IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
—
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at Iowa State University offers advanced research opportunities for students aspiring to careers in academic research, industry, or government laboratories. This doctoral program focuses on in-depth study and original research within the broad field of materials science, preparing graduates to tackle complex challenges in materials design, processing, characterization, and application. Students engage in rigorous coursework and extensive research, contributing to the forefront of materials innovation. The program emphasizes developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of materials behavior across various scales. Graduates are equipped to lead research initiatives and make significant contributions to the field.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 72 total credits. This includes a minimum of 21 coursework credits and at least 36 credits of research (MSE 699). Students must also complete specific core courses, supplementary requirements, and a seminar course.
- Throughout Program
- Responsible Conduct of ResearchGrSt
- SeminarMSE 601X
- Professional Practice: Carrying Responsible ResearchChE 565
- Core Requirement
- MSE 510MSE 510
- MSE 520MSE 520
- MSE 530MSE 530
- MSE 540MSE 540
Careers
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering program are prepared for a variety of advanced career paths in academic research, cutting-edge industry roles, and government laboratories. The program equips students with the skills to lead innovation and development in the field of materials.
- Materials Scientist
- Research Engineer
- Professor
- R&D Specialist
- Materials Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must achieve a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT, 7.5 on the IELTS, 68 on the PTE, or 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
- What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 is required for all graduate coursework. A minimum GPA of 3.30 is also required for all MSE graduate coursework and research credits to be eligible for the Ph.D. Preliminary Examination.
- How many credits are required for the Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering?
- The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 72 total credits, including at least 21 coursework credits and a minimum of 36 research credits (MSE 699).
- When are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. program?
- The application deadlines are June 15 for Fall intake, November 15 for Spring intake, and March 15 for Summer intake. It is recommended to submit international applications at least three months before the start of the term.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as Materials Scientists, Research Engineers, Professors, R&D Specialists, and Materials Consultants in academia, industry, and government laboratories.
- Where can I find information about tuition and fees?
- Specific tuition and fee information can be found via the 'Tuition and Fees' link on the Iowa State University website. Estimated living costs are not provided on the program page.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA 4-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent is required for admission to graduate studies.
GPAA minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 is required for all graduate coursework. A minimum GPA of 3.30 is also required for all MSE graduate coursework and MSE 699 credits to be eligible for the Ph.D. Preliminary Examination.
CourseworkA minimum of 21 coursework credits are required, including MSE core requirements, supplementary courses, approved non-MSE credits, and Responsible Conduct of Research.
MSE Core CoursesStudents must complete MSE 510, MSE 520, MSE 530, and MSE 540 with a grade of 'B' or better in each.
Research CreditsA minimum of 36 credits of MSE 699 (research) are required.
Seminar CreditsA minimum of 5 credits of MSE 601X (Seminar) are required.
Professional Practice1 credit of Professional Practice: Carrying Responsible Research (e.g., ChE 565) is required.
TOEFL Internet (iBT)100
IELTS7.5
PTE68
Duolingo120
International students must submit a Financial Statement as part of their application. Duolingo is temporarily accepted in lieu of TOEFL/IELTS.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Specific tuition and fee information can be found via the 'Tuition and Fees' link on the Iowa State University website. Estimated living costs are not provided on the program page.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the Iowa State University Graduate College portal.
2. Submit Academic TranscriptsProvide official transcripts from all previous academic institutions attended.
3. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsSubmit scores from an accepted English proficiency test (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo).
4. Provide Personal Statement/EssayInclude a personal essay or statement as part of your application, detailing your academic and research interests.
5. Submit ResumeInclude a current resume or curriculum vitae.
6. Submit Financial StatementInternational applicants must complete and submit a financial statement.
7. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is required.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must achieve a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT, 7.5 on the IELTS, 68 on the PTE, or 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
+
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 is required for all graduate coursework. A minimum GPA of 3.30 is also required for all MSE graduate coursework and research credits to be eligible for the Ph.D. Preliminary Examination.
How many credits are required for the Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering?
+
The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 72 total credits, including at least 21 coursework credits and a minimum of 36 research credits (MSE 699).
When are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. program?
+
The application deadlines are June 15 for Fall intake, November 15 for Spring intake, and March 15 for Summer intake. It is recommended to submit international applications at least three months before the start of the term.
What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as Materials Scientists, Research Engineers, Professors, R&D Specialists, and Materials Consultants in academia, industry, and government laboratories.
Where can I find information about tuition and fees?
+
Specific tuition and fee information can be found via the 'Tuition and Fees' link on the Iowa State University website. Estimated living costs are not provided on the program page.