Materials Engineering and Science M.S. and Ph.D.
Contact Information
Dr. Jon J. Kellar
Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering
Mineral Industries Building, Room 112
(605) 394-2343
jon.kellar@sdsmt.edu
Download Catalog Pages:
Materials Engineering and Science M.S. (PDF)
Materials Engineering and Science Ph.D. (PDF)
Program Summary
Advanced studies in that cross traditional areas of engineering are yielding surprising and productive results. Institutions around the world that are involved significant research recognize the value of interdisciplinary work. Across the country many universities offer degrees that cross traditional lines. The Materials Engineering and Science M. S. and Ph.D. programs are interdisciplinary and involve many different engineering and science departments. Studies in these programs provide the opportunity to expand the knowledge base and understanding of material structures, composition, behavior, production, application. Areas include biomedical, mechanical, electrical, metallurgical, and civil engineering as well as nanotechnology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science.
Program Description
Students will undertake multidisciplinary approaches, combining the basic elements of both engineering and science, to the solution of materials-related problems. Because such problems are found in every science and engineering discipline, the degree applicant has considerable flexibility in the selection of the department in which to pursue dissertation research, within the confines of the applicant’s academic preparation and interests. Candidates will study either a science or engineering emphasis within the MES M.S. and Ph.D. programs. Through the education offered by these programs, candidates will be able to formulate solutions to materials problems through the use of multi-disciplinary approaches,, grow professionally and personally, and to serve their profession and community.
The Master of Science Program in Materials Engineering and Science (MES) offers an education in the broad area of materials. Students pursuing this degree will expand their knowledge and understanding of the science and technology of materials synthesis, behavior, and production. Graduates of the program formulate solutions to materials problems through the use of multi-disciplinary approaches made possible with a broad background in basic materials science and engineering coupled with an area of specialization.
Two options are available in the M.S. degree program: one option involves a thesis component and the other option involves course work only. In the thesis option, twenty-four (24) hours of course work and a minimum six (6) credit hours of thesis research are required. With the second option, thirty-two (32) hours of course work must be taken. In the latter option however, the students are required to undertake a project under the supervision of a faculty member.
The Doctor of Philosophy Program in Materials Engineering and Science (MES) offers a student the opportunity to expand his/her knowledge and understanding of the science and technology of materials production, behavior, and applications. The student will undertake multidisciplinary approaches, combining the basic elements of both engineering and science, to the solution of materials-related problems. Because such problems are found in every science and engineering discipline, the degree applicant has considerable flexibility in the selection of the department in which to pursue dissertation research, within the confines of the applicant’s academic preparation and interests. Candidates will study either a science or engineering emphasis within the MES Ph.D. program. For example, research emphasis may be placed on improving processes for the production of metallic, polymeric, ceramic, or other structural or electronic materials. Alternatively, the degree candidate may investigate mechanisms for improving material properties, which in turn, could lead to new or better applications. Classroom and individualized instruction will provide the necessary theory to complement such creative activities.
The program is administered directly by the Dean of Graduate Education, with the Chair of the MES Ph.D. Advisory Council serving as Program Coordinator. The Advisory Council currently comprises faculty members from the Departments of Civil and Environmental, Electrical, Mechanical, Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, and the Departments of Physics, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering.
Download the MES Ph.D. Handbook (doc)