PhD Materials Science & Engineering at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

The PhD in Materials Science and Engineering is a research degree leading to careers in teaching and research in academia, government and industry. Students build specialised depth and must make an original contribution in a dissertation.

Faculty: Swanson School of Engineering | Department: Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

Advanced specialization in materials science and engineering, with research areas such as high-temperature materials, magnetic materials, phase transformations, ceramic processing and smart materials.

Career pathways

Teaching and research in academia, government and industry.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Swanson School of Engineering graduate admission (all graduate programmes): cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher (applicants below 3.0 are considered individually and may be admitted provisionally); GRE optional and not used in admission decisions; online application with transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; international applicants must show English proficiency unless they hold a degree from an institution in an English-speaking country (minimum TOEFL 81, IELTS 6.5, Duolingo 120). Materials Science and Engineering requires 2 letters of recommendation. Deadlines: Fall 2027 financial consideration December 1, 2026; Fall 2027 without funding April 1, 2027; Spring 2027 October 15, 2026.

Requirements published at faculty level.

Domestic applicants: USD 30,628 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, Swanson School of Engineering, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 54,002 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, Swanson School of Engineering, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

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