Studying materials science and nanoengineering at Rice University, you will work with like-minded students in a collaborative environment, where you will get to know your professors and classmates. Through a wide-ranging, interdisciplinary curriculum, our engineers are taught to embrace creative problem-solving techniques, hone leadership skills and use their engineering abilities to tackle real-world issues.
The Department of Materials Science & NanoEngineering (MSNE) offers two undergraduate degrees. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) is a more flexible degree for students looking to pursue areas of interest outside of engineering. The Bachelor of Science (BS) is an accredited program that prepares students for the professional practice of engineering or a career in academia.
Bachelor of Arts with a Major in MSNE
The BA degree with a major in materials science and nanoengineering is highly flexible, involves less technical content than the BS program, and allows students greater freedom to pursue areas of interest outside of engineering.
Bachelor of Science in MSNE
Our ABET-accredited BSMNE program prepares graduates to succeed in their careers by equipping them with the expertise sought by top graduate schools and corporations. Our students demonstrate technical proficiency and professional achievement in their work through scientific inquiry.
Distinction in Creative Works and Research
The Distinction in Research and Creative Works is a Rice award for select undergraduates, granted at commencement, which appears on the transcript and diploma. Students must apply to be considered and the application must be supported by a faculty member. Learn more about the award.
Undergraduate Experience