Materials Science
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Materials Science
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Overview
In a Nutshell
Modern materials are something that everyone uses on a daily basis and many things would be impossible without them. In our master program you will learn the basics of atomistic materials as well as gain knowledge in processing and analytics. Laboratory internships, which are part of your curriculum, enable you to deepen your knowledge and apply current methods in synthesis and analysis. The integrative nature of this program furthermore gives you the chance to sharpen your key competence of working in interdisciplinary teams.
Academic Prerequisites
- To study at a German university, a general higher education entrance qualification is required.
- You should have a Bachelor of Science in physics, chemistry, materials science or a related subject.
- Minimum result in this degree: 3.0 according to the German grading system (or equivalent)
The Examinations Board shall determine compliance with these requirements.
Language Prerequisites
- High proficiency of the English language
lf you have not earned your B.Sc. qualification in an English-speaking country, you will need to provide a suitable English language qualification. This can be demonstrated by a TOEFL score of at least 550 (paper and pencil) or 79 (internet-based) or an equivalent qualification (e.g. Cambridge first certificate)
Please note: International students from non-EU countries need to show a proof of the GRE Revised General Test results. Typically, a score of at least 157 in the part "Quantitative Reasoning" and a minimum of 4 in the part "Analytical Writing" is required. When there is an excellent grade in their bachelor's degree, the examination board can accept a lower number of points, depending on the qualification.
Advanced German proficiency beyond the GRE is not needed for this course, it can only be studied in English.
You can find all details about deadlines and your next steps on the general Paderborn University Application Information websites.
International applicants can find all relevant information on the pages of the International Office and on this page under "Contact - Application and Enrollment of international students".
Please check the admission requirements in advance and also consult our departmental website.
Course of Study
What’s this Course about?
Do you already have a bachelor’s degree in materials science or another natural science? Do you want to expand and deepen your knowledge? Our master program gives you the ideal opportunity to do so! Paderborn is one of only two places in all of North Rhine-Westphalia which takes a natural science approach to materials science and focuses mainly on functional materials. We value interdisciplinary research and encourage a close cooperation of the Faculties of Science, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. Through this cooperation you can lay your focus individually and decide between the elective courseareas “Materials Analysis”, “Materials Processing”, “Advanced Functional Materials” or “Computational Materials Science”.
You will learn how to conduct basic research and how to implement your findings in practice. Materials science is the ideal link between research and implementation. This is also reflected by the considerable number of institutes oriented towards materials science, such as the Fraunhofer Institute.
After graduating, you will be capable of synthesizing and processing materials for new applications. You will also be competent in drawing connections between production, processing, and micro- and macroscopic attributes. This course gives you the skills to comprehend and assess new advancements of this fascinating scientific field and qualifies you to use these advancements to solve technological problems. Through your interdisciplinary expertise you cannot only talk to computer scientists, engineers or fellow natural scientists, but will also be able to understand their ways of thinking. This in turn empowers you to successfully advance the development of materials and products in interdisciplinary teams.
The Master’s program is taught in English. All examinations are in English.
Study Contents
What is the structure of the course?
Materials Science is an interdisciplinary course of studies that combines natural science and engineering components from the field of chemistry, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering.
Structure of the course of studies:
1.-3. Semester
Mandatory Modules
- Lectures on
- Fundamentals of Materials Science
- Materials Chemistry and Materials Analysis
- Materials Physics and Simulation
- Interdisciplinary Internships with a specialization in Materials Physics and Materials Chemistry
- Seminar on the Current Topic in Materials Science
- Project based course
- General Studies
Mandatory Elective Modules in four thematic blocks:
- Materials Analysis
- Materials Processing
- Advanced Functional Materials
- Computational Materials Science
4. Semester
Master Thesis + Concluding Colloquium
Exemplary Study Plan
The study plan offers you a good orientation about your required and optional modules. However, the chronological order shown here is only an example and may change due to individual focus areas.
Possibilities
Study Abroad
During the course of your studies, you have the opportunity to to a stay abroad (even for an entire semester) at one of our partner universities. After a consultation on the subjects you will take there, your scholarly achievements can be accredited at Paderborn University.
Research
As a material scientist you are positioned at the intriguing intersection between research and application. Courses and lectures thereby closely adhere to this concept and lay a special emphasis on the transmission of topics related to research that is conducted in Paderborn.
Equipment
Laboratory internships in which you apply theoretical components you are introduced to in lectures serve as an important basis for your scientific specialization. The laboratories of Paderborn University have up-to-date technology and we especially pride ourselves on our analysis and measurement technology.
Future Perspectives
After graduation Master ?
Career Opportunities
As a material scientist you will mainly be employed in medium- to large-scale businesses in the production sector. In this vast field, you can find jobs in areas related to acquisition, manufacturing, refinement, product design and processing, and the recycling of raw materials. Major enterprises of the automotive and aerospace industry have a growing demand for material scientists. There is also a growing need in the engineering companies, plastics and coating industry, energy sectors, electronic industry and medical technology sector. Next to companies in the private sector there are also job opportunities in the public and civil sector. As a materials scientist you can find ambitious fields of activity at universities, research institutes and governmental materials testing offices. The prominent importance materials science has for modern technologies essential to mobility, energy and health means that graduates can expect to find ample opportunities on the job market.
During the course of your studies, questions about career orientation arise from time to time. In events, practical projects and company visits as well as in the job and career portal, you can get to know possible professions and fields of activity and work out your personal interests and strengths.
Interested in the start-up scene? Then visit us at TecUP! We promote start-ups in Paderborn and will support you on your path to self-employment. We’ll be by your side throughout every stage of the start-up process – completely free of charge and with no obligation! garage33 is our dedicated space for creativity and exchange, networking and working. In addition to tailored coaching, we also offer workshops and events for you to learn the theory and practice of setting up a business in an innovative and creative environment, and to help you formulate, develop and validate your idea.
Want to start a business, but lack the seed capital to do so? We can help you apply for grants and put you in touch with our network of business angels and investors. Or merely looking to get an insight into start-ups, for some inspiration or to network with business founders? Then visit our courses or events, such as CALL FOR IDEAS, apply for a start-up job or simply visit us at garage33 – we look forward to meeting you!
PhD
If you still want to further your knowledge after graduating, we can offer you a PhD position at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and our neighboring departments Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering.
Our “Einblick!” (insights) peer mentoring programme gives female students in the final stages of their degree the chance to discuss doing a PhD and to prepare for a PhD. Participants are teamed up with a female PhD student, who, based on her own experience, gives them tips and strategies to assist them with their decision to pursue a PhD. The aim of the programme is to give participants insights into the kind of academic and research work involved in a PhD and for them to talk to their mentor about her experience in order to build on their personal and professional skills and broaden their development opportunities.
The Faculty of Science provides students pursuing postgraduate qualifications with support. The team at the Postgraduate Centre will be more than happy to provide you with information and advice.
Related Studies
Not quite right for you? One of our other study programs might be a better fit!
Campus life
In addition to study-related content, Paderborn University offers you a lot more: for those eager to learn, for those seeking exchange and for all those who want to think outside the box. Learn and improve your language skills at the Center for Language Studies and brush up on your software skills with the courses offered by doIT. The servicecenter-medien offers special media workstations where you can let off steam creatively, and the university sports program ranges from American football to Zumba. Get involved with the university radio station L'UniCo or the university newspaper universal and become part of one of the many project groups or initiatives.
Culture
A regular theater program at our Studionbühne, slams and readings, Big Band and university choir are just a few examples of our diverse cultural offerings. A special highlight is our AStA summer festival: up to 15,000 people make the pilgrimage every year to what is probably Germany's largest outdoor campus festival and enjoy the summer party atmosphere with numerous local student bands as well as well-known headliners on various stages.
Campus
Almost all of Uni Paderborn's buildings are located on campus. There are green meadows to relax in and plenty of places to eat and drink: Mensa Academica and Mensa Forum, the Grill|Café and Café Bona Vista. Everything is within easy walking distance. Our library is also centrally located and is a great place to study thanks to its good opening hours.
Accommodation
Living in accomodations close to campus is possible: The Studierendenwerk Paderborn offers you places in halls of residence directly on campus or in the immediate vicinity. But you will also find what you are looking for on the usual accommodation portals: Both in the immediate vicinity of the university and city center, as well as in the individual Paderborn districts.
Costs and financing
Everyday student life offers you plenty of opportunities to work alongside your studies. However, BAföG or a scholarship are also options that you can use to cover your costs.
Advisory services
We have the right contact point for every concern. For example, our advisory and service facilities are available to answer your questions about academic work, career orientation and goal setting, funding opportunities and many other concerns.
Our university is an open-minded university that also takes a clear stance on gender and diversity. We have been actively promoting equal opportunities and a gender- and family-friendly work and study culture for many years. This includes support for a better balance between studying and family life as well as support for students with health impairments.
Any questions?
Chat with us
The right contact for every concern
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
E-Mail: zsb@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-2007
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support prospective students in their choice of studies and in their decision to study. In addition, we advise students in all phases of their studies, especially in phases of reorientation.
Academic Advisors Materials Science
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Does the degree programme suit me and my professional expectations?
- Which modules are offered and what do I deal with in the modules?
- How is the study programme organised?
- How are the modules, events and examinations organised?
- What focal points can I set in my studies?
- How can I organise my course of study individually?
Academic Advisors Materials Science
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Does the degree programme suit me and my professional expectations?
- Which modules are offered and what do I deal with in the modules?
- How is the study programme organised?
- How are the modules, events and examinations organised?
- What focal points can I set in my studies?
- How can I organise my course of study individually?
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Uni-Assist
You are in the right place with the following concerns
Please apply for this program, regardless of your nationality, via the Uni-Assist Online Portal, if you don't have a German University Entrance Qualification.
Bildungsinländer*innen
You are in the right place with the following concerns
If you don't have the German citizenship, but have received your university entrance qualification from a German school inside or outside of Germany (= Bildungsinländer*innen), apply for the program directly at the online portal PAUL of the admissions office. (Please initially supply a grade of 4,0; follow further instructions by email after registration in the online system.)
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Registrar’s Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Information and advice on application, admission and enrolment matters
- Processing of applications for change of degree programme, change of subject, leave of absence, exmatriculation, secondary enrolment
- Registration for the qualifying examination
- Health insurance matters
- Re-registration matters
Examination Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Counselling on examination-related questions of the study programme
- Processing of admissions and registrations for examinations with limited repeatability
- Processing withdrawals from examinations due to illness
- Recording examination results
- Administration of study performance accounts, certificates of grades and module assignments
- Transfers to the current version of the examination regulations
- Issuing certificates, diplomas, diploma supplements and transcripts of records
- Issuing duplicates and certificates to internal and external university administrative offices
- Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
Service Centre for Studying with Disabilities
E-Mail: s-m-b@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-5498
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Advice on all questions related to studying
- Procurement and rental of aids
- Barrier-free campus tours
- Provision of information on the barrier-free campus
- Advice on compensating for disadvantages
FamilienServiceBüro
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We support you in balancing your studies and family life.