Materials Science and Engineering Programme code: W4-S2MAI19.2025

Field of study: Materials Science and Engineering
Programme code: W4-S2MAI19.2025
Programme code (USOS): W4-S2MAI19
Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology
Language of study: Polish
Academic year of entry: summer semester 2025/2026
Level of qualifications/degree: second-cycle studies
Mode of study: full-time
Degree profile: general academic
Number of semesters: 3
Degree: magister (Master's Degree)
Specializations:
  • Biomaterials
  • Innovative Engineering Materials
  • Quality control of materials and products
Semester from which the specializations starts: 1
Number of ECTS credits required to achieve the qualification equivalent to the level of study: 90
Leading discipline: materials engineering (engineering and technology)
ISCED code: 0715
The number and date of the Senate’s resolution: 194/2026 (27/01/2026)
General characteristics of the field of study and the assumed concept of education:
Materials Science is an interdisciplinary field of scientific and technical research that analyzes the influence of the chemical and physical structure of materials on their electrical, mechanical, optical, surface, chemical, magnetic, and thermal properties, as well as various combinations of these properties. Materials Science encompasses a range of modern physical and chemical research techniques that can be used to characterize both the structure and properties of materials. These techniques are designed to study the influence of structure on the properties of materials, particularly those that are practically applied in various technologies. This enables the development of methods for obtaining materials with precisely defined functional characteristics. This research not only influences the planned structure of end products but also helps develop effective methods for their production and processing. The second-cycle, full-time Master's degree program in Materials Science offers three specializations: Biomaterials, Innovative Engineering Materials, and Quality Control of Materials and Products. The common feature of this specialization is an interdisciplinary body of knowledge in the areas of team management in research and industrial activities, the operation of IT systems and computer-aided engineering systems, the selection of materials and manufacturing technologies, and material processing. Graduates are prepared to take creative initiatives and make decisions regarding engineering and materials technologies, as well as to independently run their own businesses and operate in small and medium-sized enterprises, with particular emphasis on the intersection of materials science, medicine, and veterinary medicine.
Graduation requirements:
The condition for admission to the diploma examination is to achieve the learning outcomes provided for in the study program, to obtain a certificate of an appropriate level of language proficiency in a foreign language and to obtain positive grades for the diploma dissertation. The condition for graduation is to pass the diploma examination with at least a satisfactory result. A graduate receives a higher education diploma confirming obtaining the qualifications of the appropriate degree. Detailed rules of the diploma process and the requirements for the diploma thesis are set out in the Rules and Regulations of Studies at the University of Silesia and the diploma regulations.
Information on the relationship between the studies and the university's strategy as well as the socio-economic needs that determine the conduct of studies and the compliance of learning outcomes with these needs:
The interdisciplinary "Materials Engineering" program, offered across all three cycles, aligns well with two strategic goals identified in the University of Silesia's Development Strategy: "Innovative education and modern teaching offerings" and "Active collaboration between the University and its environment." This modern curriculum encompasses three specializations: Biomaterials, Innovative Engineering Materials, and Quality Control of Materials and Products, enabling a significant individualization of the educational process. One of the priority goals of this program is a close relationship with industry and medicine, which allows students to learn about the specifics of the relevant industries, technological needs, and inventiveness. Students in this program complete their master's theses in collaboration with companies and industrial enterprises operating in both technical and medical fields. This allows for better utilization of the students' scientific potential and, on the other hand, adapts the curriculum to the needs of the labor market. The ability to design, knowledge of how to produce and introduce new innovative materials fits this field into the general trend and strategy of education focused on a knowledge-based economy.
Specialization: Biomaterials
General description of the specialization:
Graduates possess advanced knowledge of biomaterials used in implants and artificial organs. They understand the structure and functioning of implants, artificial organs, and tissues, as well as the impact of physiological and biological environments on the degradation rate of biomaterials, with particular emphasis on toxicological and allergenic aspects. They are familiar with advanced research methods enabling in-depth analysis of the structure and properties of biomaterials. They can utilize knowledge of materials engineering and technology to perform material analyses and design technological processes and studies that expand the use and acquisition of new materials for medical applications. The comprehensive knowledge gained in materials engineering, particularly in the field of biomaterials, predisposes graduates to work as consultants in the medical field. The "Biomaterials" specialization expands and enhances the existing "Materials Engineering" program offerings. It will allow students to focus on the specifics of materials for applications in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. Progress in medicine places increasing demands on the properties of biomaterials, including their biocompatibility. Major issues related to biomaterials include: the selection of implant materials and their applications, the influence of the living organism's environment on implant behavior, the basic assumptions of bioavailability, tissue reaction mechanisms, the biophysical, biochemical, and biomechanical requirements for implants, corrosion, abrasion, and degradation of various biomaterials, technologies for applying surface layers to implants, and implant design issues. All of this necessitates the training of highly specialized scientific and technical personnel dedicated to the design, modeling, and testing of the properties and structure of biomaterials, as well as their commercialization. Graduates of this specialization will fill a long-standing gap between engineers specializing in biomaterials and physicians who use these materials in practice.
Internships (hours and conditions):
not applicable
Percentage of the ECTS credits for each of the scientific or artistic disciplines to which the learning outcomes are related to the total number of ECTS credits: materials engineering (engineering and technology): 100%
Specialization: Innovative Engineering Materials
General description of the specialization:
Graduates of the second-cycle program in Innovative Engineering Materials possess skills and advanced knowledge in materials science, engineering materials design, processing, and shaping their properties, as well as IT tools applied to materials science. Materials science is an interdisciplinary field of scientific and technical research, combining elements of physics, chemistry, mechanics, manufacturing technology, and computer science. Its core research focuses on the study of the influence of the chemical and physical structure of materials on their mechanical, electrical, optical, surface, chemical, magnetic, and thermal properties, as well as the interrelationships between these properties. This knowledge provides the foundation for the development, processing, and use of modern materials in various industries and technologies. Modern materials science is based on the application of a broad spectrum of research methods—both physical and chemical—enabling the comprehensive characterization of the structure and properties of materials and biomaterials. Graduates will be prepared to develop new materials with precisely defined performance parameters, as well as to improve the production, processing, and quality assessment of existing materials and products.
Internships (hours and conditions):
not applicable
Percentage of the ECTS credits for each of the scientific or artistic disciplines to which the learning outcomes are related to the total number of ECTS credits: materials engineering (engineering and technology): 100%
Specialization: Quality control of materials and products
General description of the specialization:
Graduates of the second-cycle "Quality Control of Materials and Products" specialization possess skills and advanced knowledge in materials science, engineering materials design, processing, and shaping their properties, quality control of materials and products, as well as IT tools applied to materials science and quality control. The curriculum in the "Quality Control of Materials and Products" specialization will enable the education of specialists equipped with knowledge of the latest achievements in physics, chemistry, and metallurgy in the production of modern materials and the possibilities of modeling new ones. Graduates of this specialization possess the ability to comprehensively assess the quality of various groups of materials and conduct ongoing analysis of their performance parameters important for the production and processing of materials for specific applications. During their studies, they will acquire the ability to use scientific and technical information and acquire the knowledge necessary to communicate effectively with teams. Graduates possess knowledge of computer science and the implementation of IT systems and will be prepared to participate in projects requiring the assessment of the quality of modern materials in industry, research and service institutions, and in medium- and small-sized enterprises. Moreover, having in-depth knowledge of basic sciences and general knowledge of materials technology, they will be able to communicate effectively both with engineers employed in economic entities and organizations and with researchers dealing with modern materials.
Internships (hours and conditions):
not applicable
Percentage of the ECTS credits for each of the scientific or artistic disciplines to which the learning outcomes are related to the total number of ECTS credits: materials engineering (engineering and technology): 100%
KNOWLEDGE
The graduate:
has in-depth and systematized knowledge covering key issues and selected aspects of advanced detailed knowledge from various disciplines constituting the theoretical foundation of materials and biomaterials engineering, including computer methods for the analysis of research techniques and phenomena and the theoretical foundations of an integrated quality management system. [IM2A_W01]
has in-depth, structured and theoretically based knowledge of various groups of engineering materials, natural biomaterials and tissues, and analytical methods; is familiar with current and prospective areas of their application. [IM2A_W02]
possesses in-depth, systematic, and theoretically grounded knowledge, covering the complex relationships between the structure and properties of engineering materials and biomaterials, which form the theoretical foundation necessary for shaping, manufacturing, designing, and modeling engineering materials with specific properties. [IM2A_W03]
has in-depth, structured and theoretically based knowledge of medical diagnostic methods (ultrasound, X-ray, ECG, etc.) and techniques used to produce and shape the structure and properties of engineering materials, and knows the chemical processes and interactions of biomaterials with living organisms. [IM2A_W04]
possesses in-depth, systematic, and theoretically grounded knowledge of material testing methods and the construction of scientific research equipment necessary for evaluating the structure and properties of materials products and technological processes. [IM2A_W05]
knows and understands the complex processes occurring throughout the life cycle of devices, structures, and technical systems, with particular emphasis on the processes of degradation of engineering materials, preventive actions and risk assessment. [IM2A_W06]
has in-depth, structured and theoretically based knowledge of the methodology for selecting engineering materials and biomaterials, taking into account the complex relationships between their structure, properties and operational requirements, also in the context of quality control. [IM2A_W07]
has in-depth and structured knowledge of development trends and the latest achievements in the field of advanced engineering materials and biomaterials, as well as innovative technologies for their production and techniques for shaping their properties, with critical consideration of the principles of sustainable development and the complex challenges of modern civilization. [IM2A_W08]
possesses systematic and theoretically grounded knowledge in the field of computer-aided work and demonstrates a deep understanding of the potential applications of selected information and communication technologies, as well as software tools, in materials engineering. [IM2A_W09]
has in-depth and systematic knowledge in the field of industrial property protection, intellectual property, copyright and patent law and research laboratory management, including standards and accreditation requirements. [IM2A_W10]
has in-depth and systematic knowledge of the principles of creating and developing various forms of entrepreneurship related to the broadly understood field of materials engineering. [IM2A_W11]
has in-depth and structured knowledge of research methodology in materials science and non-technical areas, including research and development projects, and accreditation requirements. [IM2A_W12]

SKILLS
The graduate:
is able to acquire information from various sources, including scientific literature, databases and technical standards, analysis of measurement uncertainty, make appropriate selection, evaluation and critical analysis of these sources, synthesize and creatively interpret the information, and then present the obtained results in a clear and understandable manner. [IM2A_U01]
is able to formulate and test hypotheses related to simple research problems and analytical skills, including in particular the shaping, manufacturing, designing, modelling and selection of engineering materials and biomaterials with specific properties, also in the context of monitoring the quality of materials and products. [IM2A_U02]
is able to apply existing or develop new methods and tools to identify, formulate and solve research problems, including statistical and computer methods, critically assessing their usefulness and effectiveness in conditions of incomplete predictability, also in the context of monitoring the quality of materials and products. [IM2A_U03]
is able to select and use information and communication techniques and computer methods and tools to formulate and implement tasks, including non-technical tasks. [IM2A_U04]
is able to design a simple device, material, system or implant, typical of materials engineering or biomedical engineering, in accordance with a given specification, including issues related to toxicology, using appropriate methods, techniques and design tools. [IM2A_U05]
is able to, when formulating and solving tasks, perform a preliminary economic analysis and critically evaluate non-technical aspects, including in the context of global civilization challenges and project management. [IM2A_U06]
is able to communicate with various audiences using appropriately tailored specialist terminology, including conducting discussions and debates, presenting and analyzing various aspects of materials engineering and in non-technical areas using appropriate specialist Polish and English terminology. [IM2A_U07]
is able to prepare documentation regarding the implementation of tasks and reports in the context of quality control of materials and products, as well as present the results of work using appropriate methods and tools, including computer ones, using appropriate specialist terminology in Polish and English. [IM2A_U08]
is able to work individually as well as collaborate in teams, including taking on the role of a leader directing the team's work. [IM2A_U09]
is able to independently plan and implement the process of lifelong learning, as well as guide and support others in this area. [IM2A_U10]
clearly and comprehensibly communicates with others in a foreign language at the B2+ level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, making use of his/her knowledge and specialist terminology [IM2A_U11]

SOCIAL COMPETENCES
The graduate:
demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate the knowledge possessed and the content received, recognizes the role of knowledge in solving complex cognitive, practical and non-technical problems; is ready to seek expert advice if encountering difficulties in solving a problem independently. [IM2A_K01]
is ready to actively engage in raising public awareness about the role and importance of materials or biomaterials engineering, promoting its achievements, and initiating actions for the public interest in this field. [IM2A_K02]
is ready to professionally fulfill professional roles, demonstrating responsibility towards assigned duties, acting in accordance with ethical principles and professional standards, also in the context of monitoring the quality of materials and products.. [IM2A_K03]
is ready for entrepreneurial and innovative thinking and action in the field of materials engineering and biomaterials, actively seeking new solutions, including in the context of the challenges and dilemmas of modern civilization. [IM2A_K04]
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Engineering materials [IM2A_MI] Polish course work lecture: 45 3
Engineering materials structure and properties forming [IM2A_KSIWM] Polish exam lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30
3
Materials chemistry [IM2A_ChM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Materials degradation in a biological environment [IM2A_DMWŚB] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15
2
Materials structure testing methods [IM2A_MBSM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
3
Selected issues from biomaterials toxicology [IM2A_ WZTB] Polish exam lecture: 30
practical classes: 15
2
Solid state physics [IM2A_FCS] Polish exam lecture: 30
practical classes: 30
4
Specialist subject 1 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 15
3
Unconventional biomaterials [IM2A_NIEKON] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15
3
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Humanist module [IM2A_MH] Polish course work lecture: 30 3
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Computer networks and their use in materials engineering [IM2A_SIECI] Polish course work lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30
3
Engineering materials [IM2A_MI] Polish course work lecture: 45 3
Engineering materials structure and properties forming [IM2A_KSIWM] Polish exam lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30
3
Materials chemistry [IM2A_ChM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Materials science [IM2A_NOM] Polish course work lecture: 30
practical classes: 15
4
Materials structure testing methods [IM2A_MBSM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
3
Solid state physics [IM2A_FCS] Polish exam lecture: 30
practical classes: 30
4
Specialist subject 1 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 15
3
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Humanist module [IM2A_MH] Polish course work lecture: 30 3
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Computer networks and their use in materials engineering [IM2A_SIECI] Polish course work lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30
3
Engineering materials [IM2A_MI] Polish course work lecture: 45 3
Engineering materials structure and properties forming [IM2A_KSIWM] Polish exam lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30
3
Materials chemistry [IM2A_ChM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Materials science [IM2A_NOM] Polish course work lecture: 30
practical classes: 15
4
Methods of testing the structure and properties of materials [IM2A_MBSWM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
3
Solid state physics [IM2A_FCS] Polish exam lecture: 30
practical classes: 30
4
Specialist subject 1. Statistical process control [IM2A_PS1_SSP] Polish course work lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15
3
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Humanist module [IM2A_MH] Polish course work lecture: 30 3
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Dental materials [IM2A_MS] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15
3
Diploma laboratory 1 [IM2A_PD1] Polish course work laboratory classes: 60 5
Engineering materials designing and manufacturing [IM2A_PIWMI] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Implants and artificial organs [IM2A_ISN] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15
3
Monographic lecture 1 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 0
2
M.Sc. seminar 1 [IM2A_SM1] Polish course work seminar: 30 3
Production and quality management [IM2A_ZPiJ] Polish course work lecture: 15
practical classes: 15
2
Specialist subject 2 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 30
4
Tissue engineering [IM2A_IT] Polish course work lecture: 15
practical classes: 15
2
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Foreign language [IM2A_JO] English course work practical classes: 30 2
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Computer modelling of materials structure and properties [IM2A_KMSM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 60
4
Diploma laboratory 1 [IM2A_PD1] Polish course work laboratory classes: 60 5
Monographic lecture 1 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 0
2
M.Sc. seminar 1 [IM2A_SM1] Polish course work seminar: 30 3
Production and quality management [IM2A_ZPiJ] Polish course work lecture: 15
practical classes: 15
2
Specialist subject 2 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 30
4
Surface structure and its modifications [IM2A_SPJM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Unconventional techniques for materials manufacturing [IM2A_NTWM] Polish course work lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 45
4
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Foreign language [IM2A_JO] English course work practical classes: 30 2
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Diploma laboratory 1 [IM2A_PD1] Polish course work laboratory classes: 60 5
Material and product quality control techniques [IM2A_TKJM] Polish course work lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 45
4
Monographic lecture 1. IT quality support systems [IM2A_WM1_ISWJ] Polish course work lecture: 30 2
M.Sc. seminar 1 [IM2A_SM1] Polish course work seminar: 30 3
Production and quality management [IM2A_ZPiJ] Polish course work lecture: 15
practical classes: 15
2
Specialist subject. 2. Integrated quality management systems. 1 [IM2A_PS2_ZSZJ1] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Surface structure and its modifications [IM2A_SPJM] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
4
Technical metrology [IM2A_MT] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 60
4
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Foreign language [IM2A_JO] English course work practical classes: 30 2
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Computer networks and their use in materials engineering [IM2A_SIECI] Polish course work lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30
3
Diploma laboratory 2 [IM2A_PD2] Polish course work laboratory classes: 30 15
Monographic lecture 2 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 0
2
M.Sc. seminar 2 [IM2A_SM2] Polish course work seminar: 30 3
Specialist subject 3 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 30
3
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Intellectual property protection [IM2A_OWI] Polish course work lecture: 15 1
Social module [IM2A_MSP] Polish course work lecture: 30 3
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Diploma laboratory 2 [IM2A_PD2] Polish course work laboratory classes: 30 15
Monographic lecture 2 (see description below) lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 0
2
M.Sc. seminar 2 [IM2A_SM2] Polish course work seminar: 30 3
Project management [IM2A_ZPrj] Polish course work lecture: 30
practical classes: 15
3
Specialist subject 3 lecture: 30
depending on the choice: 30
3
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Intellectual property protection [IM2A_OWI] Polish course work lecture: 15 1
Social module [IM2A_MSP] Polish course work lecture: 30 3
Module Language of instruction Form of verification Number of hours ECTS credits
A
Diploma laboratory 2 [IM2A_PD2] Polish course work laboratory classes: 30 15
Monographic lecture 2. Risk management [IM2A_WM2_ZR] Polish course work lecture: 30 2
M.Sc. seminar 2 [IM2A_SM2] Polish course work seminar: 30 3
Research laboratory management [IM2A_ZLB] Polish course work lecture: 30
practical classes: 15
3
Specialist subject. 3. Integrated quality management systems 2 [IM2A_PS3_ZSZJ2] Polish exam lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 30
3
C - OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Intellectual property protection [IM2A_OWI] Polish course work lecture: 15 1
Social module [IM2A_MSP] Polish course work lecture: 30 3