Degree Materials Science Technologist

Materials Scientists are obsessed with advancing the frontiers of science in a variety of disciplines. With a unique blend of specialist knowledge and broad scientific understanding, Materials scientists analyse, interpret, and evaluate scientific information to solve complex problems and drive business improvement.

Start your career

Apply Now

Employer?

Find out more
Qualification

Applied Materials Science Degree

Subject area

Science

Course type

Apprenticeship

Course length

4 Years

What is a materials scientist?

At the forefront of cutting-edge materials innovation and development, materials scientists to ensure that all materials are fit for purpose in terms of performance, failure diagnosis, operational management, processing, and manufacturing. They perform both established and novel activities such as materials testing, new product development, problem solving, laboratory management and team leadership.  They always put safety and ethics first. 

What will I learn?

This programme is designed to enable existing team members or new recruits to develop the knowledge skills, and behaviours needed to fulfil their vital role. 

You’ll develop a deep understanding of materials analysis techniques and scientific experimentation, including core principles, using equipment and applying and adhering to relevant regulations. You’ll learn how to plan and perform experiments, collect and analyse data, and communicate results to both scientific and non-scientific audiences. You will learn how to manage projects, understand business requirements, and apply innovative, ethical and sustainable approaches to laboratory practices. 

Through our learning programme you’ll develop valuable skills including data analysis, problem-solving and working effectively with stakeholders. You’ll learn the importance of professionalism, ethical conduct, positive relationships, a commitment to continuous learning, and a focus on safety and sustainability. 

What next?

Once you’ve qualified, you’ll be eligible to join the Register of Science Technicians (RSciTech) through an appropriate industry body.

Successful apprentices can often find themselves fast-tracked into senior technician and management roles.

Course modules

Module 1
Material Structure and Properties

An introduction to the structure and properties of materials, including their atomic and chemical structure. You’ll explore a range of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, adhesives, glass, construction materials, composites, as well as how to classify them. A building block for further study in this programme.

Module 2
Material Life Cycle

An exploration of the full material life cycle, ‘from cradle to grave’, examining extraction/production, processing/manufacturing, use/consumption and disposal/recycling. You’ll also explore the environmental impact of materials production, including ways to reduce this impact and the role of a Life Cycle Assessment in evaluating the impact.

Module 3
Mathematics and Data Analysis

A module that provides a toolkit of mathematical and statistical skills that can be applied across various scientific disciplines. You will develop skills in algebra, trigonometry, statistics, data visualisation and data analysis, as well as applying critical thinking to assess the validity and reliability of scientific data.

Module 4
Lab Practice

A module focused on the principles of laboratory practice, which will include online instructional videos and self-paced learning to support development of problem-solving, scientific inquiry, collaboration, safe working practices and report writing.

Module 5
Reflective Project

An on-going project that runs for the entirety of Level 4, this module uses reflective practice models to guide you in setting quality professional development goals, monitoring continuous improvement and upholding high standards of professional conduct and behaviours in the workplace.

Module 1
Project Management

An introduction to the principles and practices of project management, this module will equip you with the tools and techniques required to plan, schedule, allocate resources and communicate effectively in collaborative projects. You will develop a project plan that will be executed in your Workplace Project module.

Module 2
Materials Characterisation

An exploration of the fundamental principles and concepts of materials characterisation, including knowledge of the various techniques used to characterise materials, including microscopy, spectroscopy, macroscopy, and chemical analysis. You’ll develop an understanding of the strengths and limitations of different materials characterisation techniques and how to choose the appropriate technique for a specific material or application.

Module 3
Materials Processing Technology

An examination of the complex relationships between materials properties, processing techniques, and final product characteristics. This module will support your understanding and interpretation of UK and international standards and specifications for materials processing, as well as how to apply them to design and production processes.

Module 4
Materials for Construction (optional)

An optional module focusing on the structures and properties of construction materials, such as concrete, grout and aggregates. You will also explore characterisation techniques and processing methods specific to these materials, as well as how they impact on the environment.

Module 5
Metallurgy (optional)

An optional module focusing on the structures and properties of principle engineering alloys. You will also explore characterisation techniques and processing methods specific to these materials, as well as how they impact on the environment.

Module 6
Composites (optional)

An optional module focusing on the structures and properties of composite materials, including molecular composites and composite assemblies. You will also explore characterisation techniques and processing methods specific to these materials, as well as how they impact on the environment.

Module 7
Polymer Science (optional)

An optional module that explores the fundamental principles of polymer science, including formation, properties and reactions of polymers. You’ll evaluate the environmental impact of polymers, biodegradability, sustainability and current challenges in the field of polymer science.

Module 8
Lab Practice for Materials Science

A module focused on practical laboratory skills in the field of Materials Science, which will include online instructional videos and laboratory simulations to support development of experiment design, data interpretation and analysis and application of laboratory techniques and procedures to solve real-world problems.

Module 9
Workplace Project

An on-going project that runs for the entirety of Level 5, this module uses reflective practice models to guide you in planning and monitoring laboratory-based investigations to contribute to improvements in the workplace. You will propose, execute and manage your own work-based project and present your findings at the end of the module.

Module 1
Materials Development and Application

An exploration of the material development process and the various techniques and methods used to create new and innovative materials. You will examine the history and current state of materials development, including additives, process control and post-processing techniques, as well future opportunities for innovation.

Module 2
Innovation in Materials Science

An examination of the latest and emerging areas of research in materials science in various fields, including aerospace, energy, medicine and electronics. You will explore the potential impact of new materials and processing techniques on various industries, and consider the ethical implications of their work.

Module 3
Nano-materials (optional)

An optional module exploring the fundamental properties and characteristics of nano-materials, including size-dependent behaviour, surface-to-volume ratios, and electronic and optical properties. You’ll examine the applications of nano-materials, including in fields such as energy, electronics, biomedicine, and environmental protection, as well as consider the ethical, social and regulatory implications of these applications.

Module 4
Biocompatible & Bioinert Materials (optional)

An optional module exploring the fundamentals of biocompatible and bioinert materials with a focus on their physical, chemical and mechanical properties. You will examine core concepts underlying the development, selection, and implementation of biocompatible and bioinert materials, and assess the rationale for their selection and application in industry.

Module 5
Application of Construction Materials (optional)

An optional module building on the principles of ‘TAM5201 Materials for Construction’, exploring how engineering methods affect the yield, stress, concentrations and fracture of construction materials. You will also learn about the advancements made in the development of conventional construction materials and alternative materials to achieve a more innovative and sustainable product.

Module 6
Electronic properties of Materials (optional)

An optional module exploring the fundamental concepts of electronic structure and behaviour of materials, including techniques for characterising electronic properties, such as spectroscopy and transport measurements. You’ll examine current research and developments in the field of electronic materials, as well as assess the potential application in relevant fields.

Module 7
Responsible Research and Innovation

A deep exploration of the principles and practices of responsible research and innovation, fostering a sense of global citizenship and social responsibility. You’ll be inspired to become an agent of positive change by developing the knowledge and skills needed to design, conduct and assess research in an ethical, sustainable and socially responsible manner.

Module 8
Company Research Project

In this final module, you will spend six months autonomously planning, developing and implementing a scientific project to add value to your company. Your proposal and plan will be informed by academic research and will implement project management and financial management methodologies, as well as developing your professional and leadership behaviours.

Hear from current apprentices

"With all the knowledge I have gained through Tiro and KEVICC, I believe that I can take on any challenges I face. "

Patrisia Hincheva Laboratory Technician Apprentice - King Edward VI Community College

What makes this programme great?

Here are a few reasons why our programmes are unique

  • Expert Tutors – our training team has real-world Science and Technology experience, academic qualifications up to PhD level, and a wealth of teaching expertise.
  • Science and Technology through and through – our employers work on everything from earthworks to networks, and from cancerous cells to concrete.
  • Flexible – our learning programmes are built with employers, for employers. They’re modularised and flexible, to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours you need. And all the training is delivered through a flexible mix of online and on-site training.
  • Apprentices you need, when you need them – we understand businesses resourcing needs won’t stick to anyone else’s schedule. We don’t work to arbitary start dates around the academic calendar or tax years. We’ll find and start your apprentices on programme whenever you need them.

Current Vacancies

Apprentice
Coventry

Laboratory Technician Apprentice (Level 4) – Intertek

£16,770 / year 2nd Dec 2024

Intertek is pleased to be able to offer you the opportunity to both earn a salary and study towards a nationally recognised qualification through our ...

Find out more
Apprentice

BYK Additives Ltd. are pleased to be able to offer you the opportunity to both earn a salary and study towards a nationally recogn...

Find out more
Apprentice

To develop the skills to work within the Test Laboratory facility and Process Engineering at the Sheffield site. At least 20% of the working hours wil...

Find out more
Apprentice

The main purpose of the Asbestos Technician Apprentice (Level 3) is to undertake analysis of materials for the identification of asbestos fibres. Dail...

Find out more
Full Time
Remote

HR Manager

£60,000 - £65,000 / year 26th Nov 2024

Youll be accountable for the smooth and seamless running of our People Practices, ensuring they scale with our growth and run like clockwork.Youll build and l......

Find out more
Apprentice

FIRA International are pleased to be able to offer you the opportunity to both earn a salary and study towards a nationally recognised qualifications ...

Find out more
Contract / Temp
Remote

Module Lead – Chemistry (Contract)

£35.00 / hour 20th Nov 2024

OverviewYoull plan, design, develop and deliver - content, live online lessons and assessments for learners on Tiros Applied Chemical Sciences modules:&......

Find out more
Apprentice

Reporting to the Quality Manager and working closely with our technical team, youll help uphold high standards, ensure accuracy and drive continuous i...

Find out more
Apprentice

As a trainee laboratory technician, your role will be to perform analytical activities in support of the production team, research & development a...

Find out more
Apprentice

Ellipsis Brands is looking for a Chemical Laboratory Apprentice. This will be an important role in the business to support the development of new prod...

Find out more
Apprentice

VolkerFitzpatrick is pleased to be able to offer you the opportunity to both earn a salary and study towards a nationally recognised qualification thr...

Find out more
Apprentice

As a Construction Materials Technician Apprentice youll be working in a laboratory but not as you know it! Be prepared to get mucky as you get to know...

Find out more
View all vacancies

Contact us for more information about this course

Interested, but have more questions and not sure it’s right for you… get in touch with us and one of our Tiro Experts will be happy to learn more about you, what you’re looking for and how we may be able to help.

What are you looking for
Hidden
Looking to start a career in science or technology?
View all vacancies