Program Overview

BSc Materials Science and Engineering

Overview

Material scientists tackle some of the planet's greatest challenges and help shape the future of our world.

• Duration: 3 years
• Year of entry: 2026
• UCAS course code: J500 / Institution code:M20

Key features:

• Scholarships available
• Accredited course

Typical A-level offer:

• AAB including specific subjects
• Typical contextual A-level offer: ABB including specific subjects
• UK refugee/care-experienced offer: BBB including specific subjects
• Typical International Baccalaureate offer: 35 points overall with 6,6,5 at HL, including specific requirements

Entry requirements

A-level

• AAB including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics is required.
• A-level contextual offer: ABB including two from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics is required.
• UK refugee/care-experienced offer: BBB including 2 from Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A-level Mathematics, Grade 7/A at GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics is required.

International Baccalaureate

• 35 points overall with 6,6,5 at Higher Level, including two subjects from Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.

GCSE/IGCSE

• Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of literacy and numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade C/4 in GCSE/IGCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science.

Other entry requirements

• Scottish requirements: We normally require grades AABBB in Scottish Highers. In addition: Two Scottish Advanced Highers in two subjects from Maths, Physics and Chemistry at AA plus two Highers atBB (any subjects)
• Welsh Baccalaureate: The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and usually requires two A-levels or equivalent to be included within this.
• Foundation year: The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme.
• Pearson BTEC qualifications: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma We will consider the National Extended Diploma for entry to our programme, provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course and the modules taken cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science.
• OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications: Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma We will consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry to our programme provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course and the modules taken cover sufficient material in Mathematics and Science.
• Access to HE Diploma: Each application is considered individually. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.
• T Level: We do not accept T Levels as entry onto this course.
• Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

English language requirements

• All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency.
• The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:
  • GCSE/IGCSE English Language grade C/4, or;
  • IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.5 in writing and no sub-skill below 6.0 or;
  • TOEFL iBT 90 overall with 22 in writing and no sub-skill below 20.

Fees and funding

• Fees for entry in 2026 have not yet been set. For entry in 2025 the tuition fees were £9,535 per annum for home students, and are expected to increase slightly for 2026 entry.
• Policy on additional costs: All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme.
• Scholarships/sponsorships: The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students.

Application and selection

• How to apply: Apply through UCAS.
• Advice to applicants: Factors contributing to a successful application include: past academic performance; predicted academic performance; enthusiasm for, and realistic grasp of, chosen degree programme; evidence of interpersonal skills and non-academic interests/achievements.
• Home-schooled applicants: If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying.
• Non-standard educational routes: Mature applicants who are returning to studies after a break from formal education will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• How your application is considered: Applications are considered on the basis of the UCAS form. Candidates may be interviewed (usually online). Strong examination results and interview performance are the main factor in admitting students to our courses.

Course details

• Course description: Begin your journey into Materials Science and Engineering at Manchester, home to the most diverse university activity devoted to materials research in Europe.
• Aims: We will provide a broad and balanced curriculum in materials science and engineering that both meets the requirements for accreditation with the professional body and equips you with the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to pursue a successful career - in either an industrial or research environment.
• Special features: Excellent facilities and links; Project work opportunities; Accreditation.
• Teaching and learning: In addition to excellent academic reputations in teaching and research, we pride ourselves on our friendly atmosphere, and high level of staff-student contact both on a formal and informal basis.
• Coursework and assessment: Assessment is by a combination of coursework and examinations.
• Course content for year 1: Year one provides an overview of the full range of engineering materials used today and the key principles of Materials Science and Engineering that will be used throughout the course.
• Course content for year 2: Year two builds on the foundations established in the first year by focusing more on the processing, design, selection and application of different materials types in real industrial situations.
• Course content for year 3: In year three, alongside core units, you will have the opportunity to specialise through a choice of options.

Careers

• Career opportunities: Materials science and engineering graduates are highly sought after and are recognised by employers for their knowledge, advanced research skills and independent thinking, so you will finish your degree with an excellent chance of gaining meaningful employment.
• Careers Service: We are committed to helping you get the best start after graduation, that's why The University of Manchester's award-winning Careers Service will continue to support you two years after graduation.
• Accrediting organisations: Institute of Materials.
• Associated organisations: Institute of Materials.