Materials Science and Engineering course catalog
All 59 recorded UW–Madison courses in this department, including courses not offered this term. Open a course for prerequisites, historical grades and instructors.
CHEM/MS&E 421: Polymeric Materials
3 credits
Polymer chemistry and physics terminologies, structure-property relationship, polymer characterization, polymer synthesis, material requirements for optoelectronics including conjugated polymers, thin film transistors, light emitting diodes, non-linear optical materials, holographic data storage and liquid crystal polymers.
CIVENGR/GEOSCI/GLE/MS&E 474: Rock Mechanics
Credits unavailable
Classification of rock masses, stress and strain in rock, linear and non-linear behavior of rock, failure mechanisms, state of stress in rock masses, lab testing, geological and engineering applications.
EMA/MS&E 541: Heterogeneous and Multiphase Materials
Credits unavailable
Principles of the mechanics of solid multiphase systems. Role of heterogeneity and anisotropy in determining physical properties including elastic, dielectric and piezoelectric properties. Applications in lightweight structures, ultrastrong materials, materials for protection of the body, and materials for the replacement of human tissues. Materials with fibrous, lamellar, particular, and cellular structures. Heterogeneous materials of biological origin. Biomimetic and bio-inspired materials.
ME/MS&E 431: Metalcasting
3 credits
Technical study and laboratory investigation into processes used in the manufacturing of metal castings. Special emphasis on the following laboratory processes: sand molding, investment casting, permanent mold casting, chemically bonded sand casting.
ME/MS&E 462: Welding Metallurgy
Credits unavailable
Metallurgical principles applied to welding; mechanisms of strengthening, phase equilibria, and microstructure of the weld zone. Modern processes including laser and electron beam welding.
MS&E 1: Cooperative Education Program
1 credits
Apply classroom theory and practical knowledge of engineering-related operations and functions in a professional setting. Full-time workplace experience.
MS&E 151: Materials of the Modern World
Credits unavailable
The properties and structure of everyday materials. A non-mathematical exploration of the relation between structure and resulting properties of metals, plastics, ceramics, glasses, and composite materials. Case studies of important materials in the modern and historical context.
MS&E 260: Materials Experience
2 credits
Provides overview of the field of Materials Science and Engineering, with significant design and hands-on components. Highlights different types of materials, with a focus on describing the extensive impact that Materials Science and Engineering has had on society. Small teams provide hands-on experience in materials design, synthesis, and processing and the fabrication of materials with desired properties and function.
MS&E 299: Independent Study
1–3 credits
Independent study under faculty supervision.
MS&E 330: Thermodynamics of Materials
4 credits
Introduction to thermodynamics of materials, equilibrium constants, solutions, heterogeneous equilibria and electrochemistry.
MS&E 331: Transport Phenomena in Materials
Credits unavailable
Basic principles of fluid flow, heat transfer and diffusion are introduced. Examples relevant to design and processing of materials including metals, semiconductors, glasses, polymers, and ceramics are given.
MS&E 332: Macroprocessing of Materials
3 credits
Topics include: ironmaking and steelmaking; production of Cu, Zn, Al and Mg by electrolysis; solidification processing of alloys by ingot casting, continuous casting and directional solidification; growth of bulk single crystals of semiconductors and ceramics from melts.
MS&E 333: Microprocessing of Materials
Credits unavailable
Integration of materials science theory and materials engineering practice as applied to the processing of materials at the microscopic level.
MS&E 350: Introduction to Materials Science
3 credits
The basic structures and resulting properties of solid materials, including phase equilibria, meta-stability, mechanical properties, failure, corrosion, and materials selection.
MS&E 351: Materials Science-structure and Property Relations in Solids
3 credits
Introduction to: atomic, electronic, and defect structures in materials; diffusional, mechanical and electrical properties of materials; and the role of structure and defects in diffusional, mechanical, and electrical properties.
MS&E 352: Materials Science-transformation of Solids
Credits unavailable
The basic factors that determine phase equilibria, structural and transformation characteristics of solids. Principles governing the thermodynamics and kinetics of phase transformations and microstructure evolution. Nucleation and growth processes in precipitation, recrystallization, solidification, oxidation, martensitic, ordering and spinodal reactions. Transformation behavior in polymers, biomaterials and nanomaterials.
MS&E 360: Structures & Phases Lab
2 credits
Laboratory instruction in sample preparation for and applications of quantitative microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and properties measurement in the context of structure-property relationships in materials.
MS&E 361: Kinetics & Thermodynamics Lab
Credits unavailable
Experimental principles of materials science. Thermal, kinetic, structural, and materials synthesis experiments and associated concepts, data analysis, and presentation.
MS&E 362: Synthesis & Characterization Lab
3 credits
Experiments in the mechanical and electronic properties of matter in bulk and thin films; computer instrument control; and data analysis.
MS&E 363: Basic Materials Characterization Techniques
Credits unavailable
The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with a variety of modern characterization techniques. Three general subject areas are covered: Physical Properties: Thermogravic analysis (TGA); differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA); gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Spectroscopy, optical and x-ray: Ultraviolet/visible (VIS), molecular-infrared/Raman, Rheology; x-ray crystal and powder diffraction. Microscopy: scanning electron microscopy (SEM); SEM and energy dispersive analysis (EDS).
MS&E 401: Special Topics in Materials Science and Engineering
1–3 credits
Special topics of interest to students in materials science and engineering.
MS&E 434: Introduction to Thin-film Deposition Processes
Credits unavailable
Introduction to major thin-film deposition techniques and properties of thin films. Evaporation, plasma assisted processes with emphasis on sputter deposition, chemical vapor deposition ion beams. Film properties and characterization methods, applications.
MS&E 441: Deformation of Solids
Credits unavailable
Elastic and plastic deformation of real solids. Dislocation theory with applications to metals and alloys. Fracture, fatigue, brittle failure and methods for measuring the mechanical properties of materials.
MS&E 448: Crystallography and X-ray Diffraction
3 credits
Crystal symmetry, projection methods, X-ray studies of structural problems in the solid state.
MS&E 451: Introduction to Ceramic Materials
3 credits
Primary objectives are to: 1) analyze how atoms and ions combine to form 3D crystals and glasses; 2) examine phase equilibria to understand the driving forces for the formation of particular ceramic phases; 3) introduce and discuss the nature of defects in ceramics; 4) discuss the migration of matter and of charge in ceramics; and 5) discuss properties and processing technologies of ceramics.
MS&E 456: Electronic, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Materials
3 credits
Quantitative description of electronic, optical, and magnetic structure-property relationships of materials. Strategies for the development of new materials and introduction to applications of these materials.
MS&E 460: Introduction to Computational Materials Science and Engineering
Credits unavailable
An introduction to the theoretical and computational tools for computational materials, with hands on homework and laboratories. Topics may include atomistic simulation (e.g., molecular dynamics), mesoscale simulation (e.g,. Phase field method), macroscale simulation (e.g., finite element method), thermodynamic and kinetic modeling (CALPHAD method), informatics (e.g., machine learning), and special topics (e.g., solar cell design, electronic device simulation, etc.)
MS&E 463: Materials for Elevated Temperature Service
3 credits
The design, properties, processing and selection of high temperature materials for structural applications. The fundamentals of diffusion, phase transformations, dislocation motion and oxidation governing the high temperature mechanical properties and structural performance of metallic and ceramic materials.
MS&E 465: Fundamentals of Heat Treatment
Credits unavailable
Principles of phase transformations, heat transfer and mechanical properties as applied to heat treatment practice. The design, modeling and analysis of heat treatment processes.
MS&E 470: Capstone Project I
1 credits
Capstone experiences in materials design, selection, and application. Emphasis on creativity and application of fundamental principles of public identification, experimental design, data acquisition and analysis, and presentation of results.
MS&E 471: Capstone Project II
Credits unavailable
Capstone experiences in materials design, selection and application for MSE students. Emphasis on creativity and application of fundamental principles in problem identification, experimental design, data acquisition and analysis, and presentation of results.
MS&E 521: Advanced Polymeric Materials
Credits unavailable
This course is directed at graduate and advanced undergraduates with focused interest in polymeric materials. Basic principles of compatibility between macromolecules and small molecules, physical chemistry of blends and concepts in phase separation, and selected topics on materials design using self-assembly concepts.
MS&E 525: Inorganic Organic Hybrid Materials
3 credits
Introduction to inorganic organic hybrid materials with an emphasis on polymeric and framework structures. Covers fundamental concepts in coordination chemistry, organic and inorganic bonding, and crystallography. Explores how hybrid materials combine complementary features of organic and inorganic components to enable targeted functions. Topics include coordination complexes, coordination polymers, metal organic frameworks (MOFs), and inorganic polymer composites for applications in energy, separation, and sensing.
MS&E 530: Thermodynamics of Solids
3 credits
Thermodynamics of condensed matters as applied to materials science and engineering.
MS&E 550: Materials Fundamentals
3 credits
Accelerated introduction to foundational materials concepts and the materials paradigm approach to problem solving and research. Atomic scale structure of materials; defects in crystalline materials; alloy phase diagrams, solid-state diffusion, phase transformations, microstructure development, micro/nano/atomic-scale structure-property relationships.
MS&E 551: Structure of Materials
Credits unavailable
Atomic, nanoscale and microscale structure of materials. Course is designed for first year graduate students with interests in materials research.
MS&E 553: Nanomaterials & Nanotechnology
Credits unavailable
The principal objectives of the course are to: i) introduce advanced processing methods for synthesizing nanomaterials, ranging from single nanoparticles to three-dimensional nanostructures, ii) discuss important thermodynamic and kinetic theories related to such processing, iii) describe methods for characterizing the structure and properties of nanomaterials, iv) discuss current and emerging applications for nanomaterials, and v) illustrate the interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology and address critical challenges.
MS&E 554: Quantum Materials: Principles and Applications
Credits unavailable
Fundamentals of quantum materials and a broad survey of their device applications. Includes experimental techniques of engineering solid-state quantum phenomena.
MS&E 561: Machine Learning in Materials
Credits unavailable
Introduction to applications of data science in materials science and engineering, including understanding the creation and use of modern data resources, data-centric approaches to materials, and the integration of machine learning across the materials landscape.
MS&E 570: Properties of Solid Surfaces
Credits unavailable
Introduction to structure and electronic properties; surface energy; thermodynamics of surfaces; diffusion. Surface barriers, work function, vibrational and electronic states. Chemical interactions: chemisorption, oxidation, corrosion, absorption kinetics, catalysis. Experimental methods and applications in metals, semiconductors.
MS&E 580: Principles, Materials, and Devices of Batteries
Credits unavailable
Thermodynamics, electrochemistry, mass transport, materials design, manufacturing, and devices underlying current and emerging battery technologies, including but not limited to lithium-ion, lithium-metal, lithium-sulfur, and flow batteries. Topics include working principles of energy storage devices, fundamental electrochemistry, materials design and advanced characterization, device-level engineering, and the role of energy storage in decarbonization, sustainability, and global economic markets.
MS&E 648: Advanced X-ray Scattering Methods in Materials Science and Engineering
Credits unavailable
Advanced concepts and methods for the use of x-ray scattering, diffraction, and spectroscopy in materials science and engineering. Underpinning fundamental mathematical and scattering concepts, including kinematic and dynamical diffraction, diffuse scattering, and optical coherence in x-ray scattering. Practical aspects of experiments at synchrotron light sources and free electron lasers. Applications, including structure of metals and ceramics, polymeric materials, thin films and nanostructures, and magnetic materials.
MS&E 660: Mesoscale Modeling of Materials
Credits unavailable
Classical theories, analytical and numerical modeling of various kinetic processes in materials. Including but not limited to transport, grain growth, phase separation, solidification, precipitation, chemical reactions, and multiphysics problems involving electrical, optical, mechanical, and magnetic properties of materials.
MS&E 699: Independent Study
1–4 credits
Courses in Metallurgical Engineering.
MS&E 702: Graduate Cooperative Education Program
1–2 credits
Work experience that combines classroom theory with practical knowledge of operations to provide students with a background on which to develop and enhance a professional career. The work experience is tailored for MS students from within the U.S. as well as eligible international students.
MS&E 748: Structural Analysis of Materials
3 credits
Introduction to transmission electron microscopy of materials, including imaging, diffraction, and microanalysis. Knowledge of diffraction [such asM S & E 448] strongly encouraged.
MS&E 750: Imperfections and Mechanical Properties
Credits unavailable
Mathematical theory of dislocations and other crystal imperfections; mechanical properties of crystals in relation to imperfections. Knowledge of crystal structure and dislocations [such asM S & E 551] required.
MS&E 752: Advanced Materials Science: Phase Transformations
Credits unavailable
Phase transformations, nucleation theory and the role of structural imperfections, alloy phase equilibria, interface reactions and growth kinetics, continuous transformations. Knowledge of diffusion and reactions [such asM S & E 352] required.
MS&E 756: Structure and Properties of Advanced Electronic Materials
Credits unavailable
Prepares graduate students for research in electronic materials and related areas by examining (1) how does the physical structure of a material affect its electronic structure and properties: and (2) state-of-the-art advance electronic materials. Topics include: molecular and organic semiconductors; carbon nanomaterials (nanotubes, nanoribbons and graphene); advances in conventional bulk zinc-blende and wurtzite semiconductors; polycrystalline, amorphous, and disordered materials; state-of-the-art high- low-k dielectrics; and up-and-coming and next-generation materials. Knowledge of solid state physics [such asPHYSICS 551orM S & E 456] required.
MS&E 758: Transmission Electron Microscopy Laboratory
1 credits
An introduction to the practice of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and TEM sample preparation through hands-on laboratory training.
MS&E 760: Molecular Modeling of Materials
3 credits
Hands-on experience in modern tools of atomic and molecular modeling, including density functional theory, interatomic potentials, and molecular dynamics. Select additional/advanced techniques like high-throughput calculations, (Kinetic) Monte Carlo, accelerated molecular dynamics, and machine learning.
MS&E 790: Master's Research or Thesis
1–9 credits
Under faculty supervision.
MS&E 803: Special Topics in Materials Science
1–3 credits
Topics vary.
MS&E 890: Pre-dissertator's Research
1–9 credits
Under faculty supervision.
MS&E 900: Materials Research Seminar
1 credits
Introduces graduate students to the breadth, wealth and practices of materials research at the University of Wisconsin and in the professional materials research community.
MS&E 990: Research and Thesis
1–9 credits
Under faculty supervision.
MS&E 999: Independent Work
Credits unavailable
Independent study under faculty supervision.
MS&E/NE 423: Nuclear Engineering Materials
3 credits
Fundamentals of fuel and cladding behavior in terms of thermal properties, chemical behavior and radiation damage.
MS&E/NE 433: Principles of Corrosion
3 credits
Thermodynamics and kinetics of metallic corrosion. The common forms of corrosion and corrosion susceptibility tests. Electrochemical measurement of corrosion rates. Corrosion prevention, economic considerations. High temperature oxidation and sulphidation. Corrosion case histories.