Science and Technology of Materials

This interdisciplinary Master’s programme combines lectures, calculation exercises, laboratory courses and seminars to give you both theoretical grounding and practical experience in materials science and engineering. Taught in English, the curriculum is designed so you can tailor your studies to a particular technical interest through a mix of core subjects, electives and specialised focus modules.

Teaching and research are distributed across partner sites: the University of Salzburg (PLUS) and Technical University of Munich (TUM). Depending on the specialised track you choose at TUM, some coursework will take place at TUM’s School of Engineering and Design in Munich or at TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability. This structure lets you pursue interdisciplinary themes that span chemistry, physics and applied engineering.

At PLUS you will cover essential foundations and may choose optional topics to broaden your perspective, while at TUM you select focus modules that reflect applied or industry-oriented directions such as regenerative raw materials and bioprocesses. The programme’s balance of lectures, problem-solving classes and hands-on lab work supports preparation for roles in research, development and advanced technical practice.

Requirements / key components

• Teaching language: English
• Core (compulsory) modules at PLUS: Chemistry of Materials; Physics of Materials; Materials Characterisation
• Optional modules at PLUS: Interface Science & Engineering; Natural Materials & Environment
• Example focus modules at TUM: Material Knowledge; Industry Orientation; Regenerative Raw Materials; Biomaterials, Biotechnology and Bioprocesses
• Study locations depend on chosen focus: Salzburg (PLUS) and either Munich (TUM School of Engineering and Design) or Straubing (TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability)

Curriculum overview

This interdisciplinary Master’s is organized so that you spend at least one semester at each partner university; for the remaining semesters you may choose where to study. The programme combines coursework and research elements distributed across the partner institutions, giving you hands-on exposure to different labs, supervisors and academic cultures.

Key academic themes and learning outcomes

• Core themes typically focus on the science and technology of materials: understanding structure–property relationships, synthesis and processing routes, advanced characterization techniques, and technological applications.
• Graduates should be able to integrate knowledge from physics, chemistry and engineering to solve materials-related problems, design and evaluate experiments, and communicate results in an international, multidisciplinary setting.
• The mobility element also develops practical skills in cross-institutional collaboration, adaptability to different research environments, and an expanded professional network across partner universities.

Practical note

• One semester at each partner university is compulsory; other semesters may be taken at the partner of your choice.
• For detailed organisation, module lists, schedules and assessment rules, consult the programme webpage: https://www.plus.ac.at/studium/studienangebot/masterstudien/science-and-technology-of-materials/?lang=en

Graduates are prepared for technical and research roles in the materials sector, including positions in materials development, characterization and testing, process engineering, quality control, and product development. Employer sectors commonly include automotive, aerospace, electronics, biomedical/biotech, renewable materials and chemical industries, as well as materials testing laboratories and consultancy firms.

The joint-degree structure and mobility between PLUS and TUM strengthen international and interdisciplinary competencies, supporting transitions into R&D roles, industrial project teams, and further academic research (PhD) in materials science and related engineering fields.