Materials engineers and scientists study the synthesis, processing, and characterization of substances within these general classes of materials: polymers, metals, semiconductors, ceramics, glass, and composites. An understanding of the molecular structure and well-designed processing are the keys to engineering materials with outstanding properties. Novel materials are tailored to meet the needs of targeted applications and become the foundation for all engineering disciplines. Such materials enable many new technologies and are found in various forms in electronics, optics, architecture and transportation, biomedicine, aviation and aerospace, pharmaceuticals, energy generation, environmental engineering, and numerous industrial systems.

Students study the chemical and physical nature of materials at the macro, micro, and nano scales. Early on you will take courses in crystal chemistry and physics of materials, followed by more focused study of phase equilibria and the measurement of thermal, electrical, and optical properties. The later stages of the curriculum emphasizes the intricate but defining relationships between structure, properties, and processing of engineering materials, with emphasis on applications and materials design. In the senior year, undergraduates design their capstone course in preparation for graduate studies or an industrial career in the materials industry in a diverse range of categories that include research, development, marketing, process engineering, and technical sales.

Most importantly, the MSE program encourages a student to select an area of focus in one of the following areas: biomaterials, nanomaterials, metals, polymers, fiber optics, manufacturing, packaging materials, or in an area designed specifically to meet an individual student’s educational and career goals. This specialization is accomplished via the selection of technical electives in the targeted area.

While most graduates work in a related occupation and many obtain an advanced degree, others choose another direction. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities.

• Explore the career paths of Student-Alumni Career Connections mentors.
• Discover your interests and take our Career Cluster Survey.
• Explore Rutgers University academic department information related to this major.
• See the Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional career information.