Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LM Synoptic Materials Science
School	Metallurgy and Materials
Department	Metallurgy & Materials
Module Code	04 39148
Module Lead	Dr Sam Cruchley
Level	Masters Level
Credits	20
Semester	Full Term
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Exclusions
Description	The aim of the module is to encourage students to think for themselves and to consolidate the knowledge and skills they have learned throughout their degree programme. The module provides students with the opportunity to take on, as part of a team, real life challenges/projects that address world-wide problems, providing an opportunity to apply cross-disciplinary working to solve a range of tasks. This will require the students to bring knowledge they have learnt from the majority of modules in the first three-years of the degree to successfully complete the complex and authentic project.
Learning Outcomes	Demonstrate extensive knowledge and understanding of a wide range of engineering materials and components. Apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of industrial requirements/constraints. Critically evaluate a case study and apply knowledge as well as fundamental scientific principles to solve it. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside materials science and engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects. Demonstrate an understanding of the broader considerations, codes of conduct and legal regulations, required by the professional engineer with respect to: sustainability, ethics, environmental concerns, human, industrial and commercial constraints. Work as part of a team to achieve a set of deliverables as specified in the project plan These link to the AHEP v4 learning outcomes: Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering (M1) Formulate and analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions. This will involve evaluating available data using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles, and using engineering judgment to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (M2) Select and evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to address complex problems (C4/M4) Design solutions for complex problems that evidence some originality and meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards (M5) Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex problems (C6/M6) Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems (to include the entire life-cycle of a product or process) and minimise adverse impacts (M7) Identify and analyse ethical concerns and make reasoned ethical choices informed by professional codes of conduct (C8/M8) Use a risk management process to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks (the effects of uncertainty) associated with a particular project or activity (C9/M9) Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (C11/M11) Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex problems (C12/M12) Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations (C13/M13) Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in the context of complex problems (C14/M14) Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context, project and change management, and relevant legal matters including intellectual property rights (C15/M15) Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team. Evaluate effectiveness of own and team performance (M16) Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences, evaluating the effectiveness of the methods used (M17) Plan and record self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD (C18/M18)
Assessment	39148-01 : Coursework : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessments: 30 minutes group presentation followed by 15 minutes Q&A (30%); 3,000-word technical group report (50%); Personal Development plan (1000 words) (15%)
Other
Reading List