She continued her studies at the University of Florida where she received a master's degree in chemical engineering in 1975.
She completed her Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the University of Minnesota in 1975 with advisor Lanny D. Schmidt on the topic of oscillations in heterogeneous catalysis.
[5] During her time in graduate school, Maria prepared 5 journal publications with her advisor: Maria Flytzani-Stephanopoulos authored more than 160 journal articles describing significant advances in catalysis, surface chemistry, and single-atom catalysts including: Maria Flytzani-Stephanopoulos's contributions to research, education and service received numerous awards, many of which highlighted her passion for catalysis and the problems associated with nanoparticle design and catalytic function.
[16] Maria Flytzani-Stephanopoulos of Tufts University's School of Engineering has been selected as an AAAS Fellow for distinguished contributions to the field of catalysis, particularly for new insights in oxidation reactions on nanoscale metal oxides in fuel conversion and pollutant processes.In 2014, she was elected a member of the American National Academy of Engineering (NAE).
Her NAE election citation noted:[16] For contributions to atomically dispersed heterogeneous metal catalysts for efficient production of fuels and chemicals.Other awards and honors included:[19]