Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering
The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering provides an interdisciplinary and technically intensive curriculum designed for students who want to understand how mechanical systems interact with the structural, thermal, and chemical properties of advanced materials. The program integrates coursework in materials characterization, mechanics of solids, thermodynamics, and computational analysis, offering learners a comprehensive foundation for evaluating how materials behave under mechanical and environmental forces. Through laboratory experimentation, simulation-based modeling, and analytical problem-solving, students explore how material properties influence mechanical performance, failure behavior, and system reliability. This structure supports a deep technical understanding essential for designing next-generation mechanical and materials-based technologies.
Alongside theoretical training, the program emphasizes applied engineering practice through collaborative research, device prototyping, and exposure to advanced materials processing techniques. Students strengthen competencies in materials selection, computational modeling, mechanical design, and experimental analysis while working with metals, polymers, composites, and emerging functional materials. Engagement with interdisciplinary engineering teams, fabrication facilities, and research-focused challenges helps learners understand how engineered materials enable innovation in fields such as energy systems, manufacturing, aerospace, and biomedical devices. By blending scientific depth with hands-on engineering application, the program prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to both mechanical system development and advanced materials engineering.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 July 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Materials Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Mechanical Systems, Materials Science & Analysis
• Fundamentals of Materials Science
• Mechanics of Solids and Structures
• Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
• Computational Methods for Engineering Analysis
Semester 2 – Applied Materials Engineering, Mechanical Design & Research Skills
• Materials Characterization and Testing
• Mechanical Design and System Integration
• Processing of Advanced Materials
• Engineering Laboratory / Applied Research Project
Semester 3 – Advanced Technologies, Innovation & Capstone
• Failure Analysis and Reliability Engineering
• Emerging Materials and Multiscale Modeling
• Innovation in Mechanical and Materials Systems
• Master’s Capstone Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for technical, analytical, and research-oriented roles across industries where materials behavior and mechanical system design play a central role. Many professionals work in aerospace companies, automotive engineering firms, advanced manufacturing organizations, and materials research laboratories, contributing to mechanical design optimization, materials evaluation, product development, and experimental testing. Responsibilities may include analyzing material performance, designing mechanical components, developing new materials or composites, conducting simulations, performing failure investigations, and collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams. With strong preparation in applied mechanics and materials science, graduates are also well suited for roles in energy systems, biomedical device engineering, nanomaterials development, and reliability engineering. The program additionally supports progression into doctoral study or specialized R&D positions.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to merge mechanical engineering capabilities with deep materials insight to design high-performance systems across advanced industries. Its curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary integration, analytical depth, and innovation-driven engineering practice, guiding learners from fundamental mechanical and materials principles to advanced applications and research. The 1.5-year structure offers an efficient yet immersive academic experience supported by expert faculty, modern laboratories, and opportunities to complete a capstone project that reflects both technical mastery and creative engineering thinking. Students benefit from hands-on experimentation, computational modeling experience, and exposure to emerging material technologies that shape the future of engineering. For individuals seeking to contribute to high-impact mechanical and materials innovations, this program provides a focused and forward-looking academic pathway.
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
