Online Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering

Picture yourself improving, customizing and creating materials for products from smartphones to medical devices. In this Master of Science in materials science and engineering online from Arizona State University, you’ll gain an understanding of the relationships between structures, property and processing. As a graduate, you’ll be a standout candidate for roles in biotechnology, nanomaterials, electronics, manufacturing, energy, sustainability and more.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/13/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 12

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5-15

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

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Prepare for a career in materials science and engineering

Building upon the fundamentals of engineering and science, this program equips students to lead in industries that address society’s needs. In your courses, you’ll explore the nature, structure, performance and applications of various materials. Through a cross-disciplinary approach, you’ll also discover how practitioners combine chemistry, physics and engineering skills to create and improve materials, as well as identify issues and design solutions.

The curriculum provides opportunities to tailor your learning to various areas of materials science including development, processing and characterization for industrial applications. Depending on your professional interests, you can also explore:

  • Advanced materials characterization.
  • Advanced thermodynamics.
  • Concepts in materials science.
  • Fundamentals of electrical, optical and magnetic materials.
  • Fundamentals of semiconductor packaging.
  • Kinetics and phase transformations.
  • Nanomaterials in energy production and storage.
  • Structure and mechanical properties.

Materials scientist: A well-paid and in-demand job

Completing this program can put you on a path to success for lucrative roles in industries as diverse as energy, sustainability, security, aerospace, manufacturing and the life sciences. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts faster-than-average job growth for chemists, materials scientists and materials engineers.

According to the BLS, employment for chemists and materials scientists is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than average for all occupations. Similarly, employment is expected to grow by 7% in the same time frame for materials engineers, also representing faster than average growth. Further, per the BLS, the median annual wage for materials scientists was $106,160 in 2023 and $104,100 for materials engineers.

Additionally, for those interested in advancing in the semiconductor industry, you can concurrently pursue ASU’s online graduate certificate in semiconductor processing. This is optional and can give you a leg up when applying for roles in semiconductor manufacturing and processing.

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Materials science and engineering master’s courses

This program is designed to build technical expertise while allowing you to explore topics across the boundaries of traditional disciplines. Courses are taught by leading faculty members and researchers in engineering, physics, chemistry and more. With two core courses and a variety of technical electives from which to choose, you can customize your study plan to fit your goals. The program culminates in your choice of a thesis, portfolio or applied project course.


The fields you’ll be prepared to work in

Employers across the public and private sectors seek graduates with a background in materials science and engineering. Upon completion, you can pursue roles in fieldwork, research, development and more. Plus, a graduate degree is often required for senior, managerial and other advanced roles. Career fields that might be a fit for your knowledge and skills include, but aren’t limited to:

Transformative faculty across disciplines

Of the 350+ faculty members in Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the majority have been honored with the highest awards in their fields. Faculty milestones include:

  • National Academy of Engineering members.
  • National Academy of Sciences member.
  • National Academy of Inventors members.
  • National Academy of Construction members.

Transformative faculty across disciplines

Of the 350+ faculty members in Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the majority have been honored with the highest awards in their fields. Faculty milestones include:

  • National Academy of Engineering members.
  • National Academy of Sciences member.
  • National Academy of Inventors members.
  • National Academy of Construction members.

How to apply

Applicants to the Master of Science in materials science and engineering program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Top 25% of all accredited engineering programs in the nation

The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering is dedicated to providing a dynamic learning environment and supporting all students on the paths to their degrees. We’ve received numerous peer-reviewed programmatic honors from U.S. News & World Report.

Top 5


best online master’s in electrical engineering programs.

Top 5


best online master’s in engineering management programs.

Top 5


for bachelor’s degrees awarded to underrepresented minorities (American Society for Engineering Education, 2022).

Top 10


best online master’s in engineering programs for veterans.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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