Ph.D. in Materials Science Engineering

PhD Entry Requirements

Application Fees: $90

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 80% or above as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 115 is required.

Standardized Test Requirements:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A GRE score of 290 is required.

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Located in Youngstown, Ohio, Youngstown State University (YSU) is recognized for its academic excellence and providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment. For international students pursuing a Ph.D., Youngstown State University offers various scholarship opportunities aimed at easing the financial burden of advanced education. 

International Merit Scholarship: YSU extends the International Merit Scholarship to exceptional Ph.D. candidates from around the world. This scholarship is merit-based and takes into account academic achievements, research potential, and the candidate's overall contribution to the university community. Recipients of the International Merit Scholarship receive financial support covering tuition and living expenses throughout their doctoral studies.

Research Excellence Award: Ph.D. students at Youngstown State University have the opportunity to apply for the Research Excellence Award. This scholarship is tailored to support international students actively engaged in groundbreaking research projects. The award provides financial assistance, enabling students to dedicate their time and energy to impactful research without financial constraints.

Cultural Diversity Grant: Emphasizing diversity and inclusion, Youngstown State University offers the Cultural Diversity Grant for international Ph.D. students. This grant aims to support individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, contributing to the creation of a vibrant and inclusive academic community. Financial aid is provided to those who enrich the cultural diversity of the university.

Teaching Assistantship Scholarship: For international Ph.D. students interested in gaining teaching experience, YSU provides the Teaching Assistantship Scholarship. This scholarship not only offers financial support but also allows recipients to actively contribute to the teaching and learning environment of the university under the guidance of experienced faculty.

Community Engagement Grant: Youngstown State University values community engagement and leadership. The Community Engagement Grant encourages international Ph.D. students to actively participate in community service and leadership activities. This grant recognizes and supports students who demonstrate a commitment to making a positive impact beyond their academic pursuits.

Graduates with a Ph.D. in Materials Science Engineering from Youngstown State University (YSU) are well-positioned for diverse and impactful careers in academia, research institutions, and various industries. The program's emphasis on advanced research and interdisciplinary training equips individuals with the expertise needed to address complex challenges in the field of materials science.

Research Scientist: Ph.D. graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, conducting cutting-edge research in materials development, characterization, and application. They may work in research institutions, government laboratories, or private research and development facilities.

University Professor: Many Ph.D. holders choose academic careers as university professors. They teach materials science courses, mentor students, and conduct research that contributes to the scholarly understanding of materials engineering.

Materials Engineer: Professionals may work as materials engineers, applying their expertise to design and develop new materials for specific applications. They may be employed in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and energy.

Product Development Engineer: Graduates can pursue roles in product development, contributing to the design and improvement of products by selecting and optimizing materials. This includes working on innovative solutions for consumer goods, medical devices, and industrial equipment.

Quality Control Manager: Ph.D. holders may take on roles in quality control and assurance, ensuring that materials used in manufacturing meet the required standards. They contribute to maintaining product quality and compliance with industry regulations.

Process Engineer: Professionals may work as process engineers, optimizing manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. They apply their knowledge of materials to improve production methods and product outcomes. 

Materials Consultant: Ph.D. graduates can become materials consultants, offering their expertise to businesses, manufacturers, and research organizations. They provide insights on materials selection, process optimization, and solving specific materials-related challenges.

Energy Materials Scientist: With a focus on sustainability, professionals may specialize in energy materials science. They contribute to the development of materials for renewable energy technologies, such as solar cells, batteries, and energy storage systems.

Biomedical Materials Engineer: Graduates may specialize in biomedical materials engineering, working on the development of materials used in medical devices, implants, and regenerative medicine. They contribute to advancements in healthcare technologies.

Entrepreneur in Materials Technology: Ph.D. holders with an entrepreneurial spirit may establish their own materials technology ventures. They can innovate in materials design, develop proprietary technologies, and contribute to the growth of the materials science industry.