• Discover Nevada
• Admissions
• Academics
• Student Life
• Research
• Partnerships

Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering

The master's degree in materials science and engineering combines upper-level coursework with the opportunity to conduct research on a topic within materials science and write a thesis. To earn the master's degree, students must complete requirements in three main areas:

1. Core coursework: Core coursework requirements can be found in the course catalog.
2. Elective coursework: Elective coursework must be approved by your graduate advisor and advisory committee and filed with The Graduate School on your Program of Study.
3. Thesis: You must write and defend a thesis that is approved by your advisory committee.

You will develop an individualized program of study with your advisory committee. The program of study describes the specific courses, research and related activities you will take to meet your degree requirements. The Graduate Dean must approve your program of study, and we recommended that you develop a program of study as soon as possible upon arriving at the university.

Advisory committee

When you start your program, you may be assigned a temporary advisor. However, you should select a general research area, full advisory committee and thesis advisor sometime during the first semester.

Advisory or examining committees consist of at least three members of the graduate faculty: two from your area of specialization, and one from a department outside Chemical and Materials Engineering. Formal approval of your advisory or examining committee is given by the Graduate Dean. The committee is very important in guiding your progress toward an advanced degree, and high priority should be placed in forming the committee during the first semester. You are free to change advisors or committee members at any time.

Related Materials Science and Engineering Degrees and Programs

• Minor in Materials Science and Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering