Masters Degrees in Materials Science

Overview

The MASt in Materials Science aims to train to Masters level students who already have a bachelors' degree in Materials Science. It is a predominantly taught course in which candidates work alongside the 4th-year students taking the integrated Cambridge BA/MSci Materials Science course. It is designed for students who may wish to pursue a professional career in Materials Science / Materials Engineering or related areas (in academic or industrial research) and who are already familiar with the subject.

The course allows students to continue a broad Materials Science education across a range of topics : the taught element consists of a series of approximately 16 modular lecture courses, covering a broad range of aspects of Materials Science, including Structural Materials, Device Materials, Materials Characterisation, Materials Chemistry and Biological & Pharmaceutical Materials. A research project is undertaken over 6 months, between October and March.

Specific aims are:
1. to build on the knowledge and ideas gained in prior Materials Science courses;
2. to develop a more specialised and in-depth understanding of Materials Science in selected areas;
3. to further develop analytical and presentational skills, both orally and in writing;
4. to provide training in investigating research problems, including gaining an understanding of relevant research techniques and also of the design and interpretation of experiments.

See the website http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcmmasmsc

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students should:
1. be able to apply the ideas and concepts introduced in the course to solve problems, do calculations, make predictions and critically evaluate information and ideas;
2. be able to demonstrate an understanding of the courses attended, and of their individual research projects;
3. be able to demonstrate practical, organisational and presentational skills that will enable them to continue successfully with research or in other professional careers;
4. be able to demonstrate the necessary skills and understanding required for a career in Materials Science.

Continuing

Students wishing to continue to PhD studies will usually be required to obtain at least a 'Commendable' result in the MASt.

Teaching

There are approximately 16 lecture modules focusing on advanced topics across a broad range of aspects of Materials Science, including Structural Materials, Device Materials, Materials Characterisation, Materials Chemistry and Biological & Pharmaceutical Materials. Details of the modules available this year can be found at: http://www.msm.cam.ac.uk/teaching/partIII.php.

Students may choose which lecture modules they wish to attend, and must prepare a minimum of 10 courses for examination.

Students also undertake a substantial individual research project, chosen from a set of topics proposed by academic staff. Work on this project accounts for about a third of the final credit.

- Feedback
The MASt is treated as an undergraduate course for the purposes of supervisions, such that on average students should expect to have at least one supervision per week during term, with written and verbal feedback on their work within 24 hours.

Online written reports are provided at the end of each term.

Students should expect to meet daily to weekly with their project demonstrator and weekly to termly with their project supervisor.

Students receive written feedback on all aspects of work submitted for summative assessment (reports, oral presentations, poster), within two weeks of the work being submitted.

Funding Opportunities

There are no specific funding opportunities advertised for this course. For information on more general funding opportunities, please follow the link below.

General Funding Opportunities http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/funding

Find out how to apply here http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcmmasmsc/apply

See the website http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcmmasmsc

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If you’re a graduate from a science, mathematics, technology or another engineering discipline, this programme provides the knowledge and skills to convert to a specialism in materials science and engineering or metallurgy to meet the present needs and future challenges of advanced materials and manufacturing in areas such as transportation, bioengineering, energy, electronics and information technology, sport and sustainable development.

Alternatively, if you’re already a professional engineer in the materials sector, you’ll have the chance to expand your expertise to enhance your career prospects.

Core modules cover key topics such as materials structures, processing-structure-property relationships, characterisation and failure analysis. You’ll also choose one from three groups of optional modules to focus your specialism to suit your own career plans and interests. Taught by experts in world-class facilities, you’ll gain the skills to thrive in a growing and fast-changing field.

Specialist facilities

You’ll benefit from the chance to study in cutting-edge facilities where our researchers are pushing the boundaries of materials science and engineering and metallurgy. We have state-of-the-art preparative facilities for making and characterising a wide range of materials, as well as equipment and instrumentation for carrying out more fundamental studies into their process-microstructure-property relationships.

Accreditation

The course is designed to provide graduates with the educational base required for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status. Accreditation is currently being sought from IoM3

Course content

Compulsory modules at the beginning of the programme lay the foundations of your studies in materials science or metallurgy. You’ll learn about processing-structure-property relationships, which lie at the heart of the discipline, as well as examining topics such as mechanical, physical and chemical behaviour, phase transformations and how the structure and local chemistry of materials may be characterised. You’ll cover materials and process selection and their role in design, and extend this into the principles and practice of failure analysis.

This prepares the way for three sets of specialist modules: you can decide to specialise in metallurgy, functional and nanomaterials or take a broader materials science approach covering metals, ceramics, polymers, composites and biomaterials. You’ll complete your taught modules either by studying a module in materials modelling (if you already hold an accredited Engineering degree) or participating in an industry-focused interdisciplinary design project.

You will complete your programme with a major individual research project of your own. With guidance from your supervisor, you will work on a topic related to the internationally-leading materials and metallurgical research carried out in the University, or you could propose a topic of your own related to your own professional work or that of an industrial sponsor.

Want to find out more about your modules?

Take a look at the Materials Science and Engineering module descriptions for more detail on what you will study.

Course structure

Compulsory modules

• Research Project (MSc) 60 credits
• Phase Transformations and Microstructural Control 15 credits
• Structure-Property Relationships 15 credits
• Materials Selection and Failure Analysis 15 credits
• Materials Structures and Characterisation 15 credits

Optional modules

• Team Design Project 15 credits
• Biomaterials and Applications 15 credits
• Materials Modelling 15 credits
• Materials for Functional Applications 30 credits
• Metals and Alloys 15 credits
• Ceramics, Polymers and Composites 15 credits
• Nanomaterials 15 credits
• Process Metallurgy 15 credits
• Extractive Metallurgy 15 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Materials Science and Engineering MSc in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

Our groundbreaking research feeds directly into teaching, and you’ll have regular contact with staff who are at the forefront of the discipline through lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group work and project meetings. Independent study is also important to the programme, as you develop your problem-solving and research skills as well as your subject knowledge.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed using a range of techniques including case studies, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, assignments, vivas and projects.

Projects

The research project is one of the most satisfying elements of this course. It allows you to apply what you’ve learned to a piece of research focusing on a real-world problem, and it can be used to explore and develop your specific interests.

Recent projects by MSc Materials Science and Engineering students have included:

• Hydrothermal synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles
• Temperature variable X-ray diffraction of high temperature piezoelectric material BiFeO3-KBiTiO3-PbTiO3
• Fabrication of glass waveguide devices by femtosecond laser inscription
• Microstructure development in drop-tube processed cast iron
• Validation of cooling rate models of drop-tube processing
• Characterisation of graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) produced by solvent exfoliation of graphite
• Studies of the effect of milling variables in the production of nanoparticles
• Microstructural investigation of spray atomized powders

Career opportunities

There is currently an increasingly high demand for qualified materials scientists, materials engineers and metallurgists.

Career prospects are excellent and cover a wide range of industries concerned with the research and development of new and improved materials, materials synthesis and commercial production, and materials exploitation in cutting-edge applications in engineering and technology.

Careers support

You’ll have access to the wide range of engineering and computing careers resources held by our Employability team in our dedicated Employability Suite. You’ll have the chance to attend industry presentations book appointments with qualified careers consultants and take part in employability workshops. Our annual Engineering and Computing Careers Fairs provide further opportunities to explore your career options with some of the UKs leading employers.

The University's Careers Centre also provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

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The MASt in Materials Science aims to train to Masters level students who already have a bachelors' degree in Materials Science. It is a predominantly taught course in which candidates work alongside the 4th-year students taking the integrated Cambridge BA/MSci Materials Science course. It is designed for students who may wish to pursue a professional career in Materials Science / Materials Engineering or related areas (in academic or industrial research) and who are already familiar with the subject.

The course allows students to continue a broad Materials Science education across a range of topics : the taught element consists of a series of approximately 16 modular lecture courses, covering a broad range of aspects of Materials Science, including Structural Materials, Device Materials, Materials Characterisation, Materials Chemistry and Biological & Pharmaceutical Materials. A research project is undertaken over 6 months, between October and March.

Visit the website: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcmmasmsc

Course detail

Specific aims are:

- to build on the knowledge and ideas gained in prior Materials Science courses;
- to develop a more specialised and in-depth understanding of Materials Science in selected areas;
- to further develop analytical and presentational skills, both orally and in writing;
- to provide training in investigating research problems, including gaining an understanding of relevant research techniques and also of the design and interpretation of experiments.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students should:

- be able to apply the ideas and concepts introduced in the course to solve problems, do calculations, make predictions and critically evaluate information and ideas;
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of the courses attended, and of their individual research projects;
- be able to demonstrate practical, organisational and presentational skills that will enable them to continue successfully with research or in other professional careers;
- be able to demonstrate the necessary skills and understanding required for a career in Materials Science.

Format

There are approximately 16 lecture modules focusing on advanced topics across a broad range of aspects of Materials Science, including Structural Materials, Device Materials, Materials Characterisation, Materials Chemistry and Biological & Pharmaceutical Materials. Details of the modules available this year can be found at: http://www.msm.cam.ac.uk/teaching/partIII.php.

Students may choose which lecture modules they wish to attend, and must prepare a minimum of 10 courses for examination.

Students also undertake a substantial individual research project, chosen from a set of topics proposed by academic staff. Work on this project accounts for about a third of the final credit.

Assessment

- A final report of up to 7000 words, worth 12% of the total credit.
- An interim report worth 4% of the total credit.
- A project viva worth 4% of the total credit.
- A project poster worth 4% of the total credit.
- A project oral presentation worth 4% of the total credit.
- Termly progress assessments from project supervisor worth 2% of the total credit.
- Vacation project written report worth 1% of the total credit.
- Three 3-hr written examination papers worth a total of 68% of the credit.
An oral presentation of a vacation project worth 1% of the total credit.

Continuing

Students wishing to continue to PhD studies will usually be required to obtain at least a 'Commendable' result in the MASt.

How to apply: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying

Funding Opportunities

There are no specific funding opportunities advertised for this course. For information on more general funding opportunities, please follow the link below.

General Funding Opportunities: http://www.2016.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/funding

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Materials are substances or things from which something is or can be made. Technological development is often based on the development of new materials. Materials research plays an important part in solving challenging problems relating to energy, food, water, health and well-being, the environment, sustainable use of resources, and urbanisation.

An expert in materials research studies the chemical and physical bases of existing and new materials; their synthesis and processing, composition and structure, properties and performance. As an expert in materials research, your skills will be needed in research institutions, the technology industry (electronics and electrotechnical industry, information technology, mechanical engineering, metal industry, consulting), chemical industry, forest industry, energy industry, medical technology and pharmaceuticals.

This programme combines expertise from the areas of chemistry, physics and materials research at the University of Helsinki, which are ranked high in international evaluations. In the programme, you will focus on the fundamental physical and chemical problems in synthesising and characterising materials, developing new materials and improving existing ones. Your studies will concentrate on materials science rather than materials engineering.

Upon graduating from the programme you will have a solid understanding of the essential concepts, theories, and experimental methods of materials research. You will learn the different types of materials and will be able to apply and adapt theories and experimental methods to new problems in the field and assess critically other scientists’ work. You will also be able to communicate information in your field to both colleagues and laymen.

Depending on the study line you choose you will gain in-depth understanding of:
-The synthesis, processing, structure and properties of inorganic materials.
-Modelling methods in materials research.
-The structure and dynamics of biomolecular systems.
-The synthesis, structure and properties of polymers.
-Applications of materials research in industrial applications.
-The use of methods of physics in medicine.

The University of Helsinki will introduce annual tuition fees to foreign-language Master’s programmes starting on August 1, 2017 or later. The fee ranges from 13 000-18 000 euros. Citizens of non-EU/EEA countries, who do not have a permanent residence status in the area, are liable to these fees. You can check this FAQ at the Studyinfo website whether or not you are required to pay tuition fees: https://studyinfo.fi/wp2/en/higher-education/higher-education-institutions-will-introduce-tuition-fees-in-autumn-2017/am-i-required-to-pay-tuition-fees/

Programme Contents

In the programme, all teaching is based on the teachers’ solid expertise in the fundamental chemistry and physics of materials. All teachers also use their own current research in the field in their teaching.

Your studies will include a variety of teaching methods such as lectures, exercises, laboratory work, projects and summer schools.

In addition to your major subject, you can include studies in minor subjects from other programmes in chemistry, physics and computer science.

Selection of the Major

At the beginning of your studies you will make a personal study plan, with the help of teaching staff, where you choose your study line. This programme has the following six study lines representing different branches of materials research.

Experimental Materials Physics
Here you will study the properties and processing of a wide variety of materials using experimental methods of physics to characterise and process them. In this programme the materials range from the thin films used in electronics components, future fusion reactor materials, and energy materials to biological and medical materials. The methods are based on different radiation species, mostly X-rays and ion beams.

Computational Materials Physics
In this study line you will use computer simulations to model the structures, properties and processes of materials, both inorganic materials such as metals and semiconductors, and biological materials such as cell membranes and proteins. You will also study various nanostructures. The methods are mostly atomistic ones where information is obtained with atomic level precision. Supercomputers are often needed for the calculations. Modelling research is closely connected with the experimental work related to the other study lines.

Medical Physics
Medical physics is a branch of applied physics encompassing the concepts, principles and methodology of the physical sciences to medicine in clinics. Primarily, medical physics seeks to develop safe and efficient diagnosis and treatment methods for human diseases with the highest quality assurance protocols. In Finland most medical physicists are licensed hospital physicists (PhD or Phil.Lic).

Polymer Materials Chemistry
In this line you will study polymer synthesis and characterisation methods. One of the central questions in polymer chemistry is how the properties of large molecules depend on the chemical structure and on the size and shape of the polymer. The number of applications of synthetic polymers is constantly increasing, due to the development of polymerisation processes as well as to better comprehension of the physical properties of polymers.

Inorganic Materials Chemistry
Thin films form the most important research topic in inorganic materials chemistry. Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) is the most widely studied deposition method. The ALD research covers virtually all areas related to ALD: precursor synthesis and characterisation, film growth and characterisation, reaction mechanism studies, and the first steps of taking the processes toward applications. The emphasis has been on thin film materials needed in future generation integrated circuits, but applications of ALD in energy technologies, optics, surface engineering and biomaterials are also being studied. Other thin film deposition techniques studied include electrodeposition, SILAR (successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction) and sol-gel. Nanostructured materials are prepared either directly (fibres by electrospinning and porous materials by anodisation) or by combining these or other templates with thin film deposition techniques.

Electronics and Industrial Applications
Sound and light are used both to sense and to actuate across a broad spectrum of disciplines employing samples ranging from red hot steel to smooth muscle fibres. Particular interest is in exploiting the link between the structure and mechanics of the samples. The main emphasis is on developing quantitative methods suitable for the needs of industry. To support these goals, research concentrates on several applied physics disciplines, the main areas being ultrasonics, photoacoustics, fibre optics and confocal microscopy.

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This challenging inter-disciplinary programme spans the major classes of engineering materials used in modern high technology manufacturing and industry. The course has considerable variety and offers career opportunities across a wide range of industry sectors, where qualified materials scientists and engineers are highly sought after.

This course is accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), allowing progression towards professional chartered status (CEng) after a period of relevant graduate-level employment.

Core study areas include advanced characterisation techniques, surface engineering, processing and properties of ceramics and metals, design with engineering materials, sustainability and a project.

Optional study areas include plastics processing technology, industrial case studies, materials modelling, adhesive bonding, rubber compounding and processing, and polymer properties.

See the website http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/materials/materials-science-tech/

Programme modules

Full-time Modules:
Core Modules
- Advanced Characterisation Techniques (SL)
- Surface Engineering (SL)
- Ceramics: Processing and Properties (SL)
- Design with Engineering Materials (SL)
- Sustainable Use of Materials (OW)
- Metals: Processing and Properties (SL)
- MSc Project

Optional Modules
- Plastics Processing Technology (OW)
- Industrial Case Studies (OW)
- Materials Modelling (SL)

Part-time Modules:
Core Modules
- Ceramics: Processing and Properties (DL)
- Design with Engineering Materials (DL)
- Sustainable Use of Materials (OW or DL)
- Metals: Processing and Properties (DL)
- Surface Engineering (DL)
- Plastics Processing Technology (OW)
- MSc Project

Optional Modules
- Industrial Case Studies (OW)
- Adhesive Bonding (OW)
- Rubber Compounding and Processing (OW or DL)

Alternative modules:*
- Polymer Properties (DL)
- Advanced Characterisation Techniques (SL)
- Materials Modelling (SL)

Key: SL = Semester-long, OW = One week, DL = Distance-learning
Alternative modules* are only available under certain circumstances by agreement with the Programme Director.

Selection

Interviews may be held on consideration of a prospective student’s application form. Overseas students are often accepted on their grades and strong recommendation from suitable referees.

Course structure, assessment and accreditation

The MSc comprises a combination of semester-long and one week modules for full-time students, whilst part-time students study a mix of one week and distance-learning modules.

MSc students undertake a major project many of which are sponsored by our industrial partners. Part-time student projects are often specified in conjunction with their sponsoring company and undertaken at their place of work.

All modules are 15 credits. The MSc project is 60 credits.

MSc: 180 credits – six core and two optional modules, plus the MSc project.
PG Diploma: 120 credits – six core and two optional modules.
PG Certificate: 60 credits – four core modules.

- Assessment
Modules are assessed by a combination of written examination, set coursework exercises and laboratory reports. The project is assessed by a dissertation, literature review and oral presentation.

- Accreditation
Both MSc programmes are accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), allowing progression towards professional chartered status (CEng) after a period of relevant graduate-level employment.

Careers and further Study

Typical careers span many industrial sectors, including aerospace, power generation, automotive, construction and transport. Possible roles include technical and project management, R&D, technical support to manufacturing as well as sales and marketing.
Many of our best masters students continue their studies with us, joining our thriving community of PhD students engaged in materials projects of real-world significance

Bursaries and Scholarships

Bursaries are available for both UK / EU and international students, and scholarships are available for good overseas applicants.

Why Choose Materials at Loughborough?

The Department has contributed to the advancement and application of knowledge for well over 40 years. With 21 academics and a large support team, we have about 85 full and part-time MSc students, 70 PhD students and 20 research associates.

Our philosophy is based on the engineering application and use of materials which, when processed, are altered in structure and properties.
Our approach includes materials selection and design considerations as well as business and environmental implications.

- Facilities
We are also home to the Loughborough Materials Characterisation Centre – its state of-the-art equipment makes it one of the best suites of its kind in Europe used by academia and our industrial partners.
The Centre supports our research and teaching activities developing understanding of the interactions of structure and properties with processing and product performance.

- Research
Our research activity is organised into 4 main research groups; energy materials, advanced ceramics, surface engineering and advanced polymers. These cover a broad span of research areas working on today’s global challenges, including sustainability, nanomaterials, composites and processing. However, we adopt an interdisciplinary approach to our research and frequently interact with other departments and Research Schools.

- Career prospects
Over 90% of our graduates were in employment and / or further study six months after graduating. Our unrivalled links with industry are
hugely beneficial to our students. We also tailor our courses according to industrial feedback and needs, ensuring our graduates are well prepared

Find out how to apply here http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/materials/materials-science-tech/

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Mission and Goals

This Master of Science programme is taught entirely in English to stimulate the student in acquiring greater familiarity with the terminology used internationally. The objective of the programme is to prepare a professional figure expert in materials and in the design of processes and manufactured goods. Within the scope of the study plan a number of specific specialisations are foreseen:
- Surface Engineering
- Polymer Engineering
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology
- Engineering Applications
- Micromechanical Engineering

See the website http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/materials-engineering-and-nanotechnology/

Career Opportunities

The Master of Science graduate in Materials and Nanotechnology Engineering has the ability to devise and manage innovation in the materials industry; he/she finds employment mainly in companies specialised in producing, processing and design various materials and components, as well as in the area of the development of new applications in the mechanical, chemical, electronics, energy, telecommunications, construction, transport, biomedical, environmental and restoration industries as well as in research and development centres of companies and public bodies.

Presentation

See http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/uploads/media/Materials_Engineering_and_Nanotechnology_04.pdf
The Master of science programme aims at preparing specialists with strong technical skills for innovation of processes and applications of new materials and nanotechnologies. One of the major focuses of the MSc is on sustainable technologies and nanotechnologies for advanced applications. The city of Milan and its surroundings are fertile ground for social and technical culture, with a variety of small enterprises open to innovation and new technologies and working in niche fields, where non-traditional materials are key to future developments. The job market welcomes Material Engineers as professionals capable of handling complex problems directly related to the production, treatment and applications of materials, acknowledging the high level of education obtained at the Politecnico di Milano through original methodologies and new technologies.
The programme is taught in English.

Subjects

- Mathematical methods for materials engineering
- Advanced materials chemistry
- Polymer science and engineering
- Principles of polymer chemistry + Fundamentals of polymer mechanics
- Solid state physics
- Mechanical behavior of materials
- Cementitous and ceramic materials engineering
- Advanced Materials
- Functional materials + nanostructured materials
- Durability of materials
- Failure and control of Materials
- Surface engineering
- Thesis work

See the website http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/materials-engineering-and-nanotechnology/

For contact information see here http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/materials-engineering-and-nanotechnology/

Find out how to apply here http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/how-to-apply/

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With a growing world population, there is increasing need for scientific experts and entrepreneurs who can develop novel materials with advanced properties - addressing critical issues from energy to healthcare - and take scientific discoveries to the commercial world. This degree combines frontline research-based teaching from across UCL to train the next generation of materials scientists.

Degree information

The programme aims to equip students with advanced, comprehensive knowledge of materials science and related state-of-the-art technologies, an understanding of the structure, properties and applications of materials, scientific research skills, and the insight and capability to be an entrepreneur in the field. In addition, students will engage in a literature project and a six-month cutting-edge research project.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), two optional modules (30 credits), a literature project (15 credits) and a research project/dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules
-Advanced Materials Characterisation
-Advanced Materials Processing and Manufacturing
-Materials Design, Selection and Discovery
-Microstructural Control in Materials Science
-Research Methodology

Optional modules
-Students choose one or two optional modules to a total value of 30 credits from the following:
-Advanced Topics in Energy Science and Materials (15 credits)
-Biomaterials Applications (15 credits)
-Mastering Entrepreneurship (15 credits)
-Materials and Fatigue/Fracture Analysis (15 credits)
-Nanoscale Processing and Characterisation for Advanced Devices (15 credits)
-Simulation Methods in Materials Chemistry (30 credits)

Dissertation/report
All students undertake a literature project and a research project an independent research project which culminates in a 20-minute oral presentation and a dissertation of 10,000 to 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning
Teaching is delivered by lectures, interactive tutorials, case discussions, and modelling projects. Assessment is by a combination of ongoing coursework, presentations, a group project and/or a written examination, a dissertation and a viva voce.

Careers

On graduation students will be equipped for a future career as a materials scientist or engineer in academia or industry, or as an entrepreneur.

Employability
In addition to the specific skills and knowledge students acquire by taking this programme, they also develop managerial and entrepreneurship skills, and transferable skills in areas including literature search, design of experiments, materials research, critical data analysis, teamwork and effective communication skills using real-life case scenarios and student-led group projects.

Why study this degree at UCL?

Advanced Materials Science MSc relates scientific theories to research and applications of advanced materials, encourages innovation and creative thinking, and contextualises scientific innovation within the global market and entrepreneurship.

The programme aims to deliver innovative teaching; from the group design projects where students are challenged to design the next advanced material to the module, Mastering Entrepreneurship, where students learn how to apply research in the commercial world.

Students on this interdisciplinary programme benefit from UCL’s emphasis on research-based learning and teaching and research input from departments across UCL in mathematical and physical sciences, and in engineering.

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About the course

Home to the world-leading research centre, NucleUS Immobilsation Science Laboratory, the Department is recognised as a centre of excellence for the study of waste immobilisation and the development of new materials for future reactors.

You’ll be taught by staff with international reputations in their field, giving you an excellent grounding in materials science which can be applied to nuclear science and engineering, and across the whole nuclear fuel cycle.

A welcoming department

A friendly, forward-thinking community, our students and staff are on hand to welcome you to the department and ensure you settle into student life.

Your project supervisor will support you throughout your course. Plus you’ll have access to our extensive network of alumni, offering industry insight and valuable career advice to support your own career pathway.

Your career

Prospective employers recognise the value of our courses, and know that our students can apply their knowledge to industry. Our graduates work for organisations including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, the National Nuclear Laboratory and Saint-Gobain. Roles include materials development engineer, reactor engineer and research manager. They also work in academia in the UK and abroad.

90 per cent of our graduates are employed or in further study 6 months after graduating, with an average starting salary of £27,000, the highest being £50,000.

Equipment and facilities

We have invested in extensive, world-class equipment and facilities to provide a stimulating learning environment. Our laboratories are equipped to a high standard, with specialist facilities for each area of research.

Materials processing

Tools and production facilities for materials processing, fabrication and testing, including wet chemical processing for ceramics and polymers, rapid solidification and water atomisation for nanoscale metallic materials, and extensive facilities for deposition of functional and structural coatings.

Radioactive nuclear waste and disposal

Our £3million advanced nuclear materials research facility provides a high-quality environment for research on radioactive waste and disposal. Our unique thermomechanical compression and arbitrary strain path equipment is used for simulation of hot deformation.

Characterisation

You’ll have access to newly refurbished array of microscopy and analysis equipment, x-ray facilities, and surface analysis techniques covering state-of-the-art XPS and SIMS. There are also laboratories for cell and tissue culture, and facilities for measuring electrical, magnetic and mechanical properties.

The Kroto Research Institute and the Nanoscience and Technology Centre enhance our capabilities in materials fabrication and characterisation, and we have a computer cluster for modelling from the atomistic through nano and mesoscopic to the macroscopic.

Stimulating learning environment

An interdisciplinary research-led department; our network of world leading academics at the cutting edge of their research inform our courses providing a stimulating, dynamic environment in which to study.

Teaching and assessment

Working alongside students and staff from across the globe, you’ll tackle real-world projects, and attend lectures, seminars and laboratory classes delivered by academic and industry experts.

You’ll be assessed by formal examinations, coursework assignments and a dissertation.

Core modules

Nuclear Reactor Engineering Studies; Nuclear Fuel Cycle; Nuclear Waste Immobilisation and Disposal; Materials for Nuclear Systems; Science of Materials; Materials Processing and Characterisation; Materials Selection, Properties and Applications; Technical Skills Development; Research project in the area of your choice.

Examples of optional modules

Glasses and Cements; Advanced Materials Manufacturing – Part 1.

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About the course

The course is designed to equip students with the know-how and skills for becoming an expert in materials science with nanotechnology specialisation.

You will experience the unique combination of a foundation semester in the general area of science and engineering of materials, followed by a nanoscience and nanotechnology specific semester to result in an unrivalled comprehensive nanomaterials expertise.

The course content reflects the highly interdisciplinary nature of this subject and allows students to specialise via options, 
and a major project.

A welcoming department

A friendly, forward-thinking community, our students and staff are on hand to welcome you to the department and ensure you settle into student life.

Your project supervisor will support you throughout your course. Plus you’ll have access to our extensive network of alumni, offering industry insight and valuable career advice to support your own career pathway.

Your career

Prospective employers recognise the value of our courses, and know that our students can apply their knowledge to industry. Our graduates work for organisations including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, the National Nuclear Laboratory and Saint-Gobain. Roles include materials development engineer, reactor engineer and research manager. They also work in academia in the UK and abroad.

90 per cent of our graduates are employed or in further study 6 months after graduating, with an average starting salary of £27,000, the highest being £50,000.

Equipment and facilities

We have invested in extensive, world-class equipment and facilities to provide a stimulating learning environment. Our laboratories are equipped to a high standard, with specialist facilities for each area of research.

Materials processing

Tools and production facilities for materials processing, fabrication and testing, including wet chemical processing for ceramics and polymers, rapid solidification and water atomisation for nanoscale metallic materials, and extensive facilities for deposition of functional and structural coatings.

Radioactive nuclear waste and disposal

Our £3million advanced nuclear materials research facility provides a high-quality environment for research on radioactive waste and disposal. Our unique thermomechanical compression and arbitrary strain path equipment is used for simulation of hot deformation.

Characterisation

You’ll have access to newly refurbished array of microscopy and analysis equipment, x-ray facilities, and surface analysis techniques covering state-of-the-art XPS and SIMS. There are also laboratories for cell and tissue culture, and facilities for measuring electrical, magnetic and mechanical properties.

The Kroto Research Institute and the Nanoscience and Technology Centre enhance our capabilities in materials fabrication and characterisation, and we have a computer cluster for modelling from the atomistic through nano and mesoscopic to the macroscopic.

Stimulating learning environment

An interdisciplinary research-led department; our network of world leading academics at the cutting edge of their research inform our courses providing a stimulating, dynamic environment in which to study.

Teaching and assessment

Working alongside students and staff from across the globe, you’ll tackle real-world projects, and attend lectures, seminars and laboratory classes delivered by academic and industry experts.

You’ll be assessed by formal examinations, coursework assignments and a dissertation.

Core modules

Bionanomaterials; Nanoscale Magnetic Materials and Devices; Nanostructures and Nanostructuring; Nanomaterials; Science of Materials; Materials Processing and Characterisation; Materials Selection, Properties and Applications; Technical Skills Development

Examples of optional modules

Heat and Materials; Bio-photonics and Bio-imaging

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About the course

It is estimated 70 per cent of innovations are due to an advance in materials. This course provides a solid grounding in all types of man-made materials, and aims to prepare you for a career in industry by teaching you the concepts and theories that make materials science and engineering possible.

Our research-led teaching introduces you to all the latest developments, and you’ll have the option to specialise in the area that interests you the most.

A welcoming department

A friendly, forward-thinking community, our students and staff are on hand to welcome you to the department and ensure you settle into student life.

Your project supervisor will support you throughout your course. Plus you’ll have access to our extensive network of alumni, offering industry insight and valuable career advice to support your own career pathway.

Your career

Prospective employers recognise the value of our courses, and know that our students can apply their knowledge to industry. Our graduates work for organisations including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, the National Nuclear Laboratory and Saint-Gobain. Roles include materials development engineer, reactor engineer and research manager. They also work in academia in the UK and abroad.

90 per cent of our graduates are employed or in further study 6 months after graduating, with an average starting salary of £27,000, the highest being £50,000.

Equipment and facilities

We have invested in extensive, world-class equipment and facilities to provide a stimulating learning environment. Our laboratories are equipped to a high standard, with specialist facilities for each area of research.

Materials processing

Tools and production facilities for materials processing, fabrication and testing, including wet chemical processing for ceramics and polymers, rapid solidification and water atomisation for nanoscale metallic materials, and extensive facilities for deposition of functional and structural coatings.

Radioactive nuclear waste and disposal

Our £3million advanced nuclear materials research facility provides a high-quality environment for research on radioactive waste and disposal. Our unique thermomechanical compression and arbitrary strain path equipment is used for simulation of hot deformation.

Characterisation

You’ll have access to newly refurbished array of microscopy and analysis equipment, x-ray facilities, and surface analysis techniques covering state-of-the-art XPS and SIMS. There are also laboratories for cell and tissue culture, and facilities for measuring electrical, magnetic and mechanical properties.

The Kroto Research Institute and the Nanoscience and Technology Centre enhance our capabilities in materials fabrication and characterisation, and we have a computer cluster for modelling from the atomistic through nano and mesoscopic to the macroscopic.

Stimulating learning environment

An interdisciplinary research-led department; our network of world leading academics at the cutting edge of their research inform our courses providing a stimulating, dynamic environment in which to study.

Teaching and assessment

Working alongside students and staff from across the globe, you’ll tackle real-world projects, and attend lectures, seminars and laboratory classes delivered by academic and industry experts.

You’ll be assessed by formal examinations, coursework assignments and a dissertation.

Core modules

Science of Materials; Materials Processing and Characterisation; Materials Selection, Properties and Applications; Technical Skills Development; Heat and Materials; Research project in an area of your choice.

Examples of optional modules

Functional and Structural Ceramics; Design and Manufacture of Composites; Materials 
for Energy Applications; Metals Processing Case Studies; Glasses and Cements; Metallurgical Processing; Nanostructures 
and Nanostructuring.

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About the programme

The programme is co-organised by Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), offering students the possibility to obtain a double master's degree at the end of the programme. The first year of courses is taught at the ULB Engineering Campus in Brussels, while the second year is taught at VUB.

The Master of Chemical and Materials Engineering educates students to become innovative engineers who will contribute to their profession and to society. Engineers in chemistry and materials play a unique role in sustainable development, where they must manage resources, energy and the environment in order to develop and produce novel materials and chemical commodities. Our graduates are prepared to face the demands of the modern technological employment field and for an international career with English as their professional language.

Course content

The Master in Chemical and Material Engineering (120 ECTS) offers a solid core of courses in both of these engineering fields. The integrated and the multidisciplinary approach provides students up-to-date knowledge enabling them to propose innovative engineering solutions in numerous modern technological sectors. Students have the possibility to specialize in Process technology or Material Science.

The Master of Chemical and Materials Engineering program consists of two profiles: Process Technology and Materials.

Profile: Process Technology:
The Process Technology orientation trains students to become engineers who are employable and innovative both in production units (operation and optimization of production facilities) and in engineering groups (develop new production units that meet desired performance specifications). An emphasis is placed on the biotechnology and food industries. Students are also trained to identify, solve and avoid environmental problems including waste management, water, air and soil pollution.

Profile: Materials:
The Materials orientation prepares students for the materials and materials technology sectors (metals, polymers, ceramics and composites). Students are trained to become creative engineers capable of designing sustainable multi-functional materials which meet specific applications. Students also have the capacity to contribute to the whole life-cycle of materials from their processing into semi or full end products using environmentally friendly and safe production processes to their recycling.

Become a skilled scientific engineer

This Master offers:
- a unique interdisciplinary programme which prepares you for employment in a professional field related to chemical engineering, materials or environmental technology.
- a high level scientific education that prepares you to a wide range of job profiles.
- the possibility to work in close contact with professors who are internationally recognized in their own disciplines and favor interactive learning.

Curriculum

http://www.vub.ac.be/en/study/chemical-and-materials-engineering/programme

The programme is built up modularly:
1) the Common Core Chemical and Materials Engineering (56 ECTS)
2) the Specific Profile Courses (30 ECTS)
3) the master thesis (24 ECTS)
4) electives (10 ECTS) from 1 out of 3 options.
Each of the modules should be succesfully completed to obtain the master degree. The student must respect the specified registration requirements. The educational board strongly suggests the student to follow the standard learning track. Only this model track can guarantee a timeschedule without overlaps of the compulsory course units.

Common Core Chemical and Materials Engineering:
The Common Core Chemical and Materials Engineering (56 ECTS) is spread over 2 years: 46 ECTS in the first and 10 ECTS in the second year. The Common Core emphasizes the interaction between process- and materials technology by a chemical (molecular) approach. The Common Core consists out of courses related to chemistry, process technology and materials and is the basis for the Process Technology and the Materials profiles.

Specific Courses Profile Materials:
The profile 'Materials' (30 ECTS) consists out of 2 parts, spread over the 1st and the 2nd year of the model learning track: Materials I - 14 ECTS in MA1 and Materials II - 16 ECTS in MA2. The profile adds material-technological courses to the common core.

Specific Courses Profile Process Technology:
The profile 'Process Technology' (30 ECTS) consists out of 2 parts, spread over the 1st and the 2nd year of the model learning track: Process Technology I - 14 ECTS in MA1 and Process Technology II - 16 ECTS in MA2. The profile adds process technological courses to the common core.

Elective Courses:
The elective courses are divided into 3 options:
- Option 1: Internship (10 ECTS)
- Option 2: Elective courses (incl. internship of 6 ECTS)
- Option 3: Entrepreneurship
The student has to select one option and at least 10 ECTS within that option. All options belong to the 2nd year of the model learning track.

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About the course

This non-clinical course is run jointly with the Faculty of Engineering. It gives you a comprehensive education in basic materials science and the use of materials in dentistry and surgery.

You’ll be taught by some of the leading academics in the fields of bio and dental materials science, tissue engineering, materials characterisation and biomedical engineering. You’ll also learn the principles of research and different techniques for evaluating dental materials and related health technologies.

Your career

We offer clinical and non-clinical courses that will further your career and develop your interests. Many of our clinical graduates go on to specialist dental practice, hospital practice or academic posts.

World-leading dental school

Our internationally recognised oral and dental research is organised into two overarching themes: ‘clinical and person centred’ and ‘basic and applied’. These themes are supported by three interdisciplinary research groups: Bioengineering and Health Technologies, Integrated Bioscience, and Person Centred and Population Oral Health.

We believe that dental science should not be constrained by the traditional boundaries created by specific clinical disciplines and that progress derives from a multidisciplinary approach. Our research supports our teaching enabling a blended approach to learning.
Your course will make the most of virtual learning environments and advanced practical sessions, as well as traditional lectures and seminars.

Facilities

You’ll develop your clinical skills in one of our two clinical skills labs or in our new virtual reality Simulation Suite where you can use haptic technology to undertake a range of clinical techniques.

You’ll complete your clinical training in Sheffield’s Charles Clifford Dental Hospital, part of the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. There are 150 dental units with modern facilities for treatment under sedation, a well-equipped dental radiography department, oral pathology laboratories and a hospital dental production laboratory.

We have new modern research facilities and laboratories for tissue culture, molecular biology, materials science and histology- microscopy. All laboratories have dedicated technical support and academic expertise to guide you.

Core modules

Current Concepts in Dentistry; Dental Materials Science; Selecting Dental Materials for Clinical Applications; Science Writing and Health Informatics; Polymer Materials Chemistry; Structural and Physical Properties of Dental and Biomaterials; Group Projects and Developing Research; Introduction to Digital Dentistry and Dental Manufacturing; Dissertation.

Teaching

Teaching is through lectures, seminars and tutorials, personal academic study and self-directed learning, research project.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed on assignments, coursework, examination and research project dissertation.

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Materials underpin almost all industrial sectors and the global challenges have increased the demand for new materials. Accordingly, there is a growing demand for materials engineers and researchers worldwide and in rapidly developing countries in particular. The School of Metallurgy and Materials has long been a centre of excellence in materials research and education.

This one-year master course comprises 12 taught modules (two-thirds of the year) taken in Semesters I and II and an individual research project (one-third of the year) carried out in Semester III & summer. In addition to technical modules, the course also provides training for transferable skills such as the Team Skills Development module undertaken in a residential environment to facilitate the development of the team ethos and interpersonal skills.

Research projects can be carried out in a broad range of topics related to Materials Science and Engineering in any of the Research Groups within the School of Metallurgy and Materials or in industry. The project involves full-time research for one third of the academic year. The project report (which should be a maximum of 8,000 words in length) will be internally assessed by two academic staff.

About the School of Metallurgy & Materials Engineering

The School of Metallurgy and Materials ranked in the top quartile in the UK for world-leading research in the Research Excellence Framework (REF). Overall 86% of the research in the School was recognised as internationally excellent of which 31% was given the higher accolade of being world-leading.
We are considered to be the leading school for many areas of metallurgical research. Our numerous interactions with industry span agreements lasting between three months and twelve years.
We are proud to encompass a wide range of interests in the processing, characterisation, assessment and modelling of materials, including:
- Alloy Processing
- Characterisation and Modelling
- Engineering Properties of Materials
- Functional Materials Processing

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance your postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. To see what funding and scholarships are available, please visit: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Open Days

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at our on-campus open days.
Register to attend at: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/visit

Virtual Open Days

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: http://www.pg.bham.ac.uk

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The material sciences form the foundations that allow technological innovation and the development of pioneering technologies. In the interdisciplinary, NAWI Graz degree programme Advanced Materials Science, offered in the English language, you gain an understanding of materials and their properties. You learn the physical and chemical fundamentals as well as the engineering skills needed to develop new materials. As a trained material scientist, you are able to tackle a wide variety of complex tasks in industry and research.

Content

• You will learn about the production, processing, characterization, modeling and application of materials in an interdisciplinary way.
• You will learn how to apply complex scientific methods used in the fields of physics, chemistry and materials science.
• You may choose one of the following areas of specialization:
• Metallic and ceramic materials
• Semiconductor process technology and nanotechnology
• Bio-based materials
• You learn to work together in project teams in an interdisciplinary and problem-solving oriented way.
• You document and present your results and strategies using state-of-the-art communication and presentation techniques.

Barbara Glanzer, master's degree student in Advanced Materials Science:

"What I particularly like about my degree programme is that it offers the opportunity to acquire both a theoretical understanding of the characteristics of materials, as well as of their practical applications."

Career Options

Graduates work nationally and internationally in:

• industrial research and development, for example, in the materials, chemical, and semiconductor industries,
• high-tech areas such as sustainable technologies, process innovation, and information technology, and
• research and teaching facilities at universities and other research institutions.

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Metallurgy and Materials and the IRC in Materials Processing together make up the largest centre for materials research in the UK. Our Research School comprises more than 20 full-time academic staff in addition to 30 honorary and visiting staff, 30 research fellows and close to 150 postgraduate students.

Our diverse research portfolio ranges from fundamental aspects of materials science to practical high performance engineering applications. Research is funded from a wide range of sources including the UK research councils, the EU and a cross-section of UK and overseas industry. Our research income is around ?4 million per annum.

Most of our research projects involve active collaboration with industrial partners.

This EPSRC-sponsored programme can be taken on a full- or part-time basis. The programme comprises a major research project, which can be based in the University or in industry, and six taught modules, four compulsory and two optional.

We recommend that you start the course at the beginning of the academic year. However, if your background is in Materials Science, then you may start at any time of the year.

About the School of Metallurgy & Materials Engineering

The School of Metallurgy and Materials ranked in the top quartile in the UK for world-leading research in the Research Excellence Framework (REF). Overall 86% of the research in the School was recognised as internationally excellent of which 31% was given the higher accolade of being world-leading.
We are considered to be the leading school for many areas of metallurgical research. Our numerous interactions with industry span agreements lasting between three months and twelve years.
We are proud to encompass a wide range of interests in the processing, characterisation, assessment and modelling of materials, including:
- Alloy Processing
- Characterisation and Modelling
- Engineering Properties of Materials
- Functional Materials Processing

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance your postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. To see what funding and scholarships are available, please visit: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Open Days

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at our on-campus open days.
Register to attend at: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/visit

Virtual Open Days

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: http://www.pg.bham.ac.uk

Read less