Joint European Master on Tribology of Surfaces and Interfaces (TRIBOS)

Joint European Master on Tribology of Surfaces and Interfaces (TRIBOS) – University of Ljubljana

The Joint European Master on Tribology of Surfaces and Interfaces (TRIBOS) is a two-year Master’s degree programme offered by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, in collaboration with partner universities. Delivered in English, this joint European programme consists of four semesters and carries 120 ECTS credits. It provides advanced scientific and engineering knowledge in tribology, focusing on the interactions between surfaces in relative motion and the mechanisms that influence friction, wear and lubrication.

Programme Overview and Learning Outcomes

The programme develops specialised knowledge in tribology, surface engineering and interface science. Students explore the physical and chemical interactions occurring between moving surfaces, particularly at micro and nanoscale levels. The curriculum emphasises the understanding and resolution of technological problems associated with friction, wear, lubrication and surface contact phenomena.

Tribology is an interdisciplinary field combining mechanical engineering, materials science, mechanics, surface chemistry and surface physics. The programme integrates these disciplines to provide students with advanced knowledge of surface interactions and modern engineering solutions.

Specialised Areas of Study

The programme covers important topics in tribology and surface engineering, including surface characterisation, friction mechanisms, wear behaviour, lubrication technologies, thin films, protective coatings and advanced engineering materials.

Students also develop knowledge of lubricants, lubrication system selection and design, surface contact properties and the scientific principles governing interactions between engineering surfaces.

Research and Engineering Applications

The TRIBOS joint Master’s programme provides advanced contemporary knowledge to prepare the next generation of engineers and scientists for complex interdisciplinary tribology challenges.

The programme emphasises the scientific understanding of functional surfaces and interfaces, supporting the development of technical expertise in materials interactions, surface behaviour and engineering applications involving moving mechanical components.

Academic Qualification and Professional Development

The programme is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in tribology and related engineering sciences. Its interdisciplinary approach combines mechanical engineering, materials science and surface technologies to develop specialised competencies for addressing complex technical and scientific problems.

Graduates receive the professional qualification Master of Science (M.Sc.).