Program Overview
Kent State University's Materials Science Ph.D. program provides advanced coursework and research opportunities in liquid crystal science, nanoscience, and materials synthesis. Led by experienced faculty and with access to state-of-the-art facilities, the program prepares graduates for careers in academia or industry, focusing on areas such as optoelectronics, nanotechnologies, and biomaterials. Students develop research expertise in interdisciplinary collaborations with faculty mentors and have access to various teaching and career advancement opportunities.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Materials Science Ph.D. program offers advanced coursework and research opportunities in materials science, preparing you for a career in academia or industry. With experienced faculty and access to state-of-the-art facilities, you will be equipped with the skills needed to make an impact in the field. The program focuses on liquid crystal synthesis and molecular design; properties of liquid crystals and related advanced materials; lyotropic liquid crystals and bio-related materials, opto-electronics; and nanoscience and nanotechnologies.
Outline:
Major Requirements:
- MTSC 72242 CHARACTERIZATION OF SOFT MATTER (3 credit hours)
- MTSC 73000 PHYSICS OF SOFT MATTER (3 credit hours)
- MTSC 73015 CHEMISTRY OF SOFT MATTER (3 credit hours)
- MTSC 73020 APPLICATIONS OF SOFT MATTER (3 credit hours)
- Approved Electives (18-48 credit hours) - Choose from the following:
- BSCI 70158 MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
- BSCI 70220 BIOINFORMATICS
- BSCI 71120 BIOLOGICAL LIGHT MICROSCOPY
- CHEM 70254 BIOMEMBRANES
- MTSC 72335 ADVANCED LIQUID CRYSTALLINE AND POLYMERIC MATERIALS
- MTSC 72450 LIQUID CRYSTAL OPTICS I: THEORY
- MTSC 72452 LIQUID CRYSTAL OPTICS II: OPTICAL SYSTEMS
- MTSC 72460 LIQUID CRYSTAL MATERIALS SCIENCE
- MTSC 72462 LIQUID CRYSTAL SCIENCE: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- MTSC 72640 LIQUID CRYSTAL, POLYMER AND COLLOID COMPOSITES
- MTSC 73010 LYOTROPIC LIQUID CRYSTALS
- MTSC 74495 SPECIAL TOPICS IN CHEMICAL PHYSICS
- MTSC 75006 LIQUID CRYSTAL DEVICE PROTOTYPING
- MTSC 75008 LIQUID CRYSTAL DEVICE CONSTRUCTION
- MTSC 75032 SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATION
- MTSC 80498 RESEARCH
- PHY 76403 ADVANCED CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS
- PHY 78401 LIQUID CRYSTAL PHYSICS
- Additional courses with advisor approval
- Culminating Requirement:
- MTSC 80199 DISSERTATION I (130 credit hours for post-baccalaureate students, 90 credit hours for post-master's students, 60 credit hours total)
Assessment:
- Materials Science Candidacy Examination:
- Written Exam: Covers core courses from the first year of study.
- Oral Exam: Follows the written exam.
- Second Attempt: Allowed for students who do not pass the first time.
- Exception Requests: Considered for medical reasons or other unpredictable circumstances.
Teaching:
- Faculty: Experienced faculty members with expertise in materials science.
- Research Opportunities: Access to state-of-the-art facilities for research.
- Interdisciplinary Focus: Research is inherently interdisciplinary, involving multiple departments and the Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- Computer and information research scientists
- Physical scientists, all other
- Physicists
- Biochemists and biophysicists
- Biological scientists, all other
- Chemists
- Chemical engineers
Other:
- Program Delivery: In person
- Location: Kent Campus
- Research Focus: Liquid crystal synthesis and molecular design; properties of liquid crystals and related advanced materials; lyotropic liquid crystals and bio-related materials, opto-electronics; and nanoscience and nanotechnologies.
- Affinity Groups for Graduate Students: The Division of Graduate Studies sponsors affinity groups for graduate students who are parents and for first-generation graduate students.
- Faculty Research in the News: Research at Kent State focuses on solving major global challenges we face as a society - in healthcare, energy and sustainability.
- Graduate Awards and Fellowships: The Division of Graduate Studies at Kent State University administers a number of fellowships and awards for new and continuing students.
Kent State University
Overview:
Kent State University is a leading public university in Ohio, known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates, across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Kent State University provides a rich and engaging campus experience for its students. The university offers a variety of resources and opportunities for students to get involved, including:
Arts & Culture:
Students can explore various artistic expressions through events, performances, and exhibitions.Clubs & Organizations:
A wide range of student clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests, fostering a sense of community and leadership development.Dining:
The university provides various dining options, including on-campus restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores.Housing:
Kent State offers a variety of housing options for students, including residence halls, apartments, and off-campus living arrangements.Student Involvement:
The university encourages student involvement through various programs and initiatives, promoting leadership, service, and personal growth.Recreation and Wellness Services:
Students can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fitness centers, intramural sports, club sports, and outdoor adventures.Campus Resources:
The university provides a comprehensive range of support services for students, including health services, mental health services, academic advising, and career counseling.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Programs:
Kent State University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Colleges:
The university is organized into several colleges, each specializing in specific areas of study.Majors & Degrees:
Students can choose from a variety of majors and degrees, including undergraduate and graduate programs.Online Degrees & Certificates:
The university offers a selection of online degree and certificate programs for flexible learning options.ROTC Programs:
Kent State offers ROTC programs for students interested in military service.University Catalog:
The university catalog provides detailed information about academic programs, courses, and policies.Other:
Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university
- Minimum 2.750 GPA on a 4.000-point scale
- Official transcript(s)
- Goal statement
- Résumé or curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE scores (general and subject test in physics or chemistry) are not required, but strongly recommended. Admission will be granted by examination of the student's background on an individual basis. Students from a variety of undergraduate majors—such as physics, chemistry, engineering and materials science—are invited to apply.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- All international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:
- Minimum 71 TOEFL iBT score
- Minimum 6.0 IELTS score
- Minimum 50 PTE score
- Minimum 100 DET score
- International applicants who do not meet the above test scores may be considered for conditional admission.
