Since the beginnings of civilization, technological progress has always relied on the materials that people were able to acquire from nature or through trade or by innovation. Wood, stone, bronze, iron, steel, aluminum, cermets, plastics, semiconductors, liquid crystals, nanomaterials and quantum dots all have unique properties that enable - but also limit - what humans can make and do. Nations continue to go to war over access to particular raw materials. The construction of safe dwellings, the conveniences of rapid travel, the efficiency of telecommunications, the calculating and archiving power of computers, the life-prolonging gift of surgical implants and the dazzling performances of athletes all require dependable materials. Future technological progress of any kind will always be limited by available materials.

UC Merced students majoring in Materials Science and Engineering will be equipped for leadership in a field that dictates the pace of technological progress.

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) applies fundamental principles of physics and chemistry to designing materials with desired combinations of mechanical, optical, electrical, magnetic, electrochemical and other properties.

Transfer Students

Transfer information, including preparation for the Materials Science and Engineering major, general education preparation and eligibility requirements is available at the Transfer Admission site.

Additional Information

For more information on the Materials Science and Engineering major, please visit the UC Merced School of Engineering web site.