The Master of Science is a two-year full-time program providing graduates with the opportunity to undertake advanced study and research. This program is designed to provide students with a thorough training in applied scientific research and methodology and will also prepare students for higher degree studies and professional employment. The program consists of both theoretical and practical coursework, as well as a research dissertation. Students complete advanced coursework and specialist laboratory classes prior to completing their research project.

The Materials Science major will appeal to students who are interested in working at the nexus of physics and the chemical sciences and who have research aspirations in materials design and engineering. Typical projects include energy generation and storage, carbon materials including graphene and related materials, coatings, sensors and fluidic devices. Coursework in the areas of either solid state physics and/or synthetic chemistry will be offered.

The term `materials science' describes a multidisciplinary field focussed predominantly around the disciplines of solid-state chemistry, physics and engineering. More recently, the biological sciences are playing an increasing role with innovations in, for example, tissue engineering, biological materials and numerous other related areas. Today the discipline has developed to encompass aspects of nanotechnology, the emerging scientific discipline that endeavours to assemble and manipulate matter at the atomic and molecular level (1-100nm). Accordingly, materials science now incorporates the principles of molecular recognition, self-assembly and self-organisation. Examples of systems already constructed include 'intelligent' polymers, organic solar cells, materials for energy conversion, sophisticated medical devices, wearable electronics, advanced sensors and diagnostics, Gorilla glass, novel protective coatings, stain and bacteria resistant clothing and surfaces, advanced materials for advanced engineering projects.