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Featured ProgrammeScholarship AvailableRank #22

Material Science

Materials Science and Engineering MSc

EPFL

Switzerland

A two-year MSc covering advanced materials design, processing, characterisation and applications across metals, ceramics, polymers, composites and nanotechnology.

Study Level

Master's Degree

Study Mode

On Campus

Duration

2 years full-time

Programme Overview

EPFL's MSc in Materials Science and Engineering provides advanced interdisciplinary education in the design, processing, characterisation and application of modern materials.

Students develop a detailed understanding of how materials synthesis, processing and microstructure influence structural and functional properties.

The programme covers major material classes including metals and alloys, ceramics, polymers and composites, while also addressing advanced topics such as nanotechnology, electronic materials, biomaterials and sustainable materials.

Students can specialise in Materials Research and Development or pursue an approved interdisciplinary minor.

The curriculum combines advanced coursework with research projects, a compulsory industrial internship and a Master's thesis.

The programme prepares graduates for materials engineering and research across sectors including aerospace, electronics, automotive, metallurgy, energy, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering or a closely related science or engineering discipline.

Applicants from institutions outside EPFL are assessed on the basis of their complete academic dossier and are expected to demonstrate an excellent academic record.

Suitable backgrounds may include:

Materials Science and Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Physics

Chemistry

Microengineering

Other closely related science or engineering disciplines

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient prior knowledge of materials science.

Additional credits may be required if the previous degree does not fully cover the programme's prerequisite knowledge.

Admission is competitive and meeting the stated eligibility criteria does not guarantee admission.

English-Language Requirements

The main teaching language of the programme is English.

Applicants should have sufficient English-language proficiency to undertake advanced coursework, laboratory activities, research projects and examinations in English.

The official programme page does not currently publish a programme-specific mandatory IELTS or TOEFL minimum score.

Applicants should review EPFL's current Master's admissions requirements for any language documentation applicable to their academic background.

Career Outcomes

Materials EngineerMaterials Research EngineerAerospace Materials EngineerElectronic Materials EngineerMaterials Development Engineer

Scholarship Information

EPFL offers competitive funding for outstanding Master's students. EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship The fellowship provides CHF 10,000 per semester. Funding may be provided for up to four semesters, depending on the normal duration of the Master's programme. External candidates who receive the fellowship also benefit from a guaranteed reservation for a student room. The fellowship is awarded on the basis of academic excellence, qualifications, motivation and other achievements. Students remain responsible for tuition fees, accommodation and other living expenses using the fellowship funds. Other EPFL, Swiss and external scholarships may also be available depending on nationality and individual eligibility.