Leather Technology

MPhil: Two years full-time or three years part-time.

PhD: Three years full-time or six years part-time.

The course is designed for a graduate in a physical science or similar discipline who has recently entered or wishes to enter the leather production or allied industries; or for those already working in the leather producing or allied industries who wish to improve their technical management effectiveness. Students will be encouraged to develop specialisms within the course relevant to their future career.

Students will carry out supervised research projects and submit theses for examination, leading to the degree of MPhil or PhD. Research subjects currently being supported include: application of polymers to leather processing; collagen science and technology; effluent treatment and waste disposal in the leather industry; long-term ageing of leather; mechanical properties of leather in relation to its structure; tanning chemistry and the use of enzymes in leather manufacture.

While developing and setting up research projects, students will initially receive generic as well as discipline-based and project-specific training. This is to equip and enable the students to conduct their research work effectively and independently with minimum supervision.

• You will be part of a thriving research group
• Research projects are investigating the fundamentals of Leather Science
• We have links with other research institutes around the world

Leather Technicians Handbook, 2nd Edition, Sharphouse, JH

Students of either full-time or part-time mode will carry out supervised research projects and submit theses for internal and external examination, leading to the degree of MPhil or PhD.

Most of our postgraduates have no difficulty in finding a suitable post in the leather production or associated industries. Technical management, research and development, technical service, higher education and government bodies are the most popular choices. Demand exceeds supply and opportunities are available worldwide. Employment opportunities can also be found in other material production or chemical industries.