Materials Science and Engineering with Metallurgy

Materials science and engineering sits at the foundation of almost every technological advance in modern society. The phones in our pockets, the blades in jet engines, the implants in human joints, and the wiring in renewable energy systems all depend on materials designed and understood at a microscopic level. Metallurgy, the oldest branch of materials science, has a continuous history stretching from the Bronze Age to the design of advanced alloys for aerospace, and it remains one of the most rigorous and demanding specialisms in the field.

At Manchester, which is home to an exceptionally broad base of materials research, this four-year degree is designed for students who want to become specialist metallurgists. You will build a thorough grounding in the structure and properties of materials, including metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, and composites, before moving into advanced metallurgical topics including physical metallurgy, thermodynamics of alloy systems, phase transformations, mechanical behaviour, corrosion, and processing methods such as casting, forming, and heat treatment. The degree includes a foundation year, which ensures all students have the scientific preparation they need before entering the core programme, broadening access to this demanding discipline.

Metallurgists and materials engineers are in demand across aerospace, automotive, energy, defence, medical devices, electronics, and advanced manufacturing. Graduates go on to careers in research and development, process engineering, quality and testing, and management within these industries. Professional engineering registration is a goal for many, and the four-year programme provides the academic depth that supports chartered status.

Those who wish to continue in research can pursue postgraduate degrees in materials science, metallurgy, or related engineering disciplines.