Materials Science and Engineering Minor (MSE)

Program Description

Materials science and engineering has evolved over the last 25 years from metallurgical engineering, polymer chemistry, and ceramic science. It is increasingly recognized as a key engineering field that opens the door for new developments in other advanced technologies. Over the past several decades, scientists and engineers have successfully developed radically new materials. Examples include lightweight alloys for structural use, composites of high-strength fibers in ductile matrices, semiconductors for electronic devices, and, more recently, high-temperature semiconductors. These advances typify the challenge faced by materials engineers-to select, modify, or develop the right materials for new applications and technologies.

The curriculum includes advanced coursework in engineering mechanics, materials science, ceramics, metallurgy, polymer science, electric circuits, materials testing, processing, and design.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students enrolled in this program will learn to:

identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
communicate effectively with a range of audiences
recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Program Learning Objectives

As a result of their learning experience, graduates of this program can:

engage in the practice of materials science and engineering or in a related field
address vital engineering needs in local, national, and international arenas
be ecognized for their ethical standards and professional contributions in the workplace and to society at large
be dedicated to life-long learning, as demonstrated by the attainment of professional licensure, advanced degrees, certificates, or other continuing education activities.

For More Information

Program Requirements: 12 Credit Hours

I. Required Course: 3 Credit Hours

ME 2700 - Structure and Properties of Materials I Credit Hour(s): 3

II. Choose 3 from the list below: 9 Credit Hours

ME 2600 - Metallography Credit Hour(s): 1
and
ME 4750 - Materials Characterization Credit Hour(s): 2
ME 3750 - Thermodynamics of Materials Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 3760 - Diffusion and Kinetics Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4180 - Additive Manufacturing Credit Hour(s): 3
and
ME 4180L - Additive Manufacturing Laboratory Credit Hour(s): 0
ME 4570 - Energy Materials Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4720 - Engineering Polymers Credit Hour(s): 3
or
CHM 4610 - Synthetic Polymer Chemistry Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4730 - Engineering Ceramics Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4820 - Corrosion Credit Hour(s): 3
The following courses also count, but require additional pre-reqs most likely completed by Mechanical Engineering majors.
ME 4700 - Structure and Properties of Materials II Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4740 - Materials Selection and Failure Analysis Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4770 - Mechanical Behavior of Metals Credit Hour(s): 3
ME 4860 - Metal Forming Credit Hour(s): 3