Common Searches on this Site
Bachelor's Degree and Certificate Options
B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering
ABET-accredited. Real research from day one. Prepares you for careers in semiconductors, aerospace, biomedical, energy, and more.
- Median career salary: $108,310 (BLS, 2024)
- Entry-level starting point: $68,040+
MSE Minor
Blend your primary field of study with materials science.
Available to students in any major across the university.
Accelerated B.S. + Masters Program
Complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in as few as five years. Start graduate coursework while finishing your undergraduate degree.
- 5-year combined pathway (depends on program)
- Save time and tuition
- Talk to an advisor to plan
Learn About the Accelerated Path
Semiconductor Materials Certificate
Customize your engineering or science degree for Idaho’s fastest-growing job market. Ideal for students targeting careers at Micron and beyond.
An MSE Degree Opens Doors
Over 30% of MSMSE bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate alumni are currently working in semiconductor-related jobs.
Our graduates are employed locally, regionally, and globally at some of the most respected companies in the world.
Master's, Doctorate, and Graduate Certificates
Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering
Research-intensive doctoral program. All admitted PhD students receive full funding through Graduate Research Assistant positions.
- Full funding for all admitted students
- Interdisciplinary faculty across campus
- Research with INL, Micron, PNNL, DOE, and more
M.Eng in Materials Science and Engineering
A course-based master’s degree designed for working professionals with a bachelor’s degree. You can complete this degree while working full time.
- No thesis required
- Designed for full-time professionals
M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering
A research-based master’s degree for students preparing for advanced industry roles, national lab positions, or doctoral study.
- Thesis-based research program
- Funding opportunities available
Accelerated Master’s Degree
A fast-track option to begin a master’s while finishing your bachelor’s. Talk with your advisor about how to earn both degrees in about five years.
- Choose a research-based M.S. or a course-based M.Eng. track
- Open to MSE students with a 3.0 overall GPA and a 3.3 GPA in MSE courses
Resources for Current Students
Undergraduate Advising Center
Four-year plans, course registration help, and advising appointments for undergraduate students.
MSE Course Catalog
Full list of MSE courses offered through Boise State.
Search by number, title, or credit hours.
Graduate Student Handbook
Program requirements, policies, milestones, and resources for all MSMSE graduate students.
Employee Intranet
Submit travel requests, purchase equipment, hire someone, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
I studied physics or chemistry. Can I apply to the MSE graduate program?
Yes. MSMSE is an interdisciplinary program and welcomes applicants from physics, chemistry, mechanical engineering, and related fields. Contact us with questions about your background.
Are international students welcome in the program?
Absolutely. MSMSE has a strong international student community. Visit the Boise State International Student Services page for visa, English proficiency, and application information.
Is the PhD program really fully funded?
Yes. All PhD students admitted to the program receive full funding through Graduate Research Assistant positions, which include a stipend and tuition waiver. Contact us for more information.
What is the accelerated B.S. to Master’s program?
The accelerated pathway allows undergraduate students to begin graduate coursework before completing their bachelor’s degree, with a possibility to finish both degrees in approximately five years. Talk to your advisor early to create a plan.
What are the Program’s Educational Objectives?
Within a few years of graduation, materials science and engineering graduates will be:
- Able to operate as effective engineers or scientists in materials industries, academia, or related fields.
- Well-rounded individuals who both understand the principles and can undertake the practice of the science and engineering of materials.
- Fully qualified as materials engineers, with an ability to adapt and progress in a rapidly changing field.
What are the Student Outcomes for an MSE B.S. degree?
At the time of graduation, materials science and engineering students will possess an ability to:
- Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
- Apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
- Communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
- Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations, and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
- Function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
- Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
- Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
Ready to take the next step?
Our team is happy to answer questions about programs, research opportunities, admissions, and student life in Boise.
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Sophie Stokes
Academic Program Administrator
Sophie Stokes is the MSE Academic Program Administrator and is here to support students through all aspects of their academic career.
Sophie Stokes is the MSE Academic Program Administrator and is here to support students through all aspects of their academic career.
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Cindy Hardy
Academic Advisor
Cindy Hardy is a professional advisor with the College of Engineering. Reach out to her to learn about MSE as well as the admissions and onboarding processes for new students.
Cindy Hardy is a professional advisor with the College of Engineering. Reach out to her to learn about MSE as well as the admissions and onboarding processes for new students.