If you have any questions regarding the application process for this program, please email masters_admissions@brown.edu.

Non-thesis

Students take a total of eight courses to satisfy the degree requirements. Students are expected to complete this program option in three semesters, taking three courses in the first and second semesters, and two courses in the third semester.

Thesis

Students take a total of eight courses, including independent reading and research courses. Students are expected to complete this program option in four semesters, taking three courses in the first semester, two in the second and third semesters, and one in the fourth semester. Students can switch between degree options during the program for greater flexibility. Students interested in pursuing the thesis option usually identify a faculty advisor during their first or second semester at Brown.

Professional

Non-thesis and thesis* students can also complete the professional track. In addition to the above requirements, a paid or unpaid experiential learning experience of three to six months is a required component of the professional track. Experiential learning can include a summer internship or completion of  ENGN 2960 (Experiential Learning in Industry (ELI)) as an elective course. Assistance in obtaining internships will be provided by the School of Engineering and the Center for Master’s Student Excellence.

*Thesis students need permission from their thesis advisor to pursue this track.

More information can be found on the School of Engineering’s ScM Requirements page.

Graduate Tuition & Fees

Please visit the Office of Student Financial Services for up-to-date tuition rates.

Brown’s degree program combines advanced coursework in materials science and engineering with opportunities for interdisciplinary study, experiential learning and research. Students can explore areas such as biomaterials, electronic materials, energy materials, polymers, ceramics, metals and composites while preparing for careers in materials engineering and related fields.

At Brown, you’ll build advanced knowledge in materials science and engineering through coursework in areas such as thermodynamics, kinetics, deformation behavior, crystallography, electron microscopy and atomistic modeling. You can also explore areas of interest through electives and pursue research through independent study and a master’s thesis, with opportunities to use Brown’s facilities for microscopy, materials characterization, materials processing and fabrication.

The program is designed for students who want to build on their undergraduate engineering background through advanced study in materials science and engineering. It can prepare students for professional roles in materials engineering and related fields, as well as research or further graduate study. Brown undergraduates may also apply through the fifth-year master’s option.