Materials Science and Engineering

In our core undergraduate degree, you'll discover the underlying principles of materials science, and how these are applied across materials engineering situations. You can keep your course general or tailor your degree in later years with optional materials modules.

Shape the future of engineering by mastering the science of materials, solving real-world challenges, and driving innovation in industries that matter.

On this course, you’ll explore how materials science underpins the innovations driving modern engineering. Designed with your future in mind, the course links theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to equip you for success in dynamic industries like aerospace, energy, and advanced manufacturing.

From day one, you’ll focus on real-world applications. In the first two years, you’ll build a strong foundation in materials properties, sustainability, and engineering processes. Group projects will challenge you to solve practical engineering problems while developing essential skills like project management, communication, and technical problem-solving, qualities highly valued by employers.

Sustainability is a core theme, integrated into every module. You’ll explore how materials science contributes to a greener world by reducing resource dependency, advancing energy efficient processes, and supporting renewable technologies. Topics like the Materials Lifecycle, energy materials, and nuclear technologies will allow you to explore cutting-edge solutions aligned with global sustainability goals.

In your final year you'll have the opportunity to choose the specialist modules that interest you, from metallurgy to functional materials, composites, biomaterials, nuclear materials and everything in between. Your independent research project will be a chance to showcase your technical skills and push the boundaries of engineering innovation.

You’ll learn from world-leading researchers and have access to cutting-edge facilities, preparing you to meet the engineering challenges of the 21st century. This course equips you with practical skills and knowledge valued by employers, preparing you for diverse roles across a wide range of sectors.

This course is fully accredited by the The Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3), meaning it counts towards later professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Why study this course?

• Artefacts and Individual final year projects: Bridging theory and practice, your artefacts project empowers you to explore the use of different materials in commercial products. All students will carry out an open-ended individual final year project where you can explore research level material.

• Links with industry and practical training: Our Industrial Advisory Board provides a link between your studies and the professional world, ensuring we teach you the skills in demand from industry. For example, you’ll be using industry standard equipment – making, testing and characterising different materials in our bespoke labs.

• Specialist teaching facilities: 'Learning by doing' is the reason The Diamond was built. Dedicated to engineering, you’ll apply the theory you learn in lectures and during lab classes – consolidating your understanding alongside students from other disciplines, and beyond the bounds of the curriculum.

• Materials engineers for a sustainable future: Sustainability is a core theme within materials science and engineering, as we look to develop materials and manufacturing methods which ensure the long-term viability of the planet and its resources (UN Sustainable Development Goals 9 and 12).