Virginia Tech's Department of Materials Science and Engineering offers advanced degrees at the master's and doctoral levels. Students can pursue an M.S. with a required thesis, an M.Eng. without a thesis, or a Ph.D. The program is designed for individuals holding or pursuing a degree in engineering, physics, chemistry, geological science, or mathematics, providing a strong foundation for specialized study in materials science. Specializations within the program cover a wide range of topics, including the structure and properties of crystalline and non-crystalline materials, advanced synthesis and processing techniques, theoretical modeling, phase transformations, thermodynamics, diffusion, and the characterization of mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, and magnetic properties. The curriculum also addresses microelectronic and optoelectronic materials, preparing graduates for diverse research and development roles.
Tuition and fee rates vary by term. Specific details can be found in the linked PDF documents for Summer 2026 and Fall/Spring 2026-2027.
Applicants must hold, or be pursuing, a degree in any branch of engineering, physics, chemistry, geological science, or mathematics.
Tuition and fee rates vary by term. Specific details for Summer 2026 and Fall/Spring 2026-2027 can be found in the linked PDF documents on the program's tuition and fees section.
Prospective students should visit the Virginia Tech Admissions website, select Graduate Admissions, complete the online application form, and submit all required supporting documents like transcripts and letters of recommendation.
The program covers topics such as the structure and properties of crystalline and non-crystalline materials, advanced synthesis and processing, theoretical modeling, phase transformations, thermodynamics, diffusion, and the characterization of various material properties, including microelectronic and optoelectronic materials.
Graduates are prepared for careers in research, development, and industry, with opportunities in cutting-edge technological fields utilizing specialized knowledge in materials synthesis, processing, modeling, and characterization.