Emphasizes the understanding of thermal properties such as heat capacity, thermal expansion, and transitions in terms of the entropy and the other thermodynamic functions. Develops the relationships of the Gibbs and Helmholtz functions to equilibrium systems, reactions, and phase diagrams. Atomistic and statistical mechanical interpretations of crystalline and non-crystalline solids are linked to the general thermodynamical laws by the partition function. Nonequilibrium and irreversible processes in solids are discussed. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

Develops the student's literacy in aluminum and titanium alloys used in the aerospace and automotive industries. Considers performance criteria and property requirements from design perspectives. Emphasizes processing-microstructure development, and structure-property relationships. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

A study of special subjects related to developments in materials science under the direction of members of the staff. Offered as required under the guidance of a faculty member.

This course covers the physical principles governing the elastic, thermal, electronic, and optical properties of materials via a fundamental approach integrating materials science with concepts in solid state physics. Special attention is given to the nature of the crystalline state and wave-particle diffraction with a strong emphasis on the reciprocal lattice, tensor, and Brillouin Zone concepts.

Broad topics and in-depth subject treatments are presented. The course is related to research areas in materials science and involves active student participation.

Detailed study of graduate course material on an independent basis under the guidance of a faculty member.

For master's students.

Formal record of student commitment to master's thesis research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.

For doctoral students.

Formal record of student commitment to doctoral research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. May be repeated as necessary.