Materials Science and Engineering
The Materials Science and Engineering Bachelor of Science program at Northwestern University provides students with a deep and interdisciplinary understanding of how materials behave, transform, and interact with their environments. The curriculum combines physics, chemistry, and engineering principles to explore the structure, properties, processing, and performance of a wide array of materials—from metals and polymers to ceramics, semiconductors, and nanomaterials. Students are trained to understand how atomic and molecular structures influence mechanical, electrical, thermal, and optical behavior, giving them the ability to design new materials for diverse applications in energy, health, electronics, and infrastructure.
Through a blend of theoretical coursework, laboratory experimentation, and hands-on design projects, students gain both conceptual understanding and technical proficiency. The program emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and real-world problem solving, preparing students to address challenges like developing lighter aerospace components, designing biocompatible implants, or creating materials for renewable energy systems. Collaborative research opportunities, access to advanced instrumentation, and faculty mentorship support students in conducting independent projects and exploring the cutting edge of materials discovery. By graduation, students possess a strong foundation in the science of materials, as well as the practical skills needed to innovate in a wide range of technological fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Materials Science and Engineering
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Materials Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Science and Engineering Foundations
• Introduction to Materials Science
• General Chemistry with Lab
• Calculus and Linear Algebra
• Engineering Analysis and Design
Year 2 – Structure, Properties & Mechanics
• Thermodynamics of Materials
• Crystallography and Diffraction
• Mechanical Behavior of Materials
• Materials Characterization Techniques
Year 3 – Processing & Functional Materials
• Phase Transformations
• Materials Processing Lab
• Electronic, Optical, and Magnetic Materials
• Materials for Energy Applications
Year 4 – Integration, Research & Innovation
• Materials Design Project
• Seminar in Advanced Materials
• Independent Research or Honors Thesis
• Senior Capstone in Engineering Design
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Materials Science and Engineering program are exceptionally well-prepared for careers at the forefront of innovation, where understanding and manipulating materials is key to solving real-world challenges. They often secure roles in aerospace engineering, biomaterials development, semiconductor fabrication, and renewable energy research, contributing to projects ranging from jet engine design to medical devices and battery technology. Others work in nanotechnology, automotive materials, corrosion prevention, or advanced manufacturing, applying their knowledge to optimize performance, reduce costs, or enhance sustainability. Graduates are employed by research laboratories, global tech firms, energy companies, and manufacturing leaders, and many pursue graduate study in materials science, applied physics, or engineering. The interdisciplinary training and strong lab experience also prepare students to transition into roles in intellectual property, quality assurance, or technical consulting. Employers consistently value materials scientists for their ability to bridge fundamental science with applied engineering, innovate in product development, and lead interdisciplinary teams in solving complex material-related problems.
Why Choose This Program
This program is the ideal choice for students who are excited by the idea of transforming matter into solutions—who want to explore how atomic-scale interactions shape the world, and how engineered materials can solve global problems. At Northwestern, students benefit from a program that balances scientific depth with creative engineering, offering exposure to groundbreaking research and real-world application from the start. Whether developing nanomaterials for drug delivery, crafting sustainable packaging alternatives, or enhancing energy storage systems, students are constantly challenged to think across disciplines and invent for impact. The faculty are leading experts in fields such as polymer science, computational materials design, and bioinspired engineering, providing mentorship that pushes students toward excellence. Through research internships, industry partnerships, and international collaborations, students gain experience that goes far beyond the classroom. This program not only teaches how materials work, but also how to use them to shape a better future—technically, ethically, and sustainably. If you're looking to join a field where science meets innovation and creativity drives real change, this program will give you the foundation, tools, and confidence to lead in the materials revolution of the 21st century.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
