Advanced Materials

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Frequently updated, with strong industrial input and personal attention to each student, this is probably the broadest-based and most flexible modular Masters programme in materials.

The aim of the programme is to:

* Increase and update the knowledge of those with some years experience in materials
* Be a conversion course for graduates in other subjects who are moving into materials
* Equip graduates with a thorough understanding of a wide range of advanced materials and the techniques used for their characterisation
* Cover the use of materials in many engineering applications

Full-time and part-time students study seven modules taught as one-week short course modules (from thirteen currently available). These cover metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, nanomaterials, analytical techniques, bonding, surfaces, corrosion, fracture, fatigue and research methods. There is also a research project planning module that is linked to the project. Each module is followed by an open book assessment. Generally, the assessment is to be completed within six months of the end of the short-course week by part-time students, and within six weeks by full-time students. Each assessment is intended to take approximately 120 hours.

A materials-based project is also undertaken for the MSc. The project is assessed by a thesis and viva voce examination. There are no formal written examinations.

This MSc has led to promotions, new jobs, PhDs and EngDs. It is excellent for career development and continuing education. Many part-time students are funded by their employers.

Of the seven short-course modules that make up the MSc in Advanced Materials, the modules Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering and Research Methods are compulsory. In addition, a further three from the following five modules are chosen: Characterisation of Advanced Materials, Introduction to Physical Metallurgy, Ceramics and Hard Coatings, Polymers: Science, Engineering and Applications, Introduction to Composite Materials. Additional modules are taken from the module list to make up the seven taught modules required for the MSc degree.

Optional Modules
In addition to the compulsory modules Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering, Research Methods and Research Project Planning, the list of optional modules includes:

* Characterisation of Advanced Materials
* Introduction to Physical Metallurgy
* Structural Ceramics and Hard Coatings
* Polymers: Science, Engineering and Applications
* Introduction to Composite Materials
* Nanomaterials
* Surface Analysis: XPS, Auger and SIMS
* Materials Under Stress: An Introduction to Fracture Mechanics and Fatigue
* Composite Materials Technology
* Corrosion Engineering
* The Science and Technology of Adhesive Bonding

All of the modules are taught by experts from the University. Almost all of them also include lectures and presentations from users of the technology in industry and research organisations. Most modules include practical demonstrations or laboratory work, as well as tutorial sessions. Some also include site visits to see processes in operation. Modules usually start on Monday morning and finish at Friday lunchtime.

The project and dissertation, approximately 18 weeks of work, are undertaken in the Faculty laboratories by full-time students and in their place of work by part-time students working on a project which is part of their normal work. Part-time students who do not have access to experimental facilities may take an independent study option and write a dissertation which is a theoretical piece of work. This carries less credits than an experimentally based project, so the student takes two additional short-course modules.

First or Second class honours degree in an appropriate science or engineering subject or a combination of academic qualifications, training and several years of experience which is considered to be a suitable background for the programme, or an overseas qualification which is recognised as being suitable by the University.If your first language is not English, we will require some evidence of your proficiency in the English language. Applicants must be able to demonstrate an ability to understand and express themselves in both written and spoken English. You may be required to take an approved proficiency test examination and/or attend a course of English language study before admission.The following qualifications/tests are suitable as evidence that you meet our minimum level of competence: * Cambridge Proficiency Examination (Grade C) * GCSE/GCE Ordinary Level in English (Grade C) * International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Band 6) * NEAB Test in English * Test in English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (score of 550 on the paper-based test or 213 on the computer-based test) * AEB Test in English for Educational Purposes (Grade III) English Language Requirements CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 60 (Grade C)