Universities are increasingly preparing the engineers, designers, and entrepreneurs of tomorrow by offering degree programs in 3D printing, or additive manufacturing (AM). With a shift of manufacturing from overseas back to domestic markets in North America and Europe, there is a rising demand for skilled engineers in this growing field.
Today, additive manufacturing (AM) is a staple in engineering programs across most major universities, many of which have their own 3D printing labs or maker spaces. However, some universities go further, offering extensive coverage of additive technologies, deeper dives into material science, and specialized training in design unique to 3D printing. These institutions also provide practical, hands-on training using a variety of industrial 3D printers.
Quick jump to:
- Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, PA
- Penn State University
- University of Illinois at Urbana
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design
- University of Florida
- University of Nottingham
- Technical University of Munich
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- University of Sheffield
- University of Texas at Austin
- Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a student eager to master the latest in 3D technology or an entrepreneur seeking expertise in 3D printing applications, consider exploring universities that are leaders in additive manufacturing. These institutions offer comprehensive programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD level, focusing on cutting-edge technologies in additive manufacturing. Below, you will find an overview of some of the top universities for studying 3D printing, providing you with the best options to advance your knowledge and skills in this dynamic field.
Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, PA
Carnegie Mellon University, through its College of Engineering, offers a dedicated Master of Science in Additive Manufacturing (MSAM) designed for a broad range of students, not limited to those from traditional engineering backgrounds. The program dives deep into the essentials and advancements of additive manufacturing, equipping students with the latest in technology and material science to prepare them for sophisticated roles in the industry.
The MSAM curriculum is notably hands-on, providing students not only theoretical understanding but also practical skills through extensive laboratory work. It comprehensively addresses the entire spectrum of 3D printing technology, from basic principles to complex materials and cutting-edge production techniques, thereby thoroughly preparing its graduates for professional success in the field.
For more details about the program and admissions, you can visit the Master of Science in Additive Manufacturing page on Carnegie Mellon’s website.
Penn State University
Penn State University offers a range of educational programs in additive manufacturing and design, including Master of Science (M.S.), Master of Engineering (M.Eng.), and Graduate Certificate options. These programs aim to provide comprehensive knowledge of additive manufacturing, and are available both at University Park and online through Penn State World Campus.
The curriculum focuses on the foundational principles of additive manufacturing, addressing various aspects such as processes, materials, and design tailored for this technology. Students participate in laboratory work and can choose to undertake a research thesis or an independent project, both designed to enhance their practical skills and understanding of 3D printing technologies.
The programs are structured to equip students with technical skills and prepare them for roles in industries that employ additive manufacturing. Penn State supports this objective with dedicated career services to help graduates transition into professional roles.
Those looking to deepen their expertise in additive manufacturing will find Penn State’s offerings comprehensive, whether studying online or on campus. Further details about these programs are available on the Penn State Engineering website.
University of Illinois at Urbana
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has a significant focus on additive manufacturing through its Applied Research Institute. The program concentrates on developing Metal-Based Additive Manufacturing (MBAM) technologies. Their efforts include creating simplified qualification methods for metal additive processes, essential for companies looking to adopt these technologies efficiently. This initiative reflects the university’s broader commitment to improving additive manufacturing capabilities.
Additionally, the university offers a variety of online courses on additive manufacturing through Coursera. These courses range from introductory applications in various markets to more detailed discussions on 3D printing’s implications for intellectual property and manufacturing practices. This provides valuable educational resources for both newcomers to the field and experienced professionals aiming to expand their knowledge.
For more detailed information on the additive manufacturing focus and courses offered, you can visit the University of Illinois’s Applied Research Institute website here and explore their Coursera offerings here.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is recognized for its leading-edge approach to 3D printing and additive manufacturing through comprehensive educational programs and pioneering research initiatives. Among its offerings, the “Additive Manufacturing for Innovative Design and Production” course stands out. This online program encompasses a broad spectrum from basic principles to sophisticated digital design, modeling, and production techniques, equipping learners with the tools to innovate in the manufacturing sector.
Beyond coursework, MIT’s commitment to advancing additive manufacturing extends to its research through the Center for Additive and Digital Advanced Production Technologies (APT). This facility is at the forefront of developing new additive manufacturing technologies and applications. The APT center is a hub for groundbreaking research and collaboration, creating model-based decision tools and strategic frameworks that push the envelope of manufacturing capabilities.
MIT’s programs are distinguished by their strong industry connections, which help to translate academic advancements into practical, scalable solutions. These partnerships are vital, providing students with exposure to real-world challenges and the opportunity to engage directly with leading experts and companies in the field.
Furthermore, MIT adopts an interdisciplinary approach that blends knowledge from various domains such as material science, mechanical engineering, and systems design. This integration is crucial for fostering innovation within the additive manufacturing landscape.
The university also cultivates a vibrant community of thinkers and makers, from students to industry leaders, all committed to driving the future of digital manufacturing. This rich ecosystem not only supports advanced research and education but also prepares graduates to lead in the rapidly evolving sector of additive manufacturing.
Together, these elements position MIT as a bastion of education and research in additive manufacturing, shaping the future of how things are made with cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches.
Singapore University of Technology and Design
The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) offers comprehensive programs in additive manufacturing through its Digital Manufacturing and Design Centre (DManD). These programs focus on equipping students with the skills and knowledge required for advanced manufacturing roles. Courses at SUTD cover the fundamentals of design for additive manufacturing, digital design tools, process simulation, and post-processing techniques, providing hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and software.
SUTD’s involvement in the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC) further enhances the practical and research opportunities available to students. This collaboration between academia and industry aims to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies in Singapore, preparing students for real-world applications across various sectors.
For more details on these programs and research initiatives, you can visit the SUTD website and the DManD Centre.
University of Florida
The University of Florida (UF) offers extensive programs in additive manufacturing through its various departments and research centers, notably within the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering and the Department of Materials Science & Engineering. These programs emphasize process development, modeling, and applications of additive manufacturing, providing students with a comprehensive education in this field.
UF’s Center for Manufacturing Innovation (CMI) is a hub for state-of-the-art research in manufacturing science, including 3D printing applications for human tissue fabrication, micro- and nano-manufacturing, and high-performance machining of advanced materials. This center focuses on advancing manufacturing technologies that enhance product performance across sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, and energy.
The university offers a robust curriculum that includes courses on the fundamentals of additive manufacturing, process modeling, material development, and practical applications. Students gain hands-on experience with advanced equipment and techniques, preparing them for careers in both research and industry.
UF is also involved in collaborative efforts like the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), which aims to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies. This partnership enhances the practical and research opportunities available to students, providing valuable industry connections and real-world experience.
Specialized facilities like the Florida Advanced Manufacturing and System Integration Lab enable students and researchers to engage in innovative projects, such as developing new materials for 3D printing and creating organ-on-a-chip technologies using additive manufacturing techniques.
These programs and facilities at the University of Florida position it as a significant center for education and research in additive manufacturing, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this rapidly evolving field.
For more information, you can visit the Center for Manufacturing Innovation and the Department of Materials Science & Engineering websites.
University of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham offers an advanced Master of Science (MSc) program in Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing. This program is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and skills related to additive manufacturing technologies. Students learn to evaluate and apply various additive manufacturing techniques, design devices, and conduct individual research projects.
The program features a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including the fundamentals of additive manufacturing, materials development, process simulation, and post-processing techniques. This ensures a well-rounded education in the field.
Students gain practical experience by working with state-of-the-art equipment and technologies in the Additive Manufacturing laboratory at the Centre for Additive Manufacturing (CfAM). The program includes hands-on training with various 3D printing machines and advanced manufacturing tools.
Research is a key component of the program, allowing students to undertake significant projects that contribute to the advancement of additive manufacturing technologies. Past research projects have explored areas such as multi-material printing, biocompatible inks for tissue engineering, and the development of advanced engineering components.
The university’s strong ties with industry provide students with opportunities to engage in real-world applications of their studies, enhancing their learning experience and preparing them for careers in additive manufacturing.
Teaching and research activities take place in the purpose-built Advanced Manufacturing Building on the Jubilee Campus, equipped with cutting-edge facilities and resources.
For more detailed information about the program, you can visit the University of Nottingham’s Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing MSc page and the course details on FindAMasters.com.
These elements make the University of Nottingham a prominent choice for students seeking advanced education in additive manufacturing, providing them with the skills and experience needed to excel in this innovative field.
Technical University of Munich
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) offers extensive programs in additive manufacturing through its various departments, notably the Chair of Materials Engineering of Additive Manufacturing and the Institute for Machine Tools and Industrial Management (iwb). These programs aim to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in additive manufacturing technologies, emphasizing both education and cutting-edge research.
The curriculum at TUM covers a broad range of topics, including process development, materials science, and application-specific design. Students gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment in the Additive Manufacturing laboratory. Courses such as “Metal Additive Manufacturing: From Theory to Practice” and “Materials in Joining and Additive Manufacturing” ensure a well-rounded understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of the field.
Research at TUM spans several critical areas, including the process-structure-property relationships of metallic materials, innovative welding methods for joining, and advanced direct energy deposition processes. The university focuses on multi-material components and graded material structures, utilizing cutting-edge technologies like laser beam powder bed fusion and wire arc additive manufacturing.
TUM collaborates closely with industry partners to apply its research findings to real-world challenges. This collaboration is facilitated through initiatives like TUM.Additive, which combines research, education, and high-tech infrastructure to drive innovation in additive manufacturing. The university’s facilities, such as the Advanced Manufacturing Building, provide students with access to the latest technologies and tools, ensuring they are well-prepared for careers in the industry.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Chair of Materials Engineering of Additive Manufacturing and the Institute for Machine Tools and Industrial Management.
These programs and initiatives at TUM position it as a leading institution for students seeking to specialize in additive manufacturing, offering robust academic training and valuable industry experience.
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) offers extensive education and research opportunities in additive manufacturing through its Industrial Centre and the University Research Facility in 3D Printing (U3DP). These programs are crafted to provide students with both the theoretical foundations and practical skills necessary for excelling in various additive manufacturing technologies.
At PolyU, students gain hands-on experience with an array of advanced 3D printing equipment, from entry-level devices to industrial-grade machines. The curriculum spans key topics such as additive manufacturing processes, materials science, and surface engineering, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of 3D printing technologies.
The U3DP supports robust research and development initiatives, featuring state-of-the-art facilities for 3D modeling, scanning, and post-processing. Equipped with over fifty 3D printers and advanced software for modeling and simulation, the facility offers a rich environment for both educational and innovative activities.
PolyU’s strong emphasis on industry collaboration allows students to gain valuable practical experience, preparing them for careers in diverse sectors including aerospace, healthcare, and consumer electronics. The university’s involvement in international research projects further enriches the learning opportunities available to students.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Industrial Centre and the University Research Facility in 3D Printing.
University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield offers an MSc (Res) program in Additive Manufacturing and Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, tailored for both recent graduates and professional engineers. This program provides a comprehensive education in the latest additive manufacturing techniques and applications. The curriculum spans a wide range of topics, including principles and applications of additive manufacturing, materials science, and advanced manufacturing technologies, ensuring students acquire a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects.
Students gain practical experience through projects within the Centre for Advanced Additive Manufacturing (AdAM), where they utilize state-of-the-art 3D printing equipment and techniques. Additionally, the program includes significant research opportunities, allowing students to engage in investigative work that contributes to advancements in the field. Training in research methods and management is also provided to support these efforts.
Developed in response to industry demands, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared for careers in advanced manufacturing sectors. The University of Sheffield collaborates with industry partners to provide students with real-world applications of their studies, enhancing their practical skills and employability.
For more information, you can visit the University of Sheffield’s course page on Additive Manufacturing and the Centre for Advanced Additive Manufacturing.
University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin offers an extensive program in additive manufacturing through its Department of Mechanical Engineering and the newly established Center for Additive Manufacturing and Design Innovation (CAMDI). This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience.
The curriculum includes a variety of courses that cover the fundamentals of additive manufacturing, process development, materials science, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Students have the opportunity to work directly with state-of-the-art equipment, such as polymer and metal powder bed fusion systems, liquid polymer printers, and direct metal sintering systems, which are essential for fabricating complex parts in fields like medical research, aerospace, energy, and robotics.
The CAMDI facility, a 3,000-square-foot space, is equipped with over $1.5 million worth of industrial-grade machines. It supports both educational and research initiatives, providing tools for advanced manufacturing projects. This center not only enhances students’ practical skills but also encourages collaboration with industry partners, driving innovation in additive manufacturing. This collaboration focuses on developing new materials, improving process designs, and implementing advanced quality control measures.
The University of Texas at Austin’s program in additive manufacturing is tailored to prepare students for the modern workforce, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving field of additive manufacturing.
For more information, you can explore the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Center for Additive Manufacturing and Design Innovation at the University of Texas at Austin.
Final Thoughts
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In conclusion, the universities mentioned in this article are key players in the field of additive manufacturing education. Each institution provides distinct advantages, including strong research facilities, industry connections, and a balance of theoretical and practical coursework. Students enrolling in these programs will be well-prepared to contribute to advancements in the additive manufacturing industry. Choosing a program that matches their interests and career goals will help students make the most of the educational opportunities available at these universities.
