Materials Engineering

Materials Engineering at The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive and innovative educational experience designed to prepare students for careers in the development, processing, and application of materials. This program combines fundamental principles of engineering, physics, chemistry, and materials science to equip graduates with the knowledge necessary to solve real-world problems related to metals, ceramics, polymers, and composite materials. Students will explore topics such as materials characterization, mechanical properties, thermodynamics, corrosion, and nanomaterials, gaining a deep understanding of how materials behave and can be manipulated to meet specific engineering requirements. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, featuring laboratory work, design projects, and research opportunities that foster critical thinking, creativity, and technical proficiency. Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary learning and collaborate across fields to innovate and improve materials for diverse applications, including aerospace, biomedical devices, electronics, energy storage, and environmental sustainability. The program also provides pathways for undergraduate research, internships, and co-op experiences, enabling students to acquire valuable industry exposure and professional skills. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers in manufacturing, materials development, quality control, consulting, or further specialization through graduate studies. The University of British Columbia’s state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and strong links with industry partners ensure that students receive a top-tier education aligned with current technological advancements and market needs. Overall, the Materials Engineering program at UBC aims to foster a new generation of engineers who are innovative, responsible, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to advancements in technology and society.

Materials Engineering at The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive and innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in the development, processing, and application of materials used in a wide range of industries. The program emphasizes a fundamental understanding of the structure-property relationships of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites, along with hands-on experience in materials characterization, processing techniques, and materials selection. Students will explore topics such as materials thermodynamics, kinetic processes, materials design, and failure analysis, ensuring they are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum integrates coursework in engineering fundamentals, materials science, and specialized courses in areas like nanomaterials, biomaterials, and advanced manufacturing. Throughout the program, students participate in laboratory experiments, projects, and possibly co-op placements, fostering an applied approach to learning. The program aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills necessary for careers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, electronics, and healthcare. Graduates will be prepared for roles in research and development, quality assurance, materials testing, and technical consulting. The program also encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, providing students with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects and collaborate with industry partners. A strong foundation in sustainability and material life cycle analysis is also integrated into the curriculum to address current environmental challenges. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students will have the chance to contribute to emerging areas in materials engineering. Overall, the Materials Engineering program at UBC is designed to cultivate skilled engineers who can contribute to technological advancements and sustainable development in the field of materials science.

Program Requirements for the Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials Engineering at The University of British Columbia:

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials Engineering at UBC requires students to complete a comprehensive set of coursework, projects, and practical experiences to ensure a thorough understanding of materials science and engineering principles. Students must first fulfill the University’s general admission requirements, including the equivalent of Alberta’s English 30 and the necessary prerequisite courses in mathematics and sciences. A strong foundation in calculus, physics, chemistry, and introductory engineering courses is mandatory.

The program is structured over typically four years, divided into undergraduate semesters. In the initial years, students take fundamental courses such as General Chemistry, Physics for Engineers, Linear Algebra, and Calculus. These foundational courses are complemented by introductory materials science courses that cover topics such as structure and properties of materials, thermodynamics, and materials processing.

In the subsequent years, students undertake specialized courses in materials characterization, mechanical behavior of materials, materials design, and corrosion engineering. Laboratory work and projects are integrated into many courses to develop practical skills. Additionally, students are required to participate in engineering design projects, often culminating in a capstone project, to synthesize their learning and address real-world engineering challenges.

Professional development components include courses on ethics, engineering practice, and communication. The program also emphasizes experiential learning; students are encouraged to participate in co-op placements, internships, or research projects, which are highly recommended for gaining industry-relevant experience.

To graduate with the degree, students must earn a minimum number of credits, typically around 120-130, with a specified number of upper-division courses in materials engineering. All coursework must be completed with satisfactory grades, and students must meet the university’s academic standards. Additionally, students are expected to adhere to the School of Engineering’s code of conduct and professional standards throughout their studies.

Overall, the program aims to prepare graduates for careers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, biomedical materials, and sustainable materials development, emphasizing technical proficiency, innovation, and ethical engineering practices.

The University of British Columbia offers various financial support options for students enrolled in the Materials Engineering program. These include government-funded scholarships, bursaries, and grants that are designed to assist both domestic and international students in covering tuition fees and living expenses. The university provides entrance scholarships based on academic achievement, as well as renewable awards for continuing students demonstrating excellent academic performance and involvement in research or community activities. In addition, the Faculty of Engineering offers departmental scholarships specifically allocated for Materials Engineering students. Graduate students may have access to assistantship positions, such as Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs), which provide stipends and tuition waiver support in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities. The university also partners with external organizations and industry partners to offer internships, co-op programs, and sponsorship opportunities, enabling students to gain practical experience while earning financial support. Students are encouraged to apply for provincial and federal student aid programs, including student loans and work-study opportunities, which can supplement institutional aid. UBC's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on scholarship applications, funding deadlines, and criteria, ensuring students are aware of all available resources. International students are eligible for some scholarships and funding options, though the availability may differ from domestic students. Additionally, students are advised to explore external funding sources such as private foundations and industry-sponsored grants tailored to materials science and engineering fields. Overall, UBC is committed to supporting its Materials Engineering students financially throughout their academic journey, helping them achieve their educational and professional goals without undue financial burden.

Materials Engineering at The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in the science and engineering of materials. This program emphasizes the understanding of materials' properties, processing techniques, and applications across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biomedical devices. Students gain interdisciplinary knowledge in areas including metallurgy, ceramics, polymers, and composites, preparing them for innovative work in research, development, and manufacturing sectors. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical laboratory experiences, fostering hands-on skills essential for material analysis, characterization, and testing. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects and co-op opportunities, providing real-world industry exposure. The program aims to develop graduates who can critically analyze material challenges, design new materials with desirable properties, and contribute to sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. With expert faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections, the Materials Engineering program at UBC strives to produce versatile professionals capable of addressing complex technical problems and advancing the field of materials science and engineering.