Academic Programs
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (DMSE) at MIT offers two graduate degree programs — the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or the Doctor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering (ScD) and the Master of Science (SM). DMSE's graduate programs include both academic (classroom) requirements and completion of a research-based thesis that incorporates independent and creative thought.
The doctorate is a research-based program composed of a core curriculum, elective and minor subjects, and thesis research. Students complete the program in approximately five years of study. The "Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering" (PhD) and "Doctor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering" (ScD) are equivalent degrees; the student selects according to preference.
Students enrolled in the Master of Science (SM) program complete two core subjects and additional units from subjects in DMSE or other departments. The program also requires thesis research. Typically, students complete master's degree requirements in about 2 years.