PhD in Materials Science in Pasadena United States | California Institute of Technology

The Materials Science doctoral program, as outlined below, involves preparatory coursework, an oral candidacy examination, thesis writing, and a final oral defense. This program aims to build expertise in a specialized area, equip students with problem-solving skills beyond their specialization, strengthen their foundation in physical sciences for continued learning, and foster leadership qualities. The program exclusively admits students for doctoral studies, with no standalone master's program, though students may request a Master of Science in Materials Science after completing required courses.

The Ph.D. in Materials Science emphasizes research, with customized study plans tailored to each student's interests and background. A dissertation presenting original research contributions is mandatory.

Residency Requirement. The Institute mandates at least three academic years of graduate residency, typically extended by two or more years for thesis preparation.

Language Requirement. No language proficiency is required for the Ph.D. degree.
Candidates must distribute a draft thesis to their examining committee (usually matching the thesis advisory committee) at least two weeks before the final oral defense. The dean of graduate studies will only approve the examination date and committee composition upon receiving a finalized thesis, prepared for review by the dean, committee members, and Graduate Office proofreader. Students must be registered during the term of their thesis defense, with extensions rarely granted beyond the term's conclusion. Additional details can be found in the Caltech catalog's Information for Graduate Students section.