COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology is a 30-credit graduate program designed to provide advanced knowledge of how materials are structured, how they behave, and how they can be engineered for modern technological applications. The program emphasizes a strong balance between theoretical foundations, experimental techniques, and research-based learning, preparing students for careers in industry, research, or further doctoral study.In the first year, students begin with core coursework that establishes a foundation in the discipline. The fall semester includes Materials Science and Theoretical Methods in Materials Science and Engineering, which introduce the fundamental principles governing material properties and the computational or mathematical tools used to analyze them. Students also take a graduate elective to begin shaping their specialization. In the spring semester, students continue building practical and analytical skills through Experimental Techniques, along with additional graduate electives that allow them to explore specific material systems or application areas in greater depth.The second year is focused primarily on independent research and thesis work. In the fall semester, students begin their Research and Thesis work while continuing with an additional graduate elective to support their research direction. The spring semester is dedicated fully to completing the thesis, allowing students to conduct in-depth investigations into a specific materials science topic under faculty supervision.Overall, the program is structured to develop strong competencies in both theoretical understanding and hands-on experimentation. Students learn how to analyze material behavior, apply scientific and engineering methods to material design, and contribute to innovation in areas such as electronics, energy systems, manufacturing, aerospace, and biomedical technologies. The thesis-based structure ensures that graduates leave with significant research experience and the ability to solve complex, real-world materials challenges.