Schemes of Study

The quality of the training was defined as ‘excellent’ in the most recent QAA review, with a range of ongoing evaluations ensuring that standards are maintained and continuously improved. These include procedures for student assessment and feedback, as well as monitoring by prestigious external examiners, professional bodies and industrial partners.  All schemes are accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.

BEng Materials Science and Engineering

This three-year programme integrates lectures, tutorials and practicals to provide training in key aspects of Materials Science and Engineering. The technical content covers the fundamental science of materials, the links between structure, processing and properties and engineering design of materials. Hands-on experience involves not only laboratory investigations using state-of-the-art equipment, but also computer applications including materials modelling. Additional modules are given to enhance personal and professional skills and provide an introduction to management and environmental aspects.

A substantial research project forms a major part of the final year of study, with the choice depending on academic interests and future career intentions. After completing the BEng degree, students may choose to take up immediate employment or to undertake further study on the wide range of Masters and Doctorate programmes available at Swansea.

MEng in Materials Science and Engineering

Developed in collaboration with industry, this scheme satisfies the requirements of the Engineering Council. In the first three years, the scheme is common with the BEng programme, allowing students flexibility in selecting their preferred first degree option.

In the final year of the MEng scheme, training in advanced technical knowledge is complemented by courses to enhance personal transferable skills and computer literacy, as well as research and analytical capabilities. There are optional modules that will allow students to specialise in power and aerospace materials, steel technology or environmental materials. There is also a significant collaborative research or design project chosen to suit students’ preferred specialisation.

BEng in Materials Science and Engineering with a Year Abroad

After successful completion of Levels One and Two, this scheme involves the third year of study (Level S) being undertaken in a selected university in the United States, Canada or Australia. During this year abroad, students follow science and engineering courses, and may also choose to undertake a limited number of non-technical courses. The final year then takes place in Swansea.

BEng in Materials Science and Engineering with a Year in Industry

After successful completion of Levels One and Two, this scheme involves a year-long work placement in a Materials-related company.  During this year, close links are maintained with the University. The final year then takes place in Swansea.

BEng in Sports Materials

This new scheme focuses on the significant developments in the materials and devices used in sporting applications, from the structural requirements of composite F1 cars, through impact resistant protective clothing to the design of sporting equipment used in many sports and leisure activities. The scheme has a core of materials engineering, making up about 2/3 of the modules, with the additional modules delivered by Sports Science and covering biomechanics, sports assessment methods and sports injuries.  The final year project will allow students to extend their knowledge in one particular area of sports materials.

Career Prospects

The diverse range of industries requiring materials specialists ensures that career prospects are excellent and are more protected from fluctuations in any one industrial sector. Materials are also at the core of many new technological developments, thereby constantly widening the career prospects of graduates. With the additional benefits of training in computing and professional skills, the employment record for Swansea graduates is outstanding, with opportunities in research and development, industry, consultancy and management.

International Students

International students are welcome to study Materials Engineering at Swansea and our past students have an excellent record of success. If students have qualifications equivalent to Level 1 of our degree schemes (e.g. a relevant diploma) they will be able to join at Level 2. They may then progress to either BEng or MEng depending on attainment. We will be happy to advise on the suitability of international qualifications.

Accreditation

All Materials Engineering degrees are accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining. This means, that after a degree from the School of Engineering and structured industrial training, our graduates can aim for the prized “Chartered Engineer” status. This gives our graduates valuable experience, whilst adding to their qualifications, status and career prospects.

Scholarships

Due to the strength of its links with industry, Materials Engineering is able to offer a number of scholarships and prizes to students. These include entrance scholarships of up to £1500 for those with high A level grades (or equivalent qualifications). Scholarships are awarded to all qualifying students, rather than on a competitive basis. There are then prizes at the end of each year of study, as well as significant funds for travel scholarships for those undertaking relevant industrial placements or study abroad.