Apprenticeship in Materials Science (BEng Hons)
Materials Engineers play a critical role in finding new material solutions that shape the products we use every day. This course in Materials Science and Engineering is designed for students who are curious about how materials work and are interested in discovering and creating advanced materials for industries including aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and sustainable development. By understanding the structure, properties, and uses of various materials, students learn to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges and drive innovation.
Through practical hands-on experience and interdisciplinary and experimental learning, students engage in both theoretical and practical studies to learn about materials that are used across high-impact industries. You will have access to industry-standard labs and equipment, gaining essential lab skills and experience that match what is expected in professional engineering environments. These skills and experiences are critical for success in metallurgical industries and are valued by employers worldwide.
The program offers career-focused modules that build on core engineering principles while focusing on environmental and sustainability goals. These goals are becoming increasingly important as industries look to develop sustainable and eco-friendly materials. By learning about the latest materials used in emerging green technologies, students are well-prepared to contribute to important global challenges, such as reducing environmental impact.
As part of your study, you will engage with advanced and cutting-edge research topics in materials science, guided by experts in the field. This research is supported by access to the latest technology and labs, helping you gain critical insight into high-level topics such as biomaterials, advanced manufacturing, and renewable materials. The program’s links with industrial placements also allow you to gain work experience while studying, making it easier to transition into roles with leading companies once you graduate.
Graduates from this Materials Science degree are in demand for a wide range of employment opportunities. Many go on to work in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and other fields that focus on sustainable and innovative solutions. With accreditation and chartered status options, this course provides a strong foundation for those seeking professional recognition in the field.
Whether you are looking to research new materials or apply your skills directly in the industry, a degree in Materials Science and Engineering offers the chance to join a dynamic and impactful field, with a career that helps shape the future.
Course details
- Apprenticeship
- Full-time
- English
Fees paid by Welsh Government. No cost to apprentice or employer.
Why choose this course?
What you will learn
Our Materials Science and Engineering course combines a practical, hands-on approach with rigorous theoretical study, encouraging students to build a strong technical foundation alongside critical thinking skills. Each year is designed to deepen your expertise and practical abilities, preparing you to meet the demands of an evolving industry.
In your first year, you’ll gain a foundational understanding of physical sciences and engineering mathematics to underpin your studies. Core modules in engineering science and applications provide a strong basis in essential principles, while study skills modules help you build effective learning techniques crucial for future study.
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
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(20 credits)
Building on your foundation, you’ll study materials and processing techniques, engineering design, and manufacturing technology. A group project introduces collaborative problem-solving, while modules on management, innovation, and sustainability prepare you to address environmental challenges and drive industry innovation.
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(20 credits)
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(20 credits)
Your third year focuses on the performance of materials in service, with special attention to non-ferrous metallurgy and Six Sigma quality management. You’ll develop skills in manufacturing systems and simulation, essential for creating efficient, high-quality production processes and evaluating material properties.
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
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(40 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
In the final year, you’ll undertake an independent project that allows you to explore an area of personal or professional interest. Modules in steel metallurgy and welding engineering provide industry-relevant skills, enabling you to work confidently with complex materials and their applications in manufacturing and design.
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Staff
Our People
You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for Teaching, Assessment and Feedback and Academic Support (NSS 2024) meaning that the support and feedback you get will help you learn and develop strong academic skills. Our students have placed us 1st in Wales for Learning Opportunities and Student Voice (NSS 2024) meaning that there are a wide range of opportunities available to enhance your studies and that students play an active role in shaping their learning experiences. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students place us as 1st in Wales and joint 3rd in the UK for student satisfaction (Times Higher Education, 2024, ‘Overall Positivity’ measure). Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses.
Further information
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112 UCAS Tariff Points
- e.g. A-levels: BBC, BTEC: DMM, IB: 32
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GCSE grade A*-C (grade 9-4 in England) in English and Mathematics are also required.
If this course interests you but you don’t have the entry requirements to join the apprenticeship you could consider:
- ‘with Foundation Year’. This route is designed to give you extra support as it provides you with an additional year (full-time) of supported study. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Once you successfully complete your Foundation Year studies, you will automatically advance onto the full time degree option where available in this subject. &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
- Certificate in Higher Education (CertHE). This is a one-year course and is equivalent to the first year of the three year, full-time bachelor’s degree. &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
 Once you have successfully completed your CertHE studies, you will be eligible to progress for the remaining two years of the full time bachelor’s degree option in this subject. &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
These are ideal routes if you are not in employment in the sector, are returning to study after a gap, if you have not previously studied this subject, or if you did not achieve the grades you need for a place on this apprenticeship. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Admissions Advice and Support 
We may make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, such as your background, experiences and individual circumstances. This is known as ‘’. For specific advice and support you can  for more information about entry requirements
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To apply, you must be employed in a relevant role and have your employer’s support.
Begin by registering your interest through our page. After reviewing your information, the Apprenticeship Team will contact you to confirm eligibility and guide you through the application process. For further assistance, please reach out to the Apprenticeship Team. -
Students are taught through a series of lectures, tutorials, laboratories and practical sessions. Assessment of progress is made through a combination of laboratory-based practicals, assignments, presentations, exams and individual projects.
Module assessment is often by assignment, or assignment and examination. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of coursework set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by a written report and presentation.
One of the main parts of the final year will be the final year project. This is a work-based project that will allow students to use the knowledge built up through the course to solve a genuine workplace-engineering problem.
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Extracurricular Welsh Opportunities
There are many ways to engage with Welsh culture and life at UWTSD, including joining clubs and societies for Welsh speakers and becoming a member of our vibrant Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol branch. &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Opportunities to Learn Welsh
We also provide a variety of opportunities to learn and develop your Welsh language skills. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;