University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in materials science with practical laboratory training and a substantial project or research component. Core topics typically include crystallography and microstructure, mechanical behaviour of materials, phase equilibria and thermodynamics, materials selection and design, and materials characterisation techniques (microscopy, spectroscopy and thermal analysis).

Elective subjects allow specialisation in areas such as advanced metals and alloys, ceramics and composites, polymers and biomaterials, corrosion and surface engineering, nanomaterials and thin films, or electronic and functional materials. Most students undertake a capstone design project or a research project that applies modern characterisation tools and modelling to an industrially relevant problem.

• Fundamental materials science (structure, properties, processing)
• Materials characterisation and instrumentation
• Mechanical behaviour and failure analysis
• Corrosion, surface engineering and protection
• Advanced materials for manufacturing, energy and biomedical applications
• Project or research thesis in collaboration with industry or university research groups

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor degree in engineering, materials science, physical chemistry, physics or a closely related discipline. A degree with substantial technical content is expected; applicants with relevant professional experience or prior coursework in mathematics and materials-related topics may also be considered.

Many students enter with an undergraduate engineering degree (for example mechanical, chemical, mining or materials engineering). Domestic and international applicants must meet the University of Adelaide's standard English language requirements for postgraduate coursework. Specific faculty-level prerequisites and assessment of prior learning are determined at application.

Career prospects

Graduates gain the technical knowledge and practical skills sought by employers across manufacturing, resources, defence, aerospace, automotive, biomedical devices and energy sectors. Typical roles include materials engineer, process or production engineer, failure analysis engineer, quality and reliability engineer, research and development scientist, and materials specialist in supply chain or product design teams.

Because the programme emphasises characterisation, design-for-manufacture and industry-linked projects, alumni also move into roles in materials consultancy, testing laboratories, regulatory and standards organisations, and into further research degrees (PhD) if they wish to pursue an academic or advanced R&D career.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers access to strong materials research groups and purpose-built facilities, including advanced microscopy, surface analysis and fabrication laboratories. The university has active research centres and industry partnerships in areas such as advanced manufacturing, minerals processing, biomaterials and nanotechnology, providing opportunities for industry‑based projects and placements.

Studying in Adelaide also provides proximity to South Australia’s manufacturing, defence and resources industries, facilitating collaboration and employment pathways. The programme is delivered by staff who combine academic expertise with industry experience, enabling a curriculum that balances theoretical rigour with applied problem solving.