MSc Materials Science

MSc Materials Science – University of Nova Gorica

The MSc Materials Science programme at the University of Nova Gorica (UNG) is a two-year, second-cycle Master’s degree offered by the School of Science in Ajdovščina, Slovenia. Delivered in English according to the supplied programme information, the programme consists of four semesters and carries 120 ECTS credits. It is an interdisciplinary, research-oriented programme designed to develop advanced scientific and technical knowledge in materials science, materials physics, chemistry and innovative material technologies.

The programme is developed in cooperation with the National Institute of Chemistry and the Jožef Stefan Institute, combining academic education with scientific research and practical experimental work. Particular emphasis is placed on functional materials and their applications in environmental protection, energy technologies and the development of advanced industrial products.

Programme Overview and Learning Outcomes

The programme provides comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge of materials science, including the structure, properties, synthesis, characterisation and technological applications of different materials.

Students develop expertise in materials physics, materials chemistry, advanced inorganic material synthesis and modern analytical techniques. The curriculum emphasises understanding materials at atomic, molecular and process levels, enabling students to investigate their properties and develop solutions for industrial and scientific applications.

Advanced Materials and Specialised Study Areas

The programme covers a range of specialised subjects, including functional materials, nanomaterials, material chemistry, physical properties of materials, diffraction characterisation, electron microscopy, spectroscopy and materials modelling.

Students can further explore biomaterials, polymer materials, carbon materials, magnetism, superconductivity, catalysis, nanoelectronics and materials for energy conversion and storage through elective courses.

These subjects provide advanced knowledge of material design, analysis and development, particularly in relation to sustainable technologies and high-performance materials.

Practical Training and Research Opportunities

Scientific research and practical laboratory work are central components of the programme. Students develop research competencies through experimental design, scientific problem-solving, material synthesis, laboratory analysis, project management and communication of scientific findings.

Practical activities include advanced microscopy, diffraction analysis, spectroscopy and materials characterisation. Certain laboratory experiments are conducted in cooperation with the National Institute of Chemistry and the Jožef Stefan Institute.

The programme also includes independent project work and a Master’s thesis, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to research and development challenges.

Career Opportunities and Professional Development

The programme prepares graduates for professional opportunities involving materials research, industrial product development, advanced materials technologies and scientific innovation.

Graduates develop competencies to analyse, improve and design materials for advanced devices, industrial processes and modern technologies. The programme emphasises efficiency, product quality and sustainability, with particular applications in energy and environmental technologies.

Students also acquire research management, engineering project implementation, scientific communication and entrepreneurial competencies relevant to research and industrial environments.

Academic Progression

Graduates of the MSc Materials Science programme may continue their studies at the Graduate School of the University of Nova Gorica through doctoral programmes in Materials or Physics.

The programme requires students to complete all academic obligations and successfully prepare and defend a Master’s thesis.

Tuition Fees and Study Information

The programme has a stated tuition fee of €3,000 per year for all students, according to the supplied programme information. The referenced tuition fee document is for the 2025/26 academic year.

The programme lasts two years, comprising four semesters and 120 ECTS credits. Students complete compulsory and elective courses, research-oriented project work and a Master’s thesis.