About this course
Discover micro and nanotechnology on this master’s degree. You’ll learn how microelectromechanical systems and nanoelectronics inform next-generation consumer electronics. Prepare for a career in industry or academic research.
Microelectromechanical systems and nanotechnologies are vital to the research and development of modern electronics, including miniaturised sensors and nanoscale logic and memory devices.
On this Micro and Nanotechnologies MSc you’ll learn the scientific and engineering principles that support a wide range of micro and nanoscale technologies. You'll also learn about microfluidic technology, enabling miniaturised biodevices for point-of-care diagnostic applications, and the fundamentals of photonic circuits and devices.
You’ll be able to fit the master’s in nanotechnology into your interests or career plans by specialising in areas such as:
- microelectromechanical systems
- nanoelectronics
- biodevices
- optoelectronics
You'll get training in the latest design, fabrication and characterisation methodologies, and benefit from using industry-standard tools and facilities such as our cleanroom complex.
Specialist modules are taught by staff involved in leading edge research, so your learning will be informed by the latest developments in these areas.
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Maurits De Planque, an associate professor within Electronics and Computer Science. His research interests are the nano/microtechnology aspects of bioengineering, including chemical oscillators, microfluidic cell arrays, semiconductor biosensors and ion channel nanopores. Read Dr De Planque’s staff profile to find out more about his work.
Accreditations
“My time at Southampton has helped me grow as a person. I have developed my academic writing and my experimental skills, thanks to laboratory training. My particular interest in biology encouraged me to choose medical electronics and bio-nanotechnology modules.”
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in electronic engineering or a related subject.
You must also have an upper 2:1 score in the following:
- 1 maths module
- 1 physics module
- 2 electronic engineering modules (e.g. semiconductor devices, solid state devices, electronic materials, electronic systems, electronic circuits, microelectronics, analogue systems, photonics, engineering design)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This is a full-time master’s course. Your studies will last a full 12 months, from September to the following September.
For the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll focus on the taught part of the course. Some of your modules will be compulsory, others we will ask you to choose from a list of options.
You’ll have exams at the end of each semester.
For the rest of the course, you’ll work independently on your dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2022-23
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
The aim of this module is to provide an overview of a range of biomolecular, microscale and nanoscale systems and devices, including sensors. The module consists of practical work on three different systems, involving construction and characterisation wit...
Your research project will enable you to explore in depth some aspect of your specialist subject area. You will be allocated a project supervisor with whom you will meet and agree a project brief and plan. These must be submitted to, and agreed by, ...
This module provides an overview of modern microfabrication technologies for the making of micro structures applicable to device engineering. The various fabrication techniques that are relevant for microdevices in the field of electronics, optoelectroni...
This module presents a broad overview of microsensor technologies, including the basic principles of measurement systems and the scaling effects arising from system miniaturisation. The practical component, assessed by a Lab Report, involves the design an...
The module will discuss all important issues related to scaling down the transistor size into the nanometer regime, such as high-k dielectrics and FINFETs. The teaching will be complemented with a finite element simulation of the MOS scaling which will br...
The Module will prepare students for the summer Research Project and research based coursework exercises. It will give students a grounding in the research methods and techniques necessary in order for planning and successful execution and completion of t...
You must also choose from the following modules:
This module describes in detail recent development in electronic devices that reduce energy consumption, generate power, or advance the distribution of power. Together these set of devices will play an essential role in the reduced dependence on fossil fu...
This module teaches the basics of the behaviour of fluids in microsystems, specifically focussing on the interaction of fundamental physical mechanisms and the design of microfluidic devices. It also reviews and analyses the state of the art in applied mi...
This course consists of two parts: 'Nanofabrication' deals with the fabrication of structures that are smaller than 100 nm, while 'Microscopy' concerns the visualisation of such small features. Advanced optical lithography concepts are illustrated by a co...
Optical fibre sensor technology is playing an increasing role in modern-day life with a range of applications emerging in areas spanning civil engineering, defence and the life sciences. This module focuses on a key area of ORC expertise that has develope...
The aim of this module is to provide an overview of advancement of quantum devices and technology in line with the development of nanoelectronics and nanotechnology. Students will gain knowledge of basic quantum mechanics and how the quantum mechanics are...
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- directed reading
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Assessment
We’ll assess you through:
- coursework
- laboratory reports
- design exercises
- individual and group projects
- written exams
- a dissertation
Dissertation
Over the summer you’ll spend up to 14 weeks working on your research project, which will result in a 15,000-word dissertation.
The project will be on a specialism of your choice, to be agreed with your project coordinator.
The dissertation is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show your expertise in a particular area of micro and nanotechnology.
You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the process.
Academic Support
You’ll be assigned a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Careers
Graduates of this course are in an excellent position to start a career in industry, or continue their researches at PhD level.
Sectors you could go into include:
- electronics and semiconductors
- telecommunications
- photonics
- materials and packaging
- biotechnology
- motor vehicle and aerospace industries
Graduates of our electronics and computer science master’s courses are employed worldwide in leading companies at the forefront of technology.
Many students also go on to work for small to medium-sized enterprises, including start-ups.
ECS runs a dedicated careers hub with links to more than 100 companies including:
- IBM
- Arm
- Microsoft Research
- Imagination Technologies
- Nvidia
- Samsung
Careers services at Southampton
We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV/resume and interview skills workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:
- our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
- a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
- our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £28,000.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
UK students
Make sure we receive your application at least 4 weeks before the start of the course. This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available.
International students
Make sure we receive your application at least 6 weeks before the start of the course.
This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available. It will also give you time to apply for a visa if we offer you a place.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for any postgraduate taught course that starts in or after September 2021.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, if you're applying for a Master of Research (MRes) degree, or if you're applying for a PGCE course via UCAS, you will not need to pay the fee. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We'll aim to get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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