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Micro and Nanotechnology (MSc)

Award
Master of Science
Typical Offer
2:1 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Highfield
Next course starts
September 2025

Micro and Nanotechnology (MSc) startingSeptember 2025 for1 year

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About this courseEntry requirementsCourse structureModulesLearning and assessmentCareers and employabilityFees, costs and fundingHow to applyRelated courses

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 Ruomeng Huang. Ruomeng has publishedover 50 journal papers and delivered over 40 oral/poster presentations at national and international conferences. He is a regular reviewer of several journals from the American Chemical Society (ACS), the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

Visit Dr Huang's staff profile to find out more about his work.

“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.”
Ezrah Mariam, 2019 graduate

Course location

This course is based atHighfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Entry requirements

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in electronic engineering or a related subject.

You must also have a good 2:1 (65%) score in the following:

  • 1 advanced mathematics module, such as advanced mathematics, applied mathematics, mathematical analysis, engineering mathematics, mathematics for electrical and electronic engineers or pure mathematics
  • 1 advanced physics module
  • 2 electronic engineering modules, such as: semiconductor devices, solid state devices, electronic materials, electronic systems, electronic circuits, microelectronics, analogue systems, photonics or engineering design

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country. 

Information for students who have studied in China

This programme only accepts applicants who have studied at an X1, X2, X3 or X4 institution. 

View acceptable grades from Chinese universities.

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

If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of ourpre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing apre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus.Learn more about the programmes available.

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

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules

Youmust study the following modules :

Advanced Micro and Nanosystems

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of a range of microscale and nanoscale systems and devices, including sensors, actuators, and transducers. The module consists of practical works on micro and nanosystems, involving construction and charact...

MSc Project and Dissertation

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, ...

Microfabrication

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...

Microsensor Technologies

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...

Nanoelectronic Devices (MSc)

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...

Research Methods and Project Preparation

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...

Youmust also choose from the following modules :

Green Electronics

This module covers recent developments in electronic devices that reduce energy consumption, generate power, or advance the distribution of power. Together these devices are playing an essential role in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.The modu...

Medical Electrical and Electronic Technologies

This module aims to provide an in-depth understanding, appropriate to an engineer, of medical technologies for clinical applications and an understanding of the electrical hazards to human health.

Microfluidics and Lab-on-a-Chip

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...

Nanofabrication and Microscopy

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 Sensors

Optical 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 developed in p...

Quantum Devices and Technology

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 and employability

Employability skills

This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.

The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:

  • Research
  • Critical thinking
  • Commercial awareness
  • Self-management
  • Confidence
  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Creativity
  • Networking
  • Adaptability
  • Problem solving
  • Resilience

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview
Women discussing in library tablet

Career pathways

Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:

Manufacturing,

Scientific and Technical,

Water and Waste Management,

Education,

Public Administration,

Defence,

Finance.

Wider career opportunities:
  • University lecturer
  • Data scientist
  • Project manager
  • Industrial researcher
  • Quality control specialist
  • Software engineer
See more
Example job titles of Southampton MSc Advanced Semiconductor Nanotechnology graduates*:
  • Defence policy analyst
  • Research and development engineer
  • Clinical scientist
  • Data analyst
  • Patent attorney
  • Software engineer
  • Software developer
  • Data engineer
  • Graduate scientist
See more

Job prospects for MSc Advanced Semiconductor Nanotechnology graduates

£50k
Average professional salary
92%
In a skilled profession or further study
95%
Graduate employment rate
Source

*Example graduate job titles and job prospect statistics taken from The Graduate Outcomes Survey, which gathers information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after finishing their course.

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes: 

  • work experience schemes
  • CV and interview skills and workshops
  • networking events
  • careers fairs attended by top employers
  • a wealth of volunteering opportunities
  • study abroad and summer school opportunities 

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter,Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

  • UK students pay £9,250.
  • EU and international students pay £33,900.

Checkfees for other versions of this course.

Deposit

If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.

Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.

Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on ourtuition fees for overseas students page.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a10% 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.

Southampton Electronics and Computer Science Commonwealth Scholarship

There are 20 Electronics and Computer Science scholarships of £3,000 each available for 10 undergraduate and 10 postgraduate new international students from Commonwealth countries.  

Find out more about theSouthampton Electronics and Computer Science Commonwealth Scholarship, including eligibility, and how to apply.

Other postgraduate funding options

A variety ofadditional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out aboutfunding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

  1. Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
  2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
  3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
  4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
  5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions,check terms and conditions).
  6. Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process,read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.

Application deadlines

UK students

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

International students

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. 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, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on ourterms 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

References are not required for this programme.

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.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application. 

If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

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

Related courses

Micro and Nanotechnology (MSc) is a course in theElectrical and electronic engineering subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area: