College of Engineering
Department of Materials Science and Engineering
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Department of Materials Science and Engineering

Student Life

Students in the Materials Science and Engineering department are able to graduate with a degree and an experience that is diversified, interest-oriented, and practical for whatever stage of life comes after the time spent at Iowa State University. Check out our undergraduate and graduate programs:

Academic Advising

  • To schedule an advising appointment

    1. Click the schedule a meeting link of an advisor listed below
    2. Log into your student account
    3. Select the best time to meet!

Centers and Help Rooms:

Mat E Advising Resources:

Other Student Resources:

Courses

Our courses rely on hands-on activities, group projects, and practical applications of theoretical concepts. Check the ISU Course Catalog for a list of available MSE courses and their descriptions.

MSE-Affiliated Student Organizations

Learn more about MSE-affiliated student organizations by clicking on the cards below. Also browse lists of College of Engineering-affiliated student organizations and all ISU student organizations.

  • Metallurgica

    The purpose of Metallurgica is to sit at the cross-section between art and science with respect to metallurgy and metalworking. We offer a place for people with a common interest in metals, science, art, and craftsmanship to come together and participate in workshops and learn from each other.

  • Material Advantage

    Material Advantage provides students with opportunities for networking, professional development, and educational advancement within the field of materials science and engineering. Additionally, we engage in outreach programs to K-12 students, promoting awareness and interest in materials engineering as a viable career option.

  • Reform (Recyclables for Music)

    Recyclables for Music (Reform) is an interdisciplinary program that combines engineering innovation with musical creativity. Our goal is to turn everyday plastic waste into beautiful, functional instruments and components using 3D printing and other polymer processing techniques.

Study Abroad

The MSE department encourages students to take advantage of the many study abroad opportunities available supported by the Engineering International Programs Office. Staff member Holly Dunlay-Lott, hollyd@iastate.edu, serves as program coordinator for college exchange programs at the University of Birmingham and Brunel University, both located in England. The department also runs a six-week, 6-credit summer experience on the campus of Brunel University in West London.

For more information, see the MSE study abroad brochure and College of Engineering’s International programs page. Students pursue other university exchange programs and locations on their own as well.

MSE Summer Experience in London

The MSE summer program in London involves a four-week stay on the campus of Brunel University, located in Uxbridge, west London. This program is open to all engineering majors.

Students start MATE 2730: Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering during the second half of the spring semester on the ISU campus and is finished during the four weeks in Uxbridge. MATE 2730 is taught both here and in Uxbridge by an ISU Materials Engineering Faculty member.  MATE 2730 does substitute for MATE 2150. By being overseas for four weeks, students fulfill the college international perspective requirement.

Students should contact Holly Dunlay-Lott, hollyd@iastate.edu, who manages the program, for further details.

For more information, see the College of Engineering’s International programs page.

An advisor talks with a student.

Questions? We are here to help!

Contact one of our academic advisors at aklocke@iastate.edu or hollyd@iastate.edu.