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 tailor your modules in later years plus you'll have the option of taking an industry placement year and a year abroad.

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, 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.

Accreditation

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?

• 1st in the UK for teaching on my course, learning opportunities, and academic support and student voice - We're ranked number one for teaching on my course, learning opportunities and academic support in materials science, and for student voice in materials technology (National Student Survey 2025).

• 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 - The Diamond materials lab equips you with a full range of materials processing, characterisation and mechanical testing. You will also have the opportunity to create your own bespoke testing during the Artefacts project.

• 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).