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Doctor of Philosophy, Materials Science and Engineering
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Master of Science, Materials Science and Engineering
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Master of Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering
Who Should Apply?
Materials Science and Engineering is an interdisciplinary program and we accept applicants from a variety of engineering and science backgrounds. If you have a B.S. degree in a materials science and engineering-related field (materials, metallurgy, ceramics, or polymer engineering), other engineering field (mechanical, electrical, chemical, industrial, civil, aerospace, biological, environmental, computer, or nuclear), the physical sciences (physics, earth science, or chemistry), the life sciences, or mathematics, you should apply.
How Much Does it Cost to Attend?
We have your support in mind! Full-time students accepted into the M.S. or Ph.D. Program are supported with a tuition waiver, research assistantship, and a competitive salary, leaving you ample time to study, conduct research, and network with peers.
Admission Requirements
Admission is highly competitive and is based on meeting the requirements set forth by the Graduate College, your transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores (G077RE), statement of purpose and resume. A competitive applicant will have a clear and articulate statement of purpose and very strong letters of recommendation from faculty members and supervisors who know you well.
Your application will be evaluated by the Materials Science & Engineering Graduate Admissions Committee and an admission recommendation will be forwarded to the Dean of the Graduate College. The Dean of the Graduate College will make the final admission decision and notify you and the Materials Science & Engineering Graduate Program. In order to be officially accepted into the program, you will need to sign your formal acceptance letter and agreement from the Graduate College.
Although the graduate program occasionally accepts Ph.D. students who have not identified a major advisor, in most cases, students must have a Major Advisor before being accepted. Thus, it is imperative that you identify, communicate with and meet potential faculty advisors well before your anticipated start date.
Highly qualified Ph.D. applicants who are accepted into the program without a permanent Major Advisor will be assigned departmental responsibilities such as teaching assistantships during their first semester. These students will seek to identify a permanent Major Advisor during the first semester.
How to Apply
The graduate program application process includes an application form, an application fee, official transcripts, GRE scores, TOEFL scores (if necessary,) a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
Application
Complete the online graduate programs application.
Official Transcripts
Official transcripts from each college or university you previously attended must be sent directly to the Boise State Graduate College. Transcripts are important because they indicate your ability to succeed in a specific field of study. Be sure to include transcripts from all of the schools you attended after high school.
GRE
Completion of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required. Official scores should be submitted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) directly to Boise State University (Institutional Code R4018). The Boise State Materials Science and Engineering Department does not have a minimum GRE score for admission.
TOEFL (International Students)
Completion of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required for international students. Official TOEFL or IELTS scores should be sent directly from ETS to Boise State University (Institutional Code R4018.) The Boise State College of Engineering currently requires a minimum TOEFL score of 587 (paper test) or 240 (computer test) or 95 (Internet test.) The current minimum score for the IELTS is 6.5.
Résumé or Curriculum Vita
A curriculum vita (CV) is similar to a résumé. While a résumé lists employment history, a CV includes academic experiences and publications applicable to a graduate program. Whichever method you choose, you should summarize your academic and pertinent employment history in a structured and professional format. Keep in mind that, while your summer job at the pizza parlor adds job experience to your résumé, it may not add much academic merit. Focus more on the activities related to school, research experience, and, of course, relevant employment. Send your résumé or CV, along with your statement of purpose, directly to the Materials Science and Engineering Department at msegrad@boisestate.edu.
Statement of Purpose
The statement of purpose is a well-written essay that indicates your educational and professional goals, background, and experiences related to your goals. It should describe your commitment to pursuing a graduate degree, define your career objectives, and indicate why an advanced degree in materials science and engineering at Boise State University would help you succeed. We want to know about you, where you have been, and how your experiences have enhanced your interest in materials science and engineering.
Try to keep your statement of purpose to two pages or less and send it, along with your résumé or CV, directly to the Materials Science and Engineering Department at msegrad@boisestate.edu.
Letters of Recommendation
It is important to request strong letters of recommendation from credible sources. Select three or four people who support you in your endeavors and can attest to your academic and professional abilities. You might consider a professor, academic advisor, or employment supervisor who will communicate positively and professionally about your capabilities and character. Be sure to communicate any deadlines for completing and sending the letters and follow up with each reference as necessary. Request that your sources send their letters of recommendation, on official letterhead, directly to the Materials Science and Engineering Department at msegrad@boisestate.edu.
Questions?
Contact Chad Watson, Director for Academic and Technical Advancement.