Materials Science and Engineering PhD

Earn your Materials Science PhD at the only Ohio university with a college dedicated to STEM academics.

What You'll Study

Improving military armor. Extending the lifespan of optical data storage. Creating renewable, sustainable energy. It's all being done here, and more, in the Materials Science and Engineering PhD program.

We partner with commercial researchers to grow and develop local industry. You'll incorporate original findings into your studies from the YSU Center of Excellence in Materials Science and Engineering, and the Ohio Hub for Innovation and Opportunity in Advanced Materials Commercialization.

Our labs and instruments are also some of the best in the nation, including those for:

  •  Electron microscopy
  •  Mechanical testing
  •  Thermal analysis
  •  Magnetic resonance

With our new X-Ray Diffraction Laboratory, we have the latest tools to perform structural analyses on anything from car parts to organic materials.

Degree

  • Materials Science and Engineering PhD

    Along with your courses, our program consists of elements that contribute to both your studies and research, including:

    • Qualifying exam: Based on first year's core curriculum. You'll have two chances to successfully complete this exam.
    • Recommended internship: Typically via full-time paid employment at a partner company. It should include 600 contact hours and contribute to your dissertation research.
    • Written research proposal: You'll present this orally in front of the dissertation committee. Normally completed during your second year.
    • Oral presentation: You'll speak to your research accomplishments halfway through your dissertation research. Dissertation committee members provide you with feedback and direction for your dissertation.
    • Dissertation: This should be a detailed report of your work during your time here. You'll defend it orally to the dissertation committee, which will also approve your final written document.

    For full consideration, including for assistantships and scholarships, send your application by Feb. 1.

     

    Program Overview
    Admission Requirements
    Curriculum

One More Thing

We have built, right here at YSU, a global reputation for cutting-edge facilities and advanced analysis on an array of materials that helps make our graduates exceptionally competitive when they enter the job market."

Dr. Allen Hunter, Professor