MEng Materials Science and Engineering with Polymers

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
MEng Honours
Duration
4 years
Typical A-level offer

AAA including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Typical contextual A-level offer

AAB including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Find out more about contextual admissions.
Refugee/care-experienced offer

Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer two grades below the standard requirements.

Find out more about contextual admissions.
Typical International Baccalaureate offer

36 points overall with 6,6,6 at Higher Level, including two subjects from Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.

We will accept Mathematics: analysis and approaches only at HL as one of the HL subject specific requirements.

Full entry requirements

Number of places/applicants
450 applications for 85 places across all first year courses. 
How to apply
Apply through UCAS .
Sustainable Development Goals

Find out how this course aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including learning which relates to:

  • Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
  • Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
  • Goal 15: Life on land

Course overview

  • Be a part of Europe's largest and most diverse activity devoted to Materials Science and Engineering.
  • Join a community at the forefront of exciting advanced materials research, including nanomaterials such as graphene.
  • Learn about the huge range of applications of polymers, from traditional commodity plastics to specialist polymers used increasingly in pharmaceutical, electronic, and nanotechnology sectors.
  • Take advantage of our Faculty's generous scholarship scheme for high-performing students.
  • Learn in our brand-new Home of Engineering and Materials . A purpose-built space for innovation and creativity that is transforming the way our students study, research and shape the world.
  • Top 5 in the UK for Materials Science in QS World University Ranking.

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Gabriele tells us about why she chose to study Materials Science and Engineering at Manchester

Open days

The University holds undergraduate open days regularly where you have the opportunity to find out more about our courses, the support we offer and see our facilities. Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying at Manchester is like. Find out about our  upcoming open days .

You can also have a look at ways you can visit us virtually to discover more.

Fees

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £36,500 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships and bursaries please see our undergraduate fees pages and check the Department's funding pages .

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our courses address.

  • Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

    Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

  • Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

    Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

  • Goal 15: Life on land

    Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

Contact details

Department
Department of Materials
Contact name
Undergraduate Admissions Team
Telephone
+44 (0)161 529 3043
Email
Website
https://www.materials.manchester.ac.uk
School/Faculty overview

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Compare this course

Entry requirements

A-level

AAA including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

If you do not have the required grades or subjects you may want to consider our integrated foundation year.  

Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and therefore there will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any science A-level taken. Where applicants are applying for science and related degrees, this is likely to be made explicit in the offers you will receive.

Contextual offer

AAB including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Duration of A-level study

Your application will be considered against the standard selection process of your chosen course if you either:

a) sat your examinations early;

or

b) followed an accelerated curriculum and spent three years studying A-levels where the examinations were taken over two years.

If you are studying an advanced curriculum where the examinations are spread over three years, consideration for an offer will be at the discretion of the admissions tutor for that subject.

AS-level

AS-level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.

Unit grade information

The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of your offer conditions.

GCSE

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of literacy and numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade C/4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science.

GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.

International Baccalaureate

36 points overall with 6,6,6 at Higher Level, including two subjects from Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.

We will accept Mathematics: analysis and approaches only at HL as one of the HL subject specific requirements.

Other international entry requirements

We accept a range of qualifications from different countries. For these and general requirements including English language see Accepted entry qualifications from your country .

Scottish requirements

We normally require grades AAABB in Scottish Highers. In addition Scottish Advanced Highers are normally required as below:

Two Advanced Highers in two subjects from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry at AA plus two Highers at AA (any subjects)

English Language and Mathematics not taken at Higher/Advanced Higher must have been achieved at SCQF level 5 (minimum National 5 grade C / Intermediate 2 grade C / Standard Grade Credit level grade 3).

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact us.

Welsh Baccalaureate

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and usually requires two A-levels or equivalent to be included within this.

The minimum grade required will normally be the same as the lowest grade listed in the A-level entry requirements.

European Baccalaureate

Typically, we require an average of 82% including 82% in at least 3 academic subjects including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry and assessed by a final written examination.

AQA Baccalaureate

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

In making offers, the University will focus on the three A-levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. The A-level requirements for the Department of Materials are AAA including two subjects from: Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics. 

The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

Foundation year

The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme:

Applicants completing the INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester international foundation programme are required to achieve AAA (to include two subjects from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry) and an EAP score of Grade C (with nothing below a D)

INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester students are required to attend an interview.

Applicants completing the NCUK International Foundation year are required to achieve AAA (to include two subjects from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry) and an EAP score of Grade C (with nothing below a D) .

Applicants studying other Foundation programmes should contact the academic School to check if their qualification is recognised for entry to this programme and for specific entry requirements.

Pearson BTEC qualifications

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma   

We will consider the National Extended Diploma for entry to our programme, provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course and the modules taken cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Diploma with grades DDD.  

If you are not taking a stand-alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma  

We will consider the National Diploma for entry to our programme, provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course and the modules taken cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Diploma with grades DD plus an additional level 3 qualification such as an A-level at grade A.   

If you are not taking a stand-alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma  

We will only consider the National Foundation Diploma in conjunction with A-levels. The combination of A-levels and the National Extended Certificate must cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Foundation Diploma with grade D plus an additional level 3 qualification such as A-levels at grade AA. 

The two A-level subjects must include two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. 

If you are not taking a stand-alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate  

We will only consider the National Extended Certificate in conjunction with A-levels. The combination of A-levels and the National Extended Certificate must cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Certificate with grade D plus an additional level 3 qualification such as A-levels at grade AA.   

The two A-level subjects must include two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. 

If you are not taking a stand-alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact us.  

OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma     

We will consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry to our programme provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course and the modules taken cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Diploma with grades DDD.  

If you are not taking a stand alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required. 

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma    

We will consider the Technical Diploma for entry to our programme provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course and the modules taken cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma with grades DD plus an additional level 3 qualification such as an A-level at grade A.   

If you are not taking a stand alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required. 

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma  

We will only consider the Technical Foundation Diploma in conjunction with A-levels. The combination of A-levels and the Technical Foundation Diploma must cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma with at least grades MM plus an additional level 3 qualification such as A-levels at grades AA.  

The two A-level subjects must include two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. 

If you are not taking a stand alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required. 

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate    

We will only consider the Technical Extended Certificate in conjunction with A-levels. The combination of A-levels and the Technical Extended Certificate must cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science. 

Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate with grade D plus an additional level 3 qualification such as A-levels at grade AA.   

The two A-level subjects must include two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. 

If you are not taking a stand alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required. 

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact us.

Access to HE Diploma

Each application is considered individually. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.

We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3), with merit or distinction in a subject area relevant to the chosen course.

The specific course requirements are normally: Access to HE Diploma in Science or Engineering - Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits awarded at Level 3, 40 credits must be awarded at Distinction and 15 at Merit in an academic subject. This must include modules on Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry at Level 3. If you are not taking a stand-alone qualification in Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics is required.

Cambridge Pre-U

D3, D3, D3 in Principal subjects to include two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry.

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A-level subjects, in three distinct subjects.

Candidates taking Pre-U principal subjects in conjunction with A levels are expected to achieve a combination of D3 in the Pre-U certificates and grade A at A-level in three distinct subjects. This must include two subjects from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry.

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Cambridge Pre-U Global Perspectives and Research (GPR) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. However, the qualification will not form part of your offer conditions.

T Level

We do not accept T Levels as entry onto this course. The University does accept specific T Level qualifications on a number of courses please review to our T Level information page for a full list.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement and at interview. We may also choose to take your performance in the EPQ into account should places be available in August for applicants who narrowly miss the entry grades for their chosen course.

Core Maths

Core Mathematics will not be accepted in lieu of an A level in Mathematics

Home-schooled applicants

If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education.

Please refer to UCAS for further information: UCAS reference guidelines. If you are a home schooled student and would like further information please contact us.

Non-standard educational routes

Mature applicants who are returning to studies after a break from formal education will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the Department of Materials directly. Find out further information for mature students .

English language

All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either: 

  • GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade C/4, or;  
  • IELTS 6 with no sub-skill less than 5.5 , or;  
  • An acceptable equivalent qualification

Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above.  

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'. 

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Application and selection

How to apply

Apply through UCAS .

Advice to applicants

Factors contributing to a successful application include: 

  • past academic performance; 
  • predicted academic performance; 
  • enthusiasm for, and realistic grasp of, chosen degree programme; 
  • evidence of interpersonal skills and non-academic interests/achievements. 

Further guidance on how to apply can be found on our How to Apply webpage .  

Where you have mitigating circumstances these should be reported to your education provider and relevant exam board, we cannot make further allowances. 

We would normally expect recent relevant study. Please contact the Admissions Office to discuss your particular circumstances if this is not the case. 

If you have applied for one of our MEng courses and do not meet the grades we may consider you for our BSc course.  

If you are taking 4 A-levels together at a first sitting and/or taking a relevant EPQ this may also be taken into consideration when making confirmation decisions. 

How your application is considered

Applications are considered on the basis of the UCAS form. Candidates may be interviewed online or in person. Strong examination results and interview performance are the main factor in admitting students to our courses. We consider other information to ensure we admit students with the most outstanding potential. This is assessed within a structured framework and includes prior and predicted grades. Your referee should give realistic grade predictions for all qualifications that you are currently studying at the top of their reference. If you attend a non-UK school or college that does not provide predicted grades your referee should explain this policy within their reference.

All applicants should be aware that information provided in the personal statement may be used as the basis for further discussion during your interview with an academic member of staff.

Further information and advice on writing your personal statement and the UCAS application process can be found on the UCAS website .

Interview requirements

All students who apply to us through UCAS, and who live on the UK mainland and meet our application criteria, are invited to a Virtual Interview Day where an interview will be held as part of the application process. These are held from November through to March and will include a presentation by the Admissions Tutor and a Q&A session with current staff and students. The interview will be informal and no specific preparation needs to be done for it.  There will be opportunities for offer holders to visit campus. 

Deferrals

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation.

Deferred entry is granted on the discretion of admissions staff, and is normally granted for one year only and two years at the maximum in exceptional circumstances. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

We normally also guarantee a place in the current year should the applicant's gap year plans change, subject to availability of places.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

If you have re-sat individual modules to improve your grades, we will consider your application according to the standard selection process. If you are planning to re-sit the final Year 13 examinations, or have already done so, the University will consider your application, but we may require further information in order to make an informed judgment on your application.

Policy for applicants who take their examinations in more than one sitting

We are happy to consider applicants who are taking their examinations in more than one sitting, provided they are taken over the standard two-year period.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course. If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through Clearing you are required to meet the Clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

Course details

Course description

Begin your journey into Materials Science and Engineering at Manchester, with a degree in Materials Science and Engineering with Polymers. Material scientists are shaping our world and in the Department of Materials you will develop a true understanding of the science - in practical subjects that meet the needs of an ever-changing industry.

Manchester is home to the most diverse university activity devoted to materials research in Europe, with this four-year degree, aimed at students who wish to become specialists in a huge range of applications which use polymeric materials. 

Our four-year MSc course gives you extensive knowledge of both the fundamentals of materials science and engineering, and the opportunity to specialise in the in the areas that interest you most. In your final year, you'll study an extensive (half year) project that enables you to tackle a topic at the forefront of Materials Science in depth. 

You'll be taught by leading academics in their field - we are proud of the Department of Materials' excellent Research ratings, and our high staff-to-student ratio means you will receive close individual attention and frequent tutorial sessions. Known for our congenial atmosphere, we place emphasis on academic and pastoral support, helping students from a range of educational backgrounds to reach their full potential. 

What's more, our students typically go on to enjoy an average six-months-after-graduating salary in excess of £24,000 - significantly higher than the sector average.

Aims

  • Provide a broad and balanced curriculum in Materials Science, meeting the requirements for accreditation with the professional body, in order to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to pursue successful careers in both industrial and research environments.
  • Provide a teaching environment in which undergraduate students can interact with academic staff at the forefront of research in Materials Science and Engineering, through advanced course units and project work.
  • Foster subject-specific and transferable skills, including experience of materials processing and characterisation methods, oral and written communication, group work and IT skills.
  • Provide students with effective academic and pastoral support, to cater for students from a wide range of educational backgrounds and enable all students to achieve their full potential.
  • Monitor, review and enhance educational provision to ensure that it remains relevant to the needs of student progression and to current developments in research and industry.

Special features

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Where ideas come to life

Excellent facilities and links

In our new Home of Engineering and Materials , we're ripping up the rule book to offer a truly innovative teaching and learning experience. You'll have access to world-leading sustainable research facilities and some of the most unique, industry-leading equipment and instrumentation in the sector to meet today's requirements and those of the future.

Get hands-on with a fantastic range of on-site facilities and equipment . The Department of Materials is associated with a number of leading centres and institutes, including Graphene@Manchester and the Henry Royce Institute .

Project work opportunities

Our final-year research project will provide you with in-depth experience of working in a team conducting cutting-edge research. It can be the ideal grounding for progressing into work in research and development, or going on to study at PhD level.

Accreditation

The course is accredited by the Institute of Materials (IOM3) and counts as academic training towards the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer.

Additional course information

Our student community

MÁTSOC is a student-run society open all Department of Materials students; from Materials Science and Engineering to Fashion Business and Technology.

The society aims to create a fun environment to connect all students across the Department's network by putting on regular nights out, day trips, events and having guest speakers.

There's also have a women's Netball team and a men's football team, which all MÁTSOC members are able to join.

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Teaching and learning

Your typical week will be made up of:
  • Lectures
  • Small group tutorials
  • Laboratory classes
  • Group work
  • Individual research projects

PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) and Peer Mentoring

We're proud of our innovative PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) and Peer Mentoring scheme. The PASS scheme provides additional support in the area of the current week's tutorial. It's entirely voluntary and second, third and fourth-year students help first years to tackle problems defined by the content of the current tutorial. The emphasis is on showing students how to think about the problems, how to develop problem-solving skills and how to get the most from the educational resources available.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment is by a mixture of examinations, coursework, laboratory practical and tutorials. 

Most unit's assessments are split 70% exam/30% coursework. Although some 100% coursework units are also required. 

Examinations take place in January and May each year.

Practical units are usually assessed by experimental report and/or short written assignment.

The proportion of independent study assignments increases during each year of study.

Course content for year 1

Year 1 provides an overview of the full range of engineering materials used today and the key principles of Materials Science and Engineering that will be used throughout the course.

Course units for year 1

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Mathematics 1G1 MATH19731 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 1G2 MATH19732 10 Mandatory
Physics of Materials MATS15101 10 Mandatory
Equilibrium Thermodynamics MATS15201 10 Mandatory
Microstructures of Materials MATS15301 10 Mandatory
Computing & Communication MATS15501 20 Mandatory
Preliminary Chemistry Materials MATS15551 0 Mandatory
Mechanical Behaviour MATS16102 10 Mandatory
Structure of Solids MATS16202 10 Mandatory
Functional Properties MATS16302 10 Mandatory
Materials - Shaping the World MATS16402 20 Mandatory
Preliminary Physics MATS16661 0 Mandatory
Displaying 10 of 12 course units for year 1

Course content for year 2

Year 2 builds on the foundations established in the first year by focusing more on the processing, design, selection and application of different materials types in real industrial situations.

Course units for year 2

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Mechanics of Materials MATS23101 10 Mandatory
Materials Synthesis and Sustainability MATS23201 10 Mandatory
Phase Transformations and Microstructure Control MATS23301 10 Mandatory
Materials Processing MATS23401 10 Mandatory
Deformation Mechanisms MATS23502 10 Mandatory
Functional Behaviour MATS23602 10 Mandatory
Design, Management and Team Project MATS23702 20 Mandatory
Biomaterials & Biological Interactions MATS23801 10 Optional
Smart & Nano Materials MATS23901 10 Optional
Engineering Alloys in Service MATS24102 10 Optional
Performance Polymers, Fibres and Textiles MATS24112 10 Optional
Displaying 10 of 11 course units for year 2

Course content for year 3

In Year 3, alongside core units, you will have the opportunity to specialize through a choice of options.

Course units for year 3

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Modelling and Data Tools for Materials Scientists MATS31101 10 Mandatory
Materials Characterisation and Analytical Techniques MATS31201 10 Mandatory
Composite & Advanced Materials MATS31301 10 Mandatory
Advanced Manufacturing Processes and Microfabrication MATS31401 10 Mandatory
Functional Materials & Devices MATS31501 10 Mandatory
Structural Integrity MATS31601 10 Mandatory
Themed Research Project MATS31702 20 Mandatory
Polymer Synthesis & Characterisation MATS31902 10 Mandatory
Multiphase Polymers & Nanocomposites MATS32402 10 Mandatory
Drug Delivery & Biosensors MATS31802 10 Optional
Metallurgy of Engineering Alloys MATS32102 10 Optional
Corrosion Science & Engineering MATS32202 10 Optional
Stem Cell & Tissue Engineering MATS32302 10 Optional
Textile Manufacturing Techniques MATS32602 10 Optional
Nanotechnology MATS32702 10 Optional
Displaying 10 of 15 course units for year 3

Course content for year 4

In Year 4, students on the MEng course undertake a core of eight research level modules on technical topics covering the full range of materials technologies. A six-month research project is undertaken, enabling you to gain in-depth experience of working in a research team conducting a cutting-edge project. Students have the option to complete the research project in industry or in one of the research groups within the Department. For students interested in higher level study (for example, leading towards a PhD) the research project provides an ideal experience of the research environment and methodologies.

Course units for year 4

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Individual Research Project or Industrial Project MATS42101 60 Mandatory
Group Management Project MATS42302 15 Mandatory
Natural Materials & Biological Matrices MATS42402 15 Optional
Lab to Clinic MATS42502 15 Optional
Soft Matter MATS42602 15 Optional
Control & Design of Polymerisation Reactions MATS42702 15 Optional
Polymer Physics & Physical Properties MATS42802 15 Optional
Advanced Metals Processing MATS43102 15 Optional
Superalloys & High Performance Materials MATS43202 15 Optional
Corrosion Management for Sustainability MATS43402 15 Optional
Corrosion Control for Industrial Practice MATS43502 15 Optional
Corrosion Control for Oilfield and Renewable Energy MATS43602 15 Optional
Advanced Textile Technology MATS43702 15 Optional
Textiles Evaluation & Clothing MATS43802 15 Optional
Technical & Biomedical Textiles MATS43902 15 Optional
Advanced Composites MATS44102 15 Optional
Graphene & Nanomaterials MATS44202 15 Optional
Applied Functional Materials & Devices MATS44302 15 Optional
Displaying 10 of 18 course units for year 4

Scholarships and bursaries

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our undergraduate student finance pages and our the Department funding pages.

What our students say

Find out what it's like to study at Manchester by visiting the Department of Materials blog .

Facilities

The Department of Materials is home to an extensive array of unique facilities and equipment, across both materials science and engineering, and fashion business and technology.

Our new Home of Engineering and Materials opened in 2022 and is a place like no other. This is where engineers, material scientists and fashion students collaborate, innovate and make their mark on the world. Unleash your potential in our creative, academic playground that signals the evolution of a proud history of innovation spanning almost 200 years.

In this very special place, we're ripping up the rule book, offering you a truly innovative teaching and learning experience. As well as our creative classrooms, you'll also have access to world-leading sustainable research facilities in our new buildings.

Our variety of spaces allows for greater collaboration for all our students, and it is the place to connect and tackle real-life challenges together. So, a chemical engineer could be sat alongside a materials scientist working on clean water, or bump into a fashion student developing their own sustainable brand, or an aerospace engineer sending a rocket into space. It is a place like no other for interactions and one of the biggest communities of engineers and materials scientists in any University in the world.

Dive into a world of possibilities, whether you are interested in aerospace, robotics, or sustainable fashion, there's a home for you here. Explore Our Home for Engineering and Material Science .

We also benefit from close ties to a long list of leading centres, institutes and research hubs, including but not limited to, the National Graphene Institute, the Photon Science Institute, Henry Royce Institute, Electron Microscopy Centre, Dalton Cumbrian Facility and BP International Centre for Advanced Materials.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk

Careers

Career opportunities

Manchester¿s focus of world-leading and interdisciplinary research is a big plus.

It also means that there are many more facilities and machines here than a lot of other universities.

Evie Chalmers / PhD Materials Science and Engineering, Polymers
Materials science and engineering graduates are highly sought after and are recognised by employers for their knowledge, advanced research skills and independent thinking, so you will finish your degree with an excellent chance of gaining meaningful employment.

The University of Manchester is the most targeted university in the UK for top graduate employers. Graduate with a degree from us and you'll be in high demand, according to The Graduate Market in 2023 report - High Fliers Research .

Typically, our graduates progress to rewarding careers in research and development; management; and technical roles with both large materials manufacturing and end-users. Other graduates choose to apply their technical and analytical skills in fields such as patent law or accountancy, while your degree can also open up opportunities in careers as diverse as teaching, engineering, consultancy and technical development.

Some of the roles our recent graduates have gone on to include:

  • Materials scientist
  • Materials engineer
  • Development scientist
  • Materials technologist
  • Research associate
  • Materials chemist
  • Product development scientist.

Our recent graduates have gone on to work for:

  • Rolls Royce
  • Jaguar Land Rover
  • BP
  • 3M
  • Airbus
  • Smith and Nephew
  • DePuy
  • BAE Systems
  • Siemens
  • Bentley Motors.

A materials science and engineering degree also provides an ideal springboard for higher-level study (towards a PhD, for example), while the course - accredited by the Institute of Materials - can count as academic training towards Chartered Engineer status.

Careers Service

We are committed to helping you get the best start after graduation, that's why The University of Manchester's award-winning Careers Service will continue to support you two years after graduation.

Department of Materials Blog

Explore more about our students' experiences, our alumni and where they are now, and our department in our blog .

Accrediting organisations

This course is accredited by the Engineering Council and Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3).

Upon graduating with an accredited Bachelor’s (with Honours) in engineering/technology plus further learning of an accredited Master’s degree- such as this MSc course- students will have fulfilled the educational requirements for professional registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Associated organisations