Materials Science and Engineering

Materials science and engineering is the discipline that investigates the structure, properties, processing, and performance of the materials that everything is made of: metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, semiconductors, and emerging materials such as graphene, smart materials, and biomaterials. The fundamental insight of the field is that a material's properties, its strength, conductivity, optical characteristics, biocompatibility, or ability to withstand extreme conditions, arise from its structure at the atomic and microstructural level. Understanding and manipulating that structure is what makes it possible to design materials for specific applications, from aeroplane fuselages and hip replacements to solar cells and electronic devices.

At the University of Sheffield, one of the UK's leading materials research institutions, this four-year full-time MEng degree lets you explore the underlying principles of materials science and how they are applied in practice. You can keep the degree broad or tailor it with optional materials modules that develop deeper expertise in a particular area. You will interact directly with industry throughout the programme and complete a final-year project with one of Sheffield's leading research groups, giving you experience of genuine research alongside the engineering fundamentals.

The degree includes a sandwich year, a year abroad option, and a work placement, providing substantial opportunities for professional experience and international exposure.

Materials scientists and engineers work in sectors as diverse as aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Roles in research and development, process engineering, quality assurance, product design, and technical consultancy are all accessible from this degree. Sheffield's strong industry connections and research reputation mean that many graduates move into well-regarded positions in leading companies and research organisations.

The MEng qualification also provides a strong platform for Chartered Engineer status and for postgraduate research in materials science, nanotechnology, or engineering. The typical entry tariff is 168 points.