Postgraduate Certificate in Nanotechnology

You will take three core online modules.

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.

This course is designed for those looking to study part-time while advancing their understanding of nanotechnology in a professional context. It is particularly suited to individuals working in commercial, industrial, or healthcare settings where nanotechnology is already used – or is likely to play a role in the future.

Students come from a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, materials science, chemistry, healthcare, and manufacturing, as well as roles in research, regulation, and innovation. Whether you are applying nanotechnology directly in your work or seeking to build expertise in this rapidly evolving field, the programme offers a flexible and relevant route to build your knowledge.

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.

Professor Robert Carlisle

Role: Course Director and Tutor

Robert Carlisle is a Professor in Biomedical Engineering and Head of the Drug and Vaccine Delivery Group within IBME.

Dr Christiane Norenberg

Role: Associate Director and Tutor

Christiane is the Nanotechnology Programme Manager at the University of Oxford’s Begbroke Science Park.

To complete the PGCert in Nanotechnology students must:

• Complete and pass three taught modules, completing a portfolio of assessments for each module (written reports, problem sheets and presentations). All modules are compulsory.
• Modules are taught online. You will also be expected to attend a Residential Weekend in Oxford at the end of Module 3.
• Feedback will be provided for each written assignment submission when marks are released. Assessment is summative and weighted marks for each assignment will count towards your overall result for the PGCert.

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a mathematical or physical sciences discipline, eg mathematics, materials science, physics, chemistry, or engineering.

Applicants with an undergraduate degree in biology, pharmacy, medicine or business must demonstrate at least A-level (or equivalent) knowledge in mathematics and physics.

Alternatively, students will have some practical experience in related fields. This experience would be demonstrated by publications or approximately five years of employment in a related field.

For applicants with a bachelor’s degree from the USA, the minimum overall GPA that is normally required to meet the undergraduate-level requirement is 3.6 out of 4.0.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University’s higher level. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. Further information on English language requirements can be found here.

Please visit the PGCert in Nanotechnology course page on the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions website for details of course fees and costs.

Please see our funding page for help and information with regard to funding postgraduate studies. We further recommend that applicants search for funding opportunities via the online Fees, Funding and Scholarship search tool.

In order to be considered for many scholarships, applicants are required to apply by the January deadline. However, applicants should note that some scholarships require additional application materials and may have different deadlines, so applicants should make sure they check the application process for each scholarship carefully.

Applications for this course should be made via the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions website. This website provides information on fees and entry requirements, along with help on preparing and submitting your application.

Application deadlines

12:00 midday UK time on:

• Stage 1: Friday 14 November 2025 (Applications more likely to receive earlier decisions)
• Stage 2: Wednesday 28 January 2026 (Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships)
• Stage 3: Tuesday 3 March 2026

When to apply

Early application for the programme is strongly advised. After the March deadline, the course will only stay open for that year’s entry if places are still available.

Remember that it can take a number of weeks to obtain all of the documents you need and to prepare a competitive application. You should also allow your referees plenty of time to submit your references. We therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible.

Interviews are normally held as part of the admissions process within six weeks of the application deadline.