The growing interest in nonmetallic materials, especially those used in electronic and magnetic applications, has made this one of the fastest-growing components of the graduate program. Over the last fifty years, the department has granted advanced degrees for graduate study to more than 1,500 engineers and scientists, many of whom now hold prominent positions in industry, government, and academic institutions. The M.S. Research Option program is recommended for students who desire a terminal master's degree involving considerable independent research, irrespective of their intent to seek future employment in industry, government, or academia. The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of six graduate courses, passing the qualifying examination, satisfactory completion of research, and preparation of the doctoral thesis. The department occupies 20,000 square feet in Wean Hall, which also houses the Science and Engineering Library.
Qualified applicants are eligible for available fellowships and assistantships.
Summer appointments are generally available. Advanced students may obtain appointments that permit them to work full-time on their thesis. Low-interest loans are also available. Part-time students are charged at a unit rate. Fees are subject to change.