Whether you’re interested in research, preparing for industry, leadership or developing specialized expertise in semiconductor technologies, our master’s degrees provide flexible pathways to meet your academic and professional goals.

Admission requirements and application deadlines vary by program. Visit each program page for complete details and application instructions.

Master of Materials Science and Engineering (MMSE)

The Master of Materials Science and Engineering (MMSE) is a non-thesis, coursework-only master’s degree offered on campus and online through Engineering Online (EOL). The curriculum is identical in both formats, allowing students to complete the same degree requirements while providing flexibility for working professionals.

Program highlights

• Format: On campus or 100% online through Engineering Online
• Degree type: Non-thesis
• Credit requirement: 30 graduate credit hours
• At least 18 credit hours must be MSE graduate courses
• Remaining coursework may be completed in approved technical disciplines
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required for graduation
• Plan of Work submitted after completing 15 credit hours

Admissions

• Bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering, another engineering discipline, or a related technical field
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (overall or last 60 credit hours)
• GRE not required
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Statement of purpose
• International applicants must meet Graduate School English proficiency requirements

Applicants without an MSE background may be encouraged to begin as a Non-Degree Studies (NDS) student before applying to the degree program.

Application deadlines

• Summer/Fall: March 1
• Spring: October 1

Master of Science (MS)

The Master of Science (MS) is a research-focused thesis degree designed for students preparing for doctoral study, research careers, or advanced technical positions in industry. Students work closely with a faculty advisor while completing graduate coursework and conducting original research.

Program highlights

• Degree type: Thesis
• Credit requirement: 30 graduate credit hours
• Includes 6 credit hours of thesis research (MSE 695)
• At least 15 credit hours of MSE graduate coursework
• At least 9 credit hours in approved graduate technical electives
• Summer research (MSE 696) does not count toward degree requirements

Degree requirements

• Complete an original research project
• Successfully defend the thesis in a final oral examination
• Submit an approved master’s thesis
• One-year residency requirement

Admissions

Students apply through the NC State Graduate School and are encouraged to identify a faculty research advisor before applying.

Master of Wide Bandgap Semiconductors (WBGS)

The Master of Science in Wide Bandgap Semiconductors is a professional, non-thesis master’s degree focused on semiconductor materials, devices, manufacturing and power electronics. The hybrid program combines online coursework with immersive on-campus practicum experiences to prepare graduates for careers in one of the nation’s fastest-growing technology sectors.

Program highlights

• Format: Hybrid with online coursework and on-campus practicum sessions
• Degree type: Non-thesis professional master’s
• Credit requirement: 30 graduate credit hours
• Applied curriculum spanning semiconductor materials, fabrication, characterization and power electronics
• Hands-on practicum experiences in semiconductor manufacturing and applications engineering
• Designed for both recent graduates and working professionals

Admissions

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, materials science, physics or a related discipline
• Statement of purpose
• Official transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• International applicants must meet Graduate School English proficiency requirements

Semiconductor experience is not required, although applicants should have strong preparation in engineering, materials science, or the physical sciences.

Program begins

• Fall 2026

Master of Nanoengineering (MNAE)

The interdisciplinary Master of Nanoengineering (MNAE) is a non-thesis professional master’s degree available on campus or through distance education. Students customize the curriculum through concentration areas while gaining advanced knowledge in nanomaterials, devices and manufacturing.

Program highlights

• Format: On campus or online
• Degree type: Non-thesis
• Credit requirement: 30 graduate credit hours
• 12 credit hours of core courses
• At least 12 credit hours in a specialization
• 6 credit hours of technical electives
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required for graduation

Admissions

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• GRE optional
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Statement of purpose

Students may begin coursework through Non-Degree Studies before formal admission. The degree can be completed entirely online, and distance students follow the same curriculum and academic standards as on-campus students.

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