Materials Science Minor
Materials Science is an interdisciplinary field combining physics (fundamental laws of nature), chemistry (interactions of atoms) and biology (how life interacts with materials) to elucidate the inherent properties of basic and complex systems. This includes optical (interaction with light), electrical (interaction with charge), magnetic and structural properties of everyday electronics, clothing and architecture. The Materials Science central dogma follows the sequence: Structure-Properties-Design-Performance. This involves relating the nanostructure of a material to its macroscale physical and chemical properties. By understanding and then changing the structure, material scientists can create custom materials with unique properties.
The goal of the materials science minor is to create a cross-disciplinary approach to fundamental topics in basic and applied physical sciences. Students will gain experience and perspectives from the disciplines of chemistry, physics and biology. The minor places a strong emphasis on current nanoscale research methods in addition to the basics of electronic, optical and mechanical properties of materials.
Any student with an interest in pursuing the cross-disciplinary minor in materials science should consult with the coordinator of the minor. Students are encouraged to declare their participation in their sophomore year but no later than the end of the junior year. Students also should seek an adviser from participating faculty.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will understand the differences in the atomic scale structures among materials and how this translates to their macroscale properties.
- Students willexecute the appropriate characterization and measurement techniques to determine the mechanical, optical, magnetic, thermal, and electronic properties of materials.
- Students willmake educated hypotheses about the unmeasured properties and functions of novel combinations of materials.
Degree Requirements
General College Requirements
(see “Curriculum” section)
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 103 with a grade of C or a 4 or 5 on the AP chemistry exam.
All Requirements in a Major Discipline of Study
Required Courses (20 credit hours):
OR
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 141 or PHYS 151.
OR
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 141 or PHYS 151.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 106 PHYS 142
Prerequisite(s): Completion of CHEM 106 with grades of C- or better.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231 or PHYS 251, MATH 256, and consent of the instructor. Students with several chemistry courses may seek the instructor’s permission to have the PHYS 251
Elective Courses (4 credit hours)
Elective courses may not also be taken for credit for a major (For example, chemistry majors must choose from BIOL 471, MTSC 302 or PHYS 311 for elective credit for a MTSC minor). A completed materials science St. Mary’s Project or materials science internship may be substituted for MTSC 302 with approval of the Coordinator.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of CHEM 311 with a grade of C- or better is required for CHEM 312.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 312 with a grade of C- or better.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 106, PHYS 141 or PHYS 151, and MATH 152, or consent of the instructor. CHEM 451 is a prerequisite for CHEM 452.
Prerequisite(s): Prerequisite(s): CHEM 103 and PHYS 141 or PHYS 151, or permission of instructor.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 251.