Dual Degree Materials Science (Non-Thesis)

This dual degree program combines materials science with physical chemistry and chemical physics through a structured international academic experience. Offered jointly by Colorado School of Mines and the University of Bordeaux, the program allows you to earn two master’s degrees over two years while studying on campus in both the United States and France.

In the first year, you complete a non‑thesis Master of Science in Materials Science at Mines. In the second year, you continue at the University of Bordeaux in the Master of Science in Physical Chemistry and Chemical Physics (PCCP) program. Together, these degrees strengthen a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a closely related field by developing advanced understanding of structure–property relationships, materials characterization, modeling, and applied problem solving.

Industries that rely on advanced materials increasingly seek professionals who understand both the chemical and physical origins of material behavior and how those materials perform in real systems. This dual degree prepares you to bridge those perspectives. Mines brings a pragmatic, application‑driven approach to materials education, while the University of Bordeaux provides strong foundations in physical chemistry and chemical physics within a European research environment. The result is a rigorous, globally oriented graduate experience that stands apart from traditional single‑institution programs.

Program Design

The program spans two academic years and requires full‑time, on‑campus study at each institution during the designated mobility periods.

Your first year is completed at Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado, where you pursue the Materials Science master’s degree in a non‑thesis format. Coursework emphasizes core materials science foundations including thermodynamics, kinetics, crystallography, and solid‑state physics, along with laboratory methods and professional skills.

The second year is completed at the University of Bordeaux. Required coursework includes topics such as photonics, lasers and imaging, and dielectric and magnetic properties, along with advanced electives that may include computational chemistry, self‑assembly of polymers, and large‑scale research facilities. During this year, you also complete a case study or master’s research project, providing supervised research experience without extending time to the degree.

With approval from program coordinators, you may tailor portions of your learning agreement by selecting approved electives at the host institution. This flexibility allows you to align the curriculum with your academic interests and career goals while remaining within the defined structure of the program.