Key information
- Duration
- Full-time: 36 months
- Part-time: 72 months (Home students)
- Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting September 2026 - Apply anytime.
- Starting January 2027 - Apply anytime.
- Starting April 2027 - Apply anytime.
- There is no application closing date for this course. We suggest international students apply at least two months before the course starts.
Overview
The Materials Engineering PhD programme from Newcastle University will focus on understanding the physical and chemical descriptions that underlie material's performance. You'll also work towards developing property and performance models of materials.
We focus on developing new materials for advanced engineering applications, including microelectronics, optics and power transmission. Visit the programme website for more information
Current research projects include:
- developing novel surface engineering processes and materials (such as fullerene-like coating materials)
- energy-based methods for performance modelling
- nanomaterials and nanocharacterisation techniques
- novel materials for intensified processes
Key facts:
A major research strength is the measurement and modelling of the mechanical response of materials at high-spatial resolution, particularly in microelectronic and optical devices. A combination of unique equipment and interdisciplinary expertise supports this.
Another research focus is the materials requirements for the sustainable development and use of key resources, in particular water and energy. We have significant research into the generation of energy from novel sources, low carbon and renewable technologies and the clean-up of effluent and wastewater.
The School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials runs a postgraduate training programme that is compulsory for all new students and involves selected taught modules. You also receive research training from the Science, Agriculture and Engineering Graduate School that covers professional/key skills, personal development and research techniques. You have the opportunity to supplement your income by undertaking laboratory demonstrating and tutorial classes.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Fuel cells and energy systems
- Gasification
- Cold plasma gasification
- Bio-fuel cells
- Bio-diesel production
- Gas and water treatment
- Nano-structured polymer composites for pollution control
- Sustainable and environmental electrochemical systems
- Photochemical processes and electrochemical synthesis
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
GPA: Upper Second Class
English requirements
- Duolingo English Test: 125
- TOEFL iBT: 90
- PTE Academic: 70
- IELTS: 6.5
Other requirements
A 2:1 Honours degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject. However, combinations of the following can be taken into consideration: undergraduate qualifications, masters qualifications, relevant work experience.
To obtain additional information about the program, we kindly suggest that you visit the programme website, where you can find further details and relevant resources.
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
International: 63,289 AUD / year (approx. 33,500 GBP / year)
Living costs
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom: 1,058-1,872 AUD / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Newcastle University offers the following scholarships:
- Opportunity Scholarships — 2000 GBP, deadline Anytime, merit-based
- Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships — 4000 GBP, deadline Anytime, merit-based
- 2% Early Payment Discount — Various benefits, deadline 25 Sep 2026, need-based