Overview

The Materials Science and Engineering undergraduate degree at University of California, Irvine (UCI) is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the physical and chemical properties of matter. By blending fundamental science with practical engineering applications, the curriculum ensures graduates are prepared to solve complex technical challenges in materials discovery and development.

Students engage in a rigorous academic journey that spans from molecular-level analysis to the design of large-scale structural components. The programme emphasises multidisciplinary teamwork and leadership, fostering an environment where future engineers can develop sustainable solutions for global industries.

Why Materials Science and Engineering at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) stands out for its commitment to professional development and environmental stewardship. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates engineering ethics and modern design principles, ensuring they are ready for the demands of industry, government, or academia. The Henry Samueli School of Engineering provides access to specialised facilities for x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and mechanical testing.

Furthermore, the university offers unique specialisations that allow students to tailor their education to specific interests. These include pathways in Energy Materials and Sustainability, Biomaterials, and Materials Processing. These focused tracks ensure that graduates possess niche expertise that is highly valued in the current job market, particularly in sectors focused on green engineering and advanced manufacturing.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum includes a core of basic sciences followed by advanced engineering topics. Modules may include:

Synthesis and Characterisation of Materials
Electronic and Optical Properties in Materials
Polymeric Materials
Mechanical Behavior
Ceramic Materials for Sustainable Energy
X-ray Diffraction, Electron Microscopy, and Microanalysis
Thermodynamics of Materials
Diffusion and Heat Transport
Materials Kinetics and Phase Transformations

Careers with Materials Science and Engineering

Graduates are prepared for productive careers across a diverse range of sectors, including industrial manufacturing, government research laboratories, and academic institutions. The programme's focus on critical reasoning and quantitative skills enables alumni to pursue roles in materials discovery, development, and design. Common career paths involve working with advanced semiconductors, sustainable energy systems, and biocompatible materials for medical applications.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Laboratory in Synthesis and Characterization of Materials

Electronic and Optical Properties in Materials

Polymeric Materials

Mechanical Behavior and Design

Materials for Sustainable Energy

X-ray Diffraction, Electron Microscopy, and Microanalysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Materials Science General Engineering & Technology View 197 other Bachelors in Materials Science in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Materials Science and Engineering.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners