Postgraduate courses in Materials Sciences

Are you looking for a career in the field of material sciences? Maybe a postgraduate degree is what you need to advance your knowledge and expertise.

You can start your research below.

What is material sciences?

Materials sciences is the study of the properties of solid materials and how those properties are determined by a material’s composition and structure. 

It is the design and discovery of new materials, specifically solids. Materials are broken up into four groups – metal, polymers, ceramic and composite.

What do material scientists (material engineers) do?

Material scientists do anything from fundamental research on the chemical properties of materials to developing new materials and modifying formulations of existing materials to suit new applications. 

Material scientists work alongside pilots, engineers, processing specialists and manufacturing facilities in projects and developments. Material Scientists may also be referred to as metallurgist.  

Courses

There are quite a few courses to choose from across the UK. Examples of courses are:

Advanced Materials

These kinds of courses are suited to engineers and scientists who have a passion for analyzing and creating innovative materials. Students will develop an understanding of the relationship between structure and performance of different materials as well as the fundamental principles that drive the innovation behind products and strategies for the design and development of materials. 

Biomaterials

A course in biomaterials introduces students to the important factors in the design, selection and development of biomaterials for clinical applications. Students will develop the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in this field including biomaterials science, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine and associated specialisms. 

Materials Science and Engineering 

There are also options to team material science with another subject such as technology. These courses focus on the concept and theories that make materials science and engineering possible as well as introducing students to the latest development in the field and will prepare them for the work they will undertake in their future careers. 

Entry requirements

Entry requirement may differ from course to course and university to university but the majority will require a second class honours degree in a related field. A 2.2 degree will suffice for some courses, however, others may require  2.1 degree. 

Job options 

Some job options you can use your degree in material science are: 

• Materials engineer
• Design engineer
• Product development scientist 
• CAD technician

Salary Expectation 

Like a lot of industries and jobs, the salary of a material scientist can change depending on experience. A metallurgist can earn between £22,000 to £28,000 starting out and earn anything from £30,000 to £45,000 with several experiences. The average salary of a material scientist in the UK is around £31,722.  

Skills and requirements 

• Strong communication skills – written and verbal
• Critical thinker
• High standard of numeracy 
• IT skills
• Creative thinker
• Independent thinker 
• Research skills
• Time managements
• Good planning and organisation skills
• Business skills