Materials Science and Engineering with Textiles Technology

Materials science and engineering is one of the foundational disciplines of the modern world, concerned with understanding the structure, properties, and behaviour of the materials that everything is made from, and with developing new materials with superior performance. Textiles technology extends this into one of the world's most significant manufacturing and design sectors, covering fibre science, fabric structure, functional textiles, and the innovation in materials that is transforming fashion, sportswear, medical devices, and industrial applications.

At the University of Manchester, which has a historic relationship with the textiles industry and world-class materials science research facilities, this four-year full-time programme combines deep materials science with specialised textiles knowledge. You will study the science of metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites alongside the specific properties and processing of fibres and fabrics, including smart textiles and technical applications beyond conventional clothing. The engineering strand gives you the ability not just to understand materials but to design and test them for specific purposes.

Laboratory work and project-based learning are central to the degree, developing practical skills alongside theoretical understanding.

This programme includes a foundation year, which provides a thorough grounding in the sciences before you move into the main degree content. The foundation year makes the programme accessible to students who need to build their mathematical and scientific foundations.

Graduates go on to careers in textiles and materials manufacturing, technical product development, sportswear and performance apparel, medical devices, aerospace and automotive materials, and research and development. Many continue to postgraduate study or move into graduate training programmes within large manufacturing or consumer goods companies.