Materials Science and Engineering

Successful innovation depends on the selection and performance of key materials. From cars, aeroplanes and cruise ships, to sports equipment and musical instruments, the right materials can help to define technological progress.

Materials Science and Engineering explores how the properties of matter can be controlled. It includes elements of physics and chemistry, connecting closely with most other areas of engineering.

This degree will prepare you for a rewarding career across engineering sectors including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, sports, and energy generation.

As you progress, your developing analytical abilities will combine with hands-on experience of advanced equipment, establishing skills which are vital to securing employment in the wider industry.

Engineering at Swansea University has a strong reputation and attracts students from across the world. • 1st for Student Experience (The Times Good University Guide 2025) • 3rd in the UK for Learning Resources* (NSS 2024) • 3rd in the UK for Student Satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2025) • 5th in the UK Materials Technology (Daily Mail University Guide 2025) • 8th in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Complete University Guide 2025) • Top 131 in the World (QS World University Rankings 2025)

Our state-of-the-art facilities include world-leading equipment for the characterisation of mechanical properties of metallic, ceramic, polymeric and composite materials.

We also have an extensive range of laboratories housing scanning electron microscopes with full microanalysis and electron backscatter diffraction capabilities.

Visits to Tata Steel, Timet, Ensinger and Airbus will give you real industrial world insights. Our graduates also go on to have interesting and varied careers at companies such as, Tata Steel, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover, Atkins, GE Aviation, Mott MacDonald and Babcock International Group.