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Materials Science and Engineering

Grainger College of Engineering

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What is Materials Science and Engineering?

Materials Science and Engineering is the manipulation and creation of materials to meet and exceed societal and technological needs.

As a MatSE student, you’ll gain an understanding of the science of materials. Students take courses in biology, chemistry, computer science, and physics. You’ll be able to tailor your curriculum to match your interests.

Industry-leading companies and vibrant start-ups rely on improved materials technologies. MatSE is a versatile discipline, and our graduates are in demand. Work may involve

  • computational research with machine learning,
  • understanding new medical therapies,
  • creating protective coatings for hypersonic flight and space travel,
  • manufacturing next-generation solar cells,
  • building quantum computers, or
  • designing safer and more sustainable batteries.

Excited about the real-world application of biology, chemistry, computer science, physics, and more? Contact matse@illinois.edu for more information.

Career Options

  • Research Scientist
  • Process Engineer
  • Quality Control Engineer
  • Failure Analysis
  • Project Manager

Post-Graduation Success1

97% employed or continuing education

38% employed after graduation

59% attending graduate school

$73,477 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: The Clorox Company (3), Micron Technology (2), Epic Systems (2) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Georgia Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University View All

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Strong math and science coursework and performance
  • Calculus preferred and physics expected (if available at high school)
  • Strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
  • Interest in improving society through engineering
  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the engineering major selected

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

4.0 years to degree

96% first-year retention rate

63% four-year graduation rate

90% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $18,372
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $42,310

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $41,444
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $65,722

International

  • Tuition: $44,688
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $68,966
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