Materials Science and Engineering (PhD, MS)

Program Overview

Binghamton University offers graduate programs in Materials Science and Engineering leading to a master’s of science or doctor of philosophy degree. Students from all areas of physical science and engineering are invited to apply. 

Ranked in the top third nationally along with UCLA by Academics Analytics, Binghamton’s Materials Science and Engineering program is highly interdisciplinary, bringing together faculty from departments including chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering. 

Students develop a solid foundation in the principles of materials science and choose a research specialization in one of the following areas:

  • Energy generation and storage
  • Nanomaterials
  • Electronic materials
  • Biomaterials
  • Modeling and mechanical behavior

Funding for PhD students is offered through teaching and research assistantship stipends, health insurance coverage, tuition scholarships and student-fee scholarships.

Application fee waivers are available on a competitive basis for a limited number of PhD applicants. In such cases, the department pays the application fee on behalf of the student. To be considered, you must start your application and upload all application documents before January 15. After your files have been uploaded, email Kathy Michaels (michaels@binghamton.edu) to let her know that your application files have been uploaded for fee waiver consideration. The application package should not be submitted until the application fee has been paid or waived.

Virtual appointments are available. Contact michaels@binghamton.ed to schedule.

Degrees Offered

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

Internships, Research Opportunities and More

Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities to pursue a diverse range of materials and topics within the program. Various research facilities on campus include the Analytical and Diagnostics Lab, NorthEast Center for Chemical Energy Storage, Center for Autonomous Solar Power, Center for Advanced Microelectronics Manufacturing, Integrated Electronics Engineering Center, and Nanofabrication Laboratory.

Watson Career and Alumni Connections offers professional advice and services such as interview guidance, cover letter critiques and networking opportunities.

After You Graduate

Graduates of the program have pursued postdoctoral work at universities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Columbia University, and California Institute of Technology. Alumni have also obtained positions in industry with companies such as Microsoft, Toyota, Universal Instruments, Intel, GlobalFoundries and LG Electronics.

Admission Requirements

Funding/Scholarships

There are many funding and scholarship opportunities at Binghamton. We encourage prospective students to review available program-specific scholarships and awards, and visit the program's website for additional information. PhD students who are registered and/or certified full-time will receive a scholarship that covers the cost of broad-based fees (this does not include international student fees). Note: Master's students are generally self-funded, although funding opportunities occasionally arise.

Accelerated/4+1 Degrees

You may also be interested in our accelerated/4+1 degree programs which allow students to complete their bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in just 5 years!

Guangwen Zhou

Professor; Associate Director, Institute of Materials Research; Deputy Director of Materials Science and Engineering

Mechanical Engineering; Materials Science and Engineering