Materials Science and Engineering (Ph.D.)

Program Overview

The Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of New Hampshire emphasizes interdisciplinary research in nanoscale materials synthesis, characterization, and utilization. Through coursework, research, and a dissertation, students develop a deep understanding of materials science principles, research skills, and preparation for careers in academia, industry, and government research. The program's faculty of experienced researchers and educators provides a high-quality education and prepares graduates for successful careers in various fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview

The Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of New Hampshire is designed for students interested in interdisciplinary research with an emphasis on the synthesis, characterization, and utilization of nanoscale materials. The program offers a balance of coursework and original research, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, and government research laboratories.

Objectives

• To provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of materials science and engineering.
• To develop students' research skills and abilities.
• To prepare students for careers in academia, industry, and government research laboratories.

Program Description

The Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering consists of coursework, research, and a dissertation. The coursework provides students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of materials science and engineering. The research component allows students to develop their research skills and abilities under the guidance of a faculty mentor. The dissertation is a major research project that allows students to demonstrate their mastery of the field.

Outline:

The Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering consists of the following coursework:

• Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Materials I
• Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Materials II
• Select one course each satisfying the following areas:
• Synthesis and processing
• Characterization
• Structure-property relationships
• Seminar (two semesters)
• Select five additional courses with at least 12 total credits at the 900 level (including those courses taken at the master's level)
Students will also conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty mentor and write a dissertation.

Assessment:

Students in the Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Coursework: Students are assessed on their coursework through exams, quizzes, and assignments.
• Research: Students are assessed on their research through their dissertation and oral presentations.
• Teaching: Students who serve as teaching assistants are assessed on their teaching skills through evaluations by their students and supervisors.

Teaching:

The Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering is taught by a faculty of experienced researchers and educators. The faculty are committed to providing students with a high-quality education and preparing them for successful careers in academia, industry, and government research laboratories. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, and laboratory experiments. Students also have the opportunity to participate in research projects with faculty members.

Careers:

Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering are employed in a variety of positions in academia, industry, and government research laboratories. Graduates have gone on to become:

• Professors at universities
• Research scientists at government laboratories
• Engineers at companies of all sizes
• Entrepreneurs