PhD Materials Science and Engineering at Illinois Institute of Technology

Programme overview

The doctoral degree is awarded in recognition of a high level of mastery in one of several fields of the department including a significant original research contribution. Students working toward the doctoral degree have great flexibility in formulating an overall program to meet individual needs under the guidance of an adviser and the department.

Faculty: School of Engineering, Applied Science, and Health | Department: Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering | Study mode: full-time | Location: Chicago, IL, United States

What you will study

Students in the Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering degree program, in consultation with the adviser, prepare a plan of study to meet individual needs and interests. The plan of study typically consists of at least one full year of advanced coursework beyond the master’s degree, or equivalent, and a minimum of one full year of thesis research.

Career pathways

Our Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering degree program will prepare you for academic or industrial research careers, such as: Materials research engineer; Materials science engineer; Senior materials scientist.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Doctoral candidates should meet the requirements for a master's degree or present evidence that they have reached an equivalent level of proficiency. In order to be admitted to the program, each student must also be accepted by a thesis adviser and pass a qualifying exam given by the department. We Hit the Ground Running Taking Charge of a Better Future Vignyatha Tatagari received the 2021 Fear Fellowship for her research in improving the design of lithium-metal batteries. Vignyatha Tatagari (M.S. MSE '21, Ph.D. MSE Candidate) Taking Charge of a Better Future Vignyatha Tatagari received the 2021 Fear Fellowship for her research in improving the design of lithium-metal batteries.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Entry terms: Fall and Spring.

Fall term: regular deadline January 31. Spring term: October 1, extended to October 15. GRE is required for PhD applicants.

Chicago-Kent J.D.: no application fee for 2026 J.D. applicants; first-year entry is Fall, with transfer entry in Fall or Spring.

Apply through the official page: https://www.iit.edu/admissions-aid/apply

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