Earn Your Cornell Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering In Just One Year

The one-year, non-thesis Master of Engineering degree designed for STEM graduates who want advanced technical depth, industry-ready experience, and a competitive edge. Choose from our flexible course options, including the high-impact Semiconductor and Quantum Materials Pathway, and graduate ready to lead in advanced manufacturing, microelectronics, energy, and beyond.
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Everything Is Made of Something. Be the Expert Behind It.

From semiconductors and microelectronics to aerospace alloys and biomaterials, materials scientists shape the technologies that power modern life. Cornell’s Master of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering prepares you to step directly into industry with advanced skills and real-world project experience without committing to a multi-year research program.

  • 30 Credits

    completed in just two semesters

  • Capstone Project

    instead of a research thesis

  • Fall or Spring Start

    for added flexibility

  • No GRE Required

Female student smiling with lab equipment

  • Ivy League Excellence

    Join an intentionally small cohort, access cutting-edge labs and facilities, and start building strategic relationships with employers, faculty, and 68,000+ Duffield Engineering alumni across the globe.

The Cornell Master of Engineering Experience

  • Hands-On Project

    Rather than completing a research thesis, you’ll work on a real-world project sponsored by faculty, industry partners, or entrepreneurship initiatives.
    You will solve meaningful technical challenges, build portfolio-ready results and graduate with applied experience.

  • Professional & Leadership Development

    We understand that technical expertise alone isn’t enough for a competitive edge in today’s world. Through two semesters of our Professional Development Seminar you’ll strengthen technical communication, negotiation & leadership skills, and team effectiveness.

  • Flexible Graduate-Level Coursework

    Customize your curriculum with 6–8 graduate courses in materials science and electives across Duffield Engineering. Work closely with a faculty advisor to build a targeted skillset aligned with your unique career goals.

Semiconductor & Quantum Materials Pathway: Your Fast Track to Industry Leadership

Semiconductor manufacturing drives innovation, economic growth, and national security. Our new Semiconductor and Quantum Materials pathway equips you with specialized training and industry-aligned expertise to launch your career in this critical field.

  • Gain Industry-Relevant Skills

    Hands-on experience in cleanroom facilities
    Process optimization and yield improvement
    Failure analysis and quality control
    Supply chain and manufacturing considerations

  • Develop Strategic Career Positioning

    Specialized expertise employers desperately need
    Project experience that demonstrates real-world capability
    Network connections in semiconductor industry
    Understanding of the full semiconductor ecosystem