Materials Science and Engineering (Ph.D.)

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Illinois Tech’s Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering program provides advanced, research-based education and knowledge through advanced coursework, state-of-the-art and original research, and the publication of novel results in preparation for careers in academia and industrial research and development.

The doctoral degree is awarded in recognition of a high level of mastery in one of several fields of the department including a significant original research contribution. Students working toward the doctoral degree have great flexibility in formulating an overall program to meet individual needs under the guidance of an adviser and the department.

Program Overview

This program provides advanced, research-based knowledge through coursework, state-of-the-art and original research, and publication of novel results in preparation for careers in academia and industrial research and development. Students have flexibility in formulating a program to meet individual needs.

Career Opportunities

Our Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering degree program will prepare you for academic or industrial research careers, such as:

  • Materials research engineer
  • Materials science engineer
  • Senior materials scientist
Disclaimer for prospective students, please read.
The information provided is sourced from a third party, Lightcast, and is provided here for informational and educational purposes only. Please be advised that the inclusion of the Lightcast resource on this website does not imply endorsement by Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), nor is it a guarantee of the accuracy of this information. Illinois Tech makes no representation, warranty or guarantee, express or implied, that the information presented herein is reflective of the outcomes you can expect if you enroll in or graduate from an Illinois Tech program. Illinois Tech expressly disclaims any liability regarding Lightcast, or in connection with any actual or potential employment opportunity stemming from information on this site and you hereby irrevocably waive any claim(s) against the Illinois Tech for the same. Your use of this web page is an acknowledgement of your understanding and acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth herein. You are encouraged to conduct your own thorough research into job opportunities and outcomes in your field of study.

Students in the Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering degree program, in consultation with the adviser, prepare a plan of study to meet individual needs and interests. The plan of study typically consists of at least one full year of advanced coursework beyond the master’s degree, or equivalent, and a minimum of one full year of thesis research.

Doctoral candidates should meet the requirements for a master's degree or present evidence that they have reached an equivalent level of proficiency. In order to be admitted to the program, each student must also be accepted by a thesis adviser and pass a qualifying exam given by the department.

Photo of Vignyatha Tatagari
Taking Charge of a Better Future

Vignyatha Tatagari received the 2021 Fear Fellowship for her research in improving the design of lithium-metal batteries.

Vignyatha Tatagari (M.S. MSE '21, Ph.D. MSE Candidate)

Featured Faculty

Amir Mostafaei

Amir Mostafaei

Assistant Professor
Leon Shaw

Leon L. Shaw

Rowe Family Chair Professor in Sustainable Energy Professor of Materials Science and Engineering Director of the Thermal Processing Technology Center
Heng Wang

Heng Wang

Associate Professor of Materials Science and Engineering Associate Chair of Graduate Affairs in the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering
Aleksandar Ostrogorsky

Aleksandar G. Ostrogorsky

Professor