ObjectivesUnderstanding why structural materials fail and a knowledge of the methods for analysing and predicting the structural integrity of a material during service are extremely important in industry at the initial design stage as well as in-service and end-of-life analysis of components. The course integrates continuum treatments with microstructural failure mechanisms, providing a holistic view of materials failure. It will provide you with skills suitable for a wide range of careers concerned with product structural integrity and failure analysis of materials in sectors such as aerospace and automotive.
Entry requirementsThis MSc course is designed for science and engineering graduates who wish to develop expertise of the failure of materials. The course aims to develop a broad and deep understanding of the complex interrelationships between materials properties and their mechanisms of failure. Only through understanding these can materials be used with confidence in the design process.
Academic titleMSc Engineering Materials Failure and Analysis
Course descriptionKey facts
-The programme is currently in the UK Home Office Science and Engineering Scheme (SEGS), which allows non-EEA graduates to remain in the UK for a further 12 months after they have completed the course to pursue their career.
-The School of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering was awarded a Grade 5 in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise.
-We were also given the highest possible rating at the last UK Teaching Quality Assessment.
Course Content
This course aims to develop your ability to think and function in an integrated manner across the areas of materials engineering and mechanical engineering (structural integrity).
Through core taught modules (there are no optional modules on this course), you will develop the following:
-Knowledge and understanding of continuum mechanics;
-Understanding of the relationships between the mechanical properties of materials, their microstructure and their processing history;
-The ability to communicate ideas effectively in written reports, verbally and by means of presentations to groups;
-Ability to exercise original thought;
-Ability to plan and undertake an individual project;
-Ability to understand and apply the theory, method and practice of materials manufacture in a wide range of industries;
-Interpersonal, communication and professional skills.
Core modules currently offered on this course are listed below:
-Advanced surface engineering and characterisation
-Materials models and modes of failure
-Finite element analysis
-Advanced materials
-Information technology for engineering
-Materials under stress
-Materials in service
-Advanced materials characterisation
-Aerospace materials
-Advanced joining technology
-Stress analysis techniques
Please note that all module details are subject to change.
Once you have completed the taught components of the course, you will undertake a major individual research-based project, often linked with an industrial company.
Examples of such projects have examined failure of spot welds in high strength automotive steels and failure of wear resistant coatings in aeroengine applications.
Course Structure
The MSc in Engineering Materials Failure and Analysis can be taken on a full-time basis over 1 year (September to September) or part-time over 2 years.
During the autumn and spring semesters, you will complete the taught components (worth 120 credits) of the course before undertaking a 60-credit research project over the summer period.