Master's in Nanoscience

UNC Greensboro’s Master’s in Nanoscience prepares graduate students to study and apply science at the nanoscale, where materials can exhibit unique physical, chemical, and biological properties. Offered through the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN), the interdisciplinary program brings together chemistry, biology, physics, materials science, computation, and related fields to address complex problems in nanotechnology and advanced scientific research.

Students can pursue research-focused or professionally oriented pathways while gaining experience with advanced laboratory methods, nanoscale characterization, scientific communication, and interdisciplinary problem-solving. The program is designed for students with undergraduate backgrounds in science, engineering, or closely related STEM disciplines who want to pursue careers in research, industry, government, or further doctoral study.

Why Choose UNCG for Your Master’s in NanoScience

The M.S. in Nanoscience is offered through the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, an academic collaboration between UNC Greensboro and North Carolina A&T State University. This partnership gives students access to faculty expertise, interdisciplinary research, and specialized facilities dedicated to nanoscience and nanoengineering. Located at Gateway Research Park in Greensboro, JSNN provides laboratory and research environments designed for work involving nanomaterials, biological systems, microscopy, spectroscopy, materials characterization, and other areas of nanoscale science.

Students can tailor their graduate education toward their professional and research goals through nanoscience electives, laboratory experiences, and either thesis or professionally focused study. The 31-credit-hour Master’s in Nanoscience provides multiple pathways for students with different academic and career goals.

Thesis Option

The thesis option is designed for students seeking substantial research experience in preparation for doctoral study or research-intensive careers. Students complete advanced nanoscience coursework and an original faculty-guided research project culminating in a master’s thesis.

Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis option combines graduate coursework in nanoscience with applied and professional experiences. Students develop broad knowledge of nanoscale science while strengthening laboratory, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills relevant to scientific and technical careers.

Students interested in more specialized professional preparation can also explore the Instrumentation and Professional Master’s in Business concentrations.

Master’s in Nanoscience Student Support and Resources

The JSNN school features world-class faculty and state-of-the-art research facilities, with expertise in bio-nanotechnology, computational nanoscience, and nanomaterials. Graduates secure positions in academia, industry, and government. JSNN offers a variety of financial support options for students, including graduate assistantships, tuition remission, and highly competitive university fellowships. Tuition support ranges from partial to full coverage and varies depending on residency status. Prospective students are encouraged to apply and, once admitted, to contact the Graduate Director for more information about financial support opportunities.

Career Opportunities and Outcomes with an MS in Nanoscience

Graduates of the M.S. in Nanoscience develop scientific, analytical, laboratory, research, and communication skills that can support careers across technology-driven industries and research organizations.

Potential career paths include:

• Research scientist
• Materials scientist
• Applications scientist or engineer
• Laboratory or instrumentation specialist
• Nanotechnology researcher
• Biotechnology researcher
• Materials characterization specialist
• Technical program manager
• Government or academic laboratory researcher

The research-focused curriculum can also provide preparation for Ph.D. programs in nanoscience, materials science, chemistry, biology, biotechnology, and related STEM disciplines. 

Master’s in Nanoscience Frequently Asked Questions