Loughborough University
Leicestershire, UK
LE11 3TU
+44 (0)1509 222222
Loughborough University

Programme Specifications

Programme Specification

MEng (Hons) Materials Engineering

Academic Year: 2014/15

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if full advantage is taken of the learning opportunities that are provided.

This specification applies to delivery of the programme in the Academic Year indicated above. Prospective students reviewing this information for a later year of study should be aware that these details are subject to change as outlined in our Terms and Conditions of Study.

This specification should be read in conjunction with:

  • Summary
  • Aims
  • Learning outcomes
  • Structure
  • Progression & weighting

Programme summary

Awarding body/institution Loughborough University
Teaching institution (if different)
Owning school/department Department of Materials
Details of accreditation by a professional/statutory body

Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining

Final award MEng/ MEng + DIS / MEng + DIntS
Programme title Materials Engineering
Programme code MPUM01
Length of programme The duration of the programme is eight semesters, or ten semesters if students undertake industrial training leading to the award of the Diploma in Industrial Studies, or study at a University abroad leading to the award of the Diploma in International Studies.. These normally occur between Part B and Part C.
UCAS code J502, J503
Admissions criteria

http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/departments/materialsengineering/materialsengineering/

Date at which the programme specification was published Mon, 27 Oct 2014 14:16:37 GMT

1. Programme Aims

  • To provide an accredited honours degree programme in the field of materials engineering which satisfies the needs of industry for graduates of outstanding ability who have a very strong academic background with especially outstanding business and interactive skills.
  • Greater in-depth knowledge of materials engineering will be included compared with the BEng counterpart programme and we aim to graduate high calibre materials engineers equipped with skills required to play a leading, technical role at an executive level.
  • To encourage students to manage their own learning, communicate effectively and make use of primary source materials.

2. Relevant subject benchmark statements and other external reference points used to inform programme outcomes:

  • QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications
  • QAA Benchmark Statements for Materials
  • Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Guidelines for Accreditation

 

3. Programme Learning Outcomes

3.1 Knowledge and Understanding

On successful completion of the programmes, graduates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

  • Relevant mathematical methods and principles of materials science as applied to materials engineering;
  • A number of specialist materials topics connected with metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites;
  • The role of information technology and library resources in providing support for materials engineers;
  • Engineering principles relevant to materials selection;
  • The materials and engineering aspects of design;
  • The professional and engineering responsibilities of materials engineers;
  • A systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at the forefront of materials engineering practice.

3.2 Skills and other attributes

a. Subject-specific cognitive skills:

On successful completion of this programme student should be able to:

  • Select and identify an appropriate material and manufacturing route for the design of a component;
  • Utilise materials engineering principles to develop new materials/processing routes for improved performance of engineering systems;
  • Solve materials engineering problems, and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses;
  • Select and apply appropriate IT tools to a variety of materials problems;
  • Select materials from an environmentally appreciative viewpoint;
  • Analyse materials aspects of components;
  • Interpret numerical data and apply sophisticated mathematical methods to the analysis of materials engineering problems.
b. Subject-specific practical skills:

On successful completion of the programmes, students should be able to:

  • Use, and have a comprehensive understanding of, appropriate mechanical testing, corrosion testing, optical and electron metallographic, and chemical analysis methods for the study of materials;
  • Manipulate systems for the processing of polymers, ceramics and metals;
  • Use appropriate computer software for design and modelling exercises;
  • Evaluate and present practical data in a format that shows originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques are used to create and interpret materials engineering knowledge;
  • Explain experimental results in terms of theoretical mechanisms and concepts;
  • Compile clear and well-structured technical reports;
  • Acquire and use sources of information appropriately;
  • Demonstrate project management skills.
c. Key transferable skills:

On successful completion of the programmes, students should be able to:

  • Organise and manage time and resources effectively;
  • Apply constructive, creative, and structured approaches to complex problem solving;
  • Exercise the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development;
  • Make decisions in complex and unpredictable situations;
  • Work effectively, both as part of a team and/or independently;
  • Organise and manage time and resources effectively; for short-term and longer-term commitments;
  • Possess skills needed to communicate effectively through written, graphical, inter-personal, and presentation media;
  • Demonstrate a high level of numeracy; appropriate to the cognitive skills required;
  • Compile clear and well-structured technical reports;
  • Acquire and use sources of information appropriately;
  • Demonstrate project management skills;
  • To plan, monitor and record personal, educational and career development issues using the fast track route towards chartered status.

4. Programme structure

4.1         Part A – Introductory Modules 

4.1.1     Compulsory modules (total module weight 120)

For students entering Part A from 2014

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

MPA201

1

Structure and Properties of Materials

10

MPA202

1 and 2

Experimentation

20

MPA203

1 and 2

CAD and Engineering Drawing

10

MPA204

1 and 2

Engineering Analysis

10

MPA205

2

Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria

10

MPA206

2

Introduction to Metal Processing

10

MPA207

2

Mechanics for Materials 1

10

MPA210

1

Introduction to Product Design

10

MAA101

1

Mathematics for Materials 1

10

MAA201

2

Mathematics for Materials 2

10

BSA525

1

Introduction to Accounting

10

 

For students entering Part A before 2014

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

MPA101

1 and 2

Skills for Materials

20

MPA102

1 and 2

Experimentation

20

MPA103

1 and 2

Introduction to Materials

20

MPA104

1 and 2

Introduction to Design and Project Management

10

MPA105

2

Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria

10

MPA108

2

Mechanics for Materials

10

MAA101

Mathematics for Materials 1

10

MAA201

2

Mathematics for Materials 2

10

BSA526

2

Accounting for Managers

10

  

 

4.2          Part B – Degree Modules

 

4.2.1    Compulsory modules (total module weight 120) 

For students entering Part A from 2014

MPB201

1

Structures and Properties of Polymers

10

MPB203

2

Polymers: Processing

10

MPB204

2

Ceramics: Processing and Properties

10

MPB205

1 and 2

Experimental Skills

10

MPB206

1

Engineering Alloys

10

MPB207

2

Mechanics for Materials 2

10

MPB208

1

Fracture Mechanics of Materials

10

MPB209

2

Advanced Materials Characterisation

10

MPB210

1

Group Design Project

10

MAB201

1

Maths for Materials 3

10

MAB206

2

Statistics

10

BSB560

1

Principles of Marketing

10

 

For students entering Part A before 2014

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

MPB102

1 and 2

Processing and Structure of Polymers and Composites

20

MPB103

1 and 2

Materials Characterisation and Mechanics

20

MPB104

2

Advanced Materials Characterisation

10

MPB105

2

Electrochemical Technology

10

MPB109

1

Product Design

10

MPB204

Ceramics: Processing and Properties

10 

MPB206

 Engineering Alloys

10 

BSB560

1

Principles of Marketing

10

MAB101

1

Mathematics for Materials 3

10

MAB206

2

Statistics

10

 

4.3      Part I –   Diploma in Industrial Studies and Diploma in International Studies Modules

 

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

MPI001

1 and 2

Industrial Training Placement (DIS, non-credit bearing)

120

MPI002

1 and 2

Overseas University Placement (DIntS, non-credit bearing

120

 

4.3.1    Eight Semester Programme

In accordance with Regulation XI, students will undertake an approved placement or study abroad leading to the Diploma of Industrial Studies, if following Module MPI001, or leading to the Diploma in International Studies, if following Module MPI002.  Participation in a placement or study abroad is subject to Departmental approval and satisfactory academic performance during Parts A and B.

 

 4.4      Part C – Degree Modules

                       

4.4.1    Compulsory modules (total module weight 100)  

For students entering Part A from 2014

 Code

 Semester

 Title

Modular Weight 

MPC101

1

Sustainability, Recycling and Environmental Is sues

10

MPC106

1

Electrochemical Technology

10

MPC108

2

Surface Engineering

10

MPD110

1 and 2

Project

40

MPC111

1

Advanced Principles of Materials

10

MPC114

1

Design and Manufacture of Composite Materials

10

BSC144

2

Project Management

10

 

For students entering Part A before 2014

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

 MPC101

 1

Sustainability, Recycling and Environmental Issues

 10

MPC102

1

Fracture and Failure

10

MPC108

2

Surface Engineering

10

MPC111

1

Advanced Principles of Materials

10

MPC114

1

Design and Manufacture with Composite Materials

10

MPD110

1 and 2

Masters Project

40

BSC144

2

Project Management

10

    

4.4.2      Additional optional modules. Chosen options to be approved by the Progamme Director. Choose 20 credits from: 

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

BSB580

1

Operations Management

10

EUL---

2

Language *with the approval of the Programme Director

10

MMC206

2

New Product Development

10

MMC910

1

Laser Processing of Materials

10

MPC123

1

Automotive Crash Protection

10

- - - - - -

1 or 2

Other level 6 module from the University module catalogue with agreement of the Programme Director

10

 

 4.5       Part D – Degree Modules

4.5.1    Compulsory modules (total module weight 100)

For students entering Part A from 2014

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

MPD101

1 and 2

Masters Group Project

40

MPD102

2

Industrial Case Studies

10

MPD105

Advanced Materials Dissertation

10

MPP551

1

Advanced Characterisation Techniques

15

MPP556

2

Materials Modelling

15

CVD017

1

Teamwork and Leadership

10

For students entering Part A before 2014

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

MPD101

1 and 2

Masters Group Project

40

MPD102

2

Industrial Case Studies

10

MPD103

2

Tomorrow’s Materials

10

MPP551

1

Advanced Characterisation Techniques

15

MPP556

2

Materials Modelling

15

CVD017

1

Teamwork and Leadership

10

    

4.5.2      Additional optional modules.  Chosen options to be approved by the Programme Director.  Choose 20 credits from: 

Code

Semester

Title

Modular Weight

EUL---

1 or 2

Language *with the approval of the Programme Director

10

MMC204

2

Management of the Human Resource

10

MMC206

2

New Product Development (if not studied in Part C)

10

MPD105

1

Advanced Materials Dissertation

10

---

1 and 2

Up to 20 credits from level 7 modules from the University module catalogue

10

5. Criteria for Progression and Degree Award

5.1 Criteria for Progression and Degree Award

In order to progress from Part A to Part B,  from Part B to C and from C to D and to be eligible for the award of an extended Honours degree, candidates must not only satisfy the minimum credit requirements set out in Regulation XX but also: 

  • For students commencing their studies before October 2011:
    - In order to progress from Part A to Part B candidates must obtain 120 credits. 
    - In order to progress from Part B to Part C and from Part C to Part D, candidates must obtain at least 60% in modules with a minimum weight of 40, 50% in modules with a minimum weight of 40, and 40% in modules with a minimum weight of 40, in each programme part.
    The above minimum progression requirement includes at least 50% in Project module MPD110 for Materials Engineering and Automotive Materials; and at least 50% in Project module MPD113 for Design with Engineering Materials.
  • For students commencing their studies from October 2011: In order to progress in each Part students must obtain 120 credits together with an overall average of 55% for the Part.

5.2 Re-assessment

  • Provision will be made in accordance with Regulation XX for candidates, who have the right of re-assessment in all parts of the programme, to undergo re-assessment in the University's Special Assessment Period (except where SAP-exempt modules are involved).  
  • Where a candidate has achieved fewer than 60 credits in a part of the programme, reassessment in the relevant part is not available to that candidate in the Special Assessment Period.

5.3  Criteria for candidates who do not receive permission to Progress or gain the award of a Degree

5.3.1 Any candidate who fails to achieve the criteria for progression from Part A to Part B shall have the opportunity to repeat Module Assessments in accordance with the provisions of Regulation XX in order to qualify to progress to Part B.  Alternatively, the candidate registered on the MEng degree programme may elect to enter part B of the BEng degree programme in Materials Engineering provided that the candidate has achieved the criteria for progression required for that programme.  Failure at re-assessment will not prejudice this permission to enter the BEng degree programme subsequently.

5.3.2 Any candidate who fails to achieve the criteria for progression from Part B to Part C shall have the opportunity to repeat Module Assessments in accordance with the provisions of Regulation XX in order to qualify to progress to Part C.  Alternatively, the candidate registered on the MEng degree programme may elect to enter Part C of the BEng degree programme in Materials Engineering provided that the candidate has achieved the criteria for progression required for that programme.  Failure at re-assessment will not prejudice this permission to enter the BEng degree programme subsequently.

5.3.3 Any candidate who fails to achieve the criteria for progression from Part C to Part D shall have the opportunity to repeat Module Assessments in accordance with the provisions of Regulation XX in order to qualify to progress to Part D.  Any candidate who

            (i)  fails to meet the progression requirement to Part D after reassessment, or

            (ii)  having successfully completed Part C is unable to commence or complete Part D, or

            (iii)  having studied Part D fails to meet the requirements for the award of an MEng degree,

            may be permitted, at the discretion of the Programme Board to register for those additional modules necessary to satisfy the regulations for the award of the degree of BEng in Materials Engineering.  In such instances, the degree classification will correspond to the candidate’s achievements in Part B and C assessments and be determined on the basis of the weighting given for the BEng programme.

6. Relative Weighting of Parts of the Programme for the Purposes of Final Degree Classification

Candidate’s final degree classification will be determined on the basis of their performance in degree level Module Assessments in Parts B, C, and D in accordance with the scheme set out in Regulation XX.  The average percentages for each Part will be combined in the ratio Part B 20 : Part C 40 : Part D 40 to determine the overall average percentage mark for the programme (the programme mark).

Related links

Prospective students

Image of a University homepage screengrab

Information on studying at Loughborough University, including course information, facilities, and student experience.

Find out more »

How to print a programme specification:

1. Select programme specification
2. Save specification as a PDF
3. Print PDF