Penn State is the largest Materials Research Institution in the United States*. Our faculty and research centers are world renowned for contributing breakthrough research in their respective fields. (*U.S. News & World Reports ranking, 2012)
Content Administrator
MatSE faculty are driving innovation through pioneering research and dynamic teaching. Their discoveries shape the future of materials and are integrated into the classroom, enriching the learning experience for both undergraduate and graduate students. With more than 30 tenure-line faculty members, our department fosters collaboration across Penn State and with institutions around the globe. Together, we are cultivating diverse leaders and advancing sustainable solutions.
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Upcoming deadlines for admissions:
Fall 2026 admissions for Ph.D. and thesis-based M.S. degree programs application deadline:
January 1
Fall 2026 admissions for Accelerated M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering (non-thesis) application deadline:
March 1 - Students requiring visa
April 1 - Student NOT requiring visa
Spring 2026 admission for Ph.D. and thesis-based M.S. degree program application deadline:
September 1
*Please note that we do not offer application fee waivers.
About the Program
Materials research conducted by iMatSE students and faculty lead to advances and discoveries that become the building blocks of tomorrow.
Through formal coursework in small classes and participation in cutting-edge sponsored research, students in the Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Materials Science and Engineering enjoy a graduate education that prepares them well for their future careers.
iMatSE students in the Ph.D. or thesis-based M.S. program receive full funding (stipend and tuition) in the form of fellowships or research assistantships.
Program Highlights
- Penn State ranked #1 in funded materials research in the US (NSF)
- Thesis-based Ph.D. and M.S. degrees
- Multi-disciplinary research programs and centers
- Over 50 MatSE and affiliated faculty members
- Approximately 180 current graduate students
- Specialized laboratories and shared facilities
Everyone involved in the Intercollege Graduate Degree Program (IGDP) in Materials Science and Engineering (MatSE) is dedicated to assisting graduate students with all aspects of their educational and research experience. Students enrolled in our graduate program have access to both an assigned faculty adviser and our Graduate Student Services Office.
The complete educational experience in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Penn State goes beyond a specific curriculum or the walls of the classroom. We offer numerous unique opportunities for students to get engaged with extracurricular activities that allow them to nurture valuable relationships with fellow students, faculty, and staff.
Our faculty are pushing the boundaries and advancing science through their research, and their honors and awards are a testimony to their excellence. Our rigorous degree programs receive national accreditation and are consistently among the top ranked programs nationally. Learn more about our excellence in the sections below.
One of the hallmarks of the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences is our long history of interdisciplinary collaboration and research. Our researchers bring expertise from different segments of the scientific community and work together to bring new perspectives to existing scientific conversations. Please visit our research institutes, centers, and laboratories to learn more.