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Minor in Materials Science and Engineering

Cornell’s Materials Science and Engineering program pushes the boundaries of innovation by blending physics, chemistry, and biology with cutting-edge engineering. Students explore the mechanical, chemical, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties of materials – advancing metals, semiconductors, and nanoparticles to revolutionize technology.

Important information

Format

In-Person

Page Contents

Eligibility and Academic Standards

Open to all undergraduates except those majoring in Materials Science and Engineering.

Students much earn at least a C in each course in the minor.

Course Requirements

At least six courses (minimum of 18 credits), chosen as follows:

  • Category 1: Choose one
  • Category 2: Choose any two
  • Category 3: Electives – Choose any three

Category 1: Choose one

  • MSE 2610

    Mechanical Properties of Materials: From Nanodevices to Superstructures

  • MSE 2620

    Electronic Materials for the Information Age

Category 2: Choose any two

  • MSE 2060

    Atomic and Molecular Structure of Matter

  • MSE 3010

    Materials Chemistry

  • MSE 3030

    Thermodynamics of Condensed Systems

  • MSE 3040

    Kinetics, Diffusion, and Phase Transformations

  • MSE 3050

    Electronic, Magnetic, and Dielectric Properties of Materials

  • MSE 4020

    Mechanical Properties of Materials, Processing, and Design

Category 3: Electives – Choose any three

Note: Courses listed as “Materials Applications Electives” on the Material Science and Engineering website meet this requirement. Any questions regarding allowable courses can be directed to the Material Science and Engineering undergraduate coordinator.

  • MSE 2610, MSE 2620, and any MSE course at the 3000 level or above

  • Elective Courses in materials properties and processing at the 3000 level or above

    From applied and engineering physics, chemical and biomolecular engineering, civil and environmental engineering, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical and aerospace engineering, physics, or chemistry.