Students might investigate material science if they're interested in securing employment in a relevant industry, such as microchip manufacturing or plastics research. Programs in this subject might also lead a student to further academic specialization as a materials engineer or researcher.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.