The MSc in Nanomaterials is an exciting, research-focused course designed to equip graduates with the expertise and skills needed to thrive in the dynamic field of nano and functional materials. Over the course of one year, you will develop a deep understanding of the principles that govern nanomaterials' properties, synthesis, and characterisation, as well as their assembly into advanced functional devices such as photovoltaics and supercapacitors.
The course explores a broad spectrum of themes, from advanced composites to graphene and low-dimensional materials, including quantum dots and 2D materials. You will also gain hands-on research training, working on real-world challenges in nanomaterials assembly, 3D fabrication, and nanocomposite development, while understanding the advantages and limitations of these approaches.
Throughout the course, world-class research papers and industrial case studies will provide a practical perspective, helping you to link theoretical principles to real-world applications. You will also examine the socio-economic and environmental implications of nanomaterials as a transformative technology, preparing you to approach this field with both innovation and responsibility.
This MSc is ideal for those seeking to build careers as academic or industrial scientists in nano and functional materials and related technologies. Graduates leave with a strong foundation in this rapidly evolving discipline, ready to make meaningful contributions to industries ranging from energy to advanced manufacturing.
Course duration 12 months (full-time)
Accreditation This course is accredited by by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3)
Total self-study time Approximately 30 hours per week (depending on individual background and learning needs)
Teaching time Approximately 12 hours per week
(including pre-recorded and live lectures, seminars and practical exercises)
WHAT CAREER PATHWAYS ARE AVAILABLE?
Many of our graduates have ventured into the industry, working in key industrial sectors including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, microelectronics, energy and storage, chemical processing, automotive and aerospace. Another common career path for our graduates would be to continue in academia as a PhD researcher, work in a Research and Development team of a high-tech company or join an engineering consultancy firm.
No matter the path you choose, this course prepares you for a successful and rewarding career.
WHAT ROLES HAVE GRADUATES SECURED?
The MSc course in Nanomaterials enables you to develop a high level of understanding of the field of nano and functional materials, preparing you for a career in the nanomaterials or nanotechnologies industries in management, development or research roles.
Our recent graduates have gone to work for companies including:
- Rolls-Royce
- ZoteFoams
- Deloitte
- Dynanonic
- LayTec
And have gone into roles such as:
- Concept Developer
- Materials Engineer
- Project Manager
- Sales Engineer
- Manufacturing Designer
- PhD researcher
and many more!
OUR STUDENTS' MSc PROJECTS
The MSc project is one of the most exciting parts of a master’s degree — you are paired with an expert supervisor and get a chance to dive deep into a topic you’re passionate about, solve real-world problems, and bring your ideas to life. It’s where everything you’ve learned comes together, showcasing your skills, creativity, and potential to stand out in your field. Here are some projects that our MSc graduates have worked on:
🔎 Gradient Core-Shell Nanocomposites for Solid-State Lithium Batteries
The project focuses on the development and electrochemical characterisation of Li₆PS₅Cl nanoparticles with dual-layer coating, a 2 nm-thick LiPON (lithium phosphorus oxynitride) for Li⁺ transport and 3 nm cross-linked PVDF-TrFE (fluoropolymer) for energy storage applications.
🔎 Exploring the nanostructure of complex ceramics by spatially resolved electron diffraction This project is dedicated to the development of a structural characterisation technique using electron diffraction for investigating interrelationships between multi-element ceramic phase.
🔎 Terahertz and Infrared spectroscopy and microscopy of semiconductor InN nanoparticles The aim of this project is to investigate and optimize the application of THz and IR spectroscopy and microscopy for the nanoscale characterisation of Indium Nitride nanoparticles.
Dr Andrey Kretinin
Senior Lecturer in Materials Physics
ACADEMIC VOICE
The MSc in Nanomaterials offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of nanomaterials—from their unique scale-dependent properties to their transformative applications in energy, electronics, and sensing. With cutting-edge facilities and a research-led curriculum, students are empowered to innovate, explore, and shape the future of materials science.
Our course equips students with the scientific depth and practical insight needed to thrive in both academia and industry. Graduates go on to research roles at leading UK and European universities and contribute to innovation at private sector companies. It’s a launchpad for shaping the future of materials science.
The University of Manchester Oxford Rd Manchester M13 9PL UK