Glass Science MS

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Overview

Glass Science (GS) involves the study of non-crystalline materials, which may be inorganic, organic, or metallic in nature. Glass scientists and engineers at the M.S. degree level are employed in positions ranging from research to development to plant operations. Many M.S. degree recipients quickly enter into management positions.

Glass science can be divided into the fields of consumer products, which includes flat and container glass, fiberglass, specialty glasses, which include display glasses, optical fibers, photonic materials, glasses for electronic applications, biological applications of glasses, glasses for the isolation of radioactive waste materials, space technology, homeland security, and a host of other, continually evolving applications in the areas of advanced technology.

The Master of Science in Glass Science at Alfred University seeks to produce graduates who can immediately enter positions throughout industry and government laboratories or continue to a Ph.D. in glass, materials science, or biomaterials. Students seeking a terminal M.S. degree should have a strong interest in the application of science to solving problems.

This program emphasizes “hands-on” studies with a research experience through the thesis project. This approach provides a level of confidence in our graduates which is reflected in their ability to move into industrial positions with minimal adjustment time.

A terminal M.S. degree is particularly suited for those who desire an industrial position, with rapid advancement into managerial ranks, or for those with the desire to work in development facilities. Our graduates are also well prepared to continue to a Ph.D. in glass, materials science, or biomaterials. Graduates of the program are well prepared for careers ranging from research and development to general plant operations.

Our graduates are employed at Corning, Inc., Owens-Corning, IBM, Naval Research Laboratory, the U.S. Patent Office, and a wide range of other facilities ranging from major corporations to national laboratories to small high technology companies at the cutting edge of materials technology. A significant number of our graduates continue their education by pursuing doctoral degrees in Glass and related fields, with many recent Ph.D. students particularly interested in optical and biological applications of glass.

Prerequisites and Undergraduate Preparation

The program is open to qualified students holding B.S. degrees in chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering programs in materials, ceramics, glass, polymers, or biomaterials. It is also possible for graduates in other engineering programs, e.g. EE, to qualify for admission. Ideally, applicants should present evidence of undergraduate- level competence in chemistry, physics, and math through differential equations, with some experience with materials science, including the mechanical, thermal, and electrical behavior of solids. Some knowledge of the structure of solids is also desirable. Applicants without the required background will also be considered for admission, but may have to take prerequisite courses before enrolling in specific graduate classes.

Acceptance is based on the candidate’s prior academic record, work experience, potential for growth, and the availability of space in the program.

Curriculum

The Master of Science in Glass Science requires a minimum of thirty semester-hours of graduate credit of which at least fifteen must be in advanced coursework. The degree also requires a minimum of fourteen hours of thesis credit and a one-credit research seminar, which is taken during the first semester of graduate enrollment.

Candidates for the degree are required (1) to present and defend a written thesis of their research and (2) to submit a manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal. The curriculum is designed to be completed in three semesters of full-time study.