University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with hands-on laboratory training and a substantial research project. Students study how atomic-scale structure and processing methods determine mechanical, electrical, thermal and optical properties, and learn to apply that knowledge to develop and characterise new materials.

• Core topics: crystallography and defects, phase transformations, thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, materials characterisation techniques.
• Specialist modules: nanomaterials and nanotechnology, electronic and optical materials, polymers and soft materials, biomaterials, corrosion and degradation, composite materials, and advanced metallurgy.
• Laboratory and practical training: electron microscopy and spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, mechanical testing, thin-film deposition and processing, and micro-/nanofabrication techniques.
• Research project or thesis: students typically complete a substantial independent research project under faculty supervision; many projects are aligned with ongoing group research in areas such as energy materials, electronic materials and structural materials.
• Programme structure: options usually include thesis (research-focused) and non-thesis (coursework plus a project) routes; full-time study is commonly completed in around 1.5–2 years depending on route and research progress.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in materials science/engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry or a closely related discipline. Admissions assess academic preparation in areas such as thermodynamics, solid state physics, materials science fundamentals and calculus-based mathematics.

• Academic record: a strong undergraduate performance in a relevant technical subject.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose describing research interests, curriculum vitae, and academic transcripts are required; applicants typically supply two or three academic or professional references.
• Standardised tests: requirements for tests such as the GRE vary by programme and by applicant background; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university policy.
• Research fit: for the thesis route, evidence of research interest and fit with faculty expertise will strengthen an application; contacting potential supervisors before applying is recommended.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across industry, government laboratories and academia. The degree equips students for technical and leadership positions where materials selection, processing and failure analysis are central.

• R&D engineer or materials scientist in sectors such as energy, semiconductors, aerospace, automotive and biomedical devices.
• Process or manufacturing engineer working on scale-up, quality control and reliability testing.
• Failure analysis and materials characterisation specialist for industry or testing laboratories.
• Technical consultant, patent agent or product development manager combining materials expertise with commercial roles.
• Preparation for doctoral study and careers in academic research and teaching.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder offers a materials programme grounded in interdisciplinary research and close collaboration with nearby national laboratories and industry. Its faculty work across energy materials, electronic and optical materials, polymer science and structural materials, giving students access to a wide range of expertise.

• Research environment: students benefit from hands-on experience with advanced characterisation and fabrication facilities and can join active research groups working on contemporary materials challenges.
• Collaborations: proximity to national labs and research institutes, and active partnerships with regional industry and startups, provide opportunities for internships, joint projects and technology transfer.
• Interdisciplinary breadth: strong links with physics, chemistry, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering broaden training and enable cross-disciplinary projects.
• Location and quality of life: Boulder’s innovation ecosystem and access to outdoor recreation make it an attractive place to study and live, supporting both professional networking and personal wellbeing.