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Department of Materials Science and Engineering


Discovering Materials Science

Who majors in MS&E at Cornell, and where do they go after graduating?

Since every technology depends on materials, Materials Science and engineering graduates are in demand in every sector and industry.  The broad, interdisciplinary approach of MS&E is also ideal preparation for technology-oriented careers in business, law, or medicine.

Click here to read what recent graduates have to say about MS&E.

Cornell MS&E students with BS, Masters and Doctoral degrees have pursued a wide range of career paths.  These are just a few examples of their accomplishments:

  • Opthamologist/surgeon
  • Faculty member (including MIT, RPI and UPenn)
  • Founder of high-tech start-ups (e.g., Protonex, which produces advanced fuel cell power sources, and A123 Systems, which is the leader in high-power lithium ion batteries)
  • Corporate Vice President (Xerox)
  • Astronaut (NASA)
The Cornell University College of Engineering tabulates the salaries and destinations of recent degree recipients, including MS&E.

Cornell MS&E graduates receive competitive, first-year engineering salaries and attend highly ranked graduate schools.  Could that be why the MS&E class of 2008 is so happy?
Commencement 2008