Materials Science and Engineering, M.S.

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Why Study Materials Science and Engineering at Montana Tech? 

Materials Science and Engineering is a rapidly growing field thanks to the need for technological advancements to address current and emerging global challenges such as sustainability and climate change, resource scarcity, energy conservation and storage, healthcare and biomedical engineering, and pollution control, among others. Our dynamic and intellectually stimulating program positions graduates to pursue careers in research and development, product design, manufacturing, operations, and consulting.

Perform Cutting-Edge Research

Our Materials Science and Engineering M.S. program offers an exceptional opportunity for graduate students to engage in cutting-edge materials research in areas such as materials synthesis, biomaterials, nanotechnology, recycling, waste treatment, and many others. Students have access to abundant funding and most immediately qualify for graduate research assistantships. This accessibility allows students to dive into hands-on research experiences during their first semester on campus, fostering their intellectual growth and enabling them to contribute to exciting discoveries.

State-of-the-Art Labs and Equipment 

The resources available in our laboratories enable materials science and engineering graduate students to conduct research that makes an impact. Use state-of-the-art analytical, laboratory, and field equipment. You’ll have access to instruments in your materials sciences research and opportunities to work one-on-one with faculty. 

Outstanding Location  

Live and learn in Butte, an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. Six mountain ranges surround the Montana Tech campus, and two national parks and five rivers are nearby for weekend adventures. You’ll benefit inside and outside the classroom while earning your master's degree in materials science and engineering here.

Distance Option  

It is possible for our materials science students to earn their MS/MSE degree via distance or remote learning through Montana Tech. Off-campus research is encouraged for qualified students. Learn more about distance or remote learning opportunities that include both thesis research and non-thesis practicum options.

What is Materials Science?  

Materials Science is the study of all the “stuff” that makes up everything around you. Materials scientists study the makeup, design, and processing of different substances. They use knowledge of physics and chemistry to understand the structure and properties of materials so they can be engineered to meet needs for manufacturing, nanotechnology, machine learning, construction and many other industries.  

What Kinds of Jobs Do Materials Scientists Get?  

The world is in the midst of a materials revolution. Materials scientists and engineers are employed in a variety of industries, and work to solve some of the planet’s most pressing challenges.Areas where material scientists and engineers make significant contributions include:

• Designing strong, durable lightweight materials for construction and transportation
• Promoting energy efficiency, and enabling the transition to renewable energy sources through development of environmentally friendly materials and processes
• Conservation of natural resources by developing efficient extraction and processing methods and by designing recyclable materials
• Developing materials and technologies that purify water and the air
• Contributing to the development of advanced energy storage systems, such as high-capacity batteries, solar cells, and fuel cells
• Developing biocompatible materials for tissue engineering, scaffolds, and medical devices
• Developing materials with enhanced electrical, magnetic, or optical properties for use in a variety of information technology and electronic applications

Explore Classes in Materials Science 

You’ll take core courses in bonding, structures and defects; thermodynamics of materials; kinetics and phase transformations; and advanced mathematics.  

The MS/MSE program at Montana Technological University offers thesis track and non-thesis track alternatives. Both are available to on-campus students and to off-campus students through distance-learning. Incoming off-campus students are admitted to the non-thesis track. At the invitation of a research-active participating faculty member (advisor), students who demonstrate an interest and aptitude for scientific research may petition the Graduate School for transfer to the thesis track.