Graduate Education in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Science at the University of Virginia

Abstract

The goals and methodology of graduate education in corrosion science and engineering at the Center for Electrochemical Science and Engineering at The University of Virginia are reviewed. These include establishment of both core competencies and advanced understanding(s) in materials science, electrochemistry applied to corrosive degradation in aqueous solutions, surface science and engineering, solution chemistry and/or fracture mechanics through a plan of study typically involving 13 graduate classes in Engineering, Chemistry and/or Physics. In addition a key aspect of our educational goal, beyond the classroom, is a significant and in-depth Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy research experience culminating in a written thesis or dissertation and oral defense. This research experience is designed to provide an excellent training ground for development of individuals capable of not only performing multi-disciplinary research in the corrosion field, but also with the capability of surveying the literature, identifying research gaps and opportunities and developing strategies for addressing such needs. Corrosion science and engineering students perform focused research in the areas of aqueous corrosion, high temperature corrosion, environmentally assisted cracking. Interactions with other faculty and students providing education and performing research in other electrochemical technical areas (e.g., electrodeposition, photoelectrochemistry, batteries) provide critical enhancements to the students’ experience. At the end of this experience, students are capable of either performing as competent corrosion engineers or as scientist making both technological and scientific contributions to our field with good written and oral communication skills. The course curricula, research philosophies and the assessments used to achieve these goals are presented.