Technological advances, as well as methodological issues, have contributed to the transformation of materials and their functions. A number of challenges lie ahead, as manufacturing supply chains become global, involving companies in strategic alliances and partnerships. Materials research is of great use here, as competition can only be achieved through the development of innovative approaches to the design, development and manufacture of novel materials and their characterisation. This long established programme provides rigorous training in both theoretical and applied research for those who wish to pursue their career as a professional materials scientist. A substantial component of the programme is the research project. The research project is undertaken alongside taught modules throughout the academic year, and will be based within one of the materials-based research groups of the School of Engineering and Materials Science. The research project may be focused in the fields of ceramics, polymers, composites, elastomers, functional materials or manufacturing technologies. This programme will: Build on your engineering background to gain an advanced, yet broad knowledge in materials science, with the freedom to specialise through a research project. Provide an insight into areas of manufacturing, planning and control systems, knowledge based systems and measurements and manufacturing systems. The course is interdisciplinary in nature and involves a combination of theoretical and practical approaches.