Program Overview

Materials Science and Engineering BEng

The Materials Science and Engineering BEng program at the University of Leeds is a multidisciplinary course that covers a broad spectrum of topics, combining teaching from across the Schools of Chemical and Process Engineering, Physics, and Chemistry. This program equips students with a thorough grounding in the concepts that underpin materials science from an engineering, physics, and chemistry perspective, alongside learning a range of transferable skills to equip them for a career in this fast-moving field.

Year of Entry and Duration

• Year of entry: 2026
• Start date: September 2026
• Delivery type: On campus
• Duration: 3 Years (Full time)
• Work placements: Optional
• Study abroad: Optional

Accreditation

This course has been accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3) on behalf of the Engineering Council as contributing to the requirements for professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng).

Course Overview

Studying materials science and engineering at Leeds will provide students with a unique opportunity to explore the discovery and development of new materials, which have significantly impacted the world. Materials science is also at the forefront of global challenges like the move towards net zero, with new materials for energy generation and storage enabling reduced carbon emissions.

Why Study at Leeds

• Our globally-renowned research that has been responsible for engineering new technologies and led industry-driven developments also feeds into your course, shaping what you learn with the latest thinking.
• Experience expert teaching, delivered by a programme team who specialise in a wide range of materials science and engineering disciplines and have extensive industry experience.
• Start building your future career path from day one, establishing relations in the field with industry professionals through our strong partnerships with organisations such as Rolls-Royce, Samsung, Johnson Matthey, IBM, Dow Corning, and AstraZeneca.
• Access our specialist facilities across three Schools, including state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation, along with labs fully equipped with the latest technology to support your learning.
• Broaden your experience before you graduate and enhance your career prospects with our study abroad programmes and paid industrial work placement opportunities.

Course Structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time.

Year 1

Compulsory Modules

• Professional Engineering Skills – 20 credits
• Engineering Mathematics – 10 credits
• Materials Science and Engineering – 20 credits
• Practical Materials Science 1 – 10 credits
• Chemistry of the Material World – 10 credits
• Introduction to Modern Chemistry – 20 credits
• Core Physics 1 (JH) Mechanics, Thermodynamics and Solid State Physics – 30 credits

Year 2

Compulsory Modules

• Advanced Engineering Mathematics and Numerical Methods – 20 credits
• Process Safety and Environmental Engineering – 20 credits
• Materials Synthesis and Characterisation – 20 credits
• Chemistry of Materials and Practical Materials Science 2 – 20 credits
• Fundamental Chemistry for Materials Science – 20 credits
• Core Physics 2 (JH) – Statistical Mechanics and Condensed Matter – 20 credits

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

• Materials and Process Selection Design Project – 40 credits
• Materials for the Built Society – 20 credits
• Materials for the Energy Transition – 20 credits
• Chemistry and Application of Materials – 20 credits
• Magnetism in Condensed Matter – 20 credits

Learning and Teaching

You'll benefit from our integrated style of learning and teaching. Laboratory classes, project work, and industrial visits allow you to gain first-hand experience investigating and applying material from your lectures and tutorials to real-life work situations.

Assessment

Most modules are assessed by more than one component. These components can include written examinations held at the end of each year, in-class and online tests, assignments, and coursework in the form of reports, projects, presentations, and posters.

Entry Requirements

• A-level: AAB including Mathematics and either Physics or Chemistry.
• Extended Project Qualification, International Project Qualification, and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate: Grade A plus ABB at A-level including A in Mathematics and B in either Physics or Chemistry.
• GCSE: English Language grade 4 (C) or higher, or an equivalent English language qualification.
• Alternative qualifications are also accepted, including Access to HE Diploma, BTEC, Cambridge Pre-U, International Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level), and Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers.

Fees

• UK: £9,790
• International: £32,750 (per year)

Career Opportunities

With rapidly growing and advancing industries, there is an increasing demand for qualified materials scientists and engineers for existing production processes and for the creation and improvement of brand-new materials. Employment opportunities in this field can be far-reaching, with the potential to take you all over the world.

Study Abroad and Work Placements

• Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.
• A placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You'll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector.

Related Courses

• Chemical Engineering BEng
• Physics BSc
• Chemistry BSc
• Chemical Engineering MEng, BEng
• Materials Science and Engineering MEng, BEng
• Materials Science and Engineering (Industrial) BEng