Programme Information | University of Exeter

1. Programme Title: Advanced Materials	NQF Level:	7

2. Description of the Programme (as in the Business Approval Form)
The MSc in Advanced Materials is designed to address the fast-growing demand for skills in the latest surge in the field of advanced materials innovation that has been highlighted as a strategic priority in the UK. It is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing on the disciplines of Engineering and Physics, where you will learn to model, simulate, design and experimentally characterise novel materials with unique properties tailored to real-world applications, leveraging motivations from technological developments by industrial partners. You will develop a well-balanced understanding of the physics of such materials, across a variety of wave regimes including electromagnetism, acoustics and elasticity whilst attaining an engineering perspective on their applications. You will gain the technical skills to solve problems that can’t be solved with conventional material properties whilst having the opportunity to gain insight into the technology translation required to take such developments outside of academia. The programme will enable you to: develop a well-balanced understanding across the physical principles of advanced materials and metamaterials learn about cutting-edge analytical and numerical methodologies, and manufacturing and experimental methods, to design and fabricate and characterise advanced materials and metamaterials and associated devices gain practical insights into contemporary real-world problems and how innovative solutions can be facilitated through novel material properties appreciate the life-cycle of research, culminating with a term-long research project embedded within one of Exeter’s world-leading advanced materials groups benefit from interdisciplinary research expertise across physics and engineering in the Centre for Metamaterial Research and Innovation, liaison with industrial partners and the wider UK metamaterials community through the UK metamaterials network (UKMMN)

2. Description of the Programme (as in the Business Approval Form)

The MSc in Advanced Materials is designed to address the fast-growing demand for skills in the latest surge in the field of advanced materials innovation that has been highlighted as a strategic priority in the UK. It is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing on the disciplines of Engineering and Physics, where you will learn to model, simulate, design and experimentally characterise novel materials with unique properties tailored to real-world applications, leveraging motivations from technological developments by industrial partners. You will develop a well-balanced understanding of the physics of such materials, across a variety of wave regimes including electromagnetism, acoustics and elasticity whilst attaining an engineering perspective on their applications. You will gain the technical skills to solve problems that can’t be solved with conventional material properties whilst having the opportunity to gain insight into the technology translation required to take such developments outside of academia.

The programme will enable you to:

develop a well-balanced understanding across the physical principles of advanced materials and metamaterials
learn about cutting-edge analytical and numerical methodologies, and manufacturing and experimental methods, to design and fabricate and characterise advanced materials and metamaterials and associated devices
gain practical insights into contemporary real-world problems and how innovative solutions can be facilitated through novel material properties
appreciate the life-cycle of research, culminating with a term-long research project embedded within one of Exeter’s world-leading advanced materials groups
benefit from interdisciplinary research expertise across physics and engineering in the Centre for Metamaterial Research and Innovation, liaison with industrial partners and the wider UK metamaterials community through the UK metamaterials network (UKMMN)

3. Educational Aims of the Programme
This programme will provide you with a world-leading education and training at postgraduate level in the physics and engineering of advanced materials and metamaterials. We provide an environment which is caring and supportive in both academic and pastoral aspects and which will have encompassed an appropriate range of teaching methods and broadened their learning experience. You will learn in a challenging and stimulating environment and be stimulated and encouraged to question the science and undertake a creative approach to technology translation, thus developing your enthusiasm to understand the physics of advanced materials and metamaterials, and thus play a leading role in driving forward the technological opportunities it offers. You will benefit from personal development through the acquisition and use of a wide range of transferable skills, while broadening and deepening your knowledge of the very cutting edge of the disciplines through studying a range of topics taught by research active academics working at the cutting edge of Advanced Materials. As a graduate from this MSc programme, you will be knowledgeable of the science, engineering and technology, and have been upskilled in the methodology of research, making you well-prepared for advanced professional work in materials physics and related areas. The UK has a critical skills shortage of graduates in this area, and as a graduate your skills will likely be in high demand from employers. Top performing graduates from this programme are also expected to be excellent candidates for research degrees (PhD, DPhil) and ultimately to pursue a career as a professional researcher. Teaching methods will include taught lecture courses, research seminars, workshops, small group tutorials, one-to-one meetings, independent and guided study, and the research project itself. In this way, you will benefit from opportunities to engage with a range of advanced concepts and applications, drawing upon the specialist expertise of Exeter staff, our industry partners and the UK-wide Metamaterials Network. You will have choice of options in order to explore topics relevant and appropriate to your academic background, interests and aptitudes, including core physics, manufacturing, and innovation.

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

This programme will provide you with a world-leading education and training at postgraduate level in the physics and engineering of advanced materials and metamaterials. We provide an environment which is caring and supportive in both academic and pastoral aspects and which will have encompassed an appropriate range of teaching methods and broadened their learning experience.

You will learn in a challenging and stimulating environment and be stimulated and encouraged to question the science and undertake a creative approach to technology translation, thus developing your enthusiasm to understand the physics of advanced materials and metamaterials, and thus play a leading role in driving forward the technological opportunities it offers.

You will benefit from personal development through the acquisition and use of a wide range of transferable skills, while broadening and deepening your knowledge of the very cutting edge of the disciplines through studying a range of topics taught by research active academics working at the cutting edge of Advanced Materials. As a graduate from this MSc programme, you will be knowledgeable of the science, engineering and technology, and have been upskilled in the methodology of research, making you well-prepared for advanced professional work in materials physics and related areas. The UK has a critical skills shortage of graduates in this area, and as a graduate your skills will likely be in high demand from employers. Top performing graduates from this programme are also expected to be excellent candidates for research degrees (PhD, DPhil) and ultimately to pursue a career as a professional researcher.

Teaching methods will include taught lecture courses, research seminars, workshops, small group tutorials, one-to-one meetings, independent and guided study, and the research project itself. In this way, you will benefit from opportunities to engage with a range of advanced concepts and applications, drawing upon the specialist expertise of Exeter staff, our industry partners and the UK-wide Metamaterials Network. You will have choice of options in order to explore topics relevant and appropriate to your academic background, interests and aptitudes, including core physics, manufacturing, and innovation.

4. Programme Structure
The MSc Advanced Materials is a one-year full-time programme of study at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ).

5. Programme Modules

Stage 1

Code	Title	Credits	Compulsory	NonCondonable
PHYM016	Physics of Advanced Materials	15	Yes	No
PHYM502	Frontiers in Physics Research	15	Yes	No
PHYM017	Modelling for Advanced Materials	15	Yes	No
ENGM016	Metamaterials	15	Yes	No
PHYM018	Design and Application of Metamaterials	15	Yes	No
ENGM017	Composite Materials	15	Yes	No
PHYM019	Research Project	60	Yes	No
Slect 30 credits from:
PHY3064	Nanostructures and Graphene Science	15	No	No
ENGM026	Design, Innovation & Entrepreneurship	15	No	No
ENGM002	Advanced Communication Systems	15	No	No
ENG3004	Engineering Electromagnetics	15	No	No
ENG3022	Finite Element Analysis for High Value Manufacturing	15	No	No
ENGM023	Sustainable Manufacturing	15	No	No
PHYM003	Condensed Matter II	15	No	No
PHYM015	Quantum Optics and Photonics	15	No	No
PHY3071	Soft Matter	15	No	No
ENGM010	Data-Centric Engineering	15	No	No
ENGM001	Additive Manufacturing	15	No	No
PHY2037	Nonlinear Optics and Imaging	15	No	No

Please note that a maximum of 30 credits of Level 6 modules can be taken

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning & Assessment Methods
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be accommodated & facilitated by the following learning & teaching and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
A Specialised Subject Skills & Knowledge Understand that the physics which underpins interactions between waves and matter demonstrates many similarities across domains (electromagnetism and mechanical/acoustics) Demonstrate breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the properties of numerous classes of materials, with a focus on the wave-interaction with advanced materials and metamaterials. Have the ability to utilise analytical and numerical modelling techniques in order to design material structures and geometries for a desired effect. Understand the value of advanced materials and metamaterials in addressing industrial challenges today and in the future, and appreciate the current barriers to the uptake of this technology.	Learning & Teaching Activities You will be given clear guidance in how to manage your learning, and you will be expected to take progressively more responsibility for this as you progress. The taught modules will be delivered by a mixture of formal lectures, tutorial and seminar classes, problem and peer-support sessions, computer practical sessions and mini-projects. Material is introduced as part of these lectures, and guidance will also be offered in seminars, workshops, and project-supervisor sessions to direct your independent reading and research. The understanding of the taught elements is developed and consolidated in problem classes, practicals, workshops etc., and via exercises/problem sheets, carried out individually and in pairs or groups. Assistance will also be given during small-group sessions where appropriate.
Assessment Methods Modules will be assessed through an appropriate blend of coursework (problem sheets, reports, presentations) etc. and examination where relevant, and as specified in the individual module descriptors
B Academic Discipline Core Skills & Knowledge Identify, formulate, analyse and solve problems; apply mathematical skills for analysis and modelling. Integrate theory and applications. Develop a working knowledge of relevant numerical modelling packages, computational methods and analytical techniques. Develop awareness of the relevance of advanced materials and metamaterial to industry and other end-users. Undertake and practice your research skills and techniques, including independent background research using the scientific literature; the ability to summarise and critical analyse the work in the literature; understanding the value of a research notebook as part of project work; the planning and execution under supervision, of an experimental, modelling or theoretical investigation and analyse critically the results and draw valid conclusions. Demonstrate a professional level of scientific presentation skills, including a written document as the final assessment.	Learning & Teaching Activities Core skills will be developed in problem classes, practicals, workshops etc, and by private study and independent reading and research, as well as through exercises/problem sheets carried out individually and in pairs or groups. The project work is used to integrate material and make knowledge functional. Regular meetings with your project supervisor will guide your progress and help you address technical problems. You will be taught the theory of resarch methodology and will be required to put these skills into practice and get feedback on your work. This will include advice on scientific writing and presentation, with appropriate feedback.
Assessment Methods Modules will be assessed through an appropriate blend of coursework (problem sheets, reports, presentations) etc. and examination where relevant, and as specified in the individual module descriptors. The Research Project will be assessed on an individual basis by both the supervisor and a second independent marker, and include an oral presentation, note book viva and final report.
C Personal / Transferable / Employment Skills & Knowledge Demonstrate a working knowledge of a variety of experimental, mathematical and/or computational techniques applicable to current research within advanced material science and engineering. Communicate complex scientific ideas, understanding and conclusions of an experiment, investigation or project concisely, accurately and informatively. Manage your own learning and make use of appropriate texts, research articles and other primary sources. Gain experience of working collegiately within a professional research environment Develop the confidence to actively participate in scientific and collaborative meetings, workshops and seminars. Develop the necessary skills for independent learning Meet deadlines for completion of work and apply appropriate time-management strategies. Practice and develop critical analysis skills and the art of scientific questioning, and its application to own work, and the work of others. Understand how industry can benefit from early stage (low technology readiness level [TRL]) research, and the development pathway of that research into valuable technology of commercial value Plan your career and personal development	Learning & Teaching Activities With the guidance of module instructors and project supervisor(s), you will learn to take responsibility for managing your own learning. The research methodology training and project work, including presentations and scientific writing, are a focus for targeted training in personal, transferable and employment skills. The project supervision meetings, as well as the small group sessions in other modules, provide direct and targeted practice and feedback. Guided reading and research will help you gain confidence in contributing to scientific discussions, and this can be put into action in workshops, and as part of your experience as part of the research project in term 3. Interactions with students, staff and external visitors (e.g. industry), i.e. those beyond your own peer group, will also help you gain confidence and experience in communicating your understanding and defending your work. Such communication skills are vital when moving into employment and professional level research environments
Assessment Methods Assessment of these skills is through course work as part of the taught modules, as well as via the project work, particularly the notebook viva, presentation and final report of the term 3 Research Project

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning & Assessment Methods

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be accommodated & facilitated by the following learning & teaching and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

A Specialised Subject Skills & Knowledge

Understand that the physics which underpins interactions between waves and matter demonstrates many similarities across domains (electromagnetism and mechanical/acoustics)
Demonstrate breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the properties of numerous classes of materials, with a focus on the wave-interaction with advanced materials and metamaterials.
Have the ability to utilise analytical and numerical modelling techniques in order to design material structures and geometries for a desired effect.
Understand the value of advanced materials and metamaterials in addressing industrial challenges today and in the future, and appreciate the current barriers to the uptake of this technology.

Learning & Teaching Activities

You will be given clear guidance in how to manage your learning, and you will be expected to take progressively more responsibility for this as you progress.
The taught modules will be delivered by a mixture of formal lectures, tutorial and seminar classes, problem and peer-support sessions, computer practical sessions and mini-projects.
Material is introduced as part of these lectures, and guidance will also be offered in seminars, workshops, and project-supervisor sessions to direct your independent reading and research.
The understanding of the taught elements is developed and consolidated in problem classes, practicals, workshops etc., and via exercises/problem sheets, carried out individually and in pairs or groups.
Assistance will also be given during small-group sessions where appropriate.

Assessment Methods

Modules will be assessed through an appropriate blend of coursework (problem sheets, reports, presentations) etc. and examination where relevant, and as specified in the individual module descriptors

B Academic Discipline Core Skills & Knowledge

Identify, formulate, analyse and solve problems; apply mathematical skills for analysis and modelling.
Integrate theory and applications.
Develop a working knowledge of relevant numerical modelling packages, computational methods and analytical techniques.
Develop awareness of the relevance of advanced materials and metamaterial to industry and other end-users.
Undertake and practice your research skills and techniques, including
independent background research using the scientific literature;
the ability to summarise and critical analyse the work in the literature;
understanding the value of a research notebook as part of project work;
the planning and execution under supervision, of an experimental, modelling or theoretical investigation and analyse critically the results and draw valid conclusions.
Demonstrate a professional level of scientific presentation skills, including a written document as the final assessment.

Learning & Teaching Activities

Core skills will be developed in problem classes, practicals, workshops etc, and by private study and independent reading and research, as well as through exercises/problem sheets carried out individually and in pairs or groups.
The project work is used to integrate material and make knowledge functional. Regular meetings with your project supervisor will guide your progress and help you address technical problems.
You will be taught the theory of resarch methodology and will be required to put these skills into practice and get feedback on your work. This will include advice on scientific writing and presentation, with appropriate feedback.

Assessment Methods

Modules will be assessed through an appropriate blend of coursework (problem sheets, reports, presentations) etc. and examination where relevant, and as specified in the individual module descriptors.
The Research Project will be assessed on an individual basis by both the supervisor and a second independent marker, and include an oral presentation, note book viva and final report.

C Personal / Transferable / Employment Skills & Knowledge

Demonstrate a working knowledge of a variety of experimental, mathematical and/or computational techniques applicable to current research within advanced material science and engineering.
Communicate complex scientific ideas, understanding and conclusions of an experiment, investigation or project concisely, accurately and informatively.
Manage your own learning and make use of appropriate texts, research articles and other primary sources.
Gain experience of working collegiately within a professional research environment
Develop the confidence to actively participate in scientific and collaborative meetings, workshops and seminars.
Develop the necessary skills for independent learning
Meet deadlines for completion of work and apply appropriate time-management strategies.
Practice and develop critical analysis skills and the art of scientific questioning, and its application to own work, and the work of others.
Understand how industry can benefit from early stage (low technology readiness level [TRL]) research, and the development pathway of that research into valuable technology of commercial value
Plan your career and personal development

Learning & Teaching Activities

With the guidance of module instructors and project supervisor(s), you will learn to take responsibility for managing your own learning.
The research methodology training and project work, including presentations and scientific writing, are a focus for targeted training in personal, transferable and employment skills. The project supervision meetings, as well as the small group sessions in other modules, provide direct and targeted practice and feedback.
Guided reading and research will help you gain confidence in contributing to scientific discussions, and this can be put into action in workshops, and as part of your experience as part of the research project in term 3.
Interactions with students, staff and external visitors (e.g. industry), i.e. those beyond your own peer group, will also help you gain confidence and experience in communicating your understanding and defending your work. Such communication skills are vital when moving into employment and professional level research environments

Assessment Methods

Assessment of these skills is through course work as part of the taught modules, as well as via the project work, particularly the notebook viva, presentation and final report of the term 3 Research Project

7. Programme Regulations
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

7. Programme Regulations

Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook.

Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Comprehensive details of this programme, support for its students and the learning environment are published on the MSc Advanced Materials Exeter virtual learning environment (ELE) pages. Each module also has its own page on ELE. Resources available for each module normally include sets of lecture slides/notes, past exams, video capture recordings of lectures, problems sets and examples, resources for self-study, etc. In accordance with University policy, a system of personal tutors is in place for all students on this programme. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University’s TQA Manual. As a student enrolled on this programme you will receive the personal and academic support of the Programme Coordinator and will have regular scheduled meetings with your Personal Tutor; you may request additional meetings as and when required. The role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff. The University Library provides access to a large number of journals and academic works, and online is available via https://libguides.exeter.ac.uk/journals. The nearby library building stocks reference and/or for-loan copies of a range of texts in physics, maths and engineering relevant to revision and background reading for the modules, as well as all recommended texts. Where possible e-Books and e-Journal subscriptions are purchased to allow internet access. Information Technology (IT) Services provide a wide range of services throughout the Exeter campuses including open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Help may be obtained through the Helpdesk. Additionally, our departmental buildings have our own computer facilities which are linked to the wider network, but which also provide access to some specialised software packages. The University also has site licences for a range of software relevant to this programme, including Endnote, Mathematica and MS Office, see here. Facilities in the physics building include the 1^st floor and 7^th floor study areas and the 3^rd floor computer lab, and the Harrison Learning Resource Centre. These areas can be used for meetings and group work. The Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision. Students on this programme are encouraged to sign up to the UK Metamaterials Network, via www.metamaterials.network, which offers online resources, access to seminars and workshops.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

Comprehensive details of this programme, support for its students and the learning environment are published on the MSc Advanced Materials Exeter virtual learning environment (ELE) pages. Each module also has its own page on ELE. Resources available for each module normally include sets of lecture slides/notes, past exams, video capture recordings of lectures, problems sets and examples, resources for self-study, etc.

In accordance with University policy, a system of personal tutors is in place for all students on this programme. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University’s TQA Manual. As a student enrolled on this programme you will receive the personal and academic support of the Programme Coordinator and will have regular scheduled meetings with your Personal Tutor; you may request additional meetings as and when required. The role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.

The University Library provides access to a large number of journals and academic works, and online is available via https://libguides.exeter.ac.uk/journals. The nearby library building stocks reference and/or for-loan copies of a range of texts in physics, maths and engineering relevant to revision and background reading for the modules, as well as all recommended texts. Where possible e-Books and e-Journal subscriptions are purchased to allow internet access.

Information Technology (IT) Services provide a wide range of services throughout the Exeter campuses including open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Help may be obtained through the Helpdesk. Additionally, our departmental buildings have our own computer facilities which are linked to the wider network, but which also provide access to some specialised software packages. The University also has site licences for a range of software relevant to this programme, including Endnote, Mathematica and MS Office, see here. Facilities in the physics building include the 1^st floor and 7^th floor study areas and the 3^rd floor computer lab, and the Harrison Learning Resource Centre. These areas can be used for meetings and group work.

The Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.

Students on this programme are encouraged to sign up to the UK Metamaterials Network, via www.metamaterials.network, which offers online resources, access to seminars and workshops.

10. Admission Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter. Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter. Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed Faculty assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures. The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both Faculty and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed Faculty assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.

The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both Faculty and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

12. Indicators of Quality and Standards
Certain programmes are subject to accreditation and/or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs). This programme is not accredited by an external body at this time.

12. Indicators of Quality and Standards

Certain programmes are subject to accreditation and/or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs). This programme is not accredited by an external body at this time.

14	Awarding Institution	University of Exeter
15	Lead College / Teaching Institution	Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy
16	Partner College / Institution
17	Programme accredited/validated by
18	Final Award(s)	MSc
19	UCAS Code (UG programmes)	TEMPHYS1
20	NQF Level of Final Awards(s):	7
21	Credit (CATS and ECTS)	180/90
22	QAA Subject Benchmarking Group (UG and PGT programmes)	Physics

23	Origin Date	November 14th 2023	Last Date of Revision:	September 26th 2024

Advanced Materials (2024)

1. Programme Title:

Advanced Materials

NQF Level:

7

2. Description of the Programme (as in the Business Approval Form)

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

4. Programme Structure

5. Programme Modules

Stage 1

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning & Assessment Methods

A Specialised Subject Skills & Knowledge

Learning & Teaching Activities

Assessment Methods

B Academic Discipline Core Skills & Knowledge

Learning & Teaching Activities

Assessment Methods

C Personal / Transferable / Employment Skills & Knowledge

Learning & Teaching Activities

Assessment Methods

7. Programme Regulations

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

10. Admission Criteria

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

12. Indicators of Quality and Standards