Materials Science and Engineering with a Foundation YearBEng
Source: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/materials-science-and-engineering-foundation-year-beng Parent: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027
2027-28 entry
Materials Science and Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
Materials Science and Engineering explores the principles of materials and how they are used in engineering. This foundation year is for students looking to strengthen their science skills and knowledge before starting the degree, preparing you for the BEng degree and hands-on materials projects.
- A Levels \ BBB; BBC
- UCAS code \ J509
- Duration \ 4 years
- Start date \ September
-
Attendance \ Full-time
- Course fee
- Funding available
- FY Foundation year
- Optional placement year
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Course description
Why study this course?
1st in the UK for teaching on my course, learning opportunities, and academic support and student voice
We are ranked number one for Teaching on my course, Learning opportunities and Academic support in Materials Science, and for Student voice in Materials Technology (National Student Survey 2025).
Foundation year: your pathway to degree-level study
This year prepares you for degree-level study, providing essential science, maths, and engineering skills. With tailored support throughout, you’ll develop the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed, and on successful completion, automatically progress to year 1 of the Materials Science and Engineering course.
Artefacts and individual final-year projects
Bridging theory and practice, your artefacts project empowers you to explore the use of different materials in commercial products. All students will carry out an open-ended individual final year project where you can explore research level material.
Links with industry and practical training
Our Industrial Advisory Board provides a link between your studies and the professional world, ensuring we teach you the skills in demand from industry. For example, you’ll be using industry standard equipment – making, testing and characterising different materials in our bespoke labs
Materials engineers for a sustainable future
Sustainability is a core theme within materials science and engineering, as we look to develop materials and manufacturing methods which ensure the long-term viability of the planet and its resources (UN Sustainable Development Goals 9 and 12).
Shape the future of engineering by mastering the science of materials, solving real-world challenges, and driving innovation in industries that matter.
If you don't have the usual scientific or mathematical background for an engineering degree, a foundation year is for you. After successfully completing the foundation year, you automatically progress onto Year 1 of your Materials Science and Engineering BEng degree.
The foundation year is designed to prepare you for your degree. You’ll study core topics such as mathematics and an introduction to engineering, gaining hands-on experience through laboratory work and lab reports. You’ll also complete a project relevant to your chosen degree programme, ensuring you are fully prepared to succeed in your first year and build confidence in both learning and practical application.
On this course, you’ll explore how materials science underpins the innovations driving modern engineering. Designed with your future in mind, the course links theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to equip you for success in dynamic industries like aerospace, energy, and advanced manufacturing.
From day one, you’ll focus on real-world applications. In the first two years, you’ll build a strong foundation in materials properties, sustainability, and engineering processes. Group projects will challenge you to solve practical engineering problems while developing essential skills like project management, communication, and technical problem-solving, qualities highly valued by employers.
Sustainability is a core theme, integrated into every module. You’ll explore how materials science contributes to a greener world by reducing resource dependency, advancing energy efficient processes, and supporting renewable technologies. Topics like the Materials Lifecycle, energy materials, and nuclear technologies will allow you to explore cutting-edge solutions aligned with global sustainability goals.
In your final year you'll have the opportunity to choose the specialist modules that interest you, from metallurgy to functional materials, composites, nuclear materials and everything in between. Your independent research project will be a chance to showcase your technical skills and push the boundaries of engineering innovation.
You’ll learn from world-leading researchers and have access to cutting-edge facilities, preparing you to meet the engineering challenges of the 21st century. This course equips you with practical skills and knowledge valued by employers, preparing you for diverse roles across a wide range of sectors.
Accreditation
This course is fully accredited by the The Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3), meaning it counts towards later professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3)
Modules
After successfully completing the foundation year modules, you can start your main degree.
We're revising the curriculum of the course for this year of entry and are in the process of confirming the modules. The information here gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover. There may be changes before you begin your studies. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details of the core and optional modules available to you.
Title: Materials Science and Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng course structure 2027\ UCAS code: J509\ Years: 2027
Foundation year
Year 1 onwards
Foundation year
Core Modules:
Advanced Level Chemistry : The unit covers a selection of the major concepts from areas of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry in order to develop a sound basic knowledge of chemistry corresponding to the common core A level curriculum as preparation for successful studies in the Material Sciences and Chemical Engineering.
**20 credits**
Introduction to Engineering : This module will introduce the application of engineering principles to foundation year students and give the student an appreciation of the breadth of engineering activities across the faculty and identify to students what knowledge areas and skills are needed in order to contribute to their development and be successful. It will also help create links with departments and draw on the other modules that students will take in the foundation year especially maths and physics.
**40 credits**
Optional Modules. You must choose one of the following:
Elements of Physics with Computing : Students will study forces, motion and energy in 1 and 2 dimensions. This will be applied in a programming context to develop logic and arithmetic operations, understanding of the stages of software development, memory allocation, data structures and testing. Students will then study electricity and magnetism, voltage, current and simple devices applied to the programming of a microcontroller, developing understanding of power supplies, digital and analogue I/O, and simple devices such as switches and LEDs.
**20 credits**
Elements of Physics : This module provides students with the elements of Physics required to enter the first year of an engineering course where some knowledge of Physics is needed. Understanding will be developed by taking a sub- set of the lectures of the more comprehensive module Foundations of Physics, namely those covering Dynamics/Mechanics; Electricity and Magnetism (autumn semester); and Oscillations, Waves, and Optics; Properties of Matter (spring semester). These will be delivered in the first 2/3rds of either semester. Problem solving and example classes are integrated into lectures. As this module teaches no practical Physics, it is complemented by laboratory components of the 40 credit foundation year module Introduction to Engineering.
**20 credits**
Optional Modules. You must choose one of the following:
Core Foundation Mathematics : The syllabus for MPS002 covers the common core A Level curriculum. The unit is tailored for students who have been away from mathematics for a period of time, but who will have gained some A-Level or similar qualifications. The unit covers the basic principles of algebra, geometry and calculus. Following the introduction of new material in the lectures, students have the opportunity of extensive problem solving, both in the tutorial sessions with the lecturers and in their own time.
**40 credits**
Foundation Core and Enhanced Mathematics : This module builds on the common core curriculum from A level maths (which is a prerequisite). This unit covers enhanced comprehension of topics in pure maths, statistics, probability, and numerical methods. These topics are chosen to further prepare students for their undergraduate studies in the science and engineering faculties.
**40 credits**
Year 1 onwards
After successfully completing the foundation year, you can start your BEng degree.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You'll learn through lectures, labs, tutorials and problem classes. We take a 'learn by doing' approach to our courses, so that you develop transferable, industry-relevant skills and use equipment found in the workplace.
We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.
Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.
Learning support facilities and library opening hours
Assessment
Assessment on this course is designed to evaluate both your theoretical understanding and practical skills. You will be assessed through a combination of exams, tests, coursework, and practical work. The balance of these assessment types will vary depending on the specific modules you choose, giving you opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and hands-on experience throughout your degree.
Entry requirements
Standard offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ BBB; BBC \ BBB (any A Level); BBC including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology
International Baccalaureate : 32; 31, with Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology at Higher Level 5 or Standard Level 7 BTEC Extended Diploma : DDD in Engineering or Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams) + GCSE Science grade 6/B and Maths grade 7/A BTEC Diploma : DD in Engineering or Applied Science + A at A Level (no STEM at A Level) + GCSE Science grade 6/B and Maths grade 7/A; DD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in an A Level science subject (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology) + GCSE Maths grade 7/A; DD in Engineering or Applied Science + C in A Level Maths + GCSE Science grade 6/B T Level : Distinction in the relevant T Level, including grade B in the core component + GCSE Science grade 6/B and Maths grade 7/A Scottish Highers : AABBB (any subjects); ABBBB, including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : B + BB (any A Level subjects); B + BC in Maths and either Physics, Chemistry or Biology Access to HE Diploma : Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 at Distinction (to include 12 Maths units) and 21 at Merit + GCSE Maths grade 7/A
Other requirements
- If you are studying both Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology at A Level (or equivalent), there are no additional GCSE requirements. If studying any other subject combination, we require GCSE Science grade 6/B (or 65 in GCSE Double Award Science) and Maths grade 7/A
- Relevant T Level subjects include: Maintenance, Installation & Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing; Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing & Control; or Design & Development for Engineering & Manufacturing
English language requirements |
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.
Graduate careers
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
Our graduates are in demand and go on to achieve success in leading industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, construction, and renewable energy. They develop advanced materials, improve manufacturing processes, and drive innovation.
The course equips you with essential skills valued by employers, including analytical problem-solving, computational modelling, research, communication, and application of sustainable design.
With a strong emphasis on practical learning, you'll gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and have opportunities to work on industry focused projects, preparing you for the challenges and demands of a dynamic industry.
Graduates work for organisations like Jaguar Land Rover, Jacobs Engineering, and Mondelēz International. Many pursue advanced study or research, driving progress in areas such as nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sustainability.
Our graduates have the skills, experience and contacts they need to tackle society's most pressing materials challenges. No matter where your future lies, as a Sheffield materials graduate, you'll be in demand.
[How my materials science and engineering degree led me to work with aerospace and biomedical superalloys
Annabel
Graduate, \ Material Science and Engineering MEng](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/profiles/annabel)
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
1st in the UK for teaching, learning opportunities, and academic support in materials science
National Student Survey 2025
1st in the UK for student voice in materials technology
National Student Survey 2025
4th in the UK for materials technology
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
5th in the UK for material science and engineering (general engineering category)
The Guardian University Guide 2025
Materials are everywhere, shaping the world around us in countless ways. Without materials scientists and engineers, everyday innovations like aeroplanes, mobile phones, and medical breakthroughs wouldn’t exist.
Materials science and engineering is a discipline that is essential to all branches of engineering, combining elements of physics, chemistry, engineering, maths, and, in some cases, biology, to tackle real-world challenges.
At Sheffield, the materials science and engineering discipline is at the heart of ground-breaking innovation and research. With over 135 years of history, the University has long been a hub for materials science excellence. Our academics are internationally renowned experts, whose cutting-edge research directly influences the courses you’ll study and the challenges you’ll tackle.
With strong links to industry, you’ll have opportunities to work directly with industrial partners on projects that reflect the latest advancements in materials science. This exposure to practical, real-world applications ensures you’re well-prepared for the diverse challenges of the engineering sector.
Teaching in the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering is mainly based in The Diamond, the University's dedicated engineering teaching facility. Here, you'll find lecture theatres, seminar rooms, open plan learning spaces, library services and a number of specialist engineering laboratories. You'll also have lectures and use laboratories in the Sir Robert Hadfield Building.
Facilities
You’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including The Diamond, where you’ll work in advanced laboratories equipped with industry-standard equipment. Here, you’ll have access to modern lecture theatres, open-plan learning spaces, and specialist engineering labs. You’ll also have the opportunity to use the Sir Robert Hadfield Building, home to further advanced laboratories where you’ll conduct practical, hands-on learning.
Our materials science and engineering students benefit from integrated access to multidisciplinary labs, including electronics and clean rooms, providing a unique and comprehensive learning experience.
Not only do you get to use the materials lab, packed full of industry standard equipment, but because materials science and engineering is integrated into all other types of engineering, our students get to experience working in multiple laboratories in The Diamond, such as the electronics lab and the clean room.
You’ll gain real-world experience using industry standard equipment in settings that simulate real engineering challenges, preparing you for a career at the cutting edge of the field. This integrated learning environment offers you the chance to gain practical experience using the same technologies employed by professionals in the field.
There are also social spaces, quiet study areas, and a cafe where you can take a well earned break from studying.
Science and Engineering Foundation Year
University rankings
A world top-100 university\ QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)
Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)\ National Student Survey 2025
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent\ Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year for Student Experience\ The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Number one Students' Union in the UK\ Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union\ StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards
20th in the UK targeted by the largest number of Top 100 Employers in 2025-26\ High Fliers 2026
Student profiles
[I am learning how materials science explains everyday technology and future innovation
Fay
President of MatSoc, \ Material Science and Engineering BEng](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/profiles/i-am-learning-how-materials-science-explains-everyday-technology-and-future-innovation)
[I really enjoyed the artifacts project as it gave us the opportunity to conduct our own research and present the findings at the end.
Christine Thorogood
Undergraduate student, \ BEng Materials Science and Engineering](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/profiles/christine) [The placement has allowed me to really understand the content of my 1st and 2nd years.
Samuel Jackson
Undergraduate student, \ BEng Materials Sciences and Engineering with a Year in Industry](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/profiles/samuel)
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Examples of what’s included and excluded
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
£2,500 per year scholarships for international students
We're offering automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000 to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.
Optional industry placement and study abroad
Placement
You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year.
A placement year will help you to
- gain an insight into possible careers
- develop a range of transferable skills
- build a professional network
- get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
- add valuable work experience to your CV
- gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
- apply elements of academic learning in the workplace
This placement year, typically taken between your second and third academic years, provides invaluable practical experience of working in industry, putting your learning into context and giving you a significant head start in the job market.
If you choose this option and successfully secure and complete a placement, your course will extend by a year and your qualification will be reflected as 'BEng Materials Science and Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year' at graduation.
Study abroad
Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.
You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Online events
Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
We can only accept one application to either this foundation year course or a (direct) BEng or MEng course.
Apply for the most appropriate route to you. You cannot hold an offer for both this foundation year entry course and a (direct) BEng or MEng course.
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Contact us
Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.
Contacts for prospective students
Science and Engineering Foundation Year
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.
Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer
2027-2028
We can only accept one application to either this foundation year course or a (direct) BEng or MEng course.
Apply for the most appropriate route to you. You cannot hold an offer for both this foundation year entry course and a (direct) BEng or MEng course.
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Science and Engineering Foundation Year
Materials Science and Engineering explores the principles of materials and how they are used in engineering. This foundation year is for students looking to strengthen their science skills and knowledge before starting the degree, preparing you for the BEng degree and hands-on materials projects.
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