Review the recent updates to application deadlines, which have been extended to accommodate U.S. graduate applicants potentially impacted by the current societal landscape. Positions are available for the Sep 2025 or Jan 2026 intake.
Drive innovation
by bridging
fundamentals
and applications
At the University of British Columbia’s Department of Materials Engineering,
we are more than a department – we are a broad and dynamic community at the forefront of innovation. Our department consistently ranks among the highest in research funding within UBC’s Faculty of Applied Science. Our work spans both fundamental and applied research areas that impact industries and shape the future of materials engineering. As a graduate student in our department, you will be tackling real-world challenges that make a difference.
Why UBC?
Globally recognized research-intensive institution
Nestled in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, UBC is highly reputable and renowned for providing high-quality education and prioritizing community and people development. Recognizing that we operate on the traditional and unceded territory of the Musqueam people, and we are working towards reconciliation through meaningful actions that align with the Indigenous Strategic Plan.
Graduate Programs At-a-Glance
We offer research-based graduate programs designed to align with your academic background and professional goals. Whether you’re aiming to deepen your knowledge with a master’s degree or lead innovative research with a PhD, you’ll find a program that fits your aspirations.
| Program | Entry Requirements | Duration | Core Degree Requirements | Minimum GRA Funding* |
| Master of Applied Science (MASc) or Master of Science (MSc) | Students with a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree | 18–24 months | A total of 30 credits (12 credits coursework + 18 credits research thesis) | $26,000 per year |
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) | Students with a MASc/MSc degree or via internal transfer from our master’s program | 36–48 months | Oral comprehensive exam (within 12 months) and research proposal exam (within 24 months). Departmental and university doctoral examinations. | $30,000 per year |
* Students in our department receive a minimum graduate research assistantship (GRA) as outlined above, with many receiving top-ups from other funding sources. Detailed funding info can be found on the Awards and Funding section.
Our Research Areas
We take pride in fostering impactful collaborations with renowned companies such as Rio Tinto, Boeing, Teck Resources, and many others. The diverse and interdisciplinary research areas pursued by our faculty aim to impact today’s industries, transform those of tomorrow, and improve people’s lives.
Advanced Metallurgical Manufacturing & Processing Engineering
Metallurgy, metals processing, additive manufacturing, microstructure.
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Advanced Metallurgical Manufacturing & Processing Engineering
Metallurgy, metals processing, additive manufacturing, microstructure.
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Biomaterials Engineering
Biomaterials for implants and medical devices.
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Biomaterials Engineering
Biomaterials for implants and medical devices.
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Composites Engineering
Polymer matrix composites, bio-based composites, composites manufacturing.
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Composites Engineering
Polymer matrix composites, bio-based composites, composites manufacturing.
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Corrosion, Electrochemistry, & Hydrometallurgy
Hydrometallurgy, extractive metallurgy, corrosion, energy storage, redox flow batteries.
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Corrosion, Electrochemistry, & Hydrometallurgy
Hydrometallurgy, extractive metallurgy, corrosion, energy storage, redox flow batteries.
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Semiconductors
Semiconductors in microelectronics.
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Semiconductors
Semiconductors in microelectronics.
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Sustainability
Sustainable metals, bio-based materials, and energy storage.
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Sustainability
Sustainable metals, bio-based materials, and energy storage.
Read MoreCutting-Edge Facilities
Benefit from access to world-class labs and facilities, including the Frank Forward Building and the Advanced Materials and Process Engineering Laboratory (AMPEL) in the Brimacombe Building. AMPEL brings together materials researchers from Physics, Materials, and Electrical Engineering, offering many opportunities for collaboration and turning ideas into reality.
- Innovation Spaces: Access to makerspaces and prototyping labs.
- High-Tech Equipment: Gain hands-on experiences utilizing equipment such as the electron microscopes, X-ray diffractometers, 3D printers, mechanical testing, and many more.
Graduate students inspecting sample placement inside an industrial metal 3D printer before initiating the printing process.
Graduate students analyzing and discussing the microstructural details from the high-resolution electron microscope images to advance materials research.
An example of a SEM sample being carefully loaded into the chamber for advanced
microscopic materials characterization.
A graduate researcher setting up the prototype apparatus in a fume hood for materials
research in eletrochemistry, corrosion, and hydrometallurgy.
Two researchers operating mechanical testing equipment to analyze the mechanical
properties of materials under varied conditions.
A Community That Supports Your Growth
Thrive in an inclusive and collaborative environment
Tailored Research and Training Environment
With 16 research-active faculty members and numerous interdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships, at UBC and beyond, you will have the autonomy to shape your research path.
- Personalized mentorship: Work closely with faculty who are not just teachers but mentors, invested in your growth.
- Flexible program: Choose your coursework and research projects that align with your interests and career goals.
- Professional development: Attend workshops and seminars that enhance your research, leadership, and communication skills.
Supportive, Diverse, and Inclusive Community
The department is renowned for its close-knit community. Graduate students work closely with their supervisor(s) and supervisory committees on research progress and academic guidance.
- MTRL Graduate Student Association (GSA): Get to know and network with your peers in regularly organized social and professional development events.
- Inclusive and diverse environment: Study in an environment where everyone feels welcome. We are committed to upholding the UBC APSC EDI.I Strategic Plan.
Promising Career Paths
At UBC, you will have access to a variety of career workshops and professional development opportunities offered by the G+PS Graduate Pathways to Success Program, including resume building, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking events.
Our graduates often land exciting and impactful careers, with many successfully beginning their careers in different industries, post-doctoral, or faculty positions at institutions around the world. Some embrace their entrepreneurial side and start their own companies.
Typically, our graduates have ventured into fields such as aerospace, energy and environment, advanced manufacturing, research, and many others.