Modern industry is in great need of professionals in materials science, ready to develop new materials and devices for application in renewable energy, consumer electronics, healthcare, and other areas. Our practical approach gives our graduates the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills for success in electronics, energy, chemicals, the automotive industry, and other sectors.
The core aspects of the Materials Science program are:
Cutting edge research in Materials Science
Covers the lack of modern materials science educational programs in Russia
An interdisciplinary mix of engineering and natural sciences that is unique among universities in Russia and beyond
Industrial immersion
Entrepreneurship and innovation component
Renowned faculty with international experience and collaborations
The MSc program is 2 years long: the first year is to strengthen your theoretical background, and the second year is to focus on research. Students have the freedom to choose courses and extracurricular activities to shape their individual trajectory, acquire soft skills, and gain entrepreneurial skills to prepare for job placement.
Lectures and practical classes conducted by world-renowned professors and experts.
Students' individual research projects carried out at Skoltech laboratories.
An 8-week summer industry immersion program at leading companies turning knowledge and skills into action.
Courses on entrepreneurship and innovation that provide skills, as well as knowledge, to commercialize ideas and research findings.
Our program provides broad and integrated overview of materials science and in-depth study of particular problems of the industry. Our graduates will get all the necessary knowledge and skills to:
acquire hands-on experience in materials design and device prototyping and use it in their future career
apply knowledge of fundamental science and engineering to identify, formulate and solve complex materials and devices problems
design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze and interpret data
communicate and function effectively within any research and industry multidisciplinary teams
use the techniques and modern technological tools necessary for engineering practice
Content
The curriculum of the program provides both a broad and integrated overview of materials science and the opportunity for in-depth study of a particular problem emphasizing either theory or experimentation under the guidance of a research supervisor.
Program structure
The 2-year program comprises compulsory and recommended elective courses on the most important topics, a wide set of elective courses (depending on the research and professional needs of the student), components of entrepreneurship and innovation, research activity, and 8 weeks of industry immersion.
36 credits
compulsory and recommended elective courses
36 credits
Research and MSc thesis project
24 credits
Elective courses and projects
12 credits
Entrepreneurship and innovation
12 credits
Industrial immersion
Research
Main research areas:
Materials and devices for energy conversion and storage
Materials and devices for optoelectronics
Nanomaterials
Materials synthesis and characterization
Materials modeling
Career opportunities and paths
Students graduating with a Master of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering are in great demand throughout the national and international high-tech market.
Paths:
Ph.D. positions in academic & research institutions;
Specialist positions in the directions of engineering, manufacturing, and support in various fields (batteries, solar cells, etc.) as well as Skolkovo resident companies and startups.
Entry requirements
A Bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent in physics, chemistry, and materials science.
English language requirements:
If your education was not conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.
Application requirements
The online application​ makes the process easier for potential students. We advise you carefully read the application instructions, requirements, and deadlines for the chosen academic program.
The application includes the following documents: a CV, two letters of recommendation, a TOEFL/IELTS score report, and a motivation letter. Applicants who do not have proof of English proficiency may take the TOEFL ITP during a Selection Weekend at Skoltech.
Selection process
Prepare your portfolioPrepare your competitive selection application materials.
Submit your applicationUpload your materials into the application system and submit your application.
Online testingEvery candidate must take an online profile test. You will be notified by email about the specific date and time of your test.
In-person interviews (online)The final selection stage takes place in Moscow. You have to pass the TOEFL ITP exam on-site, or present a valid TOEFL certificate and pass an in-person interview. Extra written examinations may be required for certain programs during this time (you will be notified in advance).
What our students say
Victoria BaibakovaBSc, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology → MSc, Skoltech → Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
"Here at Skoltech, each course makes me progress significantly in short time periods. On my track, during the first year, we have practice in laboratory, coding, analytical math, and computer modeling! And there are so many smart people around from all over the world! I enjoy the process of figuring out in new science fields with my groupmates."
Oyedamola AsiyanbolaBSc, Obafemi Awolowo University → MSc, Skoltech → Ph.D., Cambridge University
"While at Skoltech, students had some freedom to curate their course uptake as it may align with research interests and career goals. I was open to opportunities to discuss and interact with like minds in and outside academia during my Master's program in Materials Science. For me, the Skoltech learning experience was an embodiment of clear experiential improvements on all frontiers of academic and research excellence."
Charles BelinaBSc, New York University → MSc, Skoltech → Consulting
"I chose to study at Skoltech because it allowed me to receive a world-class education, while also experiencing life in a foreign country. Nowhere else could I live out my dream of living abroad in a cosmopolitan city like Moscow while studying at a top university. Skoltech encourages collaboration and team projects, teaches its students to make an impact, and this means that you learn how to create something that people can use."
