Materials Science and Engineering is an interdisciplinary field investigating the relationship between the structure of materials at atomic or molecular scales and their macroscopic properties. Materials Scientists and Engineers are at the centre of virtually every area of technology from optoelectronics to space materials and from automotive and automotive manufacturing to biomedical devices. The core knowledge in this field is essential in currently evolving advanced technologies such as additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing) and nanotechnology. Graduates will gain expertise in fundamental materials science and real-world engineering application of materials, including metals, ceramics, composites and semiconductors.

This programme is delivered by a School with a long history of innovation, establishing its first spin-out company more than 40 years ago, attracting more than €5 million in research funding annually, and leading SFI’s national centre for advanced manufacturing.

Vision and Values Statement

This programme is aimed at students with a primary degree in engineering or cognate physical science who wish to develop a career or engage with further studies in materials science and engineering. We value and therefore encourage students to be engaged, autonomous learners who have a critical and problem-solving approach to materials as they are used in both common and advanced engineering applications. Of key importance within the learning experience is the ability of the student to work individually or within teams and to communicate their ideas and outcomes effectively. Students should also not lose sight of the ethical, environmental or human perspectives within which they work. We aim to provide a stimulating learning environment with a wide-ranging and relevant taught curriculum that is underpinned by a hands-on laboratory experience that will encourage students to develop a deep understanding of structure-property relationships in materials. A variety of teaching, learning and assessment strategies are used to achieve the desired outcomes including individual and team assignments, technical presentations and a significant supervised research project. These are subject to assessment on both a continuous and end-of-semester basis.

Programme Outcomes

• Advanced knowledge and understanding of the mathematics, sciences, engineering sciences and technologies underpinning their branch of engineering.
• The ability to identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex engineering problems.
• The ability to perform the detailed design of a novel system, component or process using analysis and interpretation of relevant data.
• An understanding of the need for high ethical standards in the practice of engineering, including the responsibilities of the engineering profession towards people, society and the environment.
• The ability to work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary settings, together with the capacity to undertake lifelong learning.
• The ability to communicate effectively on complex technical activities with the engineering and science community and with society at large.