Metallurgy is referred to as the study of metals and their properties. It can involve other sciences, such as physics and chemistry. Students who are interested in this field may go on to earn higher degrees to become engineers or have a career in environmental science.

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.