Master's Programme in Materials Engineering

120 credits

Innovation in materials creates opportunities for development in all other fields of technology. The availability of raw materials is finite, so there is a growing need to develop new sustainable materials and technologies. The Master's programme in Materials Engineering teaches you to deal with these challenges. The programme is taught at the Ångström Laboratory where world-leading research in materials and energy is conducted.

Autumn 2023 Autumn 2023, Uppsala, 100%, On-campus, English

Autumn 2024 Autumn 2024, Uppsala, 100%, On-campus, English

Knowledge of materials is needed to develop everything from biomaterials to finding alternatives to rare earth metals used in modern battery and energy technology. The development of new materials with specific properties is of high importance since it drives and enables scientific and technological progress in many areas, such as energy, construction, healthcare, medicine, transport and electronics. Materials engineering is also an important part of developing sustainable societies, as many efforts in this direction require new materials with exacting demands on their properties. Advanced and custom-designed materials, in turn, also place high demands on future manufacturing and recycling technology.

As a student in the Master's Programme in Materials Engineering, you will learn about the structure of different materials, their properties, manufacture, and application and how to design, modify and produce materials for high-tech products. Materials engineering is an interdisciplinary subject, and the programme encompasses courses that span basic theory to various areas of application. You will gain a broad knowledge and cutting-edge expertise, including critical analysis, holistic assessments, and problem-solving that involves materials in different ways.

The materials industry is characterised by a large focus on research. Nearly all the teachers in the programme are active researchers, which combined with access to modern experimental equipment guarantees that what you learn is cutting-edge and that you will gain a very competitive set of skills in the subject.

Student profile

You have a strong background in physics, chemistry, materials science or materials engineering. You have a strong interest in the development and applications of materials and how they can help solve real-world problems. To follow the courses in the program, you have knowledge of solid state physics, materials chemistry and quantum physics.

Degree

The programme leads to the degree of Master of Science (120 credits) with Materials Engineering as the main field of study.

During the initial part of the first semester, courses will be tailored to ensure that all students share a common foundation of knowledge, regardless of their academic background. This can be in the form of, for instance, an individually designed supplementary course in materials engineering, materials chemistry or solid mechanics.

Throughout the programme, you will study a range of subjects including in-depth courses in materials analysis, materials mechanics, microsystem technology and nanomaterials. Furthermore, sustainable development is an important issue that will be covered specifically in the course Materials and Sustainable Development, but also throughout the entire programme.

The elective courses offer a choice of specialisation within engineering materials, medical materials or energy materials.

In the final year, the courses will be strongly tied to current research and development, both in and outside of academia. During the spring you will conduct an independent degree project within an academic research group or in collaboration with industry.

Courses within the programme

See the programme outline for courses within the programme.

The programme will include several different forms of instruction. These may be more theoretical, such as listening to lectures, going over calculations in class, and independent reading and mathematical assignments, but also more practical components, such as lab sessions.

As a student in the Master's Programme in Materials Engineering, you are expected to actively contribute to teaching sessions while also assuming responsibility for your own learning. A large part of the programme is spent studying on your own or in a study group outside the classroom, and as such, you must take a proactive role in structuring your studies.

The language of instruction is English.

With a Master's degree in materials engineering from Uppsala University, you will be an attractive candidate to both Swedish and international industrial employers, with many different potential career paths.

Nearly all tech companies, not just materials manufacturers, have a need for materials engineers. Potential employers can be found in any industry where materials play a key part, such as automotive, energy, construction, electronics, manufacturing, packaging and the medical industry. You can work in positions involving e.g. the production and development of materials, manufacturing and manufacturing development, materials testing, recycling processes and systems, research, innovative business development, and in an advisory role.

You can work as a researcher, specialist or materials expert with a broad skill set, for instance in positions involving implementation and holistic assessment as a project manager or coordinator, communications officer or in sales. Technology companies can often make use of candidates qualified in materials in many different roles.

You can also choose to pursue PhD studies, either at Uppsala University or at other Swedish or foreign universities. Upon completion of a PhD degree, you may choose to continue to research inside the academia or at a company, but you will also be an attractive candidate for many positions in the labour market.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.

Contact

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