Course Guide: PhD

Below are examples of lecture courses taken by PhD students carrying out thesis research related to indicated areas (in addition to the required graduate course in statistical thermodynamics). Students starting with a BS degree typically take 2 or 3 of these courses per semester in the first 2 years. Some students may need to take 1 or 2 additional courses per semester in the following years until the course requirement is met. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of courses but rather a starting point in helping you devise your curriculum. Students should consult with their thesis advisors to determine the best set of classes to meet individual needs.

Note: MSE 500 or equivalent is required for all PhD students and is typically taken during the fall semester of the first year.

There is also a colloquium/seminar course registration requirement (see Course Requirements page for number of credit hours these courses can count toward degree requirement):

• MSE 595 Materials Colloquium: Registration during the first 4 semesters is required.
• MSE 529/559 Hard Materials Seminar/Soft Materials Seminar: Registration every semester of residence.

Concentrations