WHAT IS MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING?

Materials Science & Engineering is the study and application of materials in a variety of industries. Read on to better understand this exciting scientific field. 

Industries are constantly finding ways to develop new materials and improve existing materials for their products. Materials Science and Engineering is used to understand the properties and structure of materials and to best utilise them. It is a science that is used in real world applications in industries such as automotive and manufacturing. 

Responsibilities of a Materials Engineer  

Materials engineers are responsible for creating new materials and improving the performance of existing materials. They need in-depth knowledge of a variety of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, plastics and industrial minerals. A materials engineer has to be skilled in using computer modelling software to analyse data and assess materials for specific qualities such as electrical conductivity and durability. They also need to take into account the environmental implications of the product they are manufacturing and solve problems that arise during the manufacturing process. Materials engineers are in charge of maintaining quality control and cost throughout the production and manufacturing process as well. 

Academic Pathway

Students can either enrol in a Diploma in Engineering (Materials Science) programmes after secondary school or a Bachelor’s Degree in Science (Materials Science) after completing their pre-university studies. A strong background in chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics is needed to take on the subjects in a Materials Science and Engineering programme. Taking two years to complete, the Diploma programme will expose students to subjects such as Mechanics of Materials, Engineering Principles, Physical Metallurgy, Corrosion and Semiconductor Materials. In the three to four-year Degree programme, students will learn subjects such as Electrical Properties of Materials, Quantum Mechanics for Materials Science, Composite Materials and Scientific Writing & Communication. Both diploma and degree programmes will culminate in end-of-year projects. 

Job Opportunities 

There are a number of employment opportunities for individuals who have Materials Science & Engineering qualifications. Other than materials engineer, there are also positions such as Design Engineer, Manufacturing Systems Engineer, Technical Sales Engineer, Biomedical Engineer and Metallurgist. There are also positions in Research & Development such as Product Development Scientist, Research Scientist and Patent Examiner. Those who are interested in management can look for project manager and quality manager positions. Employers that need materials science and engineering graduates are aerospace, armed forces and defence, automotive, manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals and telecommunications, among others.

Skills Needed 

Individuals interested in a career in materials science need to have excellent skills in science, mathematics and IT. An interest in scientific and technical issues pertaining to materials is advantageous as well. Strong communication skills, both oral and written, are needed to communicate with colleagues and write scientific reports. Those in the materials science and engineering field need to be able to apply scientific knowledge effectively in an industrial setting. Other important skills include being able to work independently and in a team, analytical thinking, problem-solving and good time management. 

Materials science and engineering is at the forefront of many technologies including renewable energy and nanoscience. This branch of science has an impact on our everyday lives as consumers, from the houses we live in to the computers we use. Through materials science, the best versions of the products we use daily are made possible.