University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This programme combines core engineering and materials science topics with specialist modules on additive manufacturing technologies and their industrial application. Teaching typically covers the principles of powder- and filament-based processes, directed energy deposition, vat photopolymerisation and related technologies, together with the materials science of polymers, metals and ceramics used for 3D printing.

• Fundamentals of Additive Manufacturing: process classification, machine architectures, process-structure-property relationships.
• Materials for Additive Manufacturing: behaviour and selection of metals, polymers and ceramics; powder characterisation and feedstock preparation.
• Design and CAD for AM: topology optimisation, design for additive manufacturing (DfAM), digital workflows and file preparation.
• Process Simulation and Metrology: computational modelling of build processes, residual stress prediction, in-process monitoring and post-build inspection techniques.
• Post-processing and Performance Testing: heat treatment, surface finishing, mechanical testing and qualification of printed components.
• Quality, Standards and Regulation: certification pathways, quality management, standards relevant to additive manufacture in regulated sectors.
• Sustainability and Lifecycle Assessment: material recyclability, process efficiency and environmental impact of AM routes.
• Research Project / Dissertation: an extended individual project working in a laboratory, computational or industry-linked environment to develop hands-on experience and specialist expertise.

The programme is delivered through lectures, laboratory sessions, design studios, group projects and an independent research project. Part-time study is often available to accommodate professionals.

Entry requirements

• A good undergraduate degree (typically a UK upper second class honours or international equivalent) in engineering, materials science, manufacturing, physics or a closely related discipline.
• Applicants with a lower second-class degree plus relevant industrial experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Relevant professional experience in manufacturing, engineering design or materials development can strengthen an application, especially for part-time routes.
• Evidence of English language proficiency if English is not your first language; accepted qualifications are required by the University (e.g. recognised tests or institutional exemptions).
• Applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement describing their interest in additive manufacturing, academic transcripts and references; an interview may be requested for some applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MSc move into a wide range of roles across industry and academia. Typical career paths include:

• Additive manufacturing engineer or process engineer in aerospace, automotive, medical devices and energy sectors.
• Design engineer specialising in design for additive manufacturing and topology optimisation.
• Materials engineer focusing on feedstock development, powder characterisation and qualification.
• Quality, standards and testing specialist or roles in regulatory compliance for medical and safety-critical components.
• Research and development roles in companies or research institutions, or progression to doctoral study (PhD) in AM-related topics.
• Applications engineering, technical consultancy and roles within AM service bureaus or start-ups working on new processes and products.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers interdisciplinary expertise in engineering and materials science that is well suited to additive manufacturing education. Students benefit from access to advanced teaching laboratories, computational facilities and project opportunities that bridge theory and industrial practice. The School has active collaborations with industry and research groups working on process development, materials characterisation and digital manufacturing, providing strong links for projects and employment.

Teaching is delivered by academic staff with research experience in materials and manufacturing, supported by practical sessions that emphasise hands-on skills, problem solving and the use of professional software and equipment. The programme is designed to equip graduates with the technical knowledge and practical competence required to contribute to the rapidly evolving field of additive manufacturing.