UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Interdisciplinary approach with faculty from Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and more.Interdisciplinary Faculty
- Focus on electronic, nano, polymer, and biomaterials.Research Areas
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities like CHANL and BeAM makerspaces.Advanced Facilities
- Opportunities for research assistantships and teaching assistantships.Funding Opportunities
- Rigorous curriculum including seminars, core courses, and specialized electives.Comprehensive Curriculum
The Department of Applied Physical Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a Ph.D. program in Materials Science. This interdisciplinary program integrates faculty from various departments, including Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics and Astronomy, to conduct research and provide training in the applications of physical sciences. The program focuses on key areas such as optical and electronic materials, nanomaterials, polymers, and biomaterials. Students will gain a strong foundation in materials science fundamentals, including structure, surfaces, fabrication, thermodynamics, and laboratory techniques, and will pursue specialized knowledge through elective courses and research within their chosen concentration. The department also houses the BeAM makerspace network, offering students access to tools and expertise for hands-on creation and innovation. Research within the program spans several critical areas, including electronic materials, nanomaterials, polymers, and biomaterials. Interdisciplinary projects also explore topics like solar energy, soft and biological matter, structural materials, optical engineering, neuroscience, data science, and computational modeling. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities for materials synthesis, processing, and characterization, including the Chapel Hill Analytical and Nanofabrication Laboratory (CHANL) and the BeAM makerspaces. The program aims to prepare knowledgeable and responsible students, citizens, and researchers who can address real-world problems through technology and innovation.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program in Materials Science requires the completion of a core curriculum, a literature review, a prospectus, a first doctoral oral exam, original research culminating in a dissertation, and a final oral exam. All graduate students must pass specific foundational courses. Additional courses are selected based on the student's area of study, with options available within Applied Physical Sciences and other participating departments.
- Year 1
- Materials Science First Year Seminar: Resources for success in your PhD programMTSC 710
- Materials Science First Year Seminar: Developing your plan for successMTSC 711
- Seminar in Materials Science and EngineeringMTSC 718
- Advanced Materials ScienceMTSC 780
- Introduction to Scientific Computing for MaterialsMTSC 785
- Year 2
- Literature Review
- Prospectus and First Doctoral Oral Exam
- Subsequent Years
- Dissertation Research and Final Oral Exam
Careers
Graduates of the Materials Science Ph.D. program are prepared for careers in research and development in academia and industry. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips students with skills applicable to a wide range of fields.
- Materials Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Professor
- R&D Engineer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
- While specific GPA minimums are not stated, a strong academic record in physical sciences or engineering is required. You will need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially GRE scores. International applicants must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- How do I apply for the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
- Applications are managed through The Graduate School at UNC-Chapel Hill. You will need to prepare your application materials, including transcripts and recommendations, and submit an online application via The Graduate School's portal, along with the application fee.
- When is the application deadline for the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
- The application period typically opens in the Fall for admission the following Fall. The application deadline varies but is usually in early January for Fall admission.
- What is the tuition and fee structure for international students in the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
- Tuition rates are assessed on a per-credit hour basis and vary annually. Specific rates are determined by the North Carolina legislature. An online tuition estimator is available on the University Cashier's website.
- What is the duration of the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science) program?
- The program is a Ph.D. program. Year 1 involves foundational courses and seminars. Year 2 includes a literature review and first doctoral oral exam, followed by dissertation research in subsequent years.
- Are there funding opportunities available for international students in the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
- Yes, opportunities for research assistantships and teaching assistantships are available for qualified graduate students, which can help cover costs. Information on fellowships can also be found on The Graduate School's website.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA strong academic record is required, though specific GPA minimums are not stated. Admission is competitive.
Graduate Degree PrerequisiteEquivalent of undergraduate courses in relevant scientific and engineering disciplines.
Admission to the doctoral program is competitive. Prospective students should have a strong background in physical sciences or engineering. For detailed program information, contact the graduate program coordinator via email at apsssm@unc.edu or by phone at (919) 966-2291.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates are assessed on a per-credit hour basis for graduate programs. Specific rates vary and are determined by North Carolina legislature and approved annually. An online tuition estimator is available.
Tuition (home)Tuition rates are assessed on a per-credit hour basis for graduate programs. Specific rates vary and are determined by North Carolina legislature and approved annually. An online tuition estimator is available.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided.
Tuition and fee rates are set by the North Carolina legislature and approved by the Board of Trustees and Board of Governors. Billing schedules follow the University Registrar’s Calendar. More information on specific tuition and fee rates can be found via the University Cashier's website, including an online tuition estimator.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the specific admission criteria and program structure for the Ph.D. in Materials Science.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and any required test scores.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form through The Graduate School's application portal.
4. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
5. Await Admission DecisionApplication review is conducted by the department and The Graduate School. Decisions are typically released after the application deadline.
Scholarships
FellowshipsVaries
Research AssistantshipsVaries
Teaching AssistantshipsVaries
Accreditation
The Department of Applied Physical Sciences operates under the umbrella of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an accredited institution.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
+
While specific GPA minimums are not stated, a strong academic record in physical sciences or engineering is required. You will need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially GRE scores. International applicants must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
How do I apply for the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
+
Applications are managed through The Graduate School at UNC-Chapel Hill. You will need to prepare your application materials, including transcripts and recommendations, and submit an online application via The Graduate School's portal, along with the application fee.
When is the application deadline for the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
+
The application period typically opens in the Fall for admission the following Fall. The application deadline varies but is usually in early January for Fall admission.
What is the tuition and fee structure for international students in the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
+
Tuition rates are assessed on a per-credit hour basis and vary annually. Specific rates are determined by the North Carolina legislature. An online tuition estimator is available on the University Cashier's website.
What is the duration of the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science) program?
+
The program is a Ph.D. program. Year 1 involves foundational courses and seminars. Year 2 includes a literature review and first doctoral oral exam, followed by dissertation research in subsequent years.
Are there funding opportunities available for international students in the Master of Science in Applied Physical Sciences (Materials Science)?
+
Yes, opportunities for research assistantships and teaching assistantships are available for qualified graduate students, which can help cover costs. Information on fellowships can also be found on The Graduate School's website.