Undergraduate Admissions
Become a materials expert.
Materials engineers are essential for advancing technology, sustainability and the scientific process. Materials Engineering at The Grainger College of Engineering is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the understanding, design, fabrication and engineering of materials that underpin and drive our modern world. It combines principles from chemistry, physics and engineering to create and manipulate materials, improving their performance, cost-efficiency and environmental impact in industries ranging from aerospace, electronics, energy and healthcare.
Why Materials Engineering at Illinois?
In Materials Engineering, we are devoted to being at the forefront of technology, solving the world’s most pressing problems every day. Our commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research and career preparedness means that you will have an excellent undergraduate educational experience, access to state-of-the-art facilities and participate in networking opportunities and potential internships. Your creative energy, technical skills and collaborative spirit are needed in our program to invent new materials, develop sustainable solutions and shape a brighter future for all.
33
of the most sought-after materials engineering faculty
9:1
student-to-faculty ratio
78%
of undergraduates participate in internships or co-ops
$320K
of scholarship money awarded to 2023-24 undergraduates
Explore career opportunities.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported a positive job outlook for individuals with a degree in materials engineering. The demand for materials is consistently on the rise, leading to a projected 7% increase in job growth and need for determined professionals in the field.
$79,000
average starting salary
95%
are employed or continuing education upon graduation
My professors are inspiring and supportive, and their genuine passion for Materials Engineering and their students is apparent both in and out of the classroom.
Kayla Huang
Materials Engineering Undergraduate
Your Materials Engineering story starts here.
Eager to experience The Grainger College of Engineering Materials Engineering program for yourself? Plan a Materials Engineering specific visit or enroll by applying online.