Ultra Precision and Nanoengineering

Duration: 1 year full-time, 2-5 years part-time

Overview:

Suitable for science and engineering graduates with an interest in the development of ultra precision and nanoengineered surfaces and their applications.

Takes you on to careers in a range of international research and industry sectors which are dependent on ultra precision and nanoengineering. Our significant industrially supported research allows access to a range of aerospace, space, medical, optics, optoelectronics, energy generation, displays, telecommunications, and semiconductor orientated companies.

You will be taught by internationally leading experts from within Cranfield’s Precision Engineering Centre, a NASA approved supplier for space telescope mirrors, with additional modules from the Microsystems and Nanotechnology Centre, the Centre for Energy and Renewable Technologies, and Cranfield School of Management.

Course Description:

The next generation of products for energy production, medical diagnostics, aerospace, space, displays, telecommunications, semiconductor devices, optics and optoelectronics demand ultra precision engineering of surfaces, down to the nanoscale, to achieve their superior functionality.

The MSc in Ultra Precision and Nanoengineering has been designed to equip engineers and scientists with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience that allow next generation high technology products and processes to be realised.

Students will study the essential aspects of ultra precision technologies and nanoengineering including the philosophy of determinism, fundamental precision design and metrology principles, critical computer-based design and application tools, and detailed knowledge of ultra precision and nanoengineering processes. Many applications of the technology are addressed, with particular emphasis on optics, renewable energy generation (solar, wind, wave), medical diagnostics, space and aerospace.

Students benefit from access to the best equipped precision machining laboratories in Europe, including the Hexagon Loxham Precision Laboratory, a 400m² state-of-the-art temperature and humidity controlled workspace, and over 100m2 of clean rooms within the Microsystems and Nanotechnology Centre.

Full-time students compete for the McKeown Prize for the Best Thesis in Precision Engineering, presented by Pat McKeown OBE.

MSc students complete eight modules, the group project and an individual thesis. Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) students complete eight modules and the group project. Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) students complete five modules.

Group Project:

There is a strong emphasis on applying knowledge in the industrial environment. This involves working in teams to fulfil demanding objectives within a tight timescale, applying state-of-the-art technologies and approaches, and delivering results to a high professional standard. For part-time students a dissertation usually replaces the group project.

Individual Thesis Project:

The individual thesis project, usually undertaken as a company placement, offers students the opportunity to develop their research capability, depth of understanding and ability to provide ultra precision and nanoengineering solutions to real problems.

Modules:

• Computer-aided Engineering for Ultra Precision
• Laser Micromachining and Surface Structuring
• Managing Innovation and New Product Development
• Metrology and Optical Testing
• Modern Optical Technologies
• Optical Design and Fabrication
• Precision Engineering
• Surface Engineering and Coatings

Entry Requirements:

Candidates must possess, or be expected to achieve, a 1st or 2nd class UK honours degree in a relevant engineering or science-based discipline, or the international equivalent of these UK qualifications. Other relevant qualifications together with industrial experience may be considered.

English language requirements - our normal minimum requirement is a TOEFL score of 580 (paper test) or 237 (computer test), essay rating 4.5 or 92 (Internet test), all skills 19 or an IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 for writing, a TOEIC overall score of 830, or a Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English grade C or Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English grade C, although a number of our programmes require higher scores.

Funding:

Funding opportunities exist, such as industrial sponsorship and School bursaries. For the majority of part-time students sponsorship is organised by their employers. Please note that a formal offer of a place on this course must have been received before consideration can be given for funding. For information on funding opportunities please visit: Finance and funding.

Want to find out more?

Contact our Enquiries Office for further details on all the courses we offer by either email: appliedsciences@cranfield.ac.uk or phone +44 (0)1234 758008. You can also visit our website.

Additional content

• Specialist Energy MSc opportunities