Advanced Metallurgy MMet
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering,
Faculty of Engineering
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Start date
September 2026 -
Duration
1 year -
Attendance
Full-time
Explore this course:
Apply now for 2026 entry or register your interest to find out about postgraduate study and events at the University of Sheffield.
Course description
Our course is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of metallic materials, while equipping you with the skills needed to excel in advanced manufacturing, energy, aerospace and beyond.
Established in the 1950s, this course has a long and prestigious history, with graduates going on to successful careers across industry, research and academia. Today, it remains one of the UK’s leading metallurgy programmes, built on world-class teaching and research in materials science and engineering.
You’ll gain an advanced understanding of the science and engineering of metallic materials – from the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, phase transformations and mechanical behaviour, to modern alloy design, powder metallurgy, and high-temperature performance. You'll explore how metals are processed, characterised, and used in real-world applications, combining theory with hands-on learning in our state-of-the-art labs and facilities, including The Diamond building.
Our teaching is informed by cutting-edge research and close links with industry. You’ll be taught by academics who are internationally recognised in their fields and work on projects with leading global industrial partners.
Our modules ensure you develop a strong blend of practical and analytical skills, while a major research project gives you the opportunity to work on real-world challenges alongside our research groups or industrial collaborators.
Whether you’re looking to specialise in metallurgy or gain a competitive edge in your career, this course gives you the depth and flexibility to follow your interests and goals.
Graduates go on to roles in the energy sector, aerospace, automotive (including motorsport racing), nuclear and manufacturing, with job titles such as materials engineer, research scientist, and consultants for various industries.
Throughout your course, you’ll benefit from dedicated careers guidance, valuable networking opportunities and access to recruitment events.
Accreditation
Fully accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IoM3). Graduates will have the underpinning knowledge for later professional registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Modules
Core modules:
- Engineering Alloys
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This module covers engineering metallic alloys ranging from alloy steels, stainless steels, light alloys (i.e. aluminium alloys and titanium alloys) and high temperature metallic systems (intermetallics and nickel superalloys). The module centres on the physical metallurgy of such engineering alloys to demonstrate the effect of alloying and implications for the processing, microstructure and performance of structural components in a range of industrial sectors, but predominantly the automotive and aerospace sectors.
15 credits - Science of Materials
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This module introduces key concepts involved in materials science to cover general aspects and applications of metallic, polymeric and inorganic materials. Topics covered include: chemical bonding; basic crystallography of crystalline materials; crystal defects; mechanical properties and strength of materials; phase diagrams and transformations; overviews of metals and alloys; polymers and inorganic solids.
15 credits - Materials Processing and Characterisation
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This module introduces experimental methods used to characterise metals, polymers, ceramics and composites and the processes and technologies involved in the production of these materials.
15 credits
Topics covered are split into two areas:Characterisation: Analysis of materials using a range of techniques, e.g., diffraction, spectroscopy and thermal analysisProcessing: Manufacturing of materials and parts, e.g., powder, thermomechanical and moulding - Practical, Modelling and Digital Skills
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This module develops your skills in three linked areas:
15 credits
(a) materials characterisation laboratory skills including safe methods of working, completion of COSHH and risk assessments, and measurements using a range of practical techniques
(b) the use of computers for data handling and analysis (MATLAB) together with an introduction to finite element modelling (FEM) using ANSYS.
(c) the skills needed to search for scientific literature as well as technical skills for presenting data, including how to avoid plagiarism, referencing, formatting documents, drawing high quality graphs, critically reviewing literature and giving presentations. - Metallurgical Processing
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This module examines three areas of materials engineering where significant improvement in performance in-service can be obtained via their use. First, the module provides an introduction to the processes and technologies involved in the production of steel. Secondly, methodologies of how microstructure can be significantly improved via thermomechanical processing are investigated and aims to build insight into the operation and capabilities of thermomechanical processing techniques. Finally, this module will describe in detail the underlying engineering principles of plastic forming and focus on some of the main metallic production techniques such as extrusion, rolling and wire drawing.
15 credits - Deformation, Fracture and Fatigue
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Deformation, fracture and fatigue are important mechanical phenomena in both metals processing and use. The role of dislocations in and the effects of microstructural features on the plastic deformation of metals is initially explored. Consideration of fracture starts with linear elastic fracture mechanics including the Griffith equation and Irwin stress intensity factors. The effects of plasticity effects on fracture in metals including plastic zones at crack tips and cyclical fatigue are considered in some detail. Both total lifetime approaches and damage tolerance approaches to fatigue are considered.
15 credits - Advanced Materials Manufacturing
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This unit introduces key concepts with regards to Materials 4.0, the fourth industrial revolution. Modelling and simulation is a key enabling technology within Aerospace Technology Institute's strategy to reach zero carbon emissions by 2050. Modelling allows for the rapid insertion of new materials and manufacturing processes, in addition to the improved understanding and optimisation of current methods. The course includes key drivers in reaching zero carbon emissions, covering lithium battery manufacturing and coating technologies.
15 credits
This unit aims to provide knowledge and experience of advanced manufacturing techniques that will underpin the UK's future advanced materials manufacturing base and obtain knowledge and experience of advanced manufacturing process and material modelling to solve industrial problems.
- Heat and Materials with Application
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This module presents the underlying theory of heat transfer and diffusion, covering the derivation and solution to important and frequently encountered engineering problems. Thus, conduction, convection and radiative heat transfer, on their own and in combination are considered, followed by an examination of diffusion (Fick's laws) and chemical thermodynamics. The course introduces analytical solutions to diffusion and heat transfer problems considering a range of boundary conditions and geometry. Spectral methods are covered briefly, with a focus on numerical solutions obtained using the finite difference method. The course is assessed through an exam and coursework. The exam assesses the background knowledge of heat transfer and diffusion, in addition to the ability to apply analytical solutions to solve industrial problems. A coursework assignment builds upon this knowledge to explore problems involving more complex boundary conditions and more detailed descriptions of material properties using the finite difference method.
15 credits - Project
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Students undertake a project on a topic agreed with their allocated academic supervisor; supervisor allocation takes into accounts students' specific interests. The project is an original research investigation carried out within a research group in the Department; to develop students' abilities to interact within a research group a defined piece of group work is undertaken early in the project. All projects include a literature survey involving students reading original papers and review articles from the scientific and technical literature. Most projects involve extensive laboratory work although some may be based primarily on a survey of the published literature or computational studies. The assessment of the project includes assessment of the group work, an interim report and final report along with a presentation on the work to staff and other students and an oral examination. Conduct throughout the project is also assessed.
60 credits
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.
Open days
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Duration
1 year full-time
Teaching
You’ll experience a dynamic and engaging learning environment, designed to build both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Teaching is delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars and interactive workshops, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of metallurgical principles and their real-world applications.
Lectures form the foundation, offering detailed explanations of core concepts such as thermodynamics, mechanical behaviour, and materials processing. Seminars encourage deeper discussion and critical analysis, allowing you to explore complex topics and engage with your peers and academic staff.
Practical laboratory sessions are a key component, giving you hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment and techniques used in materials characterisation and testing. This practical work reinforces theoretical learning and helps develop your problem-solving abilities.
Project work, both individual and collaborative, challenges you to apply your knowledge to real-life scenarios, helping you develop essential skills in research, data analysis, communication and project management. Throughout the course we help you to develop your management skills, to support your growth into effective leadership roles.
You’ll also benefit from guest lectures and industry input, connecting you with current challenges and innovations in metallurgy.
Throughout the course, independent study is encouraged, helping you to develop autonomy and time-management skills essential for your future career.
This varied approach ensures you graduate with a well-rounded skill set, ready to excel in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, energy and beyond.
Assessment
You'll undertake formal examinations to test your understanding of core metallurgical concepts, alongside coursework assignments such as reports and problem-solving tasks.
A significant part of your assessment is a research dissertation, carried out under the supervision of an academic, where you will explore a specialist topic in depth and apply your learning to real-world challenges.
This varied approach ensures you are well prepared for professional roles in materials and metallurgical engineering.
Your career
Many of our graduates go into industry, often as materials engineers. Others work across the energy sector, aerospace, automotive (including motorsport) and the built environment - where materials specialists are essential for roles like building insulation consultancy and sustainable construction.
Graduates from this course go on to work in a wide range of roles and sectors, including:
- Materials engineer
- Metallurgist
- Product design engineer
- Process metallurgist
- Research and development scientist
- Consultant (technical, sustainability, or structural)
- Process development engineer
- Quality and compliance analyst
- Managerial positions
- Lead structural engineer
Our graduates are employed by leading organisations in the UK and globally, such as:
- McLaren racing
- Airbus
- Tata Steel
- Rolls Royce
- EDF Energy
- Kuwait Steel
- GlaxoSmithKline
- Ternium
- Siemens
- Nuclear Power Institute of China
- CITIC Metal Company Limited
- Shanghai Electric Cable Research Institute
Our course equips you with advanced knowledge of the structure, properties and performance of materials, along with the practical skills to apply this expertise in real-world engineering environments. You'll also build transferable skills in critical thinking, project management, data analysis and communication, highly sought-after by employers across industries, helping to boost your employability and career prospects.
As a postgraduate student at Sheffield, you’ll receive tailored career support through our Careers and Employability Service, including one-to-one guidance, CV and application help, interview preparation, plus access to employer networking and exclusive opportunities.
School
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
Materials science and engineering is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field that plays a critical role in tackling global challenges. From clean energy and sustainable manufacturing to biomedical technologies and next-generation transport, materials innovation is central to progress across engineering and science.
At Sheffield, you’ll join a world-leading centre of materials and metallurgy expertise. With a research heritage dating back over 135 years, we are one of the UK’s most established hubs for materials research and teaching. The University is ranked 92nd in the world and 15th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2026, and within the Faculty of Engineering, 92 per cent of our research has been recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
Our academic staff are actively shaping the future of the field, working on projects that address everything from biodegradable polymers and recyclable composites, to nuclear waste immobilisation and materials for fusion energy.
Our work spans the full spectrum of sustainability priorities, including decarbonising foundation industries and pioneering low-energy materials processing techniques. We're proud to lead in areas such as atomic-scale modelling, additive manufacturing, and advanced alloy development – making real-world impact through industry collaboration and global partnerships.
Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, including advanced microscopy, mechanical testing suites and high-performance computing. You’ll learn alongside researchers at the forefront of materials science and metallurgical engineering and gain the specialist knowledge and practical skills demanded by employers worldwide.
Whether you choose to explore the breadth of materials science or take a deeper dive into metallurgical engineering, our courses provide the opportunity to develop advanced analytical, research, project management and leadership skills. You'll work closely with expert academics on research-led projects and be supported to grow your independence, creativity and confidence as a future innovator in the field.
Entry requirements
Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject with relevant modules.
Subject requirements
We accept degrees in the following subject areas:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Biochemistry
- Bioengineering / Biomedical Engineering
- Biology
- Biomedicine / Bioscience
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- General Engineering
- Materials Science / Materials Engineering / Materials Processing / Materials Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metals / Metallics / Metallurgy
- New Energy Materials and Devices
- Physics
We may also consider other science or engineering subjects
Module requirements
You should have studied at least one Mathematics module from the following list
- Calculus
- Linear Algebra
- Mathematics (or any other module with Mathematics in the title)
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent
Other requirements
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.
Fees and funding
Alumni discount
Save up to £2,500 on your course fees
Are you a Sheffield graduate? You could save up to £2,500 on your postgraduate taught course fees, subject to eligibility.
Apply
You can apply now using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It's a quick and easy process.
Contact
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.
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.