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A Major in Materials Science is Now Available at Westminster College

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Posted on Friday, June 5, 2015

Westminster College adds materials science to its list of majors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, materials science is research and study into the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. Materials scientists determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications.

“There are no schools of Westminster’s size who currently offer a bachelor of science degree in materials science,” said Dr. Peter Smith, biological, chemical, and environmental sciences division chair. “This is a prime opportunity for Westminster to capitalize on the body of students who are interested in studying materials science while attending a liberal arts college.”

Westminster College currently employs three materials science experts, including Dr. Smith, an inorganic chemist specializing in solid-state and light-emitting materials; Dr. Matthew Baker, a polymer chemist specializing in the development of new polymeric materials; and Dr. Craig Caylor, a physicist who studies materials interfaces, surfaces, and magnetism.

Materials science coursework prepares students for careers with companies that produce metals, ceramics, plastics, and rubber. Materials scientists also work in the coatings, paint, biomedical, electronics, and alternative fuel industries.

For more information about the materials science program, contact Dr. Smith at 724-946-7299 or smithpm@westminster.edu, or visit www.westminster.edu