Materials Science and Engineering - PhD – Faculty of Engineering

Materials Science and Engineering – PhD

The PhD degree is a thesis-based program where students are required to complete courses in addition to writing and defending a thesis.

Length
4 years
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering (Co-op Available)
Type
Thesis-based
Options

Co-op

Policy-focused

Our focus is on policies which address economic benefits, social well-being and environmental protection and optimize outcomes across these three priorities. Students develop the ability to step back and to see an issue in its entirety. Then, take an evidence-based approach to develop and propose policy solutions. Graduates of our policy program find work in a variety of challenging and fulfilling roles.

Thesis-based curriculum

Equivalent of 4 half courses (12 units) beyond the Master’s degree and successful defence of a thesis is required. Candidates are required to pass a Comprehensive Examination and Research Proposal.

Admission requirements

Academic Prerequisites

Master’s Degree (MAsc, MSc, or equivalent) in a related field.

Find English language requirements here.

Anticipated Admission Range
Minimum B+ (77-79%)
Student working on machine. Hands-on experience.

Additional requirements

If all minimum requirements are met for admission to the MSE program, your application will be made available to all faculty currently accepting students. You will be contact by any interested faculty directly and any offers of admission will come from the School of Graduate Studies.

Please note a complete applications consists of the following documents submitted with online application.

  • Transcripts
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Statement of Interest
  • Letters of Recommendation – 2 academic reference submitted electronically by referee
  • Please attach to online application
  • Transcript of academic work completed to date. If the final transcript does not show that a completed degree has been conferred, an copy of your diploma is also required.
  • Official copy of these documents will be required if an offer of admissions is made.

Letters of Recommendation are submitted electronically. Please follow the directions that are provided once you have initiated your application.

  • Please attach to online application
  • Applicants whose native language is not English will be required to furnish evidence of their proficiency in the use of the English language. Such applicants are required to supply this evidence as part of their application.
  • Applicants may be exempted from this requirement if they have completed a university degree at which English is the language of instruction (Please attach proof – letter from institution)
  • The most common evidence is a score on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Equivalent scores on other recognized tests may also be considered.
  • Minimum accepted TOEFL scores (as outlined in the Graduate Calendar for the Faculty of Engineering):
    • iBT: (Internet Based Test):  88
    • Paper Based Test:  550
    • Computer Based Test:   213
  •  The IELTS is also accepted, with a minimum score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each category.
  • Please note that TOEFL scores expire after two years. Only current tests will be considered.
  • The McMaster University Institution Code is 0936.
  • The Department of Materials Science and Engineering’s Code is 69.
  • Students who have completed an Academic ESL program through Canadian academic institutions may petition to have this considered in lieu of TOEFL. Please attach all documents/proof to online application
  • Please attach to online application
  • Simply a few paragraphs indicating the type of research you are interested in pursuing.
  • Please attach to online application (In the same format as you would submit for an employment opportunity)
  • Publications are not required and will not be be assessed. 

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering offers the following funding for PhD students:

Approximate annual salary:*

Domestic – $30,643.50

International – $29,039.50

2021/22 Tuition and Fee amounts for “Research” programs can be found on the School of Graduate Studies website.

*Subject to change. This is valid only for 2021/22 academic year. Specific financial details will be provided in your offer letter.

Co-op and Student Life

  • Graduate Co-op

    Master’s and PhD students may complete 4 to 12 months of co-op experience in various types of organizations, including corporations, non-profit organizations, government agencies, startups and research institutions.

    Explore Co-op
  • Engineering Graduate Society

    The EGS actively supports engineering graduate students through events, workshops, bursaries, and collaboration with various campus organizations, focusing on representation, community building, and academic and professional development.

    Visit the EGS site
  • Life in Hamilton

    Hamilton, also known as The Hammer or Steeltown, is a thriving city close to the U.S. border and Toronto, with easy access for students commuting from the Greater Toronto Area via the on-campus GO Bus Terminal.

    Discover Hamilton, ON

How to apply

Understand every step, from applying, to accepting your offer and joining us on campus!

Request more information

Thank you for your interest in our Graduate Studies. Please fill out the form below, and we will connect with you to answer all of your questions.