Material behavior and performance
Certificate, undergraduate
How materials perform under pressure
Engineering decisions often hinge on how materials behave under real-world conditions. The undergraduate certificate in material behavior and performance provides focused training in how materials respond to stress, fatigue and environmental conditions across a range of engineering applications.
Through coursework spanning mechanical, aerospace and nuclear materials, you’ll learn how to evaluate material performance and apply fundamental engineering principles to inform product and component design. This certificate is well-suited for students seeking careers in manufacturing, aerospace, advanced materials or related industries, as well as those preparing for graduate study in engineering or materials-focused fields.
Overview
Related Topics
Applying material science to engineering performance
Degree fit
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in how materials behave under mechanical, thermal or environmental stress.
- Want to apply material performance data to engineering design decisions.
- Are pursuing an engineering major and want deeper expertise in materials-focused analysis.
- Plan to work in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace or advanced technology.
Career outcomes
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
As a student in the College of Engineering, you'll have access to more than 20 student clubs and organizations connected to national and international engineering societies — including opportunities to join competitive project teams. These groups offer hands-on experience, networking and leadership development to help you grow personally and professionally.
If you're interested in aerospace or mechanical engineering, consider joining:
- American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Design, Build Fly Competition Club
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
- Humanitarian Engineering Corps (HEC)
- National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
- Robotics Club
- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
- Tau Beta Pi - Engineering Honor Society (TBP)
- Vandal Atmospheric Science Team (VAST)
- Vandal Motorsports SAE Baja Competition Club
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements at uidaho.edu/admissions-apply to learn more.