Advanced Composites (PhD) at University of Bristol

Programme overview

The use of composites offers many benefits to the functionality of both materials and structures, making them integral to many engineering design considerations, including cost, sustainability, fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, and improved operational performance. As such, composites are replacing traditional materials for lightweight structures at an unprecedented rate due to global demand (for example in the aircraft, wind turbine, construction and automotive industries). The sector growth is expected to be rapid, in the region of 5 to 10% each year.

Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences | Department: School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering | Duration: Up to four years full-time | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September and January. | Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The taught component comprises six units to provide an intellectually stimulating and inspiring educational framework that encourages innovation. In first year, you will study the fundamentals of composite materials, manufacturing and mechanics. Sustainability is included to encourage a holistic examination of the impact of the industry and future strategies for adopting composite materials in a framework of NetZero.

Career pathways

Students follow a structured professional development programme that prepares students for a career in academia and industrially based research. Recent graduates from the programme have gone on to careers within aerospace, automotive, civil engineering, engineering consultancy, and wind energy sectors.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum 2:1 in a 4 year degree course or merit at master's level in a science, engineering or technology subject. Applicants without these qualifications may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first class undergraduate degree, or relevant industrial experience. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree. English language: profile level E.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,343 a year (2027/28). full-time per year; 2027 entry, subject to annual review. Source

International applicants: GBP 28,300 a year (2027/28). full-time per year; 2027 entry, subject to annual review. Source

Intake: September and January.

Duration: Up to four years full-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/start-application/

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