Materials Science Syllabus & Subjects 2023: Semester-wise List, Top Colleges Syllabus PDF

Updated on Dec 19, 2024 04:03 IST
Pragati Singh

Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content

Materials Science courses primarily focus on the properties of solid substances and explain how these properties affect their structure or composition. Though basically an engineering discipline, students can also opt for MSc or BSc courses in Materials Science. It is an interdisciplinary field and opens the realms of several sectors like Automobile, Ceramics, Pharmaceuticals, and Defence. Students completing this course will get opportunities to become Material Engineers, material technicians, product testers, or metallurgists in various industries.

Materials Science Syllabus - Important Facts

Take a look at the types of Materials Science courses offered and a brief about the syllabus.

  • BE & BSc in Materials Science are four-year courses: The syllabuses of BE and BSc in Materials Science are divided into eight semesters and focus on subjects like nanomaterials, kinetics of materials, and thermodynamics.

  • ME & MSc in Materials Science are two-year courses: The syllabuses of ME & MSc in Materials Science are divided into four semesters and focus on advanced concepts like Nanotechnology, Physical Metallurgy, and advanced characterisation methods.

  • Scope in India: As manufacturing, pharmaceutical, automobile, and several other industries are growing in India at a tremendous pace, the students who hold degrees in Materials Science will not face any shortage of lucrative job opportunities.

  • Difference in the syllabus of IITs and NITs: IITs are considered to be the best place for pursuing MTech and BTech degree courses in Materials Science. It is because of their extensive syllabus and focus on industrial requirements and applications. NITs also offer competitive courses in Materials Science but their focus is mainly on theoretical subjects.

  • GATE syllabus for Materials Science: Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), is one of the most popular entrance exams that students give for admission to Materials Science courses. The GATE syllabus for Materials Science includes subjects like atomic structure and bonding, Diffusion, metal and alloys, ceramics, polymers, composites, optical, mechanical, thermal, and electronic properties.

  • Exam pattern for Materials Science courses: Materials Science exam mainly consists of theoretical and practical papers. The theory exams are 100 marks each, of which 25 marks are allotted for internal assessment. The practical exams are 100 marks each as well.

List of Subjects in Materials Science Syllabus

The Materials Science syllabus can be divided into core subjects and elective subjects. The core subjects are taught in the first few years and the elective subjects can be opted for in the final years.

Typical Core Subjects for Materials Science

Subject Title

Subject Details

Introduction to Materials Science

The introduction to Materials Science and how it has evolved over the years is explained in this subject.

Some key parts of the syllabus include:

  • Properties of atoms

  • Structure of atoms

  • Quantum states

  • Imperfection in solids

  • Geometry of dislocation

  • Surface imperfection

Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology

It includes an introduction to nanotechnology and nanomaterials and their various applications in the field of engineering.

Some key parts of the syllabus include:

  • One, two, and three-dimensional structures

  • Advantages of nano electrical and electronic devices

  • Drug deliveries

  • Drug delivery systems

Synthesis and Characterisation of Nanomaterials

It covers bottom-up and top-down techniques of synthesis and includes information on related topics as well.

Some of the essential concepts covered in it are:

  • Preparation of nanomaterials such as silver and gold

  • Vapour deposition

  • Magnetron sputtering

  • Micromachining

  • Colloids

Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Materials

The basic introduction to kinetics of different types of materials and thermodynamics along with thermodynamic laws are featured in this subject.

The key topics include:

  • Entropy and free energy

  • Thermodynamic aspects of phase diagrams

  • Principles of metallurgical kinetics

Quantum Mechanics and Electromagnetic Theory

The basics of quantum mechanics are covered in this subject, and the meaning of electromagnetic theory and its applications are given.

The key concepts include:

  • Wave function explaining a single particle’s dynamic state

  • Particle’s classic velocity

  • Displacement current

  • Wave equation

Computational Materials Science

Computational Materials Science refers to the study of theory, models, and simulation required to grasp the insights of materials and their properties.

The key concepts include:

  • Basic equations for nuclei and electrons

  • Coulomb interaction

  • Time-reversal and inversion symmetries

  • Functionals for exchange and correlation

  • Determination of electronic structure

Metals, Ceramics, and Composite Materials

Different types of materials like ceramics, composites, semiconductors, and metals are explained along with their physical, chemical, and electronic properties.

The key concepts include:

  • Atomic bonding and structure

  • Ceramic crystal structures

  • Dielectrics

  • Magnetic ceramics

  • Ferroelectrics

  • Solid-state sintering

  • Composite interfaces

Polymer and Biomaterials

An introduction to polymers and biomaterials and their industrial applications are discussed in it.

It covers topics such as:

  • Historical developments in polymeric materials,

  • Natural polymers

  • Raw material for synthetic polymers

  • Biomaterials and biomedical applications

Physical Metallurgy

The art of manufacturing products from different materials is explained in this subject.

It covers topics such as:

  • Types of stress and strain

  • Shear stress and thermal stress

  • Compound stress

  • Short and long columns

  • Bending of beams

Advanced Characterisation Techniques

Advanced characterisation techniques are discussed in this subject with their meaning and uses.

Some of the key topics include:

  • X-ray diffraction

  • Study of the morphology

  • Atomic force microscope

  • Optical microscope

  • Atomic scattering and geometrical structure factors

  • Fluorescence and phosphorescence spectroscopy

Materials for Energy Applications

The materials used in energy creation, supply, and related applications are explained with examples in this subject.

The main topics covered in this subject are:

  • Materials utilised for generating hydropower

  • Materials required for generating thermal power

  • Batteries and supercapacitors used for storage of electrochemical energy

Typical Elective Subjects for Materials Science

Subject Title

Subject Details

Applied Materials Science

It covers concepts related to polymers, dielectrics, ceramics, magnetism, superconductivity, optical fibres, and new engineering materials.

Science and Technology of Materials

It covers topics regarding dielectric materials, optoelectronic materials, thermoelectric materials, superconducting materials, and magnetic materials.

Nanotechnology

An introduction to nanotechnology along with properties and applications of nanomaterials, synthesis of nanomaterials, and characterisation techniques are taught here.

Optical Fibre Network Design

The basics of fibre optics, optical fibre components, optical link design, single wavelength fibre optic networks, and wavelength division multiplexing are included in it.

Optoelectronic Devices

It covers the concepts related to photonics, waveguides, nonlinear optics, microwave waveguides, microwave transistors and diodes, and microwave field-effect transistors.

Detailed Syllabus for Materials Science

The syllabus for Materials Science courses varies slightly from one college/university to another. Also, the type of course, MSc, BSc, MTech, or BTech, opted by the students determines the syllabus the students will be studying. An overview of the detailed syllabus for MSc in Materials Science is given below as a reference for the students:

Semester

Core/Elective

Subject Title

Description

Semester I

Core

Quantum Mechanics

Concepts like matter waves, wave operators and equations, Schrodinger Equation, Ehrenfest’s Theorem, transmission and reflection coefficients in potential barriers are covered in this subject.

Semester I

Core

Inorganic Chemistry: Structure and Reactivity

Classification of inorganic compounds such as carbonates, halides, sulphates, and oxides, their salts and melting points are discussed here.

Semester I

Core

Mathematics for Chemists

Dimensional analysis, exponents, scientific notation, unit conversion, and other important mathematical operations and functions useful for chemists are discussed in it.

Semester I

Elective

English Communication

The students are trained to speak, write, and listen in English properly in this subject. They get insights into correct English grammar and sentence construction techniques as well.

Semester II

Core

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

The subject includes the temperature variations, thermodynamic properties of solids, theories on classical mechanics, and other important concepts.

Semester II

Core

Chemistry of the Elements

The basic chemistry of elements, types of elements and their classification, and related concepts are covered here.

Semester II

Core

Organic Chemistry: Reagents and Synthetic Methods

The techniques utilised for the synthesis of compounds and the role of reagents are explained in this subject.

Semester II

Core

Group Theory and Molecular Spectroscopy

The meaning of molecular spectroscopy and group therapy and the use of group theory when it comes to spectroscopy are discussed in it.

Semester III

Core

Material characterisation using microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction

The subject covers concepts related to symmetry elements, crystalline solids, crystal defects, bulk averaging methods, emission spectrometry, and force microscopy.

Semester III

Core

Electronic and magnetic properties of Solids

The subject includes topics such as monatomic and diatomic lattices, Bloch’s Theorem, Semiconductors, superconductors, small particle magnetism, single-domain particles, etc.

Semester III

Core

Materials for Energy

The subject covers key topics in photovoltaics and covers the basic concepts of batteries. The properties of thermoelectric materials are also discussed in it.

Semester III

Elective

Microporous and Mesoporous Materials

The subject discusses materials like zeolites, silicalites, and silica along with their properties and related functions.

Semester IV

Core

Nanomaterials and Thin Films

 

 

The topics related to quantum dots, length, energy, time scales, and applications of nanoparticles and thin film are covered in it.

Semester IV

Core

Ceramics and Polymers

Oxide ceramics, ceramic insulators, and capacitors, glass-forming properties, and classification of polymers are some key concepts that this subject deals with.

Semester IV

Core

Dielectric, Mechanical, and Optical Properties of Materials

The factors affecting mechanical properties, dielectric constant and polarisability, and optical absorption in insulators, metals and semiconductors are discussed in this subject.

Semester IV

Core

Semiconductor Devices and Electronics

Energy bands in solids, semiconductor materials, heterostructures, lattice matching, and density of states are included in it.

Semester IV

Core

Advanced Materials including Biomaterials

It deals with concepts related to composites, lightweight materials, electrets, and biomaterials.

Semester IV

Elective

Carbon Nanotechnology

It includes topics like the geometry of nanoscale carbon, fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and their applications.

Specialisations in Materials Science

Materials Science courses offer specialisations that allow students to learn more about the subjects that hold their interest. It also allows them to follow a diverse career path. Some of the popular specialisations offered by Materials Science courses are listed below:

Specialisations

Specialisation Subjects

Details

Biomaterials

  • Advanced Manufacturing

  • Material processing and modification of the surface

  • Sensor Development

The Biomaterials specialisation gives details about processes like material mixing, bonding, development of biomaterials in tissue engineering, and plants.

Data Analytics and Computational Materials

  • Process Optimisation and Simulation

  • Data and Image Processing

  • Discovery and design of accelerated material

This specialisation teaches the students to employ data analytical and computational skills to identify, choose, and manufacture materials. It includes the use of different theories, simulations, and models to understand the behaviour and properties of materials.

Manufacturing and Infrastructure

  • Material Production, heat treatments, and processing

  • Manufacturing materials

  • Failure Analysis and corrosion

This specialisation helps students to discover and develop materials needed in aerospace, manufacturing, automobile, and other industries that are related to infrastructural development.

Smart Materials and Devices

  • Microdevices and Sensors

  • Processing of Materials

  • Failure analysis and Reverse Engineering

The modification and discovery of materials for the purpose of attaining the required optical, magnetic, and electronic properties are included in this specialisation.

Books and Authors Related to Materials Science

We have short-listed these books for students interested in increasing their knowledge on different topics in Materials Science:

Subject

Book Title

Author

Description

Methods of Mathematical Physics

Elements of Group Theory for Physicists

A. W. Joshi

This book talks about group theory and its basic properties. The applications of group theory mathematics in crystallography, quantum mechanics, and solid-state physics are also given in this book.

Electromagnetic Theory and Electronics

Electromagnetics

A. N. Mateev

The basic topics related to electromagnetics, such as passive and active components, resistors, ICs, capacitors, etc. are explained in detail by the author.

Elements of Materials Science

Materials Science and Engineering

V. Raghavan

The electronic structure of materials and their formation are explained with examples by the author.

Thermodynamics and Chemistry of Materials

Thermodynamics of Solids

Richard A. Swalin

The basic thermodynamic activities and properties of solid materials are explained in the book. The applications of thermodynamic laws with respect to solids are also explained in it.

Quantum Mechanics

Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

R. L. Liboff

Matter waves, wave operators and equations, and other concepts related to quantum mechanics are discussed in this book.

Classical Mechanics and Statistical Physics

Classical Mechanics

H. Goldstein

Phase space, thermodynamic probability, and other concepts related to classical mechanics are explained with proper illustrations in this book.

Elements of Materials Science

Materials Science and Processes

B. S. Narang

The mechanical properties of solids and compounds are discussed in it. Along with it, the students learn about the elements of Materials Science and their uses.

Surface Phenomena and Electrochemistry

Introduction to Electrochemistry

S. Glasstone

The book deals with the Electrochemistry concepts like Electrolytic conduction, galvanic cells, and electrochemical devices.

Dielectric Materials

Introduction to Properties of Materials

D. Rosenthal and R. M. Asimov

The authors write about the concepts related to dielectric materials such as electronic polarisation, and ionic polarisation.

Solid State Engineering Materials

Solid State Physics

C. Kittel

The book talks widely about semiconductors, materials, and their chemical and engineering properties.

Entrance Exams for Materials Science

The entrance exams are mostly applicable for those who are seeking admission into engineering courses. Some colleges offer direct admission to MSc and BSc courses on the basis of merit while some conduct their own entrance test for evaluating the eligibility of the students. Some popular entrance tests for Materials Science are listed below:

The difficulty level of national-level exams like JEE and GATE is higher as compared to state-level and university-level entrance tests. The students can prepare for the syllabus by going through the previous year's test papers and sample question papers. Mock tests will also prepare them for attempting a maximum number of questions in a limited time. The syllabus for entrance tests includes these topics:

  • Structure of materials

  • Crystal structure of materials

  • Application of diffusion in sintering

  • Metals and alloys

  • Polymers and composites

  • Advanced tools and materials

  • Mechanical properties of solids

  • Thermal, electronic, chemical, optical, and magnetic properties of solids

  • Environmental degradation of materials

Materials Science Syllabus for Distance Programme

The students can pursue BSc and MSc programmes in Materials Science via distance education. Some institutes and colleges also offer engineering courses in Materials Science through online courses. The duration of these courses typically ranges from two to six years depending upon whether the students opt for full-time or part-time programmes. The syllabus for the distance programmes is identical to that of regular programmes. Some of the important subjects covered in the syllabus of distance programmes are listed below:

  • Thermodynamic laws

  • Structure of solids

  • Nanoparticles and nanotechnology

  • Engineering applications of biomaterials

  • Composites and their applications

  • Electronic and chemical properties of solid particles

The students need to appear for an online exam after completion of the course. The course fee for online courses typically ranges from INR 18,000 to INR 2,80,000 depending upon the institute to which the students have sought admission. The fee for online courses is lower than that of regular ones.

Top Colleges for Materials Science and Syllabus

We have prepared a list of top colleges for Materials Science on the basis of their in-house placement facilities, elective choices offered to the students, and the extensiveness of the curriculum. These top colleges can be seen in the below table:

Sr. No.

College/Institute

Syllabus Links

1

JUIT

To be uploaded soon

2

Mangalore University

To be uploaded soon

3

IIT Kanpur

Download Here

4

Central University of Tamil Nadu

To be uploaded soon

5

IIT Delhi

To be uploaded soon

6

NIT Calicut

Download Here

7

NIT Trichy

Download Here

8

IIT Bombay

To be uploaded soon

9

COEP, Pune

To be uploaded soon

10

BITS Pilani

To be uploaded soon

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Materials Science Syllabus

Q: Which different structure levels of materials are discussed in Materials Science courses?

A: Structure determines the physical attributes of any material. Therefore, the study of structure of different types of materials is an important part of the syllabus of Materials Science courses. Different structure levels like atomic, nano or microstructure, electronic structure and composition, and phase distribution are usually covered in these courses.

Q: Is chemistry required for Materials Science?

A: Though the students who have completed their Class 12 with Chemistry as a subject can apply for Materials Science bachelor-level courses, it is not a mandatory subject. The students can have a background in physics, Materials Science, polymer science, or any other related subject to apply for these courses.

Q: What is the difference between Materials Science and Materials Engineering?

A: Materials Science deals with the properties and behaviour of specific materials whereas material engineering tells us how to use this knowledge to make products or equipment better. Therefore, though these courses have similar subjects, their objectives and learning outcomes are different.  

Q: What is the difference between Chemical Engineering and Materials Science?

A: Chemical engineering deals with subjects like chemistry and Mathematics whereas the subjects of Materials Science are mostly related to Physics . Though Materials Science also includes some topics related to chemistry, it is possible to learn material science subjects without an in-depth knowledge in the subject. However, it is impossible to study C hemical E ngineering without a prior knowledge in Chemistry.

Q: What are the objectives of the Materials Science courses?

A: The course objectives of the Materials Science are mentioned below:
  • To help the students understand the electronic, physical, and chemical properties of materials
  • To enable students to apply the properties of materials in engineering and industrial applications
  • To give an exposure to thermal physics and its engineering applications to the students
  • To enable the students to find logical solutions to problems in material engineering

Q: What are the four components of Materials Science?

A: Properties of materials, their structure and chemical composition, processes and synthesis required to help them behave in a certain way, and performance are the four essential components of Materials Science. The programmes related to Materials Science mostly discuss the interrelationship between these components.

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Materials Science. Students interested in pursuing a career on Materials Science, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

22 Jan ' 25 - 24 Jan ' 25

JEE Main 2025 Exam Date Session 1 - Paper 1

28 Jan ' 25 - 29 Jan ' 25

JEE Main 2025 Exam Date Session 1 - Paper 1

7 Jan ' 25

GATE 2025 Admit Card

1 Feb ' 25

GATE 2025 Exam (CS1 | AG | MA | CS2 | NM | MT | T...

30 Dec ' 24 - 15 Feb ' 25

MHT CET 2025 Application Form

16 Feb ' 25 - 22 Feb ' 25

MHT CET 2025 Application Form with late fee

Popular Materials Science Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Materials Science Colleges in India. Learn more about these Materials Science colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
6 Courses
2.69 L - 10 L
15 - 18.5 LPA

#2 India Today

4 Courses
3 L - 8 L
14 - 20 LPA

#1 India Today

2 Courses
1.23 L - 1.84 L

#7 India Today

3 Courses
20 K - 10 L
12 - 17.6 LPA

#3 The Week

5 Courses
20 K - 10 L
21.28 LPA

#4 India Today

3 Courses
30 K - 5 L
9.5 - 15.76 LPA

#7 The Week

Popular Private Materials Science Colleges in India

1 Course
87.9 K
3 L - 3.02 L
1 Course
1.05 L

Top 25 in Tamil Nadu

2 Courses
10.2 L - 10.6 L
6 LPA

Top 25 in Maharasthra

Materials Science Applications open. Apply Now

6 Courses
2.69 L - 10 L
15 - 18.5 LPA

#2 India Today

4 Courses
3 L - 8 L
14 - 20 LPA

#1 India Today

Popular Materials Science UG Courses

Following are the most popular Materials Science UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Materials Science PG Courses

Following are the most popular Materials Science PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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