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Program Overview

ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ's Materials Science and Engineering program brings together chemistry, physics and engineering to solve technological challenges through materials innovation. Topics range from battery materials to flexible electronics and nanomaterials. The MSE program includes some of Binghamton’s most distinguished faculty, including a Nobel Prize winner, four SUNY Distinguished Professors and 10 NSF CAREER award recipients. Students from all areas of physical science and engineering are invited to apply.

Degrees Offered

• PhD in Materials Science and Engineering
• MS in Materials Science and Engineering

Learn more about our curriculum and degree requirements.

4+1 BS/MS Programs

4+1 programs make it possible for Binghamton undergraduates to complete a BS and MS in five years. Position yourself for an industry career in materials science and engineering and gain research experience while saving time and tuition expenses. 

Binghamton undergraduates can pursue a combined BS/MS 4+1 for the following degrees:

• BS Chemistry: Materials / MS Materials Science and Engineering
• BS Applied and Engineering Physics / MS Materials Science and Engineering
• BS Mechanical Engineering / MS Materials Science and Engineering

Research

With the friendly environment of a small university and the facilities of a large R1 research university, MSE students work closely with faculty to push the boundaries of knowledge. During their studies, MSE students engage in research in one or more of the following areas:

• Energy conversion and storage
• Electronic materials
• Nanomaterials
• Biomaterials
• Processing and microstructure
• Theory and modeling

Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including the Analytical and Diagnostics Laboratory, the NorthEast Center for Chemical Energy Storage, and the Center for Advanced Microelectronics Manufacturing.

Career Outcomes

Interested in an industry career? Graduates of our program have pursued careers in companies such as Microsoft, Apple, Corning, Intel, Global Foundries, Plug Power and Samsung. Alumni also have obtained positions at U.S. and international universities and government labs.

To help our students achieve their career goals, Watson Career and Alumni Connections and the Fleishman Career Center offer professional advice and services such as interview guidance, cover letter critiques, and networking opportunities.

What our students are saying

Prospective Students

Students from all areas of physical science (including chemistry, physics and geology) and engineering (including materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering) are . For information about application and admission requirements, visit the Graduate Admissions website.

Applications are considered on a rolling basis; however, for funding consideration, PhD applications must be received by Feb. 1 for fall admission and by Oct. 15 for spring admission.

GRE scores are not required but are recommended for PhD applicants.

International student requirements, including proof of English proficiency, can be found here.

Application fee waivers for spring 2025 and fall 2025 are available on a competitive basis.

Funding and Scholarships

Funding is offered on a competitive basis to PhD students through teaching assistantship (TA) and research assistantship (RA) stipends, which include health insurance coverage and tuition scholarships. PhD students who are registered and/or certified full-time will receive a scholarship that covers the cost of broad-based fees. Please note this does not include international student fees. 

PhD students typically begin as a TA and transition to RA support in later years of study. All PhD applicants are considered for TA funding.

MS students are generally self-funded.

Additional funds are available for exceptional candidates through departmental and university awards and fellowships. U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have overcome disadvantages are encouraged to apply for a Clark Fellowship.

Resources for Current Students

• Graduate Student Manual

Further resources can be found here.