Deadlines and Requirements

Deadlines 

Fall Deadline: December 15
Spring Deadline: September 15 (MS only, PhD applications not considered for spring)

General Admission Information

  • The MSE graduate program encourages applications from prospective students with undergraduate degrees in science, engineering, or related disciplines including but not limited to materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, computer science, biology, biochemistry, and all engineering disciplines.
  • The MSE program is flexible and encourages those with non-traditional backgrounds to apply. In general, we expect a minimum of two years of calculus/differential equations as well as basic courses in physics and chemistry in order to maximize your chances for success in terms of both admission and completion of the program. A customized plan to address any deficiencies will be assembled with your advisor as appropriate.
  • Requests for information about the MSE program should be addressed to mse@colorado.edu.
  • Please review the It includes comprehensive information on the process.
  • An MS degree is not required to apply to the PhD program. If you are interested in pursuing a PhD, you must apply to and be admitted directly to the PhD program.
  • PhD applications are only considered for fall admission. MS applications are considered for both fall and spring.
  • Application fee waivers are extremely limited. In order to be considered, you must have your application completed and ready to submit. Application fee waivers are not guaranteed. 
  • International students should thoroughly review the graduate school's webpages on English language proficiency requirements. MSE is included under the grad school's category of "All Others" in the Minimum Scores Required chart for English proficiency.

Eligibility

All applicants must:

  • Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, or have done work equivalent to that required for such a degree.
  • Show promise and ability to pursue advanced study and research as evidenced by the student's scholastic record.
  • Have adequate preparation to enter graduate study in the chosen field.
  • Have at least a 3.0 undergraduate grade point average. Note: applicants who cannot meet this undergraduate standard may still secure regular admissions if they have completed 9 semester hours (3 courses) of relevant graduate course work with at least a 3.25 grade point average overall.

All MSE Graduate Applicants Must Submit

  • Three letters of reference - Applications are considered complete with three letters of reference/recommendation. Letters of recommendation help the Graduate Admissions Committee learn more about the qualifications and experiences of prospective students. You should choose recommenders who can relay a holistic view of the your experiences and skills. Many students elect to have former professors, supervisors, or industry colleagues submit letters on their behalf. It is strongly recommended that PhD applicants include at least one academic reference.
  • Professional MS Applicants Must Also Submit -
    • Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement - Please describe in 1-2 pages your past work in materials science and allied fields, as well as your plans for the future. You may include academics, non-coursework educational experiences, relevant employment, professional experience, or other related activities. Please address your reasons for choosing CU Boulder Materials Science & Engineering and how the Professional MS will help you achieve your career goals.
  • PhD Applicants Must Also Submit -
    • Statement of Purpose/Professional Statement (1-2 pages) - Please describe your past work in Materials Science and related fields, as well as your plans for the future. You may speak to your completed and in-progress research; relevant work experience; creativity in problem-solving; aptitude for planning and organization; scholarly engagement outside of coursework; indices of leadership; achievements over time; extracurricular activities; community involvement/service; special skills and/or experiences; professional ethics; etc.
    • Personal Statement (1-2 pages) - A doctorate degree is a long-term commitment that requires persistence and the ability to overcome challenges. Our program is interested in learning about your specific experiences which showcase these qualities. The MSE program is dedicated to building and fostering a diverse community that experiences inclusive learning and working environments. In this context, we are also interested in hearing about your personal experiences and values in relation to diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education, engineering, and science disciplines. Your statement may be drawn from personal and/or professional life experiences, in which you may speak to your identity and educational, cultural, socioeconomical, or geographical backgrounds.