UVa Course Catalog (Unofficial, Lou's List)
Complete Catalog for the Materials Science and Engineering Department    
Class Schedules Index Course Catalogs Index Class Search Page
These pages present data mined from the University of Virginia's student information system (SIS). I hope that you will find them useful. — Lou Bloomfield, Department of Physics
Engineering Physics
EP 6950Supervised Project (1 - 12)
Formal record of student commitment to project research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated.
EP 6993Independent Study (1 - 12)
Detailed study of graduate course material on an independent basis under the guidance of a faculty member.
EP 7000Graduate Seminar (1)
Weekly seminars for graduate students in Engineering Physics offered every semester. All resident EP graduate students enroll each semester.
EP 7592Special Topics in Engineering Physics (3)
Advanced-level study of selected problems in engineering physics. Prerequisite: instructor permission.
EP 7993Independent Study (1 - 12)
Detailed study of graduate course material on an independent basis under the guidance of a faculty member.
Course was offered Fall 2017, Spring 2010, Fall 2009
EP 8000TNon-UVa Transfer/Test Credit Approved (1 - 48)
Non-UVa Transfer/Test Credit Approved
EP 8970Graduate Teaching Instruction (1 - 6)
For master's students.
EP 8999Master's Degree Research (1 - 12)
Formal record of student commitment to master's thesis research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.
EP 9970Graduate Teaching Instruction (1 - 6)
For doctoral students.
EP 9999Ph.D. Dissertation Research (1 - 12)
Formal record of commitment to doctoral research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.
Materials Science and Engineering
MSE 2010Materials That Shape Our Civilization (3)
To introduce the issues surrounding long-term sustainability with respect to materials, including scarcity, recycling, climate change, and environmental stress on water resources, land resources and pollution. Scope of the issue at the present day will be discussed and projections of the effects of current patterns of material production, consumption, and recycling will be described. Methods of analysis will be developed.
MSE 2090Introduction to Materials Science (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
The field of Materials Science drives technological innovations underlying all engineering fields. This course provides a scientific foundation to promote a rigorous understanding of materials from an atomistic to macroscopic viewpoint. Material systems (polymers, metals, ceramics, and electronic) are developed sequentially to provide a framework to explain the fundamental, physical origins of observable and important macro scale properties.
MSE 2101Materials Science Investigations: Properties (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
The properties of any material help determine its ultimate usefulness to society. We can modify and manipulate properties by processing materials in different ways to control their structure. This class will examine mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of materials-what they mean, how they depend on structure, how to measure them, how to change them, and how to analyze the measurements. The course includes both a lecture and a lab. MSE 2090 required as a pre- or co-requisite.
Course was offered Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020
MSE 2200Introduction to Additive Manufacturing and 3-D Printing (3)
This course introduces state-of-the-art 3D printing and additive manufacturing techniques for metals, polymers, ceramics, and other materials. Students will be familiarized with both the fundamental science and industrial process, and learn critical limitations and current development efforts to resolve existing challenges. The course will develop a basic understanding for future engineers in working with existing additive manufacturing systems.
MSE 2300Science of Cooking: From Modern Cuisine to Soft Matter Science (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
We discuss how soft matter science, a new and growing area of materials science and engineering, underpins everyday cooking and haute cuisine. The goal is to use cooking to educate students about the fundamental concepts and behavior of soft materials. The benefit is that students will be able to interrelate cooking techniques and recipes to physical, chemical, and biological transformations in food.
MSE 2500Special Topics in Materials Science and Engineering (1 - 3)
Special topic courses in Materials Science and Engineering
MSE 3050Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria of Materials (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
The course includes (1) an overview of classical thermodynamics necessary for understanding the conditions for phase equilibria, phase stability and phase transformations in one-component and multi-component systems, (2) application of thermodynamic concepts to phase diagrams and construction of phase diagrams from thermodynamic data, (3) discussion of the thermodynamics of interfaces and the role the interfaces play in phase transformations. Prerequisite: APMA 2120 or MATH 2310.
MSE 3060Structures and Defects of Materials (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Crystal structures of solids and their possible defects are examined. The structure-property paradigm is illustrated through discussion of the anisotropic properties of crystals, such as elasticity, thermal expansion, piezoelectricity, and magnetism. Point defects, dislocations, and interfaces are introduced along with the thermodynamic and kinetic principles that govern their interactions and roles during materials processing and application. Prerequisite: APMA 2120 or MATH 2310
MSE 3070Kinetics and Phase Transformation in Materials (3)
The course aims to let students learn how to perform the analysis of the key kinetic processes, phase transformations, and the development of microstructure in real materials. We will study the atomic mechanisms of diffusion and the analytical and numerical methods to describe diffusion, kinetics of phase transformations and formation of complex microstructure as defined by the interplay of thermodynamics and kinetics of mass transfer. Pre-requisite: MSE 3050 or Instructor Permission
MSE 3080Corrosion, Batteries and Fuel Cells (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Covers the principles of electrochemistry governing corrosion, batteries and fuel cells at the materials science and engineering level. Describes the basic electrochemistry, terminology, and performance of specific corrosion, battery and fuel cell systems using various energy materials including ion and solid-state lithium. Explains corrosion in recycling/sustainability as well as degradation and failure of functional and structural materials. Pre-requisite: CHEM 1410 or equivalent.
MSE 3081Corrosion, Batteries, and Fuel Cells Laboratory (1)
Provides instruction in standard corrosion, battery and fuel cell experimental methods that demonstrate the instrumentation of corrosion, battery and fuel cell testing and some of the ways to evaluate these electrochemical systems. Standard experiments involving cathodic protection, anodic protection, inhibitors, and simple examples of batteries and fuel cells. MSE 3080 may be taken without the lab, but MSE 3081 may not be taken without the lecture.
MSE 3101Materials Science Investigations (3)
The course amplifies topics covered in introductory materials science through laboratory demonstration and experimentation. An understanding of modern instruments and experimental techniques including x-ray diffraction, optical and electron microscopy is gained through lecture and laboratory experience. Experimental determination of the processing, structure, property relationship is emphasized. Laboratory report writing skills are developed. Prerequisite: MSE 2090
MSE 3610Aerospace Materials (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Introduces physical-chemical-microstructural-mechanical property relations for aerospace materials. Metal, polymer, ceramic, and composite material systems are covered. Topics include strength, fracture, corrosion, oxidation/corrosion, materials selection, phase diagrams, kinetics of phase change, and materials processing. Case studies include materials for aero turbine engines and ultralight structures. Prerequisite CHEM 1410 or 1610 or CHEM 1810. Corequisite MAE 2310 or CE 2310.
MSE 3670Materials for Electronic, Magnetic and Optical Applications (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
The course introduces the basics of materials interactions with electric and magnetic fields, including electromagnetic radiation. It describes the classes of materials that exhibit useful electronic, optical, and magnetic properties. Particular attention will be devoted to the intrinsic (structure, chemistry) and extrinsic (processing, microstructure) material features that determine these properties. Prerequisite: PHYS 2415 or equivalent.
MSE 4030X-ray Scattering Techniques in Materials Science (3)
This course will introduce the fund. theories of x-ray-matter interactions, working principles of basic and advanced x-ray techniques, and state-of-the-art instruments and facilities. The goal of the class is to prepare students for independently using those common lab-based x-ray tools, and also equip them with comprehensive knowledge on the specific strength and limitation of other adv. synchrotron-based x-ray techniques. Pre-req: MSE 3101
MSE 4055Nanoscale Science & Technology (3)
Covers the phenomena exhibited by materials below one hundred nanometers and their use in technology. The course will provide students with fundamental principles to analyze nanoscale phenomena, assemble nanostructures characterization. Electrical, mechanical and optical properties and synthesis will be discussed. Current and potential applications will be discussed with consideration of economic and societal aspects. Prerequisite: MSE 3670.
MSE 4200Additive Manufacturing of Metals (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
This course introduces state-of-the-art additive manufacturing techniques for metallic materials, processing considerations, unresolved challenges and future opportunities. The course focuses on the underlying mechanisms such as energy-matter interaction, solidification, melt pool characteristics, defects, as well as the impact on resulting materials properties based on the processing-structure-property relationships. Prerequisite: MSE 3070
Course was offered Fall 2023, Fall 2021, Fall 2020
MSE 4210Materials Processing (3)
This course examines the fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, materials science, and manufacturing which underlie the making, shaping, and fabrication of engineering components from casting and deformation processing (e.g. rolling, extrusion, forging) of metals, to powder processing of metals and ceramics, to polymer injection molding, to thin-film processing and lithography relevant to microelectronic circuit fabrication. Prerequisite: MSE 3070 or Instructor Permission
MSE 4220Polymer Physics (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
This course provides a rigorous understanding of polymers and polymeric materials from molecule to macroscopic viewpoint. Topics covered include single polymers, solutions, melts, gels, and networks. The knowledge obtained is universal to all polymeric systems across various length scales and can be applied to both synthetic and biopolymers. Thus, this course can serve as general guidance for the design and development of soft (bio) materials. Pre-requisite: MSE 3050 or CHE 3316 or MAE 2100 or instructor permission
MSE 4270Introduction to Atomistic Simulations (3)
Introduction to classical atomic-level simulation techniques (molecular dynamics, Metropolis and kinetic Monte Carlo). The basic concepts, capabilities and limitations of the methods are discussed, an overview of the state-of-the-art is provided, and examples of recent success stories are considered. The emphasis is on getting practical experience in designing and performing simulations. Prerequisite: 3rd year standing or instructor permission. Prerequisite: 3rd year standing or instructor permission.
MSE 4320Origins of Mechanical Behavior (3)
Explores the microstructural origins of material deformation and fracture in response to mechanical loading. Deformation and creep are understood based on elasticity theory and dislocation concepts. Fatigue and fracture are understood based on continuum fracture mechanics and microstructural damage mechanisms. Prerequisite: MSE 3060
MSE 4592Special Topics in Materials Science (1 - 3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Advanced undergraduate course on topics not normally covered in other course offerings. The topic usually reflects new developments in the materials science and engineering field. Offerings are based on student and faculty interests.
MSE 4960Special Project in Materials Science and Engineering (1 - 6)
Offered
Fall 2024
A fourth-year project in MSE, under the supervision of a faculty member, is designed to give undergraduate students an application of principles learned in the classroom. The work may be experimental or computational, and the student is expected to become proficient in techniques used to process, characterize, or model materials. The project should make use of design principles in the solution of a problem. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 6010Electronic and Crystal Structure of Materials (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Provides a fundamental understanding of the structure of crystalline and non-crystalline engineering materials from electronic to macroscopic properties. Topics include symmetry and crystallography, the reciprocal lattice and diffraction, quantum physics, bonding and band theory. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 6020Defects and Microstructure in Materials (3)
Basic course designed to provide a foundation for correlating defect structure and microstructure with physical, mechanical and chemical properties of engineering materials. The fundamental properties of point, line and surface defects in ordered media will be formulated. The thermodynamics of point defects in various types of solids will be discussed as well as the geometry and mechanics of crystal dislocations and their role in crystal plasticity elucidated. The essential elements of microstructure will be characterized emphasizing the concepts of phase constitution, microconstituent, polycrystalline aggregate and multiphase materials. The concept of real materials embodying a hierarchy of structures is emphasized. The principles governing the genesis and stability of material structure at various levels will be discussed. Prerequisite: MSE 6010.
MSE 6050Structure and Properties of Materials I (3)
This is the first of a sequence of two basic courses for first-year graduate students or qualified undergraduate students. Topics include atomic bonding, crystal structure, and crystal defects in their relationship to properties and behavior of materials (polymers, metals, and ceramics); phase equilibria and non-equilibrium phase transformation; metastable structures; solidification; and recrystallization. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Course was offered Fall 2016, Fall 2013, Fall 2010, Fall 2009
MSE 6060Structure and Properties of Materials II (3)
This is the second of a two-course sequence for the first-year graduate and qualified undergraduate students. Topics include diffusion in solids; elastic, anelastic, and plastic deformation; and electronic and magnetic properties of materials. Emphasizes the relationships between microscopic mechanisms and macroscopic behavior of materials. Prerequisite: MSE 6050 or instructor permission.
Course was offered Spring 2014, Spring 2011
MSE 6080Chemical and Electrochemical Properties (3)
Introduces the concepts of electrode potential, double layer theory, surface charge, and electrode kinetics. These concepts are applied to subjects that include corrosion and embrittlement, energy conversion, batteries and fuel cells, electro-catalysis, electroanalysis, electrochemical industrial processes, bioelectrochemistry, and water treatment. Prerequisite: Physical chemistry course or instructor permission.
MSE 6120Characterization of Materials (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Provides a fundamental understanding of a broad spectrum of techniques utilized to characterize properties of solids. The methods used to assess properties are described through integration of the basic principles and application. Methods more amenable to analysis of bulk properties are differentiated from those aimed at measurements of local/surface properties. MSE 3670 or equivalent, or a solid state materials/physics course.
MSE 6130Transmission Electron Microscopy (3)
Emphasizes the fundamental principles of transmission electron microscopy and illustrates its capabilities for characterizing the internal structures of materials by diffraction, imaging and spectroscopic techniques; includes weekly laboratory exercises. Prerequisite: MSE 6010 or instructor permission.
MSE 6140Magnetism and Magnetic Materials (3)
Fundamental course on the principles governing the behavior of modern magnetic materials employed in technology from transformer materials to permanent magnets and magnetic recording media including such new areas as nanomagnetism. The approach integrates the basic physics of magnetism with the materials science paradigm of processing-structure-properties-performance. The subject matter is developed at a level to enable students to understand magnetism and magnetic materials at the forefront of the field and to readily read the current research and technological literature. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Course was offered Fall 2019, Fall 2014, Fall 2012, Fall 2010
MSE 6160Scanning Electron Microscopy and Related Techniques (3)
Covers the physical principles of scanning electron microscopy and electron probe microanalysis. Laboratory demonstrations and experiments cover the operation of the SEM and EPMA. Applications of secondary and backscattered electron imaging, energy dispersive x-ray microanalysis, wave- analysis are applied to materials characterization. Laboratory experiments may include either materials science or biological applications, depending on the interests of the student. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 6167Electrical, Magnetic and Optical Properties of Materials (3)
Explore the fundamental physical laws governing electrons in solids, and show how that knowledge can be applied to understanding electronic, optical and magnetic properties. Students will gain an understanding of how these properties vary between different types of materials, and thus why specific materials are optimal for important technological applications. Cross-listed as ECE 6167. Prerequisite: Some background in solid state materials and elementary quantum principles.
MSE 6230Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria of Materials (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
Emphasizes the understanding of thermal properties such as heat capacity, thermal expansion, and transitions in terms of the entropy and the other thermodynamic functions. Develops the relationships of the Gibbs and Helmholtz functions to equilibrium systems, reactions, and phase diagrams. Atomistic and statistical mechanical interpretations of crystalline and non-crystalline solids are linked to the general thermodynamical laws by the partition function. Nonequilibrium and irreversible processes in solids are discussed. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 6240Kinetics of Transport and Transformations in Materials (3)
An introduction to basic kinetic processes in materials and develops basic mathematical skills necessary for materials research. Students learn to formulate the partial differential equations and boundary conditions used to describe basic materials phenomena in the solid state including mass and heat diffusion in single- and two-phase systems, the motion of planar phase boundaries, and interfacial reactions. Students develop analytical and numerical techniques for solving these equations and apply them to understanding microstructural evolution. Prerequisite: MSE 6230.
MSE 6270Introduction to Atomistic Simulations (3)
Introduction to several classical atomic-level simulation techniques (molecular dynamics, Metropolis and kinetic Monte Carlo). The basic concepts, capabilities and limitations of the methods are discussed, an overview of the current state-of-the-art is provided, and examples of recent success stories are considered. The emphasis of the course is on getting practical experience in designing and performing computer simulations.
MSE 6310Nanomaterials (3)
Introduces relevant concepts governing the synthesis, science, and engineering of nanomaterials. Course modules cover the fundamental scientific principles controlling assembly of nanostructured materials; the types of nanomaterials that are extant; synthesis, measurement and computational tools; new properties at the nanoscale, and existing and emerging applications of nanomaterials.
Course was offered Fall 2014, Fall 2012
MSE 6320Deformation and Fracture of Structural Materials (3)
Deformation and fracture are considered through integration of materials science microstructure and solid mechanics principles over a range of length scales, emphasizing the mechanical behavior of metallic-structural alloys and electronic materials. Metal deformation is understood based on elasticity theory and dislocation concepts. Fracture is understood based on continuum fracture mechanics and microstructural damage mechanisms. Additional topics include fatigue, elevated temperature behavior, material embrittlement, time-dependency, experimental design, damage-tolerant life prognosis, small-volume behavior, and material property modeling. Prerequisite: MSE 4320, or BS in MSE, or MSE 6050, or permission of instructor for graduate students outside of MSE.
MSE 6340Physical Metallurgy of Transition-Element Alloys (3)
Reinforces fundamental concepts, introduces advance topics, and develops literacy in the major alloy systems. Emphasizes microstructural evolution by composition and thermomechanical process control. Topics include phase diagrams, transformation kinetics, martensitic transformation, precipitation, diffusion, recrystallization, and solidification. Considers both experimental and model-simulation approaches. Prerequisite: MSE 6060 or instructor permission.
Course was offered Fall 2013, Fall 2010
MSE 6350Physical Metallurgy of Light Alloys (3)
Develops the student's literacy in aluminum and titanium alloys used in the aerospace and automotive industries. Considers performance criteria and property requirements from design perspectives. Emphasizes processing-microstructure development, and structure-property relationships. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Course was offered Fall 2020, Spring 2018
MSE 6555Special Topics in Distance Learning (3)
Special Topics in Distance Learning
MSE 6592Topics in Material Science (3)
Offered
Fall 2024
A study of special subjects related to developments in materials science under the direction of members of the staff. Offered as required under the guidance of a faculty member.
MSE 6640Thin Film Growth (3)
Students are exposed to materials issues concerning the relevant growth models, techniques, and characterization of thin films pertaining to metals, oxides, and semiconductor materials. Growth techniques including sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, thermal evaporation, pulsed laser deposition, and molecular beam epitaxy will be discussed in detail.
Course was offered Fall 2009
MSE 6993Independent Study (1 - 12)
Detailed study of graduate course material on an independent basis under the guidance of a faculty member.
Course was offered Fall 2022
MSE 6995Supervised Project Research (1 - 12)
Formal record of student commitment to project research for Master of Science or Master of Materials Science degree under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.
MSE 7020Crystal Defect Theory (3)
Studies the nature and major effects of crystal defects on the properties of materials, emphasizing metals. The elasticity theory of dislocations is treated in depth. Prerequisite: MSE 6010 and 6020 or instructor permission.
MSE 7080Advanced Electrochemistry (3)
A highly-specialized course detailing specific subject matter in the areas of corrosion of stainless steel, cyclic voltammetry, and the adsorption of hydrogen on and diffusion of hydrogen through Palladium. Associated experimental methods are discussed. Prerequisite: MSE 6080
MSE 7130Advanced Electron Microscopy (3)
Emphasis placed on the applications of advanced techniques of transmission and scanning electron microscopy to modern research problems in materials science and engineering. Microdiffraction and microanalysis, lattice imaging, and convergent beam diffraction in TEM and STEM are treated. In SEM, quantitative probe analysis techniques and back scattered electron imaging and channeling are covered. Prerequisite: MSE 6130 or instructor permission.
MSE 7140Physics of Materials (3)
This course covers the physical principles governing the elastic, thermal, electronic, and optical properties of materials via a fundamental approach integrating materials science with concepts in solid state physics. Special attention is given to the nature of the crystalline state and wave-particle diffraction with a strong emphasis on the reciprocal lattice, tensor, and Brillouin Zone concepts.
MSE 7220Surface Science (3)
Analyzes the structure and thermodynamics of surfaces, with particular emphasis on the factors controlling chemical reactivity of surfaces; adsorption, catalysis, oxidation, and corrosion are considered from both theoretical and experimental viewpoints. Modern surface analytical techniques, such as Auger, ESCA, and SIMS are considered. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 7240Diffusional Processes in Materials (3)
An introduction to elasticity theory, the thermodynamics of stressed crystals, and diffuse interface theory with application to understanding microstructural evolution in bulk materials and thin films. Prerequisite: MSE 6230, 6240.
MSE 7320Deformation and Fracture of Materials (3)
Emphasizes the roles of defects, state of stress, temperature, strain rate, and environment on macroscopic mechanical behavior of materials, as well as nano-to-micro scale modeling of such responses. The first half of the course considers dislocation theory with application to understanding materials plasticity, strengthening mechanisms and creep. The second half develops tools necessary for advanced fatigue and fracture control in structural materials. Linear and nonlinear continuum fracture mechanics principles are developed and integrated with microscopic plastic deformation and fracture mechanisms. Topics include cleavage, ductile fracture, fatigue, environmental cracking and micromechanical modeling of governing properties. Prerequisite: MSE 6320 or AM/MAE/APMA 6020 or CE 6720 or instructor permission.
Course was offered Fall 2023, Fall 2014, Spring 2011
MSE 7340Phase Transformations (3)
Includes the fundamental theory of diffusional phase transformations in solid metals and alloys; applications of thermodynamics to calculation of phase boundaries and driving forces for transformations; theory of solid-solid nucleation, theory of diffusional growth, comparison of both theories with experiment; applications of thermodynamics and of nucleation and growth theory to the principal experimental systematics of precipitation from solid solution, the massive transformations, the cellular and the pearlite reactions, martensitic transformations, and the questions of the role of shear in diffusional phase transformations. Prerequisite: MSE 6230 or comparable thermodynamics.
MSE 7555Advanced Topics in Distance Learning (3)
Advanced Topics in Distance Learning
MSE 7570Materials Processing (3)
Discusses scientific and technological bases of material processing. Examines solidification, deformation, particulate and thermomechanical processing from a fundamental point of view and discusses their current technological applications. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 7592Advanced Topics in Materials Science (1 - 3)
An advanced level study of special topics related to developments in materials science. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
MSE 7820Materials Science Seminar (1)
Offered
Fall 2024
Broad topics and in-depth subject treatments are presented. The course is related to research areas in materials science and involves active student participation.
MSE 7993Independent Study (1 - 12)
Offered
Fall 2024
Detailed study of graduate course material on an independent basis under the guidance of a faculty member.
MSE 7995Supervised Project Research (1 - 12)
Formal record of student commitment to project research for Doctor of Philosophy degree under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.
Course was offered Fall 2011
MSE 8000TNon-UVa Transfer/Test Credit Approved (1 - 48)
Non-UVa Transfer/Test Credit Approved
MSE 8970Graduate Teaching Instruction-M.S. (1 - 6)
Offered
Fall 2024
For master's students.
MSE 8999Masters Degree Research (1 - 12)
Offered
Fall 2024
Formal record of student commitment to master's thesis research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.
MSE 9970Graduate Teaching Instruction-Ph.D. (1 - 6)
Offered
Fall 2024
For doctoral students.
MSE 9999PHD Dissertation Research (1 - 12)
Offered
Fall 2024
Formal record of student commitment to doctoral research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.