Why study Materials at Sheffield?
Materials Science has been ranked best in the UK for Overall Student Satisfaction in the latest National Student Survey (NSS) 2022 results.
When you study with us, you'll develop knowledge and expertise, while gaining industry-relevant practical skills and experience of working in industrial settings, all of which will help you secure employment when you graduate. In the most recent Graduate Outcomes Survey 90% of graduates who were in employment were in graduate level jobs (15 months after they finished their course).
How you'll learn
We take a ‘learn by doing’ approach to our courses. A lot of your time will be spent in labs putting theory into practice. You’ll develop industry relevant skills and use equipment found in the workplace.
As well as lectures and tutorials, you'll learn through case studies, design projects, group industrial projects, lab work and manufacturing and plant visits. It's varied and hands-on - alongside technical expertise, you'll develop invaluable skills in teamwork, logical reasoning, project management and problem-solving.
You will have between 15 – 24 hours of staff contact time per week in various forms, including:
- Tutorials: weekly meetings with an academic staff member in a group of 5 - 6 students
- Practical sessions: these will take place in our teaching and research labs in The Diamond and the Sir Robert Hadfield Building
Leadership skills
SELA is an extra-curricular program to help engineering students become leaders who create positive impact in research and industry.
A 2-year Academy, commencing in the autumn of your second year of study, training and benefits include intensive leadership boot camp, advanced career planning, exclusive events with engineering leaders from academia and industry.
I was attracted to SELA as it was a great opportunity to enhance my leadership skills, not only to use throughout university but in the working world after I graduate. I believe that participating in such a programme has helped to hone my skills so that I can really make an impact in the world of engineering, be that in industry or research.
Bethany Jim
MEng Material Science and Engineering (Research)
Industrial projects
We'll also challenge you to think about engineering issues from a global perspective. So wherever your future lies, you'll be in demand.
Global Engineering Challenge: All first-year engineering students come together to tackle real-world problems from a global perspective.
Engineering You're Hired: Second-year students, in multidisciplinary teams, develop projects in conjunction with industry.
Extra-curricular activities
As well as attending seminars, lectures and exams, there are a wealth of different opportunities available to make your university experience unforgettable. It is about developing as a person and gaining the experience and skills to help you succeed - not just in your studies, but also with whatever you choose to do after graduating.
Within engineering, there are various opportunities to demonstrate academic achievement as well as wider engagement and learning:
- International Engineering Ambassadors
- Science and Engineering Champions
- Student Ambassadors
Study abroad and discover a world of new experiences
The Study Abroad Programme is an exchange programme between Sheffield and partner universities, giving undergraduate students the chance to study at a university in Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada or the USA, without extending the length of their course.
You receive full academic recognition for the time you spend studying abroad. In addition, you won't be asked to pay any tuition fees to your host institution - you will simply pay applicable tuition fees to Sheffield.
How to apply
Once you arrive at Sheffield and begin your first year of study, you will need to speak with Dr Hajime Kinoshita, Department Study Abroad Adviser, who will discuss your choices and assist with submitting an application.
- Studying a BEng, 3-year degree? You will apply in your first year and spend your second year abroad.
- Studying an MEng, 4-year degree? You should express interest during your first year, and liaise with the Department Study Abroad Adviser as to which year you will spend abroad.
International Merit Scholarships
We offer a generous package of financial support for international students including 75 undergraduate scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee and 125 postgraduate taught scholarships worth £5,000 towards the tuition fee. Applications are now open for existing offer holders.