Ferrous Technology

The Ferrous Technology program at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) is a comprehensive undergraduate course designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the field of ferrous materials and metallurgical engineering. This program focuses on the study of iron-based alloys, their production, processing, properties, and applications across various industries including automotive, construction, aerospace, and manufacturing. Students will explore fundamental principles of materials science as they relate to ferrous metals, gaining a solid understanding of crystallography, phase transformations, thermodynamics, and kinetic phenomena that influence the behavior of iron and steel.

Throughout their studies, students are introduced to advanced techniques in materials characterization, including microscopy, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing, enabling them to analyze and optimize ferrous materials for specific applications. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience, with laboratory courses, research projects, and industry internships designed to prepare graduates for careers in research and development, quality control, production management, and engineering consulting within the metallurgical and materials industry.

The program also covers sustainable practices and innovative technologies aimed at improving the efficiency of steel manufacturing processes and reducing environmental impacts. Topics such as alloy design, corrosion resistance, heat treatment, welding, and surface engineering are integral parts of the coursework. Students are encouraged to engage in collaborative projects and participate in national and international research initiatives, fostering innovation and technological advancement in ferrous metallurgy.

Graduates of the Ferrous Technology program will be equipped with the technical expertise and problem-solving skills necessary to contribute effectively to the steel industry and related sectors. They will be well-prepared for further academic pursuits, such as master's or doctoral studies, or for professional careers as materials scientists, process engineers, and industry specialists. With a curriculum grounded in cutting-edge research and industry needs, the program aims to develop leaders who will drive sustainable development and technological progress in the field of ferrous materials.

The academic curriculum program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to the field of steel technology by combining all relevant aspects of the following engineering disciplines: Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanics, Chemistry, Solid State Physics, Manufacturing Technology, Process Control, and Computer Science. 
The graduate level courses are all taught by the full time GIFT faculty, who, through their own research achievements, are recognized experts in the subjects they are teaching. The courses are designed to teach students the most up-to date science and technology. They also serve as a starting point for the students’ efforts to develop new insights and achieve scientific and technological progress through their research. 
The individual course programs of study are planned in consultation with the faculty members. The programs may be directed toward fundamental science, engineering or a combination of these, depending on the preference, capabilities, and professional career goals of the individual graduate student. 
GIFT students may also take courses for credit in other POSTHECH departments or other institutions of higher learning if they and their academic advisor consider it will enhance their research potential. This opportunity provides GIFT students with a high degree of academic freedom. 
GIFT has a specialized expertise in steel-related education, and it is continuously developing and improving an already exceptional curriculum consisting of courses covering all the areas of steel research and technology. 
The rich GIFT curriculum offers courses in both traditional subjects and advanced ferrous materials science topics. In all cases the courses have been newly designed by academic and industry experts who are leaders in their field of research. 
Often, the approach is unique. Examples include the GIFT course on solidification which is used to introduce phase field modeling concepts. The courses devoted to steel products emphasize physical materials science principles. Ferrous alloy theory emphasizes solid state physics and introduces first principles calculations. Advanced courses on metal forming and steel processing are also part of the GIFT curriculum, as are courses on joining and welding metallurgy.

Physical Metallurgy Module

Basic

• GIFT700 Introduction to metallurgical engineering

Core

• GIFT612 Understanding of modern steel products
• GIFT620 Phase transformation in steels
• GIFT701 Characterization and microanalysis

Advanced

• GIFT611 TEM
• GIFT6111 TEM Laboratory
• GIFT610 Solid state physics for ferrous technology
• GIFT624 Crystallography(intensive)
• GIFT621 Modeling of phase transformations in steels
• GIFT632 Advanced X-ray Diffraction Analysis
• GIFT669 Selected Topics on the Mechanical Properties of Steel
• GIFT702 Solidification
• GIFT634 Welding and joining
• GIFT660 Structure and properties of metallic alloys
• GIFT613 Theory of dislocations
• GIFT618 Magnetic mater. and app.
• GIFT619 Special topics on physical metallurgy
• GIFT642 Special Steels

Chemical Metallurgy Module

Basic

• GIFT700 Introduction to metallurgical engineering

Core

• GIFT600 Metallurgical thermodynamics
• GIFT602 Principles of steelmaking process
• GIFT601 Metallurgical Reaction Kinetics and Mechanism
• GIFT603 Principles of iron making process
• GIFT703 Steel production technology
• GIFT671 Corrosion Science and Engineering
• GIFT674 Introduction to organic coating
• GIFT640 Thermal and fluid engineering
• GIFT604 Convective Heat and Mass transfer
• GIFT678 Special topics on chemical metallurgy
• GIFT606 Computational thermodynamics
• GIFT673 High temperature oxidation and coatings
• GIFT675 Protective coatings for steel corrosion
• GIFT676 Principles of non-ferrous metallurgical processes
• GIFT677 Statistics for experiments

Mechanical Metallurgy Module

Core

• GIFT630 Mechanical Properties of Ferrous Alloys
• GIFT653 Plasticity and Forming

Advanced

• GIFT657 Continuum mechanics
• GIFT655 FEM for Crystalline Solid
• GIFT654 Brittle and Ductile Fracture
• Deformation and fracture in metals
• GIFT658 Experimental mechanics
• GIFT651 Special topics on mechanical metallurgy
• GIFT659 Mechanisms of Fatigue

Control and Automation Module

Core

• Automatic Control Theory

Advanced

• Advanced Control Theory and Applications
• Robotics
• Special Topics in Control and Automation

Requirements

• Applicants must fill out the online application.
• Personal Statement and Research Plan - Download format from the website: http://admission.postech.ac.kr/linkUsen.do?f=sub3-2
• Curriculum Vitae (Free style personal resume)
• Copy of Passport
• Signed Consent Form - Download format from the website: http://admission.postech.ac.kr/linkUsen.do?f=sub3-2
• List of Honors and Awards (optional) - Applicants who have received any honors, awards, or fellowships during their undergraduate or graduate studies may list them in the order of importance.
• Application fee: 80 USD or 80,000 KRW
• Official Transcript(s)
• Degree Certificate(s)
• Recommendation Letters - From two recommenders (academic faculty) - Must be e-mailed or sent by post directly by each recommender, enclosed in a sealed envelope.
• Score Report of English Proficiency Test - The official TOEFL/IELTS Score Report issued by ETS/British Council can be sent to POSTECH Graduate Admissions and Student Affairs directly by requesting it at the ETS/ British Council website. Applicants must enter POSTECH’s institution code (0329) in order for ETS to send the official score report to our office. - TOEFL ITP organized only by POSTECH is accepted
• Degree Theses (option

Scholarships

• Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)
• Global Education
• POSCO Asia Fellowship
• SK hynix Fellowship
• POSTECH Teaching or Research Assistantship
• POSTECH Fellowship for Excellent International Students(PFES)
• POSTECH Settlement Allowance for New International Students

Ferrous Technology at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) is a specialized program focused on the study and development of ferrous metals, including iron and steel processes. The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines materials science, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and metallurgical engineering to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for advanced research and industrial applications in metallurgy. Students explore the fundamental principles underlying the production, processing, and characterization of ferrous materials, along with innovative techniques for enhancing their properties and performance. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on laboratory experience, enabling students to engage in cutting-edge research projects related to steel manufacturing, alloy development, and environmental sustainability in metallurgy. Postgraduate opportunities include collaborations with leading steel companies and research institutes, providing practical exposure and industry-relevant training. The department also fosters international research partnerships, allowing students to participate in joint projects and exchange programs. Graduates of the Ferrous Technology program are well-prepared for careers in steel manufacturing, materials development, and technological innovation, or for further academic pursuits in metallurgical research. Postech’s state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and emphasis on research excellence create an innovative learning environment that supports the development of skilled professionals capable of addressing complex challenges in the ferrous metals industry. The program aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable steel production techniques and materials innovation on a global scale, aligning educational outcomes with the evolving needs of industry and society.