Overview

You will explore both the fundamental science and applied approaches to understanding material degradation, including corrosion, high-temperature damage, and environmentally assisted failure.

You’ll examine technologies used to improve durability, such as surface engineering and sustainable coatings, while considering the environmental impact of material degradation. With the transition to cleaner energy and advanced infrastructure, the role of materials protection is more urgent than ever. For instance, by 2030, replacing corroded steel infrastructure could account for up to 10% of global CO₂ emissions.

The Materials Engineering for Sustainability in Demanding Environments programme offered by The University of Manchester explores real-world applications in sectors such as energy, hydrogen transport, nuclear, and biomedical engineering. Teaching is delivered through a blended model combining lectures, practical sessions, and collaborative projects. Problem-based learning is embedded throughout to build your analytical and professional skills.

You’ll work alongside leading researchers and industry partners, culminating in a research dissertation addressing material durability and sustainability. This course is ideal if you’re looking to contribute to innovative, responsible solutions in materials science and engineering.

Career opportunities

Opportunities for our graduates are wide-ranging, with many securing key roles as materials engineers, degradation specialists, consultants, and project managers across various industries. Others continue their academic journey by pursuing PhD research at world-renowned institutions, contributing to advancements in material sustainability, surface protection, and degradation science.

The graduates are highly sought after and employed across diverse sectors, including energy (oil & gas, nuclear, hydrogen, and renewables), transportation, aerospace, infrastructure, and manufacturing. Graduates from our MSc (previously known as Corrosion Control Engineering) have gone on to work for a broad range of leading companies, including:

• Energy: Shell, Petronas, bp, Saudi Aramco, PDO.

• Engineering: Oceaneering, Wood Group/Amentum, Jacobs, Capcis Intertek, Cokebuster.

• Nuclear: UK National Nuclear Laboraties, Sellafield.

• Chemicals/Technology: Johnson Matthey, Umicore, DOW.