Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The Master of Science in Materials Science & Engineering emphasises fundamental materials science together with experimental techniques and applied engineering practice. Students follow a curriculum that combines core coursework, electives in specialised topics, and a substantial culminating experience in the form of a research thesis or an advanced project.

• Core topics: materials thermodynamics and kinetics, crystallography and phase equilibria, mechanical behaviour of materials, and materials characterisation methods.
• Typical electives: electronic and optical materials, biomaterials, polymers and polymer processing, corrosion and degradation, nanomaterials and interfaces, advanced composites, and materials for energy applications.
• Laboratory and analytical training: hands‑on experience with scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X‑ray diffraction, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing, and surface analysis techniques.
• Computation and modelling: courses covering computational materials science, finite‑element modelling of materials behaviour, and materials informatics where available.
• Culminating experience: students choose between a research thesis under the supervision of departmental faculty or a major project that applies materials engineering to a real technical problem; both emphasise experimental design, data analysis and technical communication.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry, or a closely related technical discipline. Admissions consider the entirety of an application package rather than a single metric.

• Academic background: a strong undergraduate record with coursework in mathematics (calculus, differential equations), physics, chemistry and introductory materials or solid‑state topics.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, a current CV or résumé, and letters of recommendation from faculty or professional supervisors.
• Standardised tests: some applicants may submit GRE scores where appropriate; check programme guidance for current policy.
• English language proficiency: evidence of proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, typically demonstrated through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications.
• Research or industry experience: prior research projects, internships or relevant professional experience strengthen an application, especially for entry into thesis research groups.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MS in Materials Science & Engineering enter a broad range of industries and roles where materials selection, processing and characterisation are central. The programme prepares students for technical and leadership positions as well as further academic study.

• Typical career paths: materials engineer, process engineer, product development engineer, quality and failure‑analysis engineer, materials characterisation specialist, and manufacturing engineer.
• Industry sectors: aerospace and defence, automotive, electronics and semiconductors, biomedical devices and implants, energy and battery technologies, advanced manufacturing and composites.
• Research and academia: the MS provides preparation for PhD programmes and research scientist roles in university, national laboratory or corporate R&D environments.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is known for its project‑based education model, which integrates rigorous coursework with substantial hands‑on projects and collaborative research. This approach benefits materials students by emphasising real‑world problem solving, teamwork and communication alongside technical depth.

• Project‑based learning: students engage in significant applied projects and research experiences, often in cross‑disciplinary teams, reflecting the WPI Plan that is central to the university experience.
• Research facilities: access to well‑equipped materials and characterization laboratories, including electron microscopy, XRD, spectroscopy and mechanical testing facilities, supports both coursework and thesis research.
• Faculty and research strengths: faculty work across areas such as biomaterials, electronic materials, nanomaterials, composites and energy materials, offering opportunities to join funded research projects and publish results.
• Industry connections: proximity to a dense network of manufacturers, medical device companies and technology firms in New England facilitates internships, collaborative projects and employment opportunities.
• Professional development: small cohorts, close faculty mentorship and career services help students refine technical skills, build professional networks and transition into industry or doctoral study.