Nanotechnology

Postgraduate Certificate in Nanotechnology (part-time)

Course Code | 003540 

The Postgraduate Certificate programme comprises three modules. The programme has been developed using a collaborative, student-centred approach, and introduces students to fundamental material essential to the understanding of nanotechnology.

The programme comprises three core modules on the wider context, fundamental science and fundamental characterisation of Nanotechnology respectively. The programme presents difficult concepts in an engaging way through these modules, which introduce the most commonly used and most important analytical, quantitative and experimental methods in nanotechnology. Students consolidate and apply their knowledge to techniques and methods in the analysis of nanotechnology.

The programme is taught through a blend of independent study through online learning materials and group work in the form of online discussions and research, plus a residential weekend in Oxford towards the end of the programme. Programme tutors provide online support, replicating the Oxford tutorial system.

• Length of programme: One year, part-time, online
• The department reserves the right not to run all or part of the programme if the number of successful applicants falls below a minimum threshold.

Students have access to University libraries, including the Continuing Education Library (Rewley House), IT resources, a virtual learning environment, a dedicated Registry office specialising in part-time students and the IT helpdesk.

Dr Christiane Norenberg (Course Director)

Dr Norenberg s the Nanotechnology HEIF (Higher Education Innovation Fund) Manager at the University of Oxford Begbroke Science Park.

She received her DPhil in Materials Science from the University of Oxford in 1998 and continued with postdoctoral research. In 2001, Christiane was awarded the Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship for her work on the growth and characterisation of nanostructures on semiconductor surfaces. After a period as a lecturer at the Multidisciplinary Nano-technology Centre at Swansea University, Christiane returned to Oxford in 2007 to take up her present post.

Her interests and expertise are in the areas of surface science, growth and characterisation of nanostructures on surfaces, and nanotechnology in general. Christiane also teaches nanoscience and materials science at undergraduate and postgraduate level. 

Professor Peter J Dobson

Professor Dobson is currently the Academic Director at the Begbroke Science Park. He consults widely and advises several corporate and national organisations on nanotechnology. His research interests are very broad, covering most aspects of nanotechnology and embracing biotechnology, environmental technology, energy and materials science, especially in applications to the field of medicine.

Professor Dobson is also currently the Strategic Advisor on Nanotechnology to the UK Research Councils.

No college affiliation is required for students studying for the Postgraduate Certificate.

Most part-time students on this programme are already in full-time employment in related fields on commencement of the programme.