About Department of Materials Science & Engineering · Seattle
The Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Washington in Seattle is a leading academic unit focused on advancing materials research and education. It prepares students for careers in industry, government, and academia while conducting cutting-edge research in areas like sustainable cement, cancer therapeutics, and next-generation batteries. The department is part of the UW College of Engineering and is ABET-accredited, with a mission centered on student-centered excellence and global impact.
The Department of Materials Science & Engineering (MSE) at the University of Washington is at the forefront of the global materials revolution, preparing students for diverse careers in aerospace, medicine, computing, and more. It offers undergraduate, applied master’s, and Ph.D. programs, with a focus on interdisciplinary research and industry collaboration. The department’s research spans sustainable materials, quantum computing applications, and biomedical innovations. It is ABET-accredited, emphasizes diversity and inclusion, and serves students, faculty, and the broader community through education, research, and outreach. The department traces its roots to the School of Mining Engineering, established in 1893, and has evolved to focus on modern materials like composites and electronic materials.
- In business
- Since 1893 (as School of Mining Engineering)
- Serves
- Seattle, WA; national and international academic and industrial communities
About Us
The world is experiencing a materials revolution. Advances in materials have preceded almost every technological leap since the beginning of civilization, and engineered materials are crucial to the continued vitality of countless industries. The University of Washington’s Department of Materials Science & Engineering is at the heart of this revolution, preparing our students and conducting research to meet the needs of modern technology.
Our Mission
The mission of the Department is to be recognized as an outstanding student-centered organization that serves the industrial and academic needs of the University, the State of Washington, the nation, and the international community.
Programs
The department offers undergraduate, applied master’s, and Ph.D. programs, preparing students for careers in industry, government, and academia.
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in MSE
- Applied Master’s Program (AMP)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Research Highlights
MSE researchers are developing seaweed-fortified cement with 21% lower global warming potential, designing cancer therapeutics, and advancing battery technology for electric vehicles.
- Low-carbon cement with Microsoft
- Cancer cell-targeting therapeutics
- Fracture-resistant materials inspired by animal enamel
- Next-generation battery technology