At Georgia Southern University, we believe in unlocking new possibilities and launching innovation forward. Our Ph.D. in Materials Science will give you valuable expertise in metals, composites, biomaterials and polymers while you collaborate across engineering, physics, chemistry and advanced manufacturing.
Guided by industry-leading faculty, you’ll undertake cutting-edge research, publish alongside experts and prepare to address the world’s most pressing challenges in sustainability, medicine and beyond.
Locations
- Statesboro Campus (In Person)
- Armstrong Campus (In Person)
Why get a PhD in Materials Science?
- Develop the Materials of Tomorrow — Dive into advanced study of metals, composites, biomaterials and polymers, all within an innovative, interdisciplinary framework spanning engineering, physics, chemistry and advanced manufacturing.
- Collaborate for Impact — Work closely with renowned faculty mentors in state-of-the-art labs at a Carnegie R2 high research institution, and forge connections with industry partners that help you push the limits of your research.
- Lead Breakthroughs — Gain the expertise, creativity and hands-on experience to shape the future of technology, healthcare, sustainability and beyond.
- Elevate Your Career — Prepare for high-impact roles in R&D, academia, consulting and more, by mastering the critical thinking and specialized skills that employers value most in the rapidly evolving materials science field
Ready to Apply?
What Can You Do with a PhD in Materials Science?
Materials scientists are at the forefront of transforming ideas into real-world solutions. From creating sustainable materials that reduce environmental impact to engineering biomaterials for healthcare, you’ll have the skills to innovate in diverse fields like aerospace, automotive, defense, electronics and beyond.
Pursue an Exciting Career
- Research Scientist – R&D in cutting-edge materials technology
- Materials Engineer – Innovating new products and systems
- Academic Professor/Researcher – Leading breakthroughs in universities and labs
- Consultant – Advising industries on materials solutions
Explore Innovative Studies
- Advanced Polymers & Composites
- Nanotechnology & Thin Films
- Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering
- Sustainable Materials & Circular Economy
- And more!
Build Your Experience
Expand Your Creativity and Portfolio
Collaborate with industry-leading faculty, leverage state-of-the-art equipment and publish meaningful research. Present at national and international conferences, and tackle real-world challenges that showcase your evolving expertise.
Partner with Leading Companies
Through our partnerships with Gulfstream, Hyundai, Georgia Ports Authority and others, you’ll gain hands-on experience in internships, co-ops and research projects — preparing you to make an immediate impact in the field.
Invest in Innovation, Not Debt
Georgia Southern is nationally recognized for affordability. You’ll earn a respected doctoral degree at a fraction of the cost of other research universities, ensuring you’re free to focus on advancing your career.
Take Action
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in a related field
- GRE Scores (optional/required based on the program’s latest guidelines).
- Letters of Recommendation highlighting research aptitude and academic potential.
- Personal Statement outlining research interests and career goals.
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions.
Follow these steps to complete the Georgia Southern application:
- Create an application account.
- Complete our online application using the PIN you received after creating your application account.
- Once complete, pay the $50 application fee or upload a valid fee waiver. Previous Georgia Southern applicants and dual-enrollment students do not need to pay the fee.
You can check your application status at My.GeorgiaSouthern.edu/admissions three days after completing your application. This page contains live information about your admission status, including a checklist of missing documents we need to make a decision.
Apply as a First-Year Student Transfer to Georgia SouthernGeorgia Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associates, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialists and doctorate degrees.
Take the Next Step
Contact Us
Graduate Program Director
Christine Hladik, PhD
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA 30460-8149
Phone: 912-478-5361
chladik@georgiasouthern.edu