CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
MPhil-PhD in Materials Science and Engineering
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€23k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- MPhil and PhD streams availableProgram Structure
- Comprehensive research areasSpecializations
- 12 units of courseworkCoursework
- Normative 36 months for PhD (with research master's)PhD Duration
The MPhil-PhD in Materials Science and Engineering program at CUHK offers advanced research opportunities within a dynamic field. The MPhil stream involves coursework and a thesis, while the PhD stream includes coursework, guided study, and a substantial thesis defended through an oral examination. Students entering with a research master's degree can complete the PhD in 36 months. The program focuses on cutting-edge research across various specializations. These include the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, composites, and biomorphic materials, as well as advanced topics like nanoplasmonics, solar energy materials, and computational biophysics. The division actively encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the MPhil-PhD in Materials Science and Engineering program?
- The international tuition fee for the 2026-27 academic year is HK$214,000. Annual fee adjustments are capped at 3% for the 2026 cohort.
- What is the estimated total cost of attendance for international students, including living expenses?
- The estimated total annual cost is approximately HK$62,000, comprising HK$17,000 for on-campus accommodation and HK$45,000 for living expenses, in addition to tuition fees.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants generally need a minimum score of 6.5 on IELTS (Academic) or 79 on TOEFL iBT. Applicants whose prior education was not in English, unless they completed a degree at a Hong Kong university, must provide proof.
- What is the application deadline for the MPhil-PhD in Materials Science and Engineering program?
- The main application round deadline is December 1, 2025. A clearing round deadline of March 31, 2026, is available subject to places remaining.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students in this program?
- Yes, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) and CUHK Scholarships are available, both being merit-based. Applying for HKPFS requires a submission by the December 1st deadline.
- What is the duration of the PhD program, and how are students admitted?
- Students entering with a research master's degree can complete the PhD in a normative 36 months. The program offers both MPhil and PhD streams with varying coursework and research requirements.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeIn Materials Science and Engineering or a related field. For Master's programs, typically Second Class Honours or higher, or a 'B' average. Equivalent professional qualifications may be considered. A degree in other fields with relevant postgraduate coursework or work experience is also accepted.
IELTS (Academic)6.5
TOEFL (iBT)79
TOEFL (PBT)550
TOEFL (CBT)213
HKDSE (English)Level 4
GMAT (Verbal)21
English proficiency proof is required for applicants whose prior education was not conducted in English. Applicants who have completed a degree at a university in Hong Kong are exempt.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$214,000 (2026-27 academic year, with annual fee adjustment capped at 3% for the 2026 cohort).
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 (2026-2027 annual tuition fees for local Hong Kong students).
LivingEstimated HK$17,000 for on-campus accommodation and HK$45,000 for living expenses, totaling approximately HK$62,000 per year.
A caution fee of HK$450 is required upon enrolment, which is refundable upon withdrawal or usually used as a graduation fee.
How to apply
1. Prepare DocumentsGather all required documents including identity proof, CV, degree certificates, official transcripts with grading schemes, proof of English proficiency, and recommendation letters.
2. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form for postgraduate programs. Ensure all sections are filled accurately.
3. Request RecommendationsArrange for two referees to submit confidential recommendation reports. This can be done through the online system or via sealed hard copies.
4. Apply for HKPFS (if applicable)If applying for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, submit an initial application to the RGC and a full application to CUHK by the December 1st deadline.
5. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
6. Monitor Application StatusTrack the status of your application through the online portal and respond to any requests for additional information.
Scholarships
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)Covers tuition, living allowance, and academic development funding.
CUHK ScholarshipsVaries, may cover tuition and living expenses.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the MPhil-PhD in Materials Science and Engineering program?
+
The international tuition fee for the 2026-27 academic year is HK$214,000. Annual fee adjustments are capped at 3% for the 2026 cohort.
What is the estimated total cost of attendance for international students, including living expenses?
+
The estimated total annual cost is approximately HK$62,000, comprising HK$17,000 for on-campus accommodation and HK$45,000 for living expenses, in addition to tuition fees.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants generally need a minimum score of 6.5 on IELTS (Academic) or 79 on TOEFL iBT. Applicants whose prior education was not in English, unless they completed a degree at a Hong Kong university, must provide proof.
What is the application deadline for the MPhil-PhD in Materials Science and Engineering program?
+
The main application round deadline is December 1, 2025. A clearing round deadline of March 31, 2026, is available subject to places remaining.
Are there any scholarships available for international students in this program?
+
Yes, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) and CUHK Scholarships are available, both being merit-based. Applying for HKPFS requires a submission by the December 1st deadline.
What is the duration of the PhD program, and how are students admitted?
+
Students entering with a research master's degree can complete the PhD in a normative 36 months. The program offers both MPhil and PhD streams with varying coursework and research requirements.