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Doctorate in Materials Science and Engineering

The Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering program is designed to prepare graduates for influential roles in both industrial and academic research, as well as leadership positions in materials-focused industries.

Highlights

  • Technical expertise to tackle real-world challenges
  • Preparation for research-intensive roles
  • GRE not required for admission
  • STEM-designated Program

Advanced materials form the backbone of modern manufacturing, enabling many of the technological breakthroughs that define our era. This program allows you to specialize in areas such as metallurgy, ceramics, electronic materials, nanomaterials and biomaterials, addressing the increasing demand for innovative materials and technologies.

Graduates are well-equipped to shape the future of materials science and contribute to transformative advancements in industries ranging from healthcare to electronics.

View this program in the University Catalog

Course Outcomes

The Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering program curriculum develops your skills as a researcher, engineer and leader in high-level jobs within materials-related industry, principally through five available areas of specialization:

  • Electronic materials
  • Nanotechnology
  • Metals and alloys
  • Ceramics
  • Polymer science and biomaterials

Program Information

  • Application Requirements
    • Submit the FIU Graduate Admission Application.
    • Official transcripts of all previously earned college or university credits
    • An applicant statement or letter of intent—must include your area(s) of research interest
    • Three letters of recommendation
    • Resume or CV
    • A bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, physical sciences, computer science or mathematics. Degrees must have been earned at a regionally accredited university.
    • Applicants with a bachelor’s degree must have GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 overall or in the last 60 credit hours attempted.
    • Applicants with a master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering must also satisfy the above requirements for admissions to the doctoral program; however, a GPA of at least 3.3/4.0 in the master’s program is also required.

    For all Admissions Requirements, please consult the University Catalog.

  • Funding

    Ph.D. applicants may be considered for teaching assistantships, research assistantships and fellowships depending on qualifications and performance within the program. For more information regarding funding opportunities and deadlines, please visit the University Graduate School Funding page.

  • International Students

    International students should refer to the FIU International Admissions site for additional instructions on how to apply or enroll as a first-time or transferring international student.

  • STEM Designation

    The Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering is a STEM-designated program. After program completion, international students have the opportunity of Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows students to work within the U.S. for up to 36 months (one year of OPT + two years of STEM OPT) for STEM designated programs.

Requirements for Awarding of Degree

Students must maintain high-level performance and demonstrate graduate knowledge acquisition to be awarded a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering. For more information on degree and credit requirements, please consult the University Catalog.

  • Students with a Bachelor’s Degree

    Applicants with a bachelor’s degree must complete at least 75 credit hours to earn a Ph.D., including a minimum of 45 coursework hours and 15 dissertation hours. Of these, at least 21 credits must be at the 5000 level or higher (excluding dissertation) and at least 12 credits must be at the 6000 level or higher (excluding dissertation).

    Students must fulfill the program’s breadth requirement by taking three courses in an area outside their field of specialization and are also required to complete two applied or computational mathematics courses as outlined in the MSME curriculum.

  • Students with a Master's Degree

    Applicants entering the Ph.D. program with a master’s degree must complete at least 45 credit hours, including a minimum of 24 coursework hours and 15 dissertation hours. At least 12 credits of coursework must be at the 6000 level or higher (excluding dissertation).

    To satisfy breadth requirements, students must take three courses outside their field. Additional coursework will be determined by the student’s dissertation committee.

Apply to FIU

Interested students are encouraged to apply to FIU as early as possible. Applicants must submit transcripts from all schools attended, as well as any other supporting documentation required by their program of interest.

Apply