Graduate student support is tied to research funding. Student support includes Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) positions supported through faculty research funding, the number of Teaching Assistant (TA) positions, and funds available for undergraduate scholarships.

Undergraduate students are also provided support through the department (this is in addition to university-wide financial aid or scholarships). Several undergraduate students are supported through their work in research laboratories in the department. These positions are designated as ‘Lab Helper” positions and many students participate in this program.

Students also receive aid through departmental-based fellowships, these include:

W.Brandt Goldsworthy Scholarship

The Goldsworthy Scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student in materials engineering with an interest in composite materials and who displays outstanding leadership skills. The scholarship is awarded through a donation by W. Brandt Goldsworthy; a pioneer in composite materials. The endowment on this award is $63,487 and an annual award of ~$5000 is to be made in 2007 (typically to a single student).

W.J. Knapp Scholarship

The Knapp Scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior in materials engineering for academic achievement. The scholarship is awarded in the memory of Bill Knapp. Knapp was a Professor in the department who was an exceptional leader and advocate for students. This scholarship was funded by friends and members of the department in honor of his accomplishments. The endowment on this award is $118,037 and an annual award of $7,500 is made, typically split between two students.

Les Knesel Scholarship

The Knesel Scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students in materials engineering with strong scholastic achievement. The scholarship is awarded through a donation by Les and Betty Knesel; whose company developed many new technologies for tile and ceramic applications. The endowment on this award is $163,349 and an annual award of $10,000 is to be made in 2007 (typically split among four students). The endowment on this award has increased to its present value in recent years from about $84,000 in 2004 after recontact with Mrs. Knesel at that time. More recently (Fall 2006), Mrs. Knesel has donated another $85,000 to the scholarship fund. In 2007-2008, we anticipate that there will be ~$15,000 available annually for student support.