International Materials Science

Materials Science at the University of Augsburg is an interdisciplinary tuition-free study programme connecting several aspects of physics, chemistry, and methods for characterisation and processing of materials. The Master's programme in Materials Science deepens the scientific expertise of your previous education. It aims at understanding material properties and interactions between materials with particular regard to application-oriented research in science and technology. At the University of Augsburg, we put a strong emphasis on natural sciences (rather than mechanical engineering) in materials science, aiming to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the chemical, physical, and functional properties of materials.
The International Master's in Materials Science is a full-time programme intended to be completed in four semesters (120 ECTS). Building on experience from the Bachelor's level, knowledge of materials science is deepened and enhanced, finishing with the completion of a Master's thesis and an associated thesis defence. All classes are taught entirely in English. Knowledge of German is not required. However, the university offers free German language courses.
The Materials Science programme offers students a broad variety of elective courses in fields such as spintronics, porous or optical materials, low temperature physics, nanostructures, and many more. Furthermore, through methods courses, your theoretical knowledge is complemented by practical lab experience using state-of-the-art research facilities.

Educational organisation

Semester one:
Introduction to Materials (seminar)

Lectures:

• Materials Physics
• Materials Chemistry
• Chemical Physics 1
• Surfaces & Interfaces
• Methods Course 1

Semester two:
Four lectures selected from one of the following three thematic blocks:

Block A - Physics of Materials

• Magnetism
• Physics & Technology of Semiconductor Devices
• Dielectric & Optical Materials
• Biophysics & Biomaterials
• Nanostructures & Nanophysics

Block B - Chemistry of Materials

• Chemical Physics 2
• Coordination Materials
• Advanced Solid State Materials
• Solid State NMR Spectroscopy and Diffraction Methods
• Oxidation and Corrosion
• Porous Functional Materials

Block C - Engineering of Materials

• Functional Polymers
• Fibre-Reinforced Composites: Processing and Materials Properties
• Characterisation of Composite Materials
• Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
• Modern Metallic Materials
• Non-Destructive Testing

Methods Course 2

Semester three:
Specialisation:
Three lectures to be selected either from Block A-C, or from a list of the following supplementary lectures:

• Low Temperature Physics
• Superconductivity
• Organic Semiconductors
• Solid State Spectroscopy with Synchrotron Radiation and Neutrons
• Electronics
• Spintronics
• Physics of Thin Films
• Theoretical Concepts and Simulation
• Laboratory Course

Semester four:
Master's thesis in one of the research laboratories at the Institute of Physics or in industry

Study abroad unit(s)

Based on the extremely well-developed networking activities of the University of Augsburg, part-time studies abroad are encouraged and supported.

Internships

Methods courses in the Institute of Physics laboratories as part of the curriculum and optional internships at local industries during the spring or summer break offer many opportunities to gain practical experience.

Forms of assessment

• Written exams
• laboratory project reports including oral exams
• homework
• oral presentations

Typical credits:
Lectures: 6 ECTS
Seminars: 4 ECTS
Methods courses: 8 ECTS
Laboratory course: 10 ECTS
Master's thesis including colloquium: 30 ECTS

Course objectives

The goal of this Master's course is to prepare students for a PhD programme in Europe or overseas. Alternatively, students will be able to fill leading positions in industry as scientists or engineers in materials science.

Language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of sufficient knowledge of English corresponding to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Currently, equivalences to B2 in terms of internationally recognised test methods (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS) are as follows:

TOEFL (paper-based) score of at least 550
TOEFL (computer-based) score of at least 213
TOEFL (Internet-based) score of at least 80
IELTS Overall Band Score of at least 6.5 (out of 9)

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in the fields of materials science, physics, chemistry, or engineering. A degree in a related discipline might be deemed equivalent by the examination board. All applicants must submit proof of having obtained at least 16 ECTS credits in each of the following subjects: (1) materials science, (2) physics, (3) chemistry.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Enrolment fees

101 EUR per semester. The fee includes a semester ticket for public transport in Augsburg.

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month to cover rent and personal expenses

Job opportunities

Students can be employed as tutors or student research assistants.
Trainee programmes are offered for student internships at industrial companies during the lecture-free periods.

Arrival support

The students' arrival in Augsburg is accompanied by individual tutorial support including help with travel arrangements, accommodation, visa application, and health insurance.

Services and support for international students

In addition to the academic support by lecturers and tutors within the programme, continuous administrative support is provided by the team of the International Office of the University of Augsburg. The International Office team offers special assistance with typical problems, such as complying with all formalities pertaining to residency permits and the search for accommodation. They also sponsor introduction days, intercultural training courses, language courses, and local excursions in order to help international students with their studies and the establishment of new social contacts.

Accommodation

The International Office can offer a limited number of apartments in student residences. Student workers will assist with the search for accommodation at the beginning of the semester. Generally speaking, flat hunting in Augsburg is a very competitive experience. The following website may be useful for your accommodation search: http://www.studenten-wg.de.