Have questions about the Advanced Materials Analysis and Characterization program? Please reach out to us if your question is not covered.
Who can apply to the program?
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in a STEM-related field (e.g., chemistry, physics, biology, computer science, math, materials science, mechanical/electrical/chemical engineering, or earth sciences). Candidates with experience using analytical instrumentation will be particularly competitive.
What are the application requirements?
Statement of Purpose
In approximately 500 words, please describe your interest in the AMAC program, and share with us any relevant experience that you feel makes you a strong candidate. Useful information to include:
- Any undergraduate or professional research experience you have, particularly experience using analytical laboratory equipment
- Your academic qualifications and how they have prepared you for this program
- Experience with programming languages
- Your potential strengths as an employee in industry or in a national/academic laboratory
- Why you feel this program is a good fit for your career goals
- Your ultimate career or academic aspirations (are there specific industries you are interested in exploring or eventually completing your PhD?)
Letters of Recommendation
Please provide two to four reference letters. These recommendations provide important insight into your capabilities and work ethic, so be sure to choose faculty and/or supervisors who can speak to your qualifications for the AMAC program. If possible, choose at least one person who can testify to your research, laboratory, or analytical experiences.
Interview
All applicants considered for the program will be interviewed beginning after the priority deadline.
Resume/CV
This is an optional application component, but if you have additional experience you would like to share with the committee, we encourage you to submit a resume/CV. This may include:
- Research experience
- Awards or publications
- Paid and volunteer positions
- Participation in athletic events/teams, projects, or presentations
- Experiences that demonstrate your professional skills, ability to work in groups, or accomplish goals
Official Transcripts
While grades can be useful to assess academic aptitude, transcripts will predominantly be examined for the applicant’s performance in courses relevant to analytical and material science. Applicants should submit their overall and science/math grade point averages (GPA). There is no minimum GPA requirement.
Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
You are not required to take the GRE or any subject tests, but if you have taken them and feel they enhance your application then you may include them in your application.
Can international students apply?
Yes, although the University of Oregon does require some additional paperwork:
English Language Proficiency
The UO requires proof of competence in the English language for all applicants whom English is not a native/primary language.
Financial Verification for International Applicants
Additional information about application submission procedures for international applicants can be found with the Division of Graduate Studies, as well as a checklist for obtaining a student visa.
What is the timeline for the program?
Applications
The priority deadline is May 1 and the final deadline is August 1. Applications and decisions will be reviewed and made on a rolling basis beginning after the priority deadline. Please reach out to us if would like us to consider reviewing your application prior to our deadlines.
Program Schedule
Starting in the fall term, students take classes on campus through the winter term. Research credits are fulfilled on location at internship sites during the remaining quarters. Students may space their research credits out, completing them in as little as nine months (spring, summer, and fall quarters).