Materials Science and Engineering BEng

Program Overview

This BEng in Materials Science and Engineering equips students with a deep understanding of materials science and engineering principles. Combining theory and practice, the program emphasizes hands-on experience and transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and project management. Students have the opportunity to specialize in various areas and contribute to the field through an independent research project, preparing them for successful careers in a range of industries.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BEng in Materials Science and Engineering is a core undergraduate degree that delves into the fundamental principles of materials science and their applications in materials engineering. The program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the field, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, allowing students to gain practical experience through group projects, laboratory work, and industry-standard equipment usage. Students will be exposed to real-world problems, developing essential transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and project management. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including materials properties, sustainability, computational modeling, quality management, and financial and legal risks. Students will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas of interest, such as metallurgy, functional materials, composites, biomaterials, and nuclear materials. The program culminates in an independent research project, providing students with a platform to showcase their technical lab skills and contribute to the advancement of the field.

Outline:

The program is structured over three years of full-time study, with the option to include a placement year.

First Year:

• Core Modules:
• Introduction to Materials Chemistry
• Introduction to Mechanical Properties and Structural Materials
• Mathematics (Materials)
• Biomaterials I
• Sustainability and the Materials Lifecycle
• Digital Skills for Materials
• Introduction to Materials Properties
• Introduction to Nanoscience and Nanomaterials
• Kinetics, Thermodynamics and Phase Diagrams
• Global Engineering Challenge Week

Second Year:

• Core Modules:
• Industrial Materials Processing
• Microstructure and Thermodynamics of Materials
• Deformation and Failure of Materials
• Functional Materials
• Heat Transfer and Diffusion
• Materials Selection and Fracture Mechanics
• Mathematics II (Materials)
• Structure of Solid Materials
• Engineering - You're Hired
• Optional Modules:
• Biology and Chemistry of Living Systems II
• Biomaterials II
• Materials and Energy
• Perspectives in Materials Research
• Materials Development Group Project

Third Year:

• Core Modules:
• Literature Survey and Project
• Accounting and Law for Engineers
• Introduction to Finite Element Modelling
• Surface Degradation and Protection
• Industrial Management
• Optional Modules:
• Advanced Ceramics
• Advanced Functional Materials
• Advanced Materials Manufacturing
• Composite Materials and Micromechanics
• Glasses
• Metals
• Nuclear Science, Engineering and Technology

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module, but generally include a combination of exams, tests, coursework, and practical work.

Teaching:

Teaching methods include lectures, labs, tutorials, and problem classes. The program emphasizes a "learn by doing" approach, providing students with hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment. The faculty consists of leading experts in their fields with international reputations. Their research shapes and inspires the curriculum, ensuring that students receive a relevant and up-to-date education.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-equipped for a wide range of careers in various industries, including:

• Analytical and problem-solving roles
• Research and development
• Manufacturing and production
• Engineering consultancy
• Materials science and engineering
The program provides students with the skills, experience, and contacts necessary to tackle society's most pressing materials challenges.

Other:

• The program is fully accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), allowing graduates to pursue professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).
• The program is taught primarily in The Diamond, the University's dedicated engineering teaching facility, which houses state-of-the-art laboratories, lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and open plan learning spaces.
• Students also have access to laboratories in the Sir Robert Hadfield Building.
• The program offers opportunities for students to gain practical work experience through placement years and study abroad programs.
• The University of Sheffield has a strong reputation for materials innovation and research excellence, with a history dating back over 135 years.
• The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is ranked highly in national and international rankings.
• The University of Sheffield has a vibrant student life, with a number one Students' Union in the UK and a wide range of clubs and societies.

Please use 2024-25 information as a guide. £9,250Home students 2024 annual tuition fee £29,110Overseas students 2024 annual tuition fee