This graduate-level certificate offers a strong foundation in modern materials analysis techniques and can be completed fully online through the EDGE program. All students must apply and be admitted to the certificate program before enrolling in courses.
Program Overview
The Materials Characterization Certificate consists of three graduate-level courses. One core course is required, and students select two additional courses from a list of electives. Lectures are delivered online through streaming or downloadable formats, allowing students flexibility in learning and review. Students interact with instructors and submit coursework through the CANVAS learning platform.
Required Course
- EMA6510 – Survey of Materials Analysis Techniques
Offered every Fall
This foundational course introduces the principles and instrumentation used to characterize materials. Topics include chemical, microstructural, and surface analysis techniques for metals, ceramics, polymers, and semiconductor systems. Applications in both research and industry are explored.
Elective Courses (Choose Two)
- EMA6507 – Scanning Electron Microscopy and Microanalysis
Offered every Summer
Covers the theory and operation of SEM, EPMA, and EDS. Topics include electron optics, beam-specimen interaction, instrument design, imaging, specimen prep, image processing, and X-ray data analysis. - EMA6518 – Transmission Electron Microscopy
Offered every Fall
Introduces TEM instrumentation and its role in materials research. Topics include electron optics, diffraction, image formation, and analytical techniques such as EDS and EELS. - EMA6516 – X-Ray Methods for Materials Characterization
Offered every Spring
Focuses on x-ray diffraction for powders and thin films. Students learn techniques for analyzing structure, phase composition, grain size, stress, film thickness, texture, and more.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the certificate program, applicants must have:
- A bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, technology, or a closely related field, with a minimum 3.0 GPA, OR
- At least five years of professional experience in an engineering discipline
GRE scores are not required.
How to Apply
All students must apply through the UF Office of Admissions:
- Complete the online application:
- Select New Student Application or Currently Enrolled Application
- Pay the $30 application fee and $7 processing fee
- Submit official transcripts from your bachelor’s degree institution
- Complete the residency information and verification process
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Office of Admissions and then forwarded to the MSE Student Services Office for final consideration.
For tuition and fees, see the UF EDGE tuition comparison.
Certificate Completion Requirements
To successfully earn the Materials Characterization Certificate, students must:
- Be formally admitted to the certificate program
- Complete all three courses with a grade of B or better
- Apply for the certificate in the final term through ONE.UF:
- Go to ‘My Record’ > Certificate/Degree Application
- Submit by the posted deadline
Contact Information
Academic Services Office
Rhines Hall, Room 108
Advising@mse.ufl.edu
(352) 846-3312