

The Master of Science in Materials Science and Nanoengineering is a two year full time program designed to provide students with advanced knowledge in the properties, design, and application of materials at the micro and nanoscale. The curriculum emphasizes nanomaterials, materials characterization, computational modeling, and applied engineering, equipping students with the skills to analyze, design, and optimize materials for technological applications. Students engage in laboratory research, computational simulations, and applied projects, gaining hands-on experience in developing innovative materials solutions for electronics, energy, and biomedical industries. The program prepares graduates to tackle complex materials challenges and contribute to cutting-edge technological developments.
Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty on research projects, experimental studies, and computational analysis, developing expertise in nanofabrication, surface science, materials testing, and advanced characterization techniques. The two year structure allows learners to progress from foundational coursework to advanced research and applied projects, providing an intensive pathway to develop technical, analytical, and problem solving skills. Graduates emerge ready to innovate in materials design, optimize processes, and contribute to industrial and academic advancements.
Semester 1: Foundations in Materials Science and Nanoengineering
• Advanced Materials Science
• Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology
• Computational Methods in Materials Engineering
• Laboratory Techniques in Material Characterization
Semester 2: Applied Materials and Engineering
• Materials Design and Processing
• Surface Science and Thin Films
• Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Materials
• Applied Laboratory Projects
Semester 3: Advanced Research and Nanoengineering Applications
• Nanofabrication and Device Engineering
• Advanced Characterization Techniques
• Computational Modeling and Simulation
• Applied Research Project / Thesis
Semester 4: Capstone and Professional Development
• Integrated Materials Research Project
• Innovation in Nanoengineering
• Technical Communication and Presentation
• Career Preparation and Professional Portfolio
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers requiring expertise in materials design, nanotechnology, research and development, and applied engineering. Potential positions include Materials Scientist, Nanotechnology Engineer, Research Associate, Process Engineer, and Product Development Specialist in electronics, energy, aerospace, biomedical, and manufacturing industries. The program equips students to conduct experimental research, perform computational modeling, optimize material performance, and contribute to technological innovation. Graduates are also well positioned to pursue doctoral studies or advanced research and leadership roles in materials science and nanoengineering.
This program is ideal for students seeking an intensive, research and application oriented education in materials science, nanotechnology, computational modeling, and applied engineering. Its two year, on campus format provides extensive laboratory experience, applied research projects, and close mentorship from faculty experts, allowing students to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, problem solving, and advanced technical skills, preparing graduates to design, test, and optimize advanced materials for industrial and technological applications. Students gain hands-on experience in experimental techniques, computational modeling, and nanoengineering applications, equipping them for leadership roles, research careers, and impactful contributions in materials science and related fields.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 713-348-7423
Email: admission@rice.edu
Address: Office of Admission – MS 17, 109 Lovett Hall, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, United States