Materials Science and Engineering

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https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/materials-science-and-engineering-meng

https://sheffield.ac.uk/international/entry-requirements/hong-kong

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/english-language

The A Level entry requirements for this course are:

including two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry

Other requirements

GCSE Maths grade 6/B and 4/C in Physics and Chemistry (if not studied at A Level)

English language requirements |

You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

Materials Science and Engineering MEng | Undergraduate study | The University of Sheffield

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Undergraduate study

2027-28 entry

Materials Science and Engineering MEng

School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering

Discover the underlying principles of materials science and how these are applied. Keep your course general or tailor your degree with optional materials modules. You'll interact directly with industry, and undertake a final-year project with one of our leading research groups.

A Levels

UCAS code

Duration

Start date

September

Accredited

Course fee

Funding available

Optional placement year

Study abroad option

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Course description

Why study this course?

1st in the UK for teaching on my course, learning opportunities, and academic support and student voice

We're ranked number one for teaching on my course, learning opportunities and academic support in materials science, and for student voice in materials technology (National Student Survey 2025).

Artefacts and individual final-year projects

Bridging theory and practice, your artefacts project empowers you to explore the use of different materials in commercial products. All students will carry out an open-ended individual final year project where you can explore research level material.

Links with industry and practical training

Working in teams, you'll explore the problems faced by different industrial sectors. You'll work directly with industry in two group projects and help solve real industry challenges. Our Industrial Advisory Board provides a link between your studies and the professional world, ensuring we teach you the skills in demand from industry.

Professional engineering and network development

Prepare for your career by working in partnership with professional bodies such as the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) to develop a portfolio for chartered engineer status. You will combine this with professional skills development and career guidance, to kickstart your professional network and maximise your employability in an engineering discipline.

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).

Discover the principles and application of materials science and engineering, research and industrial practice.

The Materials Science and Engineering MEng at Sheffield offers a unique balance of research and practical industrial experience, preparing you for diverse careers in both research and industry.

From day one, you’ll focus on real-world applications. In your first two years, you’ll build a strong theoretical foundation while gaining hands-on practical skills essential for materials engineers.

Project work will challenge you to solve real engineering problems, while developing key skills such as project management, communication, and technical problem-solving - qualities highly valued by employers.

Sustainability is a core theme integrated throughout the course. You’ll learn how materials science supports a greener future by reducing resource dependency, advancing energy efficient processes, and enabling renewable technologies. Modules 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 further prepare for your career by working in partnership with professional bodies such as the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), to develop a portfolio for chartered engineer status. You'll combine this with professional skills development and career guidance to kick-start your professional network and maximise your employability in an engineering discipline.

You’ll also undertake an independent research project of your choice, embedded in one of our leading research groups. This is your opportunity to showcase technical lab skills, deepen your knowledge and contribute innovative ideas to the field of materials science.

Taught by world-leading researchers and supported by cutting-edge facilities, this course equips you with practical skills and knowledge highly sought after across a wide range of industries, preparing you to tackle the engineering challenges of the 21st century.

Accreditation

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

Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3)

Study materials science and engineering at Sheffield

Optional industry placement and study abroad

Industry contact

Over many years, we have developed close relationships with businesses across a broad range of industry sectors. Therefore you'll have the opportunity to explore opportunities in pretty much any sector that interests you, through visits, placements and project work.

If you choose our MEng course, in your third year you will participate in our industrial training programme - two real-life projects defined by industry partners, giving you an insight into how businesses approach engineering problem solving.

You will also have the option of a year in industry between your third and fourth year, which provides practical experience of working in industry and puts your learning into context, to give you a head start in the careers market. If you opt for this, and successfully secure and complete a placement year, it will extend your course by a year and will be reflected as 'MEng Materials Science and Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year' at graduation.

Placement

You may have the opportunity to add an optional industrial placement year as part of your course, converting the four-year course to a five-year Degree with an Industrial Placement Year.

A placement year will help you to:

gain an insight into possible careers

develop a range transferable skills

build a professional network

get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing

add valuable work experience to your CV

gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice

apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

This placement year, typically taken between your second and third academic years, provides invaluable practical experience of working in industry, putting your learning into context and giving you a significant head start in the job market.

If you choose this option and successfully secure and complete a placement, your course will extend by a year and your qualification will be reflected as 'MEng Materials Science and Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year' at graduation.

Study abroad

Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.

You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.

We're revising the curriculum of the course for this year of entry. Your first year modules are confirmed. For other years of study, the information here gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover, although there may be changes before you begin. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details for the core and optional modules available to you.

Title: Materials Science and Engineering MEng course structure

UCAS code: J500

First year

Second year

Third year

Fourth year

First yearFirst year

Core modules:

Performance and Sustainability of Materials

This module will introduce all the key material classes (ceramics, metals, polymers and composites), their mechanical and key properties, along with how they are processed and where they are used. This will then lead to materials selection, covering the use of Ashby diagrams, min-max methods etc to determine which materials to choose for certain applications based on key criteria. Alongside this, the module will add consideration of their full lifecycle into selection considerations. The production of all manufactured goods involves the use of materials and will have some environmental impact. Through specific materials-based examples this course will introduce students to the energy requirements of different processing routes and products along with some of the complex issues involved in the recycling and re-processing of materials and life-cycle analysis to understand environmental impact.

20 credits

Functional Materials and Applications

This unit considers materials properties as the link between what is done to a material and how the material responds and hence discusses linking properties to devices and structures. Students will consider the challenges and issues with their application. Particular properties that will be the focus are:

Magnetic Materials: Basics of magnetism; effect of magnetic fields on materials. Classification of magnetic materials (dia-, para-, ferro-, antiferro- and ferri-magnetic).Electrical Materials: Conductors, insulators, field gradient, resistivity. Insulators, semi-conductors, metals, mixed conductors and solid electrolytes.Optical Materials: Optical absorption and emission. Bulbs, fluorescent lamps and phosphors. Optical fibres for light, UV, IR. Transparent and translucent materials.

Thermodynamics and Mechanics of Materials

The course will introduce students to the basic concepts of mechanical properties and how they arise and be controlled from the atomic and micro scales. The course will cover how atomic bonding dictates the elastic moduli of a material, along with how microstructure leads to other properties such as strength, toughness and ductility. Alongside this, the module will introduce the concepts of thermodynamics, such as work, heat, internal energy, specific heat, enthalpy, entropy and free energy. Students will extend this to cover phase diagrams and how materials mix, highlighting how different processing can lead to different phases of materials. Finally, all these concepts will be brought together to show how thermodynamics, processing and mechanical properties can be used to design the required properties of materials around us.

Biology and Chemistry of Materials

This module introduces the key concepts of chemistry and biology for materials scientists and engineers. This covers aspects of bonding, chemical and biological interactions. It will introduce how this leads to certain molecular shapes and crystal structures observed in materials.

Mathematics for Materials Engineers

This module will introduce core mathematical skills essential for materials engineers. Students will learn to use mathematics to solve particular problems appropriate for engineers and scientists and explore how the mathematics can be used to aid their understanding of the subject.

Skills for Materials Engineers

This module will introduce a core skill set for materials engineers. This will cover the concepts of data analysis, presentation and error. Students will learn basic programming skills. Students will also learn to use a key set of experimental methods and the health and safety around those processes. They will explore how to design and test materials. Students will also development communication skills and their ability to assess and reflect on their own performance.

In addition the students will take part in a focused, week-long, cross-faculty interdisciplinary design activity aimed at equipping students with essential teamwork, design, problem-solving, and communication skills. Particular attention is paid to employability, sustainability, and inclusivity. Through real-life engineering projects, students are introduced to tackling complex challenges.

Second yearSecond year

Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Materials

This module will introduce the concepts of heat and matter transfer and their relationship to the stability and formation of materials. It will then consider how the microstructure of a range of materials (including metals and metallic alloys, ceramics and selected polymers) and thus their mechanical, physical and chemical properties are influenced by composition and phase constitution and by mechanical processing and/or heat treatment.

Deformation and Failure of Materials

This module will cover various aspects of damage that can occur in materials. This will focus on plastic deformation of metals, natural and artificial polymers and glasses indicating the fundamental mechanisms that give rise to sample strain in response to applied stress or arising from thermally induced effects. The course will consider the process of fatigue, crack formation and fracture in materials. Damage in biological materials will also be considered with breakdown of different structure layers (primary-quaternary) and tears/cuts. The deformation mechanisms are related to microstructure and processing and the implications for design considered.

Industrial Materials Processing

This course provides a broad overview of the main industrial processing and manufacturing routes for metallic, glass, ceramic and polymeric materials and components. Important engineering principles such as viscosity, heat transfer and fluid flow will be introduced where relevant and a number of case studies will be used in order to highlight the equipment, technology and philosophy behind the choice of process and manufacturing route for these materials.

Structure and Characterisation of Materials

This module will introduce you to the crystallography of solids. This will focus on explaining: Advanced symmetry elements, point groups and space groups; Crystallographical classifications and their relations to physical properties are discussed. You will then use this knowledge to relate to the principles, practice and application of X-ray crystallography, particularly powder diffraction techniques. You will then explore further characterisation techniques in the form of optical and electron microscopy to examine microstructures.

Industrial Finance and Management

This module will introduce students to a range of financial, managerial and legal considerations in engineering. The students will learn about the current regulations with quality management in engineering companies. The module will draw directly on practical issues of budgeting, assessing financial risks and making financial decisions in the context of engineering projects and/or product development. At the same time, the module will develop students' understanding of the legal aspects of entering into contracts for the development and delivery of engineering projects and products, and enhance their awareness of environmental regulation, liability for negligence, intellectual property rights and the importance of data protection.

Structure and Characterisation of Materials (20 credits)

This module introduces the crystallography of solids: Particular emphasis is on advanced symmetry elements, point groups and space groups. This is then related to principles, the practice and application of X-ray crystallography, particularly powder diffraction techniques. The module introduces further characterisation techniques in the form of optical and electron microscopy to examine microstructures, phase and chemical analysis.

Functional and Energy Materials (20 credits)

The module also explores the physical properties of materials particularly their magnetic, electronic and electronic response. Particular materials applications based on these properties are discussed including electronic materials and pn junctions, magnetic materials and data storage media and dielectric materials including capacitors, piezo- and pyro-electrics. The module examines the operation and design of battery, solid oxide fuel cells, Hydrogen technology and other functional energy storage and generation.

Advanced Skills for Materials Engineers (20 credits)

This module will further expand the skills of the students in laboratory skills,. Students will also develop skills in computational tools including computer aided drawing and finite element methods. Finally students will build skills in analysis of materials in commercial products.

Third yearThird year

Industrial Finance and Management (20 credits)

This module will introduce concepts of quality management, accounting and legal risk that engineers should be familiar with. The students will learn about the current UK regulations with quality management for engineering companies. They will also learn about the purpose of quality management. The students will be given real life examples of quality management in practice. They will demonstrate their understanding of the subject by developing an example quality management document for a fictitious company. This will involve identifying the key stakeholders in terms of supply, customers, regulators etc. This analysis will be used to review future directions of the company. The module will draw directly on practical issues of budgeting, assessing financial risks and making financial decisions in the context of engineering projects and/or product development. At the same time, the module will develop students' understanding of the legal aspects of entering into contracts for the development and delivery of engineering projects and products, and enhance their awareness of environmental regulation, liability for negligence, intellectual property rights and the importance of data protection.

Metals, Degradation and Protection (20 credits)

This unit covers engineering metallic alloys ranging from alloy steels, stainless steels, light alloys (i.e. aluminium alloys and titanium alloys) and high temperature metallic systems (intermetallics and nickel superalloys). The course centres on the physical metallurgy of such engineering alloys to demonstrate the effect of alloying and its implications for the processing, microstructure and performance of structural components in a range of industrial sectors, but predominantly the automotive and aerospace sectors. The chemical and mechanical degradation of these and other materials are explored. The use of tools such as Ellingham and Pourbaix diagrams in the prediction of corrosion will be explored, in addition to developing an understanding of the interlinked effects of stress and corrosion on materials.

Advanced Characterisation Methods

In this module you will explore the use of a variety of characterisation methods that are applied in materials science. You will explore the background theory to these methods, how to use the tools, how to interpret the resulting data and appreciate how this can be used to understand the structure and properties of materials.

Industrial Training Programme 1

In this module you will undertake an 'open ended project'. You will have the opportunity to develop technical research skills, including undertaking lab work, processing and analysing data, presenting and discussing results, and reporting your findings as a technical presentation to industry partners and as a technical report. The industry partners for your project may vary from year to year. In addition to the regular support offered by your lectures, representatives from the industrial partner will also be available throughout the semester to provide guidance. In this module, you will develop professional skills, which you will use when in discussion with scientists and engineers from an industrial partner in industry and also when holding regular group project meetings. All of the projects are 'open-ended' therefore, there is no one right answer. This module gives you an opportunity to: develop creative thinking; develop project management skills; use the fundamental knowledge gained in years 1 and 2 and apply it to real-life situations; develop problem solving skills; to work together as a team.

Optional modules (choose up to 40 credits from the following list):

Advanced Functional and Ceramic Materials

You will explore a range of inorganic and functional materials in this module. This will cover advanced concepts around electrical, magnetic and optical behaviour. You will consider processing, crystal and defect chemistry, electrical transport and industrial applications of these materials within various fields particularly around energy, environment and sustainability.

Composite Materials and Micromechanics

This module starts with an introduction to the different types of composite materials that either exist in nature or are man-made. Reinforcing theories are discussed as are the strengths and weaknesses of composite materials. The aim is to acquaint students with the constituents of composite materials, fibres and matrices. Running parallel to this is an examination of composite materials from a micromechanics point of view. Fibre statistics, classical laminate theory and shear lag theory (and more) are used to predict and understand the properties of composites. A series of problem classes are used to help students practice using the equations and interpreting the output.

Materials Modelling and Artificial Intelligence

You will expand on computational tools to study materials science and engineering. Your subjects will include an exploration of finite element methods, optimisation processes and the use of computer algorithms such as machine learning and artificial intelligence tools to analyse, interpret and use data sets.

Materials for Fission and Fusion Power (20 credits)

This module will introduce key materials challenges in the nuclear industry. The module introduces the main concepts of nuclear energy generation and the fuel cycle and then considers the issues this generates from a materials engineering view. This will include radiation damage in materials, materials for current and next generation reactors, materials for nuclear waste storage and disposal.

Fourth yearFourth year

In your fourth year you'll undertake a research project where you can apply all the skills and knowledge you've learnt through the degree. You’ll develop advanced research and analytical skills within a specialised area of your interest. As your own project you will develop a range of professional skills around project management and presentational skills

You'll also focus on your professional engineering development, building a portfolio for chartered status with the IOM3 (or equivalent body) and exploring employability and career progression in engineering.

You'll also have the opportunity to choose optional modules, allowing you to specialise further in areas such as nuclear reactor engineering, design and manufacture of composites, atomistic and mesoscale modelling, polymer processing, metallurgical processing, composite materials and micromechanics, energy systems and management, and nanomaterials process design.

Research Project and Literature Review (45 credits)

Professional Engineering Development (15 credits)

Advanced Industrial Training Project (15 credits)

Optional modules:

A student will take 45 credits (three modules) from this group.

Nuclear Reactor Engineering

15 credits

Atomistic and Mesoscale Modelling of Materials

This unit discusses materials modelling and its application to the understanding and prediction of the structure and properties of materials. Computational workshops and a group project introduce students to the practical use of standard modelling methods. The overarching aim is to foster an appreciation for the relevant length and timescales of the available modelling tools, and knowledge of how to combine several of them to solve a multiscale problem in materials engineering. All the modelling tools are based on particle methods - either atomistic simulation or Smooth Particle Applied Dynamics simulation. The latter technique is different in formulation from the usual continuum-based tools: Finite Element or Computational Fluid Dynamics tools, but more versatile and powerful. This module will teach students some of the fundamental theory that underpins the methods, give them a sound understanding of the algorithms and structure used in the code, while providing ample examples of where they can be applied in the field of Materials Engineering.

Metallurgical Processing

This module examines three areas of materials engineering where significant improvement in performance in-service can be obtained via their use. First, the module provides an introduction to the processes and technologies involved in the production of steel. Secondly, methodologies of how microstructure can be significantly improved via thermomechanical processing are investigated and aims to build insight into the operation and capabilities of thermomechanical processing techniques. Finally, this module will describe in detail the underlying engineering principles of plastic forming and focus on some of the main metallic production techniques such as extrusion, rolling and wire drawing.

Energy Generation and Storage

Decarbonisation of society through electrification of transport and industry requires a large-scale switch to nuclear and renewable energy generation associated with non-fossil fuel based energy storage and recovery methods.

The aims of this module are to develop your knowledge and understanding of the materials challenges inherent in

a) the next generation of nuclear reactors including fusion reactors; b) the hydrogen economy;

c) current and novel battery technologies and d) novel energy recovery technologies.

Design and Manufacture of Composites

This module is designed to provide you with an understanding of both the design and manufacture of polymer composites and is presented in two sections. First, the design of composites is taught via tutorials on classical laminate theory. An extended series of worked examples provides you with the basic tools you need to design effective composite parts. Second, the manufacture of composites is taught via lectures. You will learn multiple routes for making composite parts alongside practical issues such as defects, machining/joints, failure, testing and non destructive testing, repair and SMART composites.

Energy Systems and Management

To provide a broad study of conventional and renewable Energy Systems and an advanced knowledge of selected emerging energy technologies. To develop practical skills and confidence in carrying out energy management tasks such as conducting an energy audit.

Functional Nano- and Bio-nanomaterials

This module will give you (1) understanding of the principles underpinning the improved properties of nanomaterials over bulk materials, (2) an overview of key nanomaterial manufacturing techniques, and (3) knowledge of applications of selected types of functional nanomaterials including for renewable energy and strong, long-life nanocomposites.

ATAS applicants: copy module titles to clipboard

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Learning and assessment

Learning

You'll learn through lectures, labs, tutorials and problem classes. We take a 'learn by doing' approach to our courses, so that you develop transferable, industry relevant skills and use equipment found in the workplace.

Our industrial training projects enable you to work in groups directly with leading materials companies. You will explore their challenges and develop solutions, giving you direct industry experience.

You'll gain further experience through the artefacts project, which allows you to examine how real materials are used in real products, allowing you to explore design and materials selection to appreciate commercial and industrial decision making.

In the individual final year research project, you will organise and conduct your own research, exploring the cutting edge of materials science with the latest equipment.

We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.

Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

Learning support facilities and library opening hours

Throughout your course our world-class staff will help you to develop as a scientist and engineer.

Our academics are leading experts in their fields with international reputations, and their research shapes and inspires what you are taught. Combining this knowledge with industrial understanding means that what we teach you is relevant today and into the future.

Assessment

Assessment on this course is designed to evaluate both your theoretical understanding and practical skills. You will be assessed through a combination of exams, tests, coursework, and practical work. The balance of these assessment types will vary depending on the specific modules you choose, giving you opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and hands-on experience throughout your degree.

Entry requirements

With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or a contextual offer - find out if you're eligible.

Standard offer

Access Sheffield offer

A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification

AAB, including two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry + A in a relevant EPQ

International Baccalaureate

36, with 6 in two of Higher Level Maths, Physics or Chemistry; 34, with 6,5 in two of Higher Level Maths, Physics or Chemistry and A in a science-based extended essay

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDD in Engineering, Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams) or Blacksmithing and Metalworking + A in A Level Maths

BTEC Diploma

DD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths

Distinction in either the Maintenance, Installation & Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing or Design & Development for Engineering & Manufacturing T Level, including grade A in the core component + A in A Level Maths

Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s

AAABB + AA in two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry

Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels

A + AA in two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry

Access to HE Diploma

Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject (to include units in two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry), with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction and 6 at Merit

Routes for mature students

34, with 6,5 in two of Higher Level Maths, Physics or Chemistry

DDD in Engineering, Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams) or Blacksmithing and Metalworking + B in A Level Maths

DD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths

AABBB + AB in two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry

B + AA in two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry

Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject (to include units in two of Maths, Physics or Chemistry), with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit

Equivalent English language qualifications

Visa and immigration requirements

Other qualifications | UK and EU/international

Pathway programme for international students

If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.

Graduate careers

Our graduates are in demand and go on to achieve success in leading industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, construction, and renewable energy. They develop advanced materials, improve manufacturing processes, and drive innovation.

The course equips you with essential skills valued by employers, including analytical problem-solving, computational modelling, research, communication, and application of sustainable design.

With a strong emphasis on practical learning, you'll gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and have opportunities to work on industry focused projects, preparing you for the challenges and demands of a dynamic industry.

Graduates work for organisations like Jaguar Land Rover, Jacobs Engineering, and Mondelēz International. Many pursue advanced study or research, driving progress in areas such as nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sustainability.

Our graduates have the skills, experience and contacts they need to tackle society's most pressing materials challenges. No matter where your future lies, as a Sheffield materials graduate, you'll be in demand.

How my materials science and engineering degree led me to work with aerospace and biomedical superalloys

Graduate,

Material Science and Engineering MEng

Department statistics

1st in the UK for teaching, learning opportunities, and academic support in materials science

National Student Survey (NSS) 2025

1st in the UK for student voice for materials

2nd in the UK for materials science and engineering (general engineering category)

The Guardian University Guide 2027

4th in the UK for materials technology

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

5th in the UK for materials science and engineering (materials technology)

The Complete University Guide 2027

Materials are everywhere, shaping the world around us in countless ways. Without materials scientists and engineers, everyday innovations like aeroplanes, mobile phones, and medical breakthroughs wouldn’t exist.

Materials science and engineering is a discipline that is essential to all branches of engineering, combining elements of physics, chemistry, engineering, maths, and, in some cases, biology, to tackle real-world challenges.

At Sheffield, the materials science and engineering discipline is at the heart of ground-breaking innovation and research. With over 135 years of history, the University has long been a hub for materials science excellence. Our academics are internationally renowned experts, whose cutting-edge research directly influences the courses you’ll study and the challenges you’ll tackle.

With strong links to industry, you’ll have opportunities to work directly with industrial partners on projects that reflect the latest advancements in materials science. This exposure to practical, real-world applications ensures you’re well-prepared for the diverse challenges of the engineering sector.

Cross-faculty project week

Our Global Engineering Challenge and Engineering: You’re Hired are week-long, interdisciplinary projects designed to mirror real-world industry. You’ll team up with students from different subjects to tackle big engineering problems. You’ll build essential skills in teamwork, design, problem-solving and communication.

While the Global Engineering Challenge takes place in your first year and tackles engineering problems that focus on sustainability and inclusivity, Engineering: You’re Hired – held in your second year – uses more advanced engineering technical knowledge to solve problems set by real industry experts. The project weeks are designed to move you beyond lectures into hands-on challenges that develop professional skills, boosting your employability and making you career-ready from day one.

Teaching in the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering is mainly based in The Diamond, the University's dedicated engineering teaching facility. Here, you'll find lecture theatres, seminar rooms, open plan learning spaces, library services and a number of specialist engineering laboratories. You'll also have lectures and use laboratories in the Sir Robert Hadfield Building.

Facilities

You’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including The Diamond, where you’ll work in advanced laboratories equipped with industry-standard equipment. Here, you’ll have access to modern lecture theatres, open-plan learning spaces, and specialist engineering labs. You’ll also have the opportunity to use the Sir Robert Hadfield Building, home to further advanced laboratories where you’ll conduct practical, hands-on learning.

Our materials science and engineering students benefit from integrated access to multidisciplinary labs, including electronics and clean rooms, providing a unique and comprehensive learning experience.

Not only do you get to use the materials lab, packed full of industry standard equipment, but because materials science and engineering is integrated into all other types of engineering, our students get to experience working in multiple laboratories in The Diamond, such as the electronics lab and the clean room.

You’ll gain real-world experience using industry standard equipment in settings that simulate real engineering challenges, preparing you for a career at the cutting edge of the field. This integrated learning environment offers you the chance to gain practical experience using the same technologies employed by professionals in the field.

There are also social spaces, quiet study areas, and a cafe where you can take a well earned break from studying.

University rankings

A world top-100 university

QS World University Rankings 2027 (82nd)

Number one in the Russell Group for student voice

National Student Survey 2026

92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent

Research Excellence Framework 2021

University of the Year for Student Experience

Number one Students' Union in the UK

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

Number one for Students' Union

StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards

7th best University for Work Experience

Higherin 2026-27

Student profiles

Opportunity for collaboration with other engineers teaches you about the way the industry operates.

Chloe Skidmore

Undergraduate student,

MEng Materials Science and Engineering

I loved every minute of my studies. I felt supported and was given the opportunity to really enjoy my degree and perform the best I could.

Latham Haigh

Postgraduate researcher ,

MEng Materials Science and Engineering (Research)

Fees and funding

We have a fixed fee guarantee in place for undergraduate overseas students, meaning that your tuition fee will not increase during your studies. Tuition fees for undergraduate home students may increase during your studies in line with our Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer policy.

Tuition fees

Fee status help

Additional costs

The annual fee for your undergraduate course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider. These costs may increase due to price increases outside of the University’s control, if you defer entry or if you choose to change course.

Examples of what’s included and excluded in undergraduate fees

Funding your study

Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

£2,500 per year scholarships for international students

We're offering automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000 to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.

University open days

We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

Open days: book your place

Online events

Join our online information sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.

Online information sessions

Subject tasters

If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

Upcoming taster sessions

Offer holder days

If you've If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

Campus tours

Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

Campus tour: book your place

Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:

www.ucas.com

Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

Contact us

Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.

Contacts for prospective students

The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

Our student protection plan

Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

Placements and study abroad

Department

Extra info box

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院校只公布範圍；競爭較大科目可能要求更高成績，請向院校確認

競爭較大的課程可能要求更高；請向院校確認。