Introduction
Materials science addresses the challenges of creating and using new materials for the 21st century. Advanced materials play a critical role in the modern economy where they are used in a wide range of applications, from high technology to everyday products. They include metals, alloys, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers and composites. Materials science is the study of these materials, their properties and uses.
Why Consider a Materials Science Minor?
Professionals trained in materials science are sought after by state, regional and national companies working in areas such as aerospace, biotechnology, microelectronics, nanotechnology, clean energy, defense, and transportation. The materials science minor complements major degree programs at WWU such as chemistry, engineering, physics, geology, energy science, and biology by providing an interdisciplinary perspective preparing graduates to work at the boundaries between disciplines. The program aims to provide students with an understanding of fundamental concepts and principles balanced with practical applications and useful skills.
Student Resources
Department website: Materials Science
Contact information: Polymer Materials Engineering Program Director, John Misasi, Engineering Technology 115, 360-650-4254, misasij@wwu.edu
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers: Materials Scientist, Materials Engineer, Materials Chemist
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Program Admissions
Contact the Program Director listed above for an advising appointment. If you meet the prerequisites, you will be admitted on a space-available basis. Applications are accepted anytime. Courses are spread over two academic years, so students should declare no later than fall of their junior year.
Prerequisite Courses
Please check course descriptions to determine the sequence in which you should fulfill the prerequisite courses. MATH 125 Calculus and Analytical Geometry (5) or MATH 135 Honors Calculus II (5); PHYS 161 Physics with Calculus I with Lab (5) or PHYS 114 (5); PHYS 162 Physics with Calculus II with Lab (5) or PHYS 115 with lab (5); PHYS 163 Physics with Calculus III with Lab (5) or PHYS 116 with lab (5); CHEM 161 or 175 General Chemistry I (5); CHEM 162 or 176 General Chemistry II (5); CHEM 163 (4) or CHEM 225 (5) General Chemistry III
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
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