Massachusetts Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme provides a solid foundation in the physical and chemical principles that determine material behaviour, together with laboratory practice and design experience. Early study emphasises mathematics, physics and chemistry alongside introductory materials subjects such as crystal structure, defects and thermal behaviour. Core materials modules typically cover phase diagrams and materials thermodynamics, kinetics of diffusion and phase transformations, mechanical behaviour of solids, electronic and optical properties of materials, and materials processing.

Laboratory and practical components are central. Students undertake hands‑on laboratory classes in materials characterisation and processing that teach techniques such as X‑ray diffraction, electron microscopy, mechanical testing, spectroscopy and thin film deposition. The curriculum also includes laboratory‑based courses in experimental design and data analysis.

In the later years students choose elective modules to specialise in areas such as electronic and photonic materials, nanomaterials and nanotechnology, biomaterials, polymers and soft materials, energy materials (batteries, fuel cells, photovoltaics), structural materials for aerospace and automotive applications, and computational materials science. Independent research and design are encouraged through a substantial capstone experience (senior thesis or project) and participation in undergraduate research opportunities.

As with other MIT undergraduate degrees, a component of humanities, arts and social sciences study is required to develop communication and critical thinking skills, and students follow Institute‑level core requirements that complement the departmental curriculum.

Entry requirements

Admissions to the programme are highly selective and expect academic preparation at an advanced high‑school level in mathematics (including calculus), physics and chemistry. Successful applicants typically demonstrate excellence in STEM subjects, strong analytical skills, and the ability to manage a rigorous course load.

Typical supporting evidence includes strong school transcripts, compelling personal statements or essays that explain interest in materials and engineering, and letters of recommendation from teachers who can attest to academic readiness. Practical experience such as laboratory work, science projects, internships, research experience or participation in engineering competitions can strengthen an application. As with all MIT programmes, candidates should be prepared for a mathematically intensive curriculum and for collaborative, project‑based learning.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Materials Engineering proceed to a wide range of careers in industry, research and entrepreneurship. Common roles include materials engineer, process engineer, product development engineer, failure analysis engineer, quality and reliability engineer, and applications or design engineer.

Employment sectors include semiconductors and microelectronics, aerospace and defence, automotive, energy and batteries, biomedical devices and medical implants, advanced manufacturing, polymers and composites, and consultancy. Many graduates also continue to graduate study (MS/PhD) in materials science, engineering, applied physics or related fields, or move into interdisciplinary areas such as chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or electrical engineering. Some pursue careers in patent law, technical management or technology commercialisation, often after additional professional qualifications.

Why study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT’s materials programme is embedded in a research‑intensive environment with strong interdisciplinary links across the Institute. Students benefit from access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities and laboratories, opportunities to work with leading researchers, and established industry partnerships. The department places emphasis on hands‑on learning through laboratory courses, design projects and the Institute’s extensive undergraduate research programme, enabling students to gain practical skills in characterisation, processing and computational modelling.

The broader MIT ecosystem supports entrepreneurship and technology translation, so students interested in startups or commercialising materials technologies can access mentorship, funding competitions and incubator resources. Small class sizes in upper‑level courses, a culture of collaboration, and a rigorous technical curriculum prepare graduates to tackle complex materials challenges in both academic and industrial settings.