Materials science and materials engineering
Materials science and materials engineering (B.Sc.)
The bachelor’s degree program in materials science and materials engineering deals with the development, production and processing of materials. As materials engineers, graduates are able to examine materials with regard to their properties and develop them further depending on requirements. Whether it’s improving fuel cells, developing lightweight materials or optimizing recycling processes – the range of possible applications for materials engineers is wide. During their studies, students learn to understand physical and chemical relationships and can thus influence material properties in a targeted manner.
- Degree
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Duration of studies in semester
- 6
- Start of degree program
- Winter semester
- Study location
- Erlangen
- Number of students
- 150-250
- Subject group
- Engineering sciences
- Special ways to study
- 1-subject Bachelor
- Teaching language
- completely in German
- Admission Requirements
- No Admissions Restrictions
What is the degree program about?
Would you like to help shape the energy transition? Are you interested in how the mobility of the future will develop and be designed sustainably? Or what part materials play in the energy transition? Can you imagine that the development of new materials can also save human lives?
These are just a few of the questions that materials scientists deal with. The degree program in Materials Science and Engineering provides the necessary knowledge.
This subject deals with materials that are used to manufacture products with a wide variety of properties. These range from microchips and lifestyle products to artificial heart tissue and environmental protection. For these different fields of application, the materials have to meet very specific requirements. Sometimes the focus is on low weight combined with high stability, while for other applications the material must have very good chemical resistance or a special electrical property, for example.
Building on the basic knowledge of mathematics, physics and chemistry, the course teaches the interrelationships between raw material extraction, processing, structure and properties of the materials. Knowledge of the atomic structure of materials forms the basis for the finished component.
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The bachelor’s degree program is divided into a foundation and orientation phase of two semesters and a bachelor’s phase of four semesters.
Foundations and orientation phase 1st – 2nd semester
The following modules must be taken by the end of the second semester:
- Mathematics for MWT 1
- Mathematics for MWT 2
- Materials: Fundamentals
- Materials: Mechanical Properties and Processing
Bachelor phase 3rd – 6th semester
The bachelor phase consists of further compulsory modules, the bachelor thesis, which has to be written during the course of studies, as well as a lecture on the topic worked on in the bachelor thesis followed by a discussion. Another component is the module „Literature Work and Presentation Technique“, which includes the lecture „English for Engineers“ as well as the „Hauptseminar in English“. Within this module examinations are held in English.
A prerequisite for the completion of the bachelor’s degree program is proof of practical work experience. Within the scope of this industrial internship, which lasts a total of three months, students should gain initial experience in a company environment. It is recommended that parts of the internship be completed before the start of the program.
Brief overview: Course structure
1st -2nd semester: 5 basic modules
3rd-5th semester: 12 advanced modules/application modules
6th semester: Bachelor thesis
1 module professional practical environment (excursion and industrial internship)
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In the bachelor’s degree program, in addition to the required scientific fundamentals in mathematics, physics and chemistry, the subject-specific fundamentals of materials science are already taught in the first semesters in lectures, exercises and practical courses. All classes of materials and important technological manufacturing and production processes are covered in detail. In addition, engineering subjects such as technical mechanics, design theory and computer science are taught. In the bachelor’s program, in addition to the required scientific fundamentals in mathematics, physics and chemistry, the subject-specific fundamentals of materials science are already taught in the first semesters in lectures, exercises and practical courses. All classes of materials and important technological manufacturing and production processes are covered in detail. In addition, engineering subjects such as technical mechanics, design theory and computer science are taught.
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- It is important to have an interest in technical and scientific issues and in interdisciplinary cooperation. This is because scientific approaches form the basis for understanding the structure of materials and their implementation in the technical field.
- Furthermore, communication and the ability to work in a team are important qualities that are also encouraged early on in the course.
- The ability to motivate and organize oneself is a basic requirement for students.
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The career opportunities for materials scientists in industry and research are as diverse as their studies. Since materials are an important basis for the development of modern technologies, there are also many interesting areas in research and development departments in industry as well as in production, processing, quality assurance, technical sales and also in management.
Particularly important areas of activity are:
- Automotive and aerospace industries,
- power engineering,
- electrical industry,
- chemical industry,
- microelectronics,
- medical technology and
- environmental protection as well as
- governmental institutions,
- research institutes,
- major research institutes and
- universities.
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he subject of materials science and engineering is not purely an engineering course, but places great emphasis on an interdisciplinary education. In addition to mathematics, which is taught in all engineering courses, the subject also focuses on physics and chemistry.
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- Admission requirements (first semester)
- No Admissions Restrictions
- Application deadline winter semester
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30.09.
Language skills
- General language skills
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The language of instruction for this course is German. A very good knowledge of German (approximately level C1/C2) is therefore an essential prerequisite for successful study with us.
- Details and notes
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The application deadline for the winter semester for international applicants is July 15th.
In addition to the general qualification for university entrance (Abitur), there are other access options for studying at FAU.
Do you need help or more information?
Our Student Advice and Career Service (IBZ) is the central point of contact for all questions about studying and starting a degree programme. Our Student Service Centres and subject advisors support you in planning your studies.