Courses
Ph.D. Requirements
- Course credits: Complete a minimum of 48 credits that include classes (4 core and 4 elective classes), thesis research (minimum 18 credits), and research seminar attendance (6 credits).
- Qualifying Exam: By the end of the 2nd year pass an exam, administered by your dissertation committee, and advance to candidacy.
- Proposal: Prepare and present to your dissertation committee a written proposal that includes a literature review and describes the research to be performed for your dissertation.
- Dissertation: Prepare a written document and present your original research in an open forum; pass an oral exam conducted by your dissertation committee.
M.S. Degree Requirements
- Thesis Option: Complete a minimum of 33 credits including credits from coursework, thesis research work (M.S. thesis credits), and research seminar attendance
- Non-Thesis Option: Complete a minimum of 32 credits including credits from coursework, MSE-related industry internship or independent study with MSE-affiliated faculty (practicum), and research seminar attendance.
Explore the MSE Graduate Student Handbook for specific requirements and recommended timetables for various programs of study.
12 credits from the following four 600-level MSE core courses:
MSE 601: Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Materials (3 credits)
MIE 611: Advanced Materials Characterization: Microscopy (3 credits)
ChE 611: Advanced Materials Characterization: Spectroscopy (3 credits)
MIE 609: Mechanical Properties of Materials (3 credits)
ECE 618: Electronic, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Materials (3 credits)
12 credits from four MSE-approved elective courses (see list of MSE-approved elective courses online at https://websites.umass.edu/mseidgp/degrees/).