Automotive Materials

Automotive materials is a highly specialised discipline concerned with the science and engineering of the materials used to make vehicles. As the automotive industry faces some of the most demanding technical and regulatory pressures in its history, including the transition to electric vehicles, the drive for improved fuel efficiency and the need to reduce weight while maintaining or improving safety and performance, the role of materials scientists and engineers has become central to the sector's future.

At Loughborough University, this three-year full-time programme focuses on the materials challenges specific to the automotive industry, including lightweight metals, composites, polymers, ceramics, and the joining and forming processes through which they are manufactured. You will study materials science, mechanical behaviour, failure analysis, surface engineering and the testing and characterisation methods used to assess and develop automotive components. The programme addresses the full materials life cycle, from selection and processing through to performance in service and end-of-life considerations, reflecting the industry's increasing attention to sustainability and circular economy principles.

Loughborough has longstanding connections with the automotive sector, and the programme draws on both academic expertise and industry relationships. You will develop analytical, experimental and problem-solving skills that are directly applicable to materials development and engineering roles within the automotive supply chain and manufacturing sector.

Graduates go on to careers in materials engineering, automotive research and development, manufacturing, quality engineering, advanced composites and lightweighting projects, and materials consultancy. The combination of materials science and automotive-specific knowledge is valued by vehicle manufacturers, tier-one suppliers, research organisations and specialist engineering consultancies. Postgraduate study in materials engineering, manufacturing or engineering design is an option for those who want to develop deeper technical expertise.