Master in Materials Science & Engineering

In this Master’s programme, you will develop an in-depth understanding of the structure and properties of materials, from the macroscopic scale down to the atomic level. You will learn how to tailor materials and optimize their fabrication processes to develop new and innovative products for a wide range of applications, including microtechnology, biotechnology, aerospace, transportation, infrastructure, sports, and energy.

Admission

You are eligible to apply to the Master’s programme if you hold a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering or an equivalent degree in a related field, depending on your academic background and study track.

Applicants should have a solid foundation in materials science and engineering, as well as in the relevant fundamental sciences and engineering disciplines. Applications are assessed individually, taking into account the applicant’s academic background, previous coursework, and overall profile.

For detailed information on admission requirements, application deadlines, required documents, and the application procedure, please consult the official EPFL Master’s admission website master.epfl.ch.

Career opportunities

A Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities across diverse industries, from materials production and processing to the development and manufacture of innovative products. Graduates are highly sought after in fields such as watchmaking, sports, aeronautics, food technology, metallurgy, automotive engineering, electronics, health, and sustainability.

Beyond industry, materials scientists can pursue careers in government and academic research institutions, as well as in specialized consulting firms, where their expertise is increasingly in demand.

Check out our Alumni Career Stories

Program Structure

The Master’s programme in Materials Science and Engineering comprises 120 ECTS credits, designed to provide a solid foundation in materials science while allowing you to develop expertise in a specific area of interest.

The programme is structured as follows:

  • 60 ECTS credits – Core and elective courses
    Courses within the Master’s programme in Materials Science and Engineering provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in materials science and engineering, covering a broad range of topics and allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests.
  • 30 ECTS credits – Specialisation or Minor
    You can either deepen your expertise through the Materials Research and Development specialisation or broaden your academic profile by completing a Minor in another discipline.
  • 30 ECTS credits – Master’s thesis and industrial internship
    The final 30 ECTS credits are dedicated to hands-on experience and independent research. They include the Master’s thesis, which allows you to apply your knowledge to an advanced research or development project, as well as an engineering internship, providing valuable professional experience in an industrial or research environment.

Language

The main teaching language of the Master in Materials Science and Engineering program is English.
To improve your language skills your are encouraged to use the facilities offered by the Language Centre at EPFL.