Future MSE Graduate Students

The UT Department of Materials Science and Engineering offers the following graduate degree programs: MS and PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, with concentration in metallurgy, polymers, or materials; and MS and PhD in Polymer Engineering.

Click here to download the latest Graduate Handbook (PDF)

This document describes all pertinent degree requirements and procedures.

The Graduate Brochure includes information about the Materials Science and Engineering Department including summaries of research programs and facilities. Additional information may be obtained by linking to the MSE Web pages on Research and Faculty and Staff.

Students wishing to apply to the MSE graduate programs must submit two separate application forms: (1) the UT Graduate Application for Admission (PDF) (with on-line application available) to the UT Graduate School, and (2) the MSE Graduate Student Application (PDF) to the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. The MSE form must be accompanied by three references (Rating Forms (PDF)).

Notice of an Important Change in Graduate Admission Requirements -- Beginning in Fall 2005, Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (verbal, quantitative, and analytical) will be required for admission consideration for all graduate student applicants (domestic and international) in the Materials Science and Engineering, and the Polymer Engineering, graduate degree programs.

Backgrounds Appropriate for Graduate Studies in the UT Department of Materials Science and Engineering

The UT Materials Science and Engineering graduate program is as diverse as the field it covers. Materials science and engineering is a truly interdisciplinary subject cutting across the traditional disciplines of engineering, the physical sciences, and even areas of life sciences. It calls for individuals able and willing to take a broad perspective and capable of handling interdisciplinary problems.

New graduate students are often from disciplines other than materials engineering, polymer science, or metallurgical engineering. Students with undergraduate degrees in chemical, mechanical, or electrical engineering, as well as engineering science and mechanics, or the physical sciences, are particularly well suited for the program. Students from physics and chemistry, particularly condensed matter physics and physical chemistry, are strongly encouraged to pursue careers in materials science and engineering. No student is expected to have experience in all subject areas and courses are structured to accommodate a wide variety of backgrounds.

Materials Science and Engineering is one of ten programs offered by the College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee. Our graduates are in great demand, both in the U.S. and internationally. Career opportunities for graduating students with Bachelor of Science degrees are excellent, and salaries for entry-level positions are currently very good.

A significant number of nationally respected corporations regard UT as a "target university" for hiring new engineers. Many of our graduates have risen to top positions in industry, government and academia. An engineering degree from UT offers an excellent foundation for a successful career.