Research in the department is administered through the Ames Laboratory, IPRT centers, and the Engineering Research Institute, which provide support for graduate student research assistantships.
Graduates have a broad understanding of materials science and engineering and related disciplines.
They are able to communicate effectively with scientific colleagues in formal and informal settings. Graduates are able to address complex problems in materials science and process design while considering the various constraints inherent to both industrial and research environments. They are skilled in carrying out independent and collaborative research, communicating research results and writing concise and persuasive grant proposals. Prerequisite to major graduate work is completion of an undergraduate curriculum in physical science or related engineering. However, well qualified juniors in metallurgical or ceramic engineering interested in graduate study can apply for concurrent enrollment in the Graduate College to simultaneously pursue M.S. and B.S. degrees.