Science and Engineering of Materials MRes

Program Overview

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The Science and Engineering of Materials MRes at the University of Birmingham is a postgraduate program that combines a major research project with taught modules. It provides students with a deep understanding of materials science and engineering, equipping them with the skills and knowledge for a career in research or industry. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with a range of optional modules and is delivered by experts in the field. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as materials scientists, engineers, and researchers.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The Science and Engineering of Materials MRes is a one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) postgraduate program offered by the University of Birmingham. It combines a major research project with six taught modules, four compulsory and two optional. The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of materials science and engineering, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in research or industry.

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Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Develop a deep understanding of the science and engineering of materials.
• Enhance research skills through a major research project.
• Equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in research or industry.

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Outline:

The program comprises a major research project and six taught modules:

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Compulsory Modules:

• Advanced Metallurgy and Manufacturing (20 credits)
• Individual Research Project (120 credits)

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Optional Modules (select 60 credits):

• Biomaterials (10 credits)
• Design Against Failure (10 credits)
• Functional Materials (10 credits)
• Introduction to Materials Modelling (10 credits)
• Materials for Sustainable Environmental Technologies (10 credits)
• Net Shape Manufacturing (10 credits)
• Polymer Science and Soft Matter (10 credits)
• Sensors and Composites (10 credits)
• Surface Engineering (10 credits)

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Course Schedule:

The one-year full-time program consists of a major research project (two-thirds of the year) and six taught modules (one-third of the year), which are taken intermittently throughout the year.

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Module Descriptions:

• Advanced Metallurgy and Manufacturing: This module covers advanced topics in metallurgy and manufacturing, including processing techniques, microstructure-property relationships, and advanced characterization methods.
• Individual Research Project: This module provides students with the opportunity to conduct a major research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
The research project can be carried out in the University or by industrial collaboration with a company.
• Biomaterials: This module explores the science and engineering of biomaterials, including their design, fabrication, and applications in medicine and dentistry.
• Introduction to Materials Modelling: This module introduces students to the principles and techniques of materials modelling, including computational methods and simulation software.
• Materials for Sustainable Environmental Technologies: This module explores the role of materials in sustainable technologies, including renewable energy, waste management, and environmental remediation.
• Polymer Science and Soft Matter: This module provides a comprehensive overview of polymer science and soft matter, including their properties, processing, and applications.
• Sensors and Composites: This module explores the design, fabrication, and applications of sensors and composites, including their use in structural health monitoring and advanced manufacturing.

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Assessment:

The program is assessed through a combination of coursework, examinations, and a major research project. The specific assessment methods and criteria for each module are outlined in the module handbooks.

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Teaching:

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, project-based, and laboratory-based teaching and learning methods. The faculty members are experts in their respective fields and are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.

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Careers:

Graduates of the Science and Engineering of Materials MRes program are well-equipped for a variety of careers in research, industry, and government. Potential career paths include:

• Materials Scientist
• Materials Engineer
• Research Scientist
• Process Engineer
• Product Development Engineer
• Consultant
• Academic Researcher

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Other:

• The School of Metallurgy and Materials at Birmingham is one of the largest centers for materials research in the UK.
• The research portfolio ranges from fundamental aspects of materials science to practical high-performance engineering applications.
• Research is funded from a wide range of sources, including the UK research councils, the EU, and a cross-section of UK and overseas industry.
• Most research projects involve active collaboration with industrial partners.
• The program is currently delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, project-based, and laboratory-based teaching and learning methods.

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| Type of fee | Cost | Currency | |---|---|---| | Annual Tuition Fees for 2024/25 academic year | £4,786 | UK | | Annual Tuition Fees for 2024/25 academic year | £27,360 | International Students |