The Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering, offered through the Inamori School of Engineering, combines foundational engineering principles with hands-on exploration of multi-material and composite technologies. Students interested in biomedical applications also examine how composite materials interact with living biological systems.
Your first year begins with Introduction to Engineering and Engineering Exploration Labs, alongside coursework in mathematics, chemistry, and physics. In your sophomore and junior years, you’ll refine your interests through applied materials science coursework. During your senior year, you’ll conduct independent research with a faculty advisor, exploring topics such as high-strength metal alloys, polymer recycling, or oxide nanosheets for hydrogen generation.
The bachelor’sBS in Materials Science and Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Materials, Metallurgical, Ceramics and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
Core courses in this undergraduate program include:
- Structure and Properties of Materials
- Microscopy and Microstructural Characterization
- Bonding and Structure of Materials
- Thermodynamics of Materials
- Introduction to Glass Science
- Introduction to Polymers
- Physical Metallurgy
- Thermal and Mechanical Properties
- Mechanics of Composites
- Computer Aided Engineering
View Details on Materials Science and Engineering Courses
If you want to become a materials science and engineering major, start your Alfred University application today. Requirements include:
- Official school transcripts
- An essay or personal statement
- At least one letter of recommendation from a school counselor or academic instructor
International students must submit original or certified copies of all secondary and post-secondary transcripts or records of grades to date, along with proof of graduation. These must be prepared and authorized by the student's home institution and be accompanied by a certified English translation.
View Details on Undergraduate Application Process
What jobs can you get with a materials science degree? Alfred University prepares you to pursue careers across industries, such as electronics, automotive, manufacturing, and aerospace. You may apply your skills in engineering, research, and product development roles, or you may choose to continue your studies in master’s or doctoral programs.
Recent materials science and engineering graduates from Alfred launched their careers as:
- Process Development Engineer (Greatbatch Medical)
- Data Analytics Engineer (FacilityConnX)
- Project Engineer (Kaman Composites)
- Lab Technician (Corning Incorporated)
- NDT Technician (Pratt & Whitney Amercon)
- Post-Bachelor Research Assistant (Oak Ridge National Laboratory)
The Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering is available as a double major to students in the following programs: biomaterials engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and renewable energy engineering. Students earning a double major will complete all materials science and engineering required courses, as well as those for their primary engineering major.
View Details on Engineering Double Majors
A materials science and engineering minor is ideal for students who want to learn more about materials science while majoring in chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, or renewable energy engineering.
View Details on Materials Science and Engineering Minor
Not sure if materials science is right for you? Alfred University’s Undecided Engineering pathway gives first-year students the freedom to explore engineering fields without pressure. Through hands-on coursework, faculty guidance, and early exposure to multiple disciplines, you can discover where your interests and strengths align.
Explore Undecided Engineering Pathway