WPI’s Master's in Materials Science Online provides a comprehensive source of knowledge to enhance the skill sets of practice-oriented engineers. This "graduate-level only" program at WPI is rich in information needed for industrial applications embedded in materials technology. Most industrial sectors that are involved in materials processing and manufacturing, including electronics, biotech, automotive, aerospace, chemicals and energy generation can benefit from our materials engineering program. As a student, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to push the boundaries of energy and materials sustainability needed for economic growth. Trained students will be able to leverage their professional expertise in materials engineering and meet their career goals.
Students can earn their master's degree in materials science online in only two years. Working closely with their faculty advisors, students will develop a customized and relevant plan of study.
This program is also available on campus
Learn moreLearning Outcomes
By the end of this program, students will be able to:
- Perform detailed thermodynamic and kinetic calculations to refine processes that are both scientifically and technologically viable and cost-effective
- Select materials to maximize functionality and performance while minimizing costs using structural and functional materials derived from metals, ceramics and polymers
- Learn about advanced characterization techniques, modelling methods, measurement and data analytics.
- Gain application specific knowledge in additive manufacturing, ICME & process modelling, metal processing, mechanical metallurgy, materials characterization, surface engineering, energy storage and materials sustainability.
- Produce designs which are optimized for materials utilization and remanufacturing so that they can be made more quickly and at a lower cost
- Understand the relationship between materials processing, its structure and properties and the application for maximized performance.
Admissions Qualifications for Online Master's in Materials Science Online
Candidates for admission to our online master’s in materials science and engineering must meet WPI’s requirements and should have a bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or management, preferably in such fields as computer science/engineering, electrical/ control engineering, industrial engineering, environmental engineering, manufacturing engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, or management. Students with other backgrounds will be considered based on their interest, formal education and experience in manufacturing.
For specific application requirements, visit our admissions for online programs page.
If you do not have a bachelor's degree, please view our list of undergraduate programs.
Refer a Friend
Do you have a friend, colleague, or family member who might be interested in Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s (WPI) graduate programs? Click below to tell them about our programs.
Materials Science & Engineering Info Session
View our on-demand webinar to be introduced to WPI's online graduate programs in Materials Science & Engineering. Get an overview of program logistics, what online learning looks like, the application process, and more!
Graduate Studies Series
Team members from Graduate & Professional Studies host quick and convenient webinars designed to highlight popular topics when starting grad school. Take a deep dive into specific areas of interest such as how to secure funding, how to ace your application, an overview of student services, and more!
Curriculum
Program Requirements
The online Materials Science & Engineering degree requires the completion of 30 graduate credit hours. The distribution of credits is as follows:
- MTE 511. Structure and Properties of Engineering Materials
- MTE 512. Properties and Performance of Engineering Materials
- At least 4 of the following Materials Science Engineering courses:
- MTE 526. Advanced Thermodynamics
- MTE 532. X-Ray Diffraction and Crystallography
- MTE 540. Analytical Methods in Materials Engineering
- MTE 550. Phase Transformations in Materials
- MTE 5844. Corrosion and Corrosion Control
All courses must be approved by the student advisor.
Courses
The following Materials Science and Engineering courses are offered online:
- MTE 511. Structure and Properties of Engineering Materials
- MTE 512. Properties and Performance of Engineering Materials
- MTE 526. Advanced Thermodynamics
- MTE 530. Computational Thermodynamics
- MTE 532. X-Ray Diffraction and Crystallography
- MTE 540. Analytical Methods in Materials Engineering
- MTE 5420. Fundamentals of Axiomatic Design of Manufacturing Processes
- MTE 550. Phase Transformation in Materials
- MTE 556. Smart Materials
- MTE 558. Plastics
- MTE 559. Biomedical Materials
- MTE 575. Introduction to Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology
- MTE 5843. Fundamentals of Surface Metrology
- MTE 5844. Corrosion and Corrosion Control
- MTE 594. ST: Printed Electronics and Sensors
To find the next offering of online Material Science & Engineering courses, visit the Registrar’s site.
To view a course description, visit the Graduate Catalog.
Subject to change based on availability.
Study in the Lab with Our On Campus Master’s in Material Science & Engineering
Do you prefer gaining exposure to engineering applications by studying in our state-of-the-art labs? Our on campus master’s in material science provides students ability to work on breakthrough research alongside our expert faculty. Plus, you’ll have the space to conduct experiments through the Materials Processing Facility. Already have a masters? Earn a PhD in materials science and engineering and conduct hands-on research in areas like heat treating, recycling, and more alongside industry-supported centers.
See all the events and webinars that the Graduate Studies team are hosting and attending.
Got 7 minutes? Take this short survey and help improve the grad-school-research experience for you and your peers.