An important goal of the Materials Science program is to advance the understanding and prediction of the properties of matter. Such understanding facilitates the design of new materials with particular properties. The development of experimental and theoretical predictive tools applicable to size scales ranging from the molecular to the macroscopic levels is an integral component of the MSc in Materials Science program. The program provides both a broad and integrated overview of materials science and the opportunity for in-depth study of a particular problem emphasizing either theory or experimentation under the guidance of a research supervisor and a multi-disciplinary team of faculty.

Hold an honours BSc degree in chemistry, physics or engineering, or hold equivalent qualifications as judged by the admissions committee. This committee is made up of the graduate program directors and one faculty member from each of the two universities (Trent University and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology). Minimum overall academic standing of a B (GPA: 3.0 on a 4.3 scale or 73 to 76 per cent), with a minimum B average in the last two full-time years (four semesters) of undergraduate work or equivalent. English language proficiency. Additional requirements: Prospective applicants must be well recommended and be accepted by a supervisor who guarantees research assistant support for the duration of the student's program.