Certificate of Professional Achievement in Materials Science
Materials Science Engineering is a rapidly growing, multidisciplinary activity that has emerged as
a recognizable field in recent decades. Scientists and engineers in this field lay the basis for
understanding, developing, testing, and applying materials that form the foundation for present and
future technologies (for example, ceramic engines for the automotive industry, semiconductor devices
for the microelectronic industry, and polymers and composite materials for various industries
including sports and automotive industries). More significantly, the choice and power of future human
endeavors will depend critically on the development of improved and environmentally-sound materials,
whether as inexpensive and highly efficient solar cells for clean power generation or as radiation-resistant
alloys for fusion reactor walls.
Required Courses
Choose 4 classes from the following list.
MSAE E4132: Fundamentals of Polymers and Ceramics
MSAE E4202 Thermodynamics and Reactions in Solids
MSAE E4206 Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Solids
MSAE E4215 Mechanical Behavior of Structural Materials
MSAE E4250 Ceramics and Composites
APPH E4090 Nanotechnology
CHEE E4050 Principles of Industrial Electrochemistry
CHEE E4530 Corrosion of Metals
CHEN E4620 Introduction to Polymers and Soft Materials
Certificate Program Requirements
· 4 Graduate-level classes all earned through CVN, as a non-degree student. Students
currently in any degree program at Columbia University are not eligible for the Certificate Program through CVN.
· Minimum of 12 credit points
· Minimum GPA of 3.0
· Completion of program within two (2) calendar years.
Credits earned to fulfill the requirements of a Certificate Program may be applied toward an MS or PD degree,
subject to the approval of an Academic Advisor. However, students must apply for admission to the University
and meet all admissions requirements. Entry into, and completion of a Certificate Program does not ensure
acceptance into an MS or PD program.
In order to apply for acceptance into the Certificate Programs, please visit the link below:
Certificate Application and Instructions Page