Master of Materials Science and Engineering

About the M.M.S.E. Degree 

The  Master of Materials Science and Engineering is an advanced degree that focuses entirely on taking classes — there is no research requirement. These programs build on what you learned in your undergraduate degree in engineering or a related science, giving you deeper knowledge in a specific area. To complete one of these degrees, you must finish 30 credits of approved coursework. Some programs may ask you to complete a research project as part of a class, but none require you to write a master's thesis. These degrees are a good choice if you want to improve your qualifications and advance your career in engineering. If you are already working, UVA also offers two special versions of the Master of Engineering program (described below) that allow you to earn your degree without leaving your job.

Invest in What’s Next

Earning a graduate degree in engineering can have a significant impact on your career and finances. Engineering master's graduates report starting salaries that are $15,000–$30,000 higher than the national average for STEM bachelor's graduates in their first post-graduation job. Beyond that initial boost, a graduate degree also leads to faster career advancement and greater earning potential over the course of your lifetime.

Why Choose UVA?

UVA is a world-class research university that offers high-quality instruction from expert tenured and tenure-track faculty in a student-centered environment. Our engineering programs place a strong emphasis on leadership and communication skills, preparing graduates to succeed in a business-oriented world. Combined with UVA's global brand recognition and strong alumni network, a degree from UVA opens doors both nationally and internationally.

About Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a vibrant college town with a welcoming community full of arts, food, and culture. It sits at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, giving residents easy access to outdoor recreation, and its historic sites — including the UVA’s Academical Village and Monticello, UNESCO World Heritage Site — add a unique character you won't find in many college towns. The city is also conveniently located, about an hour from Richmond and two hours from Washington, D.C.

Program Requirements

The course requirements are as follows:

4 MSE core courses (12 credits)

6 elective courses from MSE, SEAS or UVA Sci/Math* (18 credits)

 *Minimum of 2 courses in MSE beyond core
 *Maximum of 2 courses at 5xxx level in MSE
 *Maximum of 3 courses at 5xxx level in total 

• The program of study must be approved by one's MMSE advisor.
• Up to six credits of electives may be earned in faculty-supervised independent study or advanced topics courses. Such studies may include laboratory work.
• Each MMSE student will be assessed by faculty based on his or her proficiency at technical writing, oral presentation skills, and engineering analysis.

Within the last semester of study, students must initiate the 3 assessment forms needed to graduate. These forms can be found here: MMSE Assessment Forms. Send the Technical Writing form to the faculty member with whom you studied 6230 or 6240. Send the Oral Communication Assessment form to the faculty member with whom you studied 6010 or 6020. Send the Plan of Study to Leonid Zhigilei (for VEO) and Stephen McDonnell for MMSE. All 3 of these forms should also be sent to Maggie Rake once the faculty have signed them. They will then be sent to the registrar. 

The MMSE Virginia Engineering Online (VEO) degree program of study must be approved by the MSE VEO advisor. The MSE VEO faculty will review any appeal of this decision. Ideally, the MMSE degree program of study should be formalized and approved during the student's first year in the program. VEO students are urged to work closely with the MMSE VEO advisor to ensure an appropriate plan of study.

How to Apply

Application Components

• Application Form
• Personal Statement
• Resume or CV
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Unofficial Transcript(s)

The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only.  The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements. These publications may be found here.