In this field, students apply their knowledge of the physical sciences to selecting, processing, understanding, controlling, developing and improving the properties of metals, ceramics and polymers for manufacture and in the performance of machines, products and structures. This is achieved through control of the microstructure of materials and the fabrication and shaping processes used to make specific components. Major technological advances in materials manufacture have occurred in recent years. Developments in light-weight materials (magnesium and aluminium), composites, high temperature materials, surface treatments and materials with special mechanical, electrical, optical and magnetic properties have opened new horizons for product design. Modern advances in medical science, such as tissue growth for replacement organs and new prosthetic devices, require advances in materials technology.

Courses focus on the link between the processing of materials and their properties with emphasis on microstructures, that is the atomic arrangements within materials, how materials behave in use and how they are processed. All modern materials (metals, polymers, and ceramics and biomaterials) and their properties are detailed in the program to equip graduates with a combination of skills and knowledge suitable for research or a wide range of exciting careers in the materials area.

Materials science graduates are employed in a range of industries from heavy manufacturing to electronics to medicine. Typical areas include automotive, bio-materials, electronics, whitegoods, general manufacturing, steel, aluminium, ceramics and polymer industries that create wealth and add value to Australia's mineral resources. Career paths include design, operation, management, research and consulting in Australia and worldwide. Examples of companies employing materials graduates include Ford, Comalco, Fisher & Paykel, and BHP.