apply to the Materials Science and Engineering graduate program?
- International students should visit the University of Virginia's graduate admission website for the School of Engineering and Applied Science, complete the online application form, and submit required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Entry requirements
Master of Science (M.S.)Minimum of one semester in full-time residence at UVA in Charlottesville is required.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) - with prior Master's degreeAt least two fall or spring semesters beyond the master's degree must be in full residence at UVA in Charlottesville.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) - with Bachelor's degreeAt least three regular semesters in full residence at UVA in Charlottesville are required.
University of Virginia English Language Proficiency Exam (UVELPE) / SPEAKMinimum 55 for Teaching Assistant (TA) roles without further language training.
UVELPE/SPEAK (limited TA duties)Minimum 40 for specific lab set-up, grading, or website maintenance roles.
UVELPE/SPEAK (limited TA duties)Minimum 45 for lab section assistance or holding office hours.
UVELPE/SPEAK (supervised lab/review sessions)Minimum 50 for roles like primary TA for a supervised lab or conducting review/problem sessions.
Prospective Teaching Assistants (GTAs/MTAs) whose first language is not English and who did not complete four years at an accredited U.S. college or university must take the oral portion of the UVELPE or the SPEAK test. Students scoring below 55 on the oral exam may need to complete recommended oral English training to receive a 'Released to Teach' designation.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Virginia Student Financial Services for current tuition rates for graduate programs, as these vary by program and residency status. International students should inquire directly about specific program costs.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Virginia Student Financial Services for current tuition rates for graduate programs, as these vary by program and residency status.
LivingEstimated living costs for graduate students are available through Student Financial Services and university housing resources. These costs can vary based on accommodation choices and lifestyle.
The University of Virginia is committed to affordability. While specific graduate tuition rates are not detailed here, the university provides significant financial aid and value for its students. International students should consult the graduate admission and financial aid pages for detailed information.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the specific academic and any language proficiency requirements for the graduate program you are interested in.
2. Visit Graduate Admission PortalNavigate to the University of Virginia's graduate admission website and locate the application portal specific to your desired program or school.
3. Complete the Application FormFill out the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal, academic, and professional information.
4. Submit Required DocumentsUpload all necessary supporting documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, TOEFL/IELTS if applicable).
5. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee to process your application.
6. Monitor Application StatusCheck your application portal regularly for updates and any requests for additional information.
Accreditation
The University of Virginia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Specific program accreditations may be available through the School of Engineering.
Frequently asked questions
What are the typical career paths for graduates of the Materials Science and Engineering program?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Materials Scientist, Research Engineer, Product Engineer, or an Academic Researcher. The program also prepares students for Industry R&D Professional positions.
How long does the Master's program in Materials Science and Engineering typically take to complete?
+
The program is structured over two years, with students completing graduate research and specialized coursework in the first year, and dissertation/thesis research in the second year.
What are the application deadlines for the Materials Science and Engineering graduate programs?
+
Application deadlines vary by program, and prospective students should consult the Graduate Admission website for specific dates. The application period typically opens in the Fall for admission the following Fall.
Are there specific English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants whose first language is not English may need to take the University of Virginia English Language Proficiency Exam (UVELPE) or the SPEAK test, especially for Teaching Assistant roles. Specific score requirements depend on the intended level of teaching duties.
What are the tuition and living costs for international students?
+
Specific graduate tuition rates vary by program and residency status and can be found on the University of Virginia Student Financial Services website. Estimated living costs are available through Student Financial Services and university housing resources.
How do I apply to the Materials Science and Engineering graduate program?
+
International students should visit the University of Virginia's graduate admission website for the School of Engineering and Applied Science, complete the online application form, and submit required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.