Nanotechnology PgCert

University of Oxford

The Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Nanotechnology offers a ten-month introduction to the subject for those seeking a thorough grounding in the science and application of nanotechnology.

The PGCert in Nanotechnology is a unique, mainly online, part-time course aimed at professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds who wish to learn more about the foundations of nanotechnology, technological advances and the applications it enables.

The course has been developed to introduce fundamental material essential to the understanding of nanotechnology. Its content has been designed to enhance career development that is recognised and accepted within industry, and there are opportunities to access cutting-edge research and current practice in a wide range of nanotechnology topics.

The online components of this course can be taken from anywhere in the world by those seeking a solid foundation in nanotechnology. Its modular structure provides flexibility while a tutor-led approach lends cohesion and depth to the distance learning experience which has been tailored to enable busy people in full-time employment to study.

This flexible programme is delivered by Begbroke Science Park and the Department for Continuing Education. The online components are delivered through a bespoke virtual learning environment, Microsoft Teams and Adobe Connect, which are supported by a dedicated IT support helpdesk.

Course structure

The PGCert in Nanotechnology comprises three modules which present difficult concepts in an engaging way and introduce the most commonly used and most important analytical, quantitative and experimental methods in nanotechnology. The content of each module contains up-to-the-minute thinking and reflects the University of Oxford's world-leading research in nanotechnology.

Each module lasts for seven to ten weeks, corresponding approximately to the University of Oxford's term calendar. The modules are taught through a blend of independent study of online learning materials and group work which takes place during discussions and research, as well as weekly live online tutorials. At the end of the third module you will attend a residential weekend in nanoscale materials characterisation based at the University of Oxford’s Begbroke Science Park.

The three modules are:

The Wider Context of Nanotechnology

This module introduces the core principles and background to nanotechnology, along with the social, environmental and regulatory contexts within which nanotechnology enterprises operate.

The Fundamental Science of Nanotechnology

This module covers the essential core principles that determine the length-scale effects that constitute nanoscale phenomena.

Fundamental Characterisation for Nanotechnology

This module provides an introduction to the characterisation techniques that can be utilised to determine the properties and the successful production of materials and structures at the nanoscale, culminating in a weekend residential in Oxford.