Help create new materials to drive the technologies of tomorrow with this Griffith degree.

Materials science covers chemistry, physics and engineering. From a chemical perspective it involves the design and molecular assembly of new smart materials that are useful chemically, physically or both. Every day scientists are inventing new molecules and materials for a growing range of applications that will make positive differences in people's lives. Clean energy systems, better sensors for disease, smart drug delivery systems, more efficient farming technologies, green and sustainable polymers and plastics all arise from a knowledge of contemporary materials research. There is strong demand from existing industries and emerging start-up companies for graduates with materials science skills. All sectors of society are being influenced by the technologies, both present and future, that this area of science has to offer.

With this degree you will learn how to apply your new knowledge of the chemical sciences to solve problems and discover new materials that will drive the technologies of tomorrow, and be able to design, review and conduct experiments in modern materials chemistry. You will also develop the ability to analyse and interpret data from a range of modern analytical tools, as well as how to apply that knowledge in the characterisation of new materials. You will contribute to the provision of scientific solutions to national and international problems and develop new technologies for the sustainable advancement of society, as well as the skills to effectively communicate your findings and developments, and to work collaboratively and effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

In this degree you also have the option to undertake a practical work placement to help further refine your skills and understanding of materials science.

If you choose you can also pursue a research pathway and undertake a research project to create practical outcomes and insights for your employer, business or an industry partner.

This program has been suspended from offer in trimester 2, 2023.

Attendance information

This program will be offered full-time on-campus at the Gold Coast.

If you are an International student on a student visa, you must ensure that you enrol in a way that will allow you to complete your enrolment within the expected program duration as stated on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Changing programs

If an International student changes to a different program they will be subject to the approved program fee for the trimester in which they are enrolled.

Permanent resident status

If an undergraduate student obtains permanent resident status in Australia after commencing study in a program, and the student can provide evidence of permanent resident status prior to the census date (of the trimester in which they are enrolled), the student will be provided with a domestic fee-paying place.

The student may then apply for a Commonwealth supported place at the next admission period provided that the student satisfies the conditions for transfer from a domestic fee-paying place to a Commonwealth supported place as set out in the Undergraduate Programs Admission Policy.

If a postgraduate student obtains permanent resident status in Australia after commencing study in a program, and the student can provide evidence of permanent resident status prior to the census date (of the trimester in which they are enrolled), the student will automatically be considered for a Commonwealth supported place (subject to availability) or a domestic fee-paying place as applicable for the program.

If a research student obtains permanent resident status in Australia after commencing study in a program, and the student can provide evidence of permanent resident status prior to the census date (of the trimester in which they are enrolled), the student will automatically be considered for a Commonwealth Government Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset or a domestic fee-paying place as applicable for the program.

My career opportunities

Graduates with skills in materials chemistry are employed in a wide range of industries, often at the cutting edge of technology research. Typical industries would include the aerospace and motor industries, drug and related medical diagnostics companies, the advanced plastic and polymer industries, oil and energy industries, communications and information hardware manufacturing companies, the water and food security sector, academic and government research organisations, mining and numerous other high-tech manufacturing industries.