Programme Specification
A statement of the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin a
taught programme of study leading to an award from
The University of Sheffield
1
Programme Title
Nanomaterials for Nanoengineering
2
Programme Code
MATT36 (MSc)
MATT98, PHYT98 (PhD with Integrated Studies)
MATT37
MATT38
MATT39
MATT40
MATT41
3
JACS Code (if applicable)
Not applicable
4
Level of Study
Postgraduate
5a
Final Qualification
Master of Science (MSc)
PhD with Integrated Studies
5b
Position in the QAA Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications
Masters (MSc)
Doctoral Level (PhD with Integrated Studies)
6a
Intermediate Qualification(s)
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip), Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
(MSc)
Master of Science (MSc), Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip),
Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) (PhD with Integrated Studies)
6b
Position in the QAA Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications
Masters
7
Teaching Institution (if not Sheffield)
University of Sheffield and University of Leeds
8
Faculty
Sheffield: Engineering and Science
9
Department
Sheffield: Materials Science and Engineering, and Physics and
Astronomy
10
Other Department(s) involved in
teaching the programme
Leeds, Centre for Molecular Nanostructures (CMNS)
11
Mode(s) of Attendance
Full Time or Part Time (Msc)
Full Time (PhD with Integrated Studies)
12
Duration of the Programme
1 year (Part Time not longer than 3 years) (MSc)
4 years (PhD with Integrated Studies)
13
Accrediting Professional or
Statutory Body
None
14
Date of production/revision
June 2012
15. Background to the programme and subject area
Nanomaterials is a novel discipline at the cross-over of materials science and generic nanotechnology,
encompassing aspects of chemistry, physics, biology and engineering. Nanomaterials are distinct. It would not be
possible to achieve nanomaterials synthesis and understand nanomaterials properties just by scaling down
corresponding macro-materials. A discontinuous change of properties is observed, which makes such nanoobjects
highly interesting and novel study objects. Generally, nanomaterials are defined as having structures at a dimension
of <100nm, such as free-standing nanoparticles, or nanograins in a polycrystal or nanoscale inclusion/phase.
Applications of nanomaterials have now clearly proven to be industrially relevant and production has reached the
level of tonnes. Examples comprise sun-screen cosmetics, using special nanoparticle UV absorption properties, or
surface treatments (hardness, durability, self-cleaning, water-repellent), enhancement of fuel combustion efficiency,
or materials for novel display screens and radiation sources (e.g. carbon nanotube based).
Nanoengineering is the discipline of arranging the raw nanomaterials into a design to fulfil a functional purpose,
whether mechanical, chemical, or electronic device related. Computer chip design is just about to make the step
from submicro-sized to nano-sized features, and technologies which are a spin off from chip fabrication, such as
sensors, will follow in this trend (such as Microelectromechanical and Nanoelectromechanical systems – MEMS and
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NEMS). The art of structuring nanomaterials is a central aim of nanotechnology. This comprises assembling
independent particles or structures in a prescribed way, e.g. periodicity, and it can be achieved either by physical
structuring (top down) or by self-assembly (bottom up). Optical and charged particle beam methods are a crucial tool
for the latter. Another aspect of Nanoengineering is the capability of manipulating nanoobjects on a surface or in 3D,
which requires design solutions completely different from those used in the macroworld. With respect to nanoscale
mechanical engineering, elastic and plastic deformation, surface wear, and local hardness are just a few keywords to
be translated from the macroscale to the nanoscale.
The Nanomaterials for Nanoengineering programme has the specific aim of combining nanomaterials knowledge
with nanoengineering knowledge (which are often unnecessarily separated), enabling students to achieve a distinct
qualification that will appeal to a broad employer market. The mechanical and functional properties of nanomaterials
will be linked to their prospective applications as novel devices engineered at the nanoscale.
The programme forms part of a unique package of distinct but related courses in nanotechnology, (see
www.nanofolio.org for the full list), developed in an alliance between departments at the Universities of Sheffield and
Leeds and running successfully for several years. This course package attempts to deliver the new kind of graduates
required to sustain the many multi-million-dollar research and development programmes issued internationally by
most industrial countries., We expect this trend to continue, and demand on expertise in this area to grow. Inter- and
multi-disciplinarity are important new qualifications, since progress in technology is now faster in areas at the
boundaries between physics, chemistry, biology and engineering, rather than within one single discipline. This novel
programme is ideally suited to students with a first degree (e.g. BSc or Masters) in another subject, who want to
move into a new area that is interdisciplinary in nature, and which will provide new skills while building on knowledge
of more traditional topics.
16. Programme aims
1. To give students up-to-date training in the nanomaterials field within nanotechnology, to turn them into highly
sought-after candidates for both further academic studies and industrial recruitment (MSc) and to prepare them for
nanomaterials research in an academic environment (PhD with Integrated Studies).
2. To provide students with a clearly distinct and advanced qualification in a field located at the convergence of
standard subjects, such as physics, chemistry, materials or engineering, which should increase the employment
opportunities open to them.
3. To give students a deeper insight into the principles of conducting independent research than is usual within a
traditional final-year project, through access to a research group or laboratory, and integration with PhD students and
Postdocs (where applicable).
4. To provide transferable skills ranging from literature searching to report writing and the preparation of PowerPoint
presentations, and where possible, the publication of scientific results arising from the project.
5. To qualify students in the language and classifications used in the nanotechnology area, so that they are able to
continue self study and follow reports ranging from press coverage to the published scientific literature.
The PhD with Integrated Studies programme has the following additional aim.
6. To enable and support students in undertaking an extended period of research on a topic within nanomaterials so
that they can submit and defend a doctoral level thesis.
17. Programme learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding: On completion of the course, students will have knowledge and understanding of
K1
The difference between macro materials and nano materials due to size
K2
How to classify nanomaterials and link their materials properties to opportunities for nanoengineering
K3
The fabrication of the most important nanomaterials, and methods of nanopatterning
K4
International trends in research in the subject area
K5
The function and interpretation of nanoscale characterisation techniques, such as Atomic Force Microscopy
(AFM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)
In addition to the above on completion of the course students on the PhD with Integrated Studies programme should
have deep knowledge and understanding of
K6
a specific research topic in the realm of nanomaterials
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Intellectual skills: On completion of the course, students should be able to
I1
Understand the language and classifications used in the nanotechnology area
I2
Work individually or as a group, and communicate effectively
I3
Interpret data, separate facts from errors, and trends from speculations
I4
Combine literature information with their own reasoning and results into an extensive report
I5
Interpret and compile information from libraries and the Web
In addition to the above on completion of the course students on the PhD with Integrated Studies programme should
be able to
I6
With appropriate supervision, develop and undertake a programme of research
Practical skills: On completion of the course, students should be able to
P1
Carry out some typical experimental techniques, such as TEM observation or nanoparticle synthesis
P2
Undertake data acquisition, data processing, and data evaluation up to standard required for inclusion in
reports
P3
Undertake experimental project work independently, after an introduction and training
In addition to the above on completion of the course students on the PhD with Integrated Studies programme should
be able to
P4
Obtain publishable data from a wide range of appropriate experimental techniques
Transferable skills: On completion of the course, students should be able to
T1
Search the relevant literature, use library resources, and categorise information
T2
Apply self-management, including time-management, multi-tasking of learning activities with lecturing,
personal learning and project work happening in parallel
T3
Use relevant computer packages, electronic databases, and to prepare PowerPoint presentations
T4
Write and organise reports, and use style and graphical elements effectively
T5
Present research related topics orally to high standards of quality
In addition to the above on completion of the course students on the PhD with Integrated Studies programme should
be able to
T6
Present and defend a PhD thesis based on their own research
18. Teaching, learning and assessment
Development of the learning outcomes is promoted through the following teaching and learning methods:
 Lecture and tutorial teaching (K1-K5, I1, T5)
 Self-directed learning (K1-K5, I1-I5, P2-P3, T1-T4)
 Practical classes (P1, P2)
 On-line studies (T3, I5)
 Student presentations (K1-K5, I1-I4, P3,T1-T3, T5)
 Research project (K3-K5, I2-I4, P1-P3, T1-T4)
Lecturing is the main teaching method, with an average of 18-20 lecture hours for each of eight modules, with four
modules in each semester. Depending on the module, this will be accompanied by practical classes in the
laboratory. The main focus throughout the programme is the project work. Each student will become a member of an
established research group and conduct, under guidance, his/her own research work at a level and depth superior to
a final-year undergraduate project. Alongside this project work, students will receive guidance on transferable skills,
ranging from literature evaluation, planning of research work, to report-writing and the preparation and delivery of
oral presentations.
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Opportunities to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes are provided through the following
assessment methods:
A range of assessment methods are used, for example: essay, formal examination, brief report, practical report, oral
(or poster) presentation, problem sheets.
The extended research project is assessed by a final report, as well as an intermediate report, student presentation
and oral examination.
See the table below for the relationship between achievements and assessment methods.
I1 Language and subject
I2 Communication skills
I3 Data interpretation
I4 Reasoning
I5 Compilation of info
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
P1 Experimental sessions
P2 Data treatment
P3 Project work
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
T1 Library/web resources
T2 Self management
T3 Computer skills
T4 Report writing
T5 Oral skills
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Oral Presentation
Project assessment
Continuous assessment
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Essays
Tutorials
Research Project
x
x
ASSESSMENT
METHODS
Examinations
Learning Outcomes
K1 Nanoworld-size effects
K2 Classification
K3 Fabrication &
patterning
K4 International trends
K5 Characterisation
Practicals
Lectures
TEACHING
METHODS
x
x
x
x
x
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19. Reference points
The learning outcomes have been developed to reflect the following points of reference:
Subject Benchmark Statements
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/AssuringStandardsAndQuality/subject-guidance/Pages/Subject-benchmark-statements.aspx
Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2008)
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Pages/The-framework-for-higher-educationqualifications-in-England-Wales-and-Northern-Ireland.aspx
University Strategic Plan
http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/strategicplan
Learning and Teaching Strategy (2011-16)
http://www.shef.ac.uk/lets/strategy/lts11_16
20. Programme structure and regulations
For the MSc
The course runs from the final week of September to early September the following year, with each of the two
semesters covering four out of eight modules, which are each worth 15 credits.
General distribution of credits (total = 180):
Semester 1, lectures/classes: 60 credits
Semester 2, lectures/classes: 60 credits
No option modules are current available.
The project is worth 60 credits.
It runs through both semesters plus summer studies.
Students undertake the project at the university where they have chosen to be based (either Leeds or Sheffield).
The four modules in Semester 1 are intended to provide a general overview of nanotechnology, and comprise:
(i) introduction to general nanotechnology;
(ii) processing of nanomaterials,
(iii) semiconductor nanomaterials, and
(iv) nanomagnetics.
The four modules in Semester 2 provide specialist knowledge and training in:
(v) nanostructuring and nanomanipulation,
(vi) bionanomaterials,
(vii) molecular assembled materials, and
(viii) nanoparticles and thin films.
For a Diploma, 120 instead of 180 credits are required
For a PG Certificate, 60 credits are sufficient.
Teaching is organised in blocks, so that modules run partially in parallel and partially consecutively. Each block can
comprise up to three hours teaching, restricting the module duration to six or seven weeks within each semester.
This teaching scheme minimises the need to travel between Leeds and Sheffield.
Part time study schedules (MSc only) need to be arranged on an individual basis.
For the PhD with Integrated Studies
Students complete the MSc course as described above, including the 60 credit project which must be undertaken at
the University of Sheffield. This is followed by a three year period of research leading to submission of a thesis for a
PhD. Over the four years students will also complete a series of research training sessions.
Students who fail to obtain a minimum grade of 60 at the first attempt in the MSc project will not be eligible to
progress onto the PhD component of the course. In this case the degree award will purely be based on the MSc
structure outlined above.
Initially in year 2 students are registered for an MPhil and at the end of the second year they will submit, and be
assessed on, an upgrading report. Successful outcome of this process will enable them to go to continue their
research and submit a PhD thesis; alternatively they may be required to submit for MPhil.
Detailed information about the structure of programmes, regulations concerning assessment and progression and
descriptions of individual modules are published in the University Calendar available on-line at
www.shef.ac.uk/calendar
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21. Student development over the course of study
Students are introduced to the central facilities available at both Leeds and Sheffield. After individual presentations of
possible research topics by the project supervisors, students make a choice before November about which research
group to join.
The 4 modules taught in Semester 1 provide an overview of the most important subjects within nanomaterials, but
also introduce the terminology and language and provide a refresher of some of the concepts necessary to
understand the more specialised topics. Students will then be able to understand the specialist modules in Semester
2, which are more specific to specialised materials classes.
The full-year research project accompanies the lectures. Students receive guidelines on progress. Starting with an
outline report in November, students continue with literature reading, commence the experimental or computational
work, and produce a further report in April, before completing the experiments and final reports for an agreed
submission date shortly before their viva in September.
22. Criteria for admission to the programme
Honours degree in materials/physics/chemistry/biology/engineering or a related discipline at an acceptable level (2ii),
together with an appropriate English language qualification (typically GCSE in English grade C, or IELTS 6.5 with a
minimum of 6 in each component, or TOEFL 232 [computer based], 575 [paper based]).
Candidates below the above requirements may be admitted to the Diploma or Certificate programmes.
Detailed information regarding admission to postgraduate programmes is available in the University’s On-Line
Prospectus at www.shef.ac.uk/postgraduate/
23. Additional information
Information on the course in particular is available on the Department of Materials Science and Engineering
postgraduate Web pages, at:
http://www.shef.ac.uk/materials/prospective_pg/masters
and for the entire MSc Training Package in Nanotechnology at:
http://www.nanofolio.org
This specification represents a concise statement about the main features of the programme and should be
considered alongside other sources of information provided by the teaching department(s) and the University. In
addition to programme specific information, further information about studying at The University of Sheffield can be
accessed via our Student Services web site at www.shef.ac.uk/ssid.
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