Materials Science and Engineering with a Foundation Year

If you don't have the usual scientific or mathematical background for an engineering degree, a foundation year is for you. After successfully completing the foundation year, which has modules in mathematics, physics and chemistry, you can start the BEng or MEng degree.

Discover the principles of materials science and engineering, and how these are applied across the whole field of engineering.

If you don't have the usual scientific or mathematical background for an engineering degree, a foundation year is for you. After successfully completing the foundation year, you can start a BEng or MEng degree.

For the first two years of your Materials Science and Engineering BEng/MEng at Sheffield, you'll focus on developing your fundamental understanding of the field, in both theory and in the hands-on practical way expected of materials engineers.

Group projects will see you take on complex real-world problems - applying your engineering knowledge while developing the transferable skills like communication, team working and project management sought after by employers.

From courses on materials properties to materials sustainability, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to meet the challenges of the 21st century - and to provide real and lasting solutions.

Sustainability is a core theme, integrated into every module. You’ll explore how materials science contributes to a greener world by reducing resource dependency, advancing energy efficient processes, and supporting renewable technologies. Topics like the materials lifecycle, energy materials, and nuclear technologies will allow you to explore cutting-edge solutions aligned with global sustainability goals.

In your final year, you'll have the opportunity to choose the specialist modules that interest you, from metallurgy to functional materials, composites, biomaterials, nuclear materials and everything in between. Other core modules will also give you detailed industrial knowledge like computational modelling techniques, quality management and understanding financial and legal risks.

As part of the course, you’ll also complete an independent research project. This is a perfect opportunity to showcase your technical lab skills and consolidate your learning by driving the field in new directions.

If you choose the MEng course, your industrial placement will provide you with an opportunity to connect with external industrial partners, offering invaluable experience in applying professional practices and research principles to solve industry challenges. You’ll collaborate in teams to deliver effective solutions, demonstrating your expertise in real-world settings.

This course is fully accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), meaning it counts towards later professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Why study this course?

Links with industry and practical training: Our Industrial Advisory Board provides a link between your studies and the professional world, ensuring we teach you the skills in demand from industry. For example, you’ll be using industry standard equipment – making, testing and characterising different materials in our bespoke labs.

Specialist teaching facilities: 'Learning by doing' is the reason The Diamond was built. Dedicated to engineering, you’ll apply the theory you learn in lectures and during lab classes – consolidating your understanding alongside students from other disciplines, and beyond the bounds of the curriculum.

Materials engineers for a sustainable future: Sustainability is a core theme within materials science and engineering, as we look to develop materials and manufacturing methods which ensure the long-term viability of the planet and its resources (UN Sustainable Development Goals 9 and 12).