UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS · UNITED STATES
Master of Science 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
- Prepares for R&D careers or further studyCareer Focus
- Combines coursework and researchProgram Structure
- Shorter time to degree than Ph.D.Duration
- Majority of master’s students find jobs in industryPost-Graduation Employment
The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Materials Science and Engineering at UC Davis is designed to enhance your knowledge and provide valuable research experience, preparing you for careers in research and development or for further academic study. The program integrates coursework with a focused research project and thesis, offering a shorter time to degree compared to doctoral programs. While the M.S. degree involves both study and research, the scope of the thesis is more limited than that of a Ph.D. thesis. Many graduates pursue successful careers in industry upon completion of the program.
Curriculum
The M.S. program requires core courses, electives, and departmental seminars. You will be matched with a major professor in your first fall quarter to guide your research and academic path. The curriculum is structured over two years, incorporating foundational knowledge and specialized learning.
- Year 1
- Advanced Thermodynamics of SolidsEMS 260
- Advanced Topics in Structure of MaterialsEMS 262
- Transport Phenomena in Materials ProcessesEMS 264
- Preparing for Graduate Student SuccessEMS 200
- Advanced Functional Properties of MaterialsEMS 272
- Advanced Mechanical Properties of MaterialsEMS 274
- Advanced Materials CharacterizationEMS 268
- Department SeminarEMS 290
- Elective (1XX/2XX level)
- ResearchEMS 299
- Year 2
- ResearchEMS 299
Careers
Graduates of the M.S. program are well-prepared for careers in research and development within various industries. The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in technical roles and contribute to innovation.
- Research Scientist
- R&D Engineer
- Materials Engineer
- Product Development Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language requirements for international students?
- The provided data does not specify English language requirements for the Materials Science and Engineering M.S. program. Please refer to the university's general graduate admission policies for this information.
- How much does the Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering program cost for international students?
- The provided data does not explicitly detail tuition and fees for international M.S. students in Materials Science and Engineering. However, it mentions that for a different program (MSBA), international students entering in summer 2025 pay $1,490 per unit, requiring 44 units for an estimated total of $65,560.
- Is funding or financial aid available for M.S. students in Materials Science and Engineering?
- Funding is not guaranteed for M.S. students. Students can apply for Teaching Assistant (TA) or Reader positions, which offer salary and fee remission. Further aid might be available through the Office of Financial Aid if a FAFSA is filed.
- What is the duration of the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering program?
- The program curriculum is structured over two years, offering a shorter time to degree compared to doctoral programs.
- What are the application deadlines for the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering?
- The priority review deadline for the Materials Science M.S. program is January 15. The application portal typically opens in September.
- What are the career prospects after completing the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering?
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research and development in various industries. Common roles include Research Scientist, R&D Engineer, Materials Engineer, and Product Development Specialist.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree (B.S. or B.A.) in a biological science, including coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Upper-division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are also recommended.
GPAMinimum 3.0 GPA
Research AptitudeDemonstrated aptitude and enthusiasm for research, including active participation in an independent research project supervised by a faculty member and/or post-baccalaureate research experience.
Admission to the M.S. program in Materials Science and Engineering is selective. For the Microbiology Graduate Program, which also offers an M.S., international applicants are strongly advised to seek fellowship support from their home countries. Only exceptional international students without financial support may be considered for admission. The Graduate Group in Microbiology strongly emphasizes the Ph.D. program and generally does not admit M.S. students unless they have government-sponsored fellowships, their own funding, or a faculty mentor's commitment of financial support.
Fees
Tuition (international)For the MSBA program (a different program at UC Davis), students entering in summer 2025 pay $1,490 per unit. The program requires 44 units, for an estimated total course fee of $65,560.
Tuition (home)For the MSBA program, tuition/fees are set at enrollment and remain fixed. Details for the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering are not explicitly provided, but typically include lower rates for California residents.
LivingEstimated program costs for the MSBA program (a different program at UC Davis) are not detailed, but generally include tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Funding for M.S. students in Materials Science and Engineering is not guaranteed. Students may apply for Teaching Assistant (TA) or Reader positions, which offer a salary and fee remission covering most in-state fees and health insurance. Further aid may be available through the Office of Financial Aid if a FAFSA is filed. For the Microbiology M.S. program, all costs are the responsibility of the applicant, and international students are strongly encouraged to secure fellowship support.
How to apply
1. Visit the Graduate Studies Application PortalAccess the online application through the UC Davis Graduate Studies page, typically available starting in September.
2. Complete the Application FormFill out all required sections of the electronic application.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all necessary documents, which may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency.
4. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
5. Monitor Application StatusTrack the status of your application through the portal.
Scholarships
Teaching Assistant/Reader PositionsSalary and fee remission
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
The provided data does not specify English language requirements for the Materials Science and Engineering M.S. program. Please refer to the university's general graduate admission policies for this information.
How much does the Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering program cost for international students?
+
The provided data does not explicitly detail tuition and fees for international M.S. students in Materials Science and Engineering. However, it mentions that for a different program (MSBA), international students entering in summer 2025 pay $1,490 per unit, requiring 44 units for an estimated total of $65,560.
Is funding or financial aid available for M.S. students in Materials Science and Engineering?
+
Funding is not guaranteed for M.S. students. Students can apply for Teaching Assistant (TA) or Reader positions, which offer salary and fee remission. Further aid might be available through the Office of Financial Aid if a FAFSA is filed.
What is the duration of the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering program?
+
The program curriculum is structured over two years, offering a shorter time to degree compared to doctoral programs.
What are the application deadlines for the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering?
+
The priority review deadline for the Materials Science M.S. program is January 15. The application portal typically opens in September.
What are the career prospects after completing the M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research and development in various industries. Common roles include Research Scientist, R&D Engineer, Materials Engineer, and Product Development Specialist.