personal statement for msc in sustainable energy systems

MSc in Energy Systems

• Entry requirements
• Funding and costs

College preference

• How to apply

About the course

The MSc in Energy Systems augments world-leading research from the Department of Engineering Science with contributions from the Departments of Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry and the School of Geography and the Environment.

The course is designed to be accessible by those who have a highly numerate first degree (see entry requirements for greater detail) and will be taught using a modular framework to ensure that students are able to progress at their own predetermined speed.

The course structure is comprised of a combination of teaching methods, to provide a stimulating learning environment: taught modules, a small group case study project, a whole cohort exercise, industrial and relevant stakeholder visits and a dissertation.

The taught modules are divided into three core themes: Resources, Systems and Services, exploring the production and supply of energy and the societal and political implications involved. Each module is taught over one or two weeks depending on the subject, from 0900 - 1600, Monday to Friday, and will utilise innovative methods such as project based and student led peer-to-peer learning with ample opportunity for discussion. Teaching modules will be closely aligned with current research within the University.

This approach is expected to provide students with an optimal balance of working with sector stakeholders to develop understanding from taught elements while broadening personal horizons.

Course teaching is concentrated in the first two terms of the academic year, leaving the final term for non-taught course components. The taught modules and unassessed skills training run for up to seven hours per day for all weeks of Michaelmas and Hilary terms. Trinity term is dedicated to the three non-taught assessed components of the course with the dissertation running all the way through to submission on or around the final week in the August after admission.

The course’s three foundation modules are:

• Energy Sources;
• Energy Infrastructure; and
• Energy Demand.

There are eight further one-week modules:

• Energy Conversion 1;
• Energy for Development;
• Energy Conversion 2;
• Energy and Society;
• Digitization;
• Smart Energy and Communication;
• Energy Policy and Governance; and
• Energy Systems: Economics and Markets

Further information about studying part time

We offer two- and three-year part-time programmes. Part-time students will be expected to spend a minimum of 6 weeks in Oxford each year, depending on the course elements entered for at the beginning of each academic year.

For students on part-time programmes, the Resources theme modules (4 teaching weeks) must be completed during Year 1, while the Dissertation must be completed in the final year of the programme.

The Systems (5 teaching weeks) and Services (4 teaching weeks) module themes should each be completed as a block, but these themed blocks can be completed during any year of the programme. Other course elements, including the Whole Cohort Exercise and Small Group Case Study group assessments, can be completed during any year of the programme.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department of Engineering Science and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. A supervisor may be found outside the Department of Engineering Science. We expect the student to meet their supervisor for at least one hour per fortnight as a minimum but once per week is more expected.

There are three extended assessed activities: a group-based case study; a whole cohort output  based on a specific energy-relevant visit; and an individual dissertation. Each taught module is assessed by a written assignment.

Graduate destinations

We would expect graduates from this programme to be equipped with skills for leadership positions where complex decision making is required eg strategic and advisory roles in Government or industry.  We would also expect this programme to provide a strong foundation for transitioning into a DPhil in research in energy.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

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

• a first-class undergraduate degree with honours.

The qualification above should be achieved in one of the following subject areas or disciplines:

• engineering
• materials science
• mathematics
• geography; or
• related numerate disciplines.

Alternatively, applicants for the part-time route who are in full-time employment may provide evidence of equivalent relevant professional experience if they do not meet the academic requirements of this programme. This should be clearly evidenced in supporting documentation and will be discussed at interview if shortlisted for the programme.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA normally sought is 3.7 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.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience 

• Applicants will be assessed for their suitability for the programme based on prior academic learning, evidence supplied through references, and supporting information.
• Publications are not expected and will not be considered as a part of the application process.
• For the part-time route, evidence of previous professional experience will also be considered.

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. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are normally held as part of the admissions process.

Applicants will be assessed for their suitability for the programme based on prior academic learning, evidence supplied through references, and supporting information. For the part-time route, evidence of previous professional experience will also be considered. Applicants will be notified of dates for interview once their application has been assessed.

Applicants invited for interview will be provided with a discussion topic on a technical subject for further discussion at interview. Sufficient time will be given to allow the applicant to prepare for the interview by researching the topic further. At the interview applicants will be asked specific questions on the designated subject to facilitate wider discussion, and to allow applicants to showcase their current knowledge and ability to consider a problem in a multidisciplinary manner.

In additional to discussion of the designated technical subject, the interview discussion will seek to assess the applicant's intellectual ability, academic achievement, academic potential and motivation. Interviews will take place via Skype with video by at least two interviewers - usually two academics associated with the course. Interviews will normally last around 20 minutes.

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

Engineering research and teaching at Oxford takes place in a unified Department of Engineering Science with over 100 academic staff who are committed to advanced work in their own specialities while recognising a common engineering foundation. This creates an intellectual space where interdisciplinary work thrives and where expert advice is available to students in areas which though not central to their core research still impinge on it.

There are strong links too with researchers in other departments in the mathematical and physical sciences and, ever increasingly, with researchers and practitioners in medical science departments and University hospitals.

The eight research clusters in engineering science at Oxford are:

• thermofluids and turbomachinery
• solid mechanics and materials engineering
• civil and offshore
• information, control and vision
• electrical and optoelectronic
• chemical and process
• biomedical engineering

These research clusters are well-supported by experienced teams of technical, computing, and administrative support staff. The department has well-equipped research areas and workshops, which together with offices, lecture theatres, library, common room, stores, reprographics and other facilities, occupies some 16,000 square metres.

The department has around 550 research students and about 200 postdoctoral researchers and research fellows. Direct funding of research grants and contracts, from a variety of sources, amounts to an annual turnover of approximately £25m in addition to general turnover of about £26m.

Engineering Science

The Department of Engineering Science brings together the study of all branches of engineering at Oxford. It has a community of around 550 graduate students at any given time.

The department has a substantial research portfolio, including much that is directly supported by industry. The major theme underlying this research portfolio is the application of cutting-edge science to generate new technology, using a mixture of theory, computation and experiment.

Study and research opportunities in the department include both conventional disciplines of engineering and newer areas of interest, such as information engineering, low-temperature engineering, nanotechnology and experimental plasma physics.

There are no barriers between different branches of engineering. The department is involved in a great deal of multidisciplinary and collaborative research with groups in other departments, from archaeology to zoology. 

The department has an excellent record of engagement with industry and of translating research results into real-world applications. It has generated numerous successful spin-out companies.

The department offers a range of research degrees, including four-year programmes as part of several specialised Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs).

View all courses   View taught courses View research courses

The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities for this course can be found on the department's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Full-time study.

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

Part-time study (2 year course, TM_GP6A9P1)

Part-time study (3 year course, TM_GP6B9P1)

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

There are no compulsory elements of this course that entail additional costs beyond fees and living costs. However, as part of your course requirements, you may need to choose a dissertation, a project or a thesis topic. Please note that, depending on your choice of topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Please note that this course requires that you attend in Oxford for teaching, and you may incur additional travel and accommodation expenses for this. Further, as part of your course requirements, you may need to choose a dissertation, a project or a thesis topic. Depending on your choice of topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses such as travel expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

If you are studying part-time your living costs may vary depending on your personal circumstances but you must still ensure that you will have sufficient funding to meet these costs for the duration of your course.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

The following colleges accept students for full-time study on this course:

• Brasenose College
• Harris Manchester College
• Keble College
• Kellogg College
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Magdalen College
• New College
• Oriel College
• Pembroke College
• Reuben College
• St Anne's College
• St Catherine's College
• St Cross College
• St Hilda's College
• Somerville College
• Wolfson College
• Wycliffe Hall

Part-time study (2 years)

The following colleges accept students for two-year part-time study on this course:

Part-time study (3 years)

The following colleges accept students for three-year part-time study on this course:

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable per course application. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

Any general enquiries, should be made through the Department of Engineering Science MSc Programmes Administrator in the first instance.  You do not need to contact prospective supervisors before submitting an application, as students will choose their dissertation topic and supervisor while on course.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Referees: Three overall

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

For the full-time route, all three references should be academic. For the part-time route, one reference should be an academic reference, one should be a professional reference, and the third may be either an academic or a professional reference, depending on your previous academic and employment history.

Your references will support your intellectual ability, your academic achievement, your motivation and interest in the course and the subject area, and your ability to work effectively in a group and independently.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Personal statement: A maximum of 500 words

Your statement should explain your motivation for applying for the course at Oxford, your relevant experience and education, and the specific areas that interest you and/or you intend to specialise in.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

This will be assessed for:

• your reasons for applying
• evidence of understanding of the proposed area of study
• your ability to present a coherent case in proficient English
• your commitment to the subject, beyond the requirements of the degree course
• your preliminary knowledge of the subject area and research techniques
• your capacity for sustained and intense work
• your reasoning ability
• your ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.

Your statement should focus on your academic achievements and interests rather than personal achievements, interests and aspirations.

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice . You'll find the answers to most common queries in our FAQs.

Application Guide Apply - FT   Apply - PT 2YR   Apply - PT 3YR  

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Friday 19 January 2024 Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships Final application deadline for full-time study

Friday 1 March 2024 - Part-time study only Applications may remain open after this deadline if places are still available - see below

A later deadline shown under 'Admission status' If places are still available,  part-time applications may be accepted after 1 March . The 'Admissions status' will provide notice of any later deadline.

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered by the Department of Engineering Science

• Course page on the department's website
• Funding information from the department
• Academic and research staff
• Departmental research
• Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences
• Residence requirements for full-time courses
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected] ☎ +44 (0)1865 283254

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Other courses to consider

You may also wish to consider applying to other courses that are similar or related to this course:

View related courses

Visa eligibility for part-time study

We are unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only (and leave after each visit) and will need to remain based outside the UK.

Master of Science (MSc) in Sustainable Energy Systems

Study lines.

• Digital Energy Systems
• Energy System Analysis
• Energy-efficient Buildings

JOINT INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMMES

• European Wind Energy Master
• Innovative Sustainable Energy Engineering (N5T)
• Energy Conversion and Storage (TUM)
• Sustainable Energy Technology (TU/e)
• With a bachelor from Denmark
• With a bachelor from outside of Denmark

DTU is at the forefront of education and innovation for energy system solutions, accelerating green transition and sustainable energy.

Study Programme

The MSc Eng programme in Sustainable Energy Systems provides you with solid knowledge of optimal interactions among various energy technologies and components, as well as optimal operation and coordination of large-scale integrated energy systems, including power, heat, natural gas, hydrogen, and transport sectors.

Study programme focus

There is a strong focus on the integration of renewable energy sources as well as system and market solutions to accelerate it.

For this, you will learn and exploit cutting-edge multidisciplinary solutions based on socio-economic analysis, mathematical programming, advanced modelling and statistical methods, digitalization, and machine learning.

Each study line specializes in specific aspects of energy systems, including digital energy systems, energy system analysis, and energy-efficient building systems.

During the course of study, you will acquire extensive expertise in various energy system solutions with focus on sustainability.

The MSc is a two-year graduate programme with a workload of 120 ECTS credit points.

See curriculum

Combine work with studies

This study programme is also available as an Industry study programme where you can combine work and study over a 4-year period. Special rules apply.

Industry MSc Eng programmes .

• Study lines

Get an international specialization

This study programme gives you the opportunity to enroll in a joint international master's programmes and gain a unique specialization.

Learn more about the Joint International Programmes .

A degree in Sustainable Energy Systems paves the way for a wide range of career opportunities in the business sector, with public authorities, and in research.

Career opportunities

More opportunities at DTU

Honours Programmes

Get access to a particularly challenging course of studies with DTU's Honours Programmes.

Industry Master of Science in Engineering

Join an Industry Master of Science in Engineering - a part-time study which can be combined with a part-time job.

Study abroad

As a DTU student, you have many opportunities to study abroad as part of your degree - everything from a semester abroad to an international joint degree or a summer school exchange.

Learn more about your opportunities to go abroad

Make a sustainable difference

With a degree from DTU you are prepared to make a sustainable difference. DTU Charter helps to ensure that.

Student life at DTU

Get an interactive tour around campus

Enter our interactive online universe at DTU and explore different locations on Campus.

Study relevant projects

At DTU you have the chance to experiment and develop innovative solutions to problems or challenges - in collaboration with students from all academic fields of DTU.

Sports and social events

DTU has a large selection of indoor and outdoor sports facilities. You are also invited to attend the Friday bars and the many other social events and festive occasions at DTU.

Get your master's at DTU

An international university

Lying in one of the world’s happiest and safest countries, DTU welcomes graduate students from all over the world to be part of an international, innovative and open-minded learning environment.

Any questions?

• Study Guidance

Get help with questions regarding the study programmes - including course planning, credit transfer applications, exemption applications, and DTU’s rules and regulations.

• International Admissions Office

For applicants with a bachelors degree from outside of Denmark. Get guidance on the application process.

• International Student Services

Offers guidance to DTU students on exchange options and as well as administrative and cultural issues relating to being new in Denmark and new at DTU.

How to apply

• Apply with a Danish bachelor degree
• Apply with a non-Danish bachelor degree
• Prerequisites
• Student life

College of Engineering

Energy systems.

Our Master of Science in Energy Systems is an interdisciplinary program with a focus on the effective implementation of energy systems analysis and the integration of energy systems engineering technology with financial planning.

The program’s core courses in engineering knowledge, business, and finance are enhanced by elective courses across the College of Engineering. Students gain the theoretical knowledge and leadership skills to participate in decision-making and policy planning of new and efficient energy systems in the global market. They are prepared to participate in energy and environmental markets and to contribute to and lead cross-functional teams.

This online degree program is designed primarily for engineering and technical business majors pursuing an industrial or public planning career. Students from other backgrounds are accepted on a case-by-case basis. All students are prepared for various potential careers in multiple energy fields, including renewable energy, alternative transportation, carbon management, emissions, building efficiency, and the power industry.

More Details

Unique features.

• Paid co-op positions can offset the cost of tuition for many students
• Online format allows you to build your credentials and enhance your knowledge, while a flexible schedule minimizes the disruption on your professional and personal life

Program Objectives

• Effectively integrate energy system development over a broad spectrum of technologies
• Formulate financial requirements for successful systems implementation
• Apply fundamental principles in the global energy market
• Analyze problems faced in energy generation and transmission
• Propose clean energy considerations and challenges
• Examine renewable options for consideration in a systems solution

Testimonials

Kevin j., program graduate, gregory kowalski, associate professor, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Completed online application form
• Application fee
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• GRE is not required for terms starting during the 2023-2024 or 2024-2025 academic years
• Statement of purpose
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international applicants
• An undergraduate degree in engineering is preferred. Quantitative business or finance majors are acceptable if candidates also have some background in computer science and calculus.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Engineering admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Applications received after the stated deadline dates will be accepted and processed as quickly as possible; however it may not be possible to have a decision rendered in time for the applicant to begin taking classes for the desired term if admitted.

Applications submitted by the referenced dates will receive full consideration for the referenced term. Applications received after the referenced dates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning and research to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges. The cooperative education program, also known as co-op, is one of the largest and most innovative in the world, and Northeastern is one of only a few that offers a co-op program for graduate students. Through this program, students gain up to eight months of professional experience employed in their field of interest as part of the academic curriculum, giving them a competitive edge upon graduation. The College of Engineering has over 2,000 co-op employer partners globally. Our dedicated team of co-op coordinators prepare students for the co-op experience through resume building, developing interview skills, and guiding professional development.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Mohammad E. Taslim

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll be connected to students at our 13 campuses, as well as 300,000-plus alumni and more than 3,500 employer partners around the world. Our global university system provides you with unique opportunities to think locally and act globally and serves as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Engineering alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• GE Aviation
• Bose Corporation

What They Do

• Engineering
• Business Development
• Program and Project Management
• Entrepreneurship

What They're Skilled At

• Project Management
• Manufacturing

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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• Schools & departments

Sustainable Energy Systems MSc

Awards: MSc

Study modes: Full-time

Accreditation

Funding opportunities

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Programme description

The energy crisis is forcing the world to secure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. Our MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems is a one-year programme that will allow you to contribute to a more sustainable future. The programme is grounded in engineering, but you will be encouraged to consider the societal, economic, environmental and policy aspects of the industry.

We place a strong emphasis on energy systems, where electricity is the final product, and you will consider energy in the wider context of consumption patterns, efficiency and regulation.

You will acquire a comprehensive knowledge of the deployment of renewable energies in grid-connected systems, and will also be able to explore off-grid systems if this is your area of interest.

The programme is affiliated with the University's Global Environment & Society Academy, a steering committee that seeks to tackle global environmental challenges through teaching, research and outreach.

• Global Environment & Society Academy

Our MSc in Sustainable Energy Sytems provides a broad training in, and understanding of, energy systems in the context of sustainability of energy supply. You will participate in lectures, tutorials, and lab sessions, through which you will:

• benefit from the programme’s multidiscipline design, with courses, teaching staff and supervisors drawn from our Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical and Civil engineering disciplines
• acquire in-depth technical knowledge, balanced with practical experience
• actively undertake research
• engage with the Institute for Energy Systems
• access world-class research facilities
• gain opportunities to work with industry

Accreditation of this MSc for CEng (Further Learning) means that our graduates who are seeking to become Chartered Engineers can count their MSc as one year of Further Learning when applying for the Chartered Engineer status.

The CEng accreditation is awarded by the Energy Institute (EI), which is an independent professional body. It gives students and employers confidence in the quality of the MSc Sustainable Energy Systems programme.

Students from the School of Engineering can sign up to become Student member of the EI free of change for the duration of their studies.

• Energy Institute

Programme structure

This programme is run over 12 months, with two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project leading to a masters thesis.

You will take the following compulsory courses:

• Technologies for Sustainable Energy
• Engineering Research Methods with Grand Challenge
• Sustainable Energy Contexts

You will also take one of the following courses:

• Electrical Engineering Fundamentals of Renewable Energy
• Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals of Renewable Energy You will select 20 credits of option courses which may include:
• Sustainable Theory and Contexts
• Fundamentals of Infrastructure Finance
• Applied Energy Finance
• Power Conversion
• Distributed Energy Resources and Smart Grids
• Power Engineering Fundamentals
• Power Systems
• Carbon Capture and Transport
• Solar Energy & Photovoltaic Systems
• Principles of Wind Energy
• Marine Energy
• Energy and Environmental Economics

You will also select 20 credits of option courses which may include:

• Nuclear Waste Management: Principles, Policies and Practice
• Power Systems Engineering and Economics
• Separation Processes for Carbon Capture
• Technology and Innovation Management
• Advanced Power Electronics and Machines
• Technology Entrepreneurship
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Energy Policy and Politics

Courses can change from year-to-year. Those listed provide a representation of courses previously offered. Courses for the forthcoming year will be published on the Degree Programme Table in the Spring.

MSc Dissertation

You will undertake a research project over the summer months, culminating in the submission of a dissertation. You will be able to develop your own project under the supervision of one of our academics and could work collaboratively with industry or other organisations. The project is conducted across highly relevant and multidisciplinary themes within the Institute for Energy Systems and increasingly across other institutes within the School of Engineering. We offer a wide range of topics including:

• Wind energy
• Wave energy
• Tidal energy
• Solar energy
• Sustainable energy life cycle assessment

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the programme, you will be able to:

• specify and design energy systems that can deliver sustainable energy
• contribute to cutting-edge developments in sustainable energy
• apply your advance research skills and training, in both industrial and academics settings
• understand and tackle the global energy trilemma of supplying secure, equitable and environmentally sustainable energy

Career opportunities

Our graduates go on to a wide range of activities in industry, public organisations or academia. The MSc has well-established links with industry. Many graduates find employment with leading national and international companies involved with energy, consultancy and engineering.

Our recent graduates are now working in a variety of fields and roles, including:

• Consultants for power systems, energy and environment or renewable energy
• Electrical engineers
• Subsea engineers
• Civil or structural engineers
• Automotive engineers

Careers service

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in engineering or physics.

If you apply with a background in another field, you may be accepted if you hold a UK first class honours degree, or its international equivalent, and have studied mathematics to first year undergraduate level, including vectorial calculus (gradients, curls, etc), complex algebra and Fourier transforms. You must also be able to demonstrate a strong interest in the energy sector.

Students from China

This degree is Band B.

• Postgraduate entry requirements for students from China

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 176 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 62 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

If you receive an offer of admission you will need to pay a deposit to secure your place.

• £1,500 (this contributes towards your tuition fees)

Any applicants who are required to pay will receive an offer with full details.

Find out more about tuition fee deposits:

• Tuition fee deposits

Living costs

You will be responsible for covering living costs for the duration of your studies.

Tuition fees

Scholarships and funding, uk government postgraduate loans.

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your residency status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Housing, Construction and Infrastructure (HCI) Skills Gateway Scholarships

HCI Scholarships are part of the support programme for ‘advanced skills’ within the Housing Construction Infrastructure (HCI) Skills Gateway, which is an employability and skills support mechanism funded by the Scottish government within the Edinburgh & SE Scotland City Region Deal.

Scholarships are available to MSc and PG Dip students domiciled or working in the South-East of Scotland, more specifically the councils of:

• East Lothian
• Mid Lothian
• West Lothian
• City of Edinburgh
• Scottish Borders

Applications are particularly welcome from applicants of groups underrepresented in the construction industry (public and private sector).

Learn more about this scholarship:

• HCI Skills Gateway Scholarships

Engineering International Masters Scholarships

The scholarships will be awarded to overseas applicants who have been accepted for admission on a full-time basis for an eligible postgraduate taught Masters programme within the School of Engineering.

The scholarship will be awarded broadly on the basis of academic merit with candidates requiring a first-class honours degree from a UK university or overseas equivalent.

• Engineering International Masters Scholarship
• Scottish Power Scholarship
• Full tuition fees plus a monthly maintenance allowance

ScottishPower has been building relationships with universities in our communities for a number of years. Working together, we aim to support development of future talent while mitigating the projected skills gap within the energy sector.

The programme is designed to financially support high achieving recent graduates in Spain, the United Kingdom and Mexico, who are interested in pursuing an advanced degree in industry relevant fields such as engineering, smart grids, renewable energy, sustainability, energy and environment, information technology, big data, cybersecurity, and more.

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Admissions Officer (lines open Mon-Fri 10am-4pm)
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 5737
• Contact: [email protected]
• Programme Director, Dr Brian Sellar
• Contact: [email protected]
• School of Engineering
• Sanderson Building
• The King's Buildings Campus
• School: Engineering
• College: Science & Engineering

This programme is not currently accepting applications. Applications for the next intake usually open in October.

Start date: September

Awards: MSc (12 mth FT)

Application deadlines

Due to high demand, the school operates a number of selection deadlines.

We strongly recommend you apply as early as possible. Applications may close earlier than the published deadlines if there is exceptionally high demand.

We will make a small number of offers to the most outstanding candidates on an ongoing basis, but hold the majority of applications until the next published selection deadline.

We aim to make the majority of decisions within eight weeks of the selection deadline.

If we have not made you an offer by a specific selection deadline this means one of two things:

• your application has been unsuccessful, in which case we will contact you to let you know, or
• your application is still being considered, will be carried forward for consideration in the next selection deadline and we’ll be in touch once a decision is made

Selection Deadlines

• How to apply

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use (MS)

The master of science in modern energy production and sustainable use prepares students with the technical knowledge and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills needed to engage complex energy systems..

The U.S. Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy shares that as new energy and new technologies are developed and introduced for commercial use, they will create new jobs for American workers strengthening U.S. energy security, environmental quality, and economic vitality. These workers needed to be trained in a variety of transdisciplinary areas from renewable energy generation and storage, energy-saving materials and manufacturing, and sustainable transportation.

The School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy offers the Master of Science in Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use and utilizes its unique transdisciplinary expertise to provide graduate student training in fundamental science and engineering principles, and thereby facilitate the generation of human capital of those who can address grand challenges associated with future energy production and storage, and in sustainable use.

Here are a few courses we offer:

• Renewable Energy:  Mechanical System
• Electrochemistry Energy Storage and Conversion
• Biomass Energy Conversion Technology
• Wind Energy
• Nanomaterials in Energy Production and Storage
• Nuclear Power Engineering

Degrees offered

Modern energy production and sustainable use, ms .

The Master of Science (MS) program is designed to prepare students for professional careers in transdisciplinary areas from renewable energy generation and storage, energy-saving materials and manufacturing, and sustainable transportation. and related fields in industry, government and educational institutions.

Graduate Resources

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• Accelerated Master’s programs
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• Welcome from the Program Chair
• MSE graduate faculty and research areas

Application and admission information

Application information.

The following application materials must be submitted directly to Graduate Admission Services:

If your institution sends electronic official transcripts, we accept the following electronic transcript services: E-Scrip, Parchment, Credentials Inc., and National Student Clearinghouse. All E-Scrip, Parchment, and National Student Clearinghouse transcripts must be sent directly to  [email protected]  from those transcript services or from the institutions that use those services. If you can and choose to use these services, you should apply online to the ASU Graduate Admission Services application prior to having your official e-transcripts sent.

If your institution does not use one of those transcript services, you will need to mail an official transcript. Your six digit application ID should be on the transcript envelope if possible.

Graduate Admission Services Tel: 480-965-6113 Web:  students.asu.edu/graduate

Application for admission

Can only be accessed online. Click here to go to Application for Admission

Application priority   deadline

Fall Semester: December 31 Spring Semester: August 1

A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.

Application fee

US citizens $70

Non-US citizens $115

This is a processing fee assessed by Graduate Admission Services and cannot be waived or deferred: graduate.asu.edu/admissions/how_to_apply

Please also note that applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering or physical science.

Transcripts and GRE scores

Transcripts.

Only official transcripts are accepted; no photocopies. These must be mailed to Graduate Admissions Services (see address above). For international students, transcripts must be in the original language, along with an official English translation. Also see:

Graduate Admissions Services:  students.asu.edu/graduate/apply

GRE scores are useful, but not required for the Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use, MS program.

Official score sent by ETS only. Institution code for ASU: 4007; there is no department code.

Resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation

Resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation

List publications if you have any. It’s not necessary to send copies of articles. You will be asked to upload your resume in the online application process.

Personal statement

Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process.

Three (3) recommendation letters

The online application will ask you for three names and three email addresses for three recommenders; and the company/school for which they work. Your recommenders will receive an email and must submit their letter of recommendation electronically.

International applicants

Additional admission requirements for international applicants.

Admissions:  students.asu.edu/graduate/international

Visa/Immigration information

students.asu.edu/international/immigration

English proficiency (for international graduate applicants)

A TOEFL, IELTS or PTE score is required to be considered for admission.

• Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 90; pBT 575. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
• Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 6.5. No institution code is needed
• Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 60

You could qualify for an exemption from this requirement by one of the following two options:

• This requirement would be met if you successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better; AND in addition, acquire a score of 50 or better on the Speak Test (must be taken at Arizona State University).
• You successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in the U.S.,  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 12 credit hours of graduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all credits must be earned in the U.S.),  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all 90 hours must be earned in the U.S.)

For  more information, visit the Graduate Admission Services English Proficiency Requirement and Exemption website .

Still have a question? Contact Advising

If you still have questions regarding admission requirements and procedures, please contact the SEMTE graduate advising office:

Phone: 480.965.2335

Email: [email protected]

• Find a Person
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John and Willie Leone Family

Department of energy and mineral engineering.

Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems

The Penn State RESS program, presented by EME and delivered online by Penn State World Campus, provides a world-class interdisciplinary education to empower professionals in diverse fields to lead the transformation of the world's energy economy to a sustainable basis of operation.

This 32-credit program provides students with a well-rounded education in renewable energy technology, policy, and markets, emphasizing the project management and system thinking skills relevant to jobs in industry, business, and government organizations. This program is set to meet the nation’s critical need for energy professionals with fundamental competencies in sustainable development. It prepares students to assume advanced roles and leadership responsibilities within their organizations and provides the credentials to enter the renewable energy sector.

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Engage with Us

• © John and Willie Leone Family Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering
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Smart Energy and the Built Environment MSc

London, Bloomsbury

To reduce carbon emissions and transform global energy systems a new relationship is required between how we produce, supply and consume energy in our buildings. Smart energy technologies and services are central to this transformation, ensuring resilience and security of supply and controlling costs. UCL’s Smart Energy and the Built Environment MSc will train you to be at the forefront of the smart energy revolution and lead the transformation to a sustainable global energy system.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Applications closed

Applications open

• Entry requirements

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (for example physics or a related physical science, engineering, mathematics, geography, psychology, social science, architecture, planning or economics) or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard is required. Applicants with a different degree discipline but a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience are welcome to apply and will be assessed on an individual basis. Please clearly state in your personal statement how your educational or employment background (including any internships or projects) relates to the programme and what you aim to achieve through your studies.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance . This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

To fight climate change and deliver the transition to zero carbon, from generation to consumption, transformations must happen throughout the energy system. This has led to significant global investment into smart energy systems: a revolution in the way the energy system works by matching energy demand and supply through making the way we consume our energy more flexible. Smart energy systems reduce costs, increase reliability and support decarbonisation; the built environment plays a central role, being associated with 40% of global energy demand. A new generation of experts is needed to drive the transition and be at the forefront of the smart energy revolution. 

UCL’s Smart Energy in the Built Environment MSc will equip you with an in-depth understanding of the energy system, its smart, flexible operation, and the role of the built environment.

• Learn the fundamentals through physical, social and data-driven approaches.
• Develop skills in modelling, statistics and data analytics, social sciences, communication and business to address real challenges we face in creating a sustainable energy system.
• Learn the important role of smart energy systems for the energy transition: the nature of energy demand in the built environment and the physics and social factors that shape it; the role of renewables, storage and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies; business models; and the role of regulation and policies. 
• Apply your new knowledge and skills to real case studies, engaging in a stimulating multidisciplinary environment.

Who this course is for

What this course will give you.

Smart Energy and the Built Environment MSc is designed to give you the skills for an exciting career taking on the challenges of building a sustainable global energy system. The programme brings together both physical and social perspectives of energy demand and supply. This will help you understand how the sociotechnical system of local energy can be designed and commissioned to deliver effective policies and economic priorities. You will learn how key components of a smart energy system work, integrate and interact with energy policy and business opportunities, including building energy efficiency, renewable energy, decentralisation, the Internet of Things (IoT), storage and energy market design.

You will learn from UCL Energy Institute ’s expert academic researchers and experts in world-leading interdisciplinary research and learning environment. UCL Energy Institute is part of The Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources , home to specialist sustainability-focussed institutes in The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment . The QS World University Rankings (2023) places The Bartlett as #1 for Architecture and Built Environment studies in the world, and #1 in the UK for the ninth year in a row. The Bartlett's research received the UK's most world-leading ratings for Built Environment research in the most recent Research Excellence Framework .

The foundation of your career

This degree aims to help you develop a successful career in the emerging smart energy sector through developing your skills, knowledge and network. We run a careers oriented seminar series where industry experts speak about their work and company, grounding your learning in real world applications as well as to keeping you up-to-date with the latest in the field.

Industry views We have discussed our programme with potential employers, who have shared their views on the MSc.

Dave Worthington, Managing Director of Verco said: "The success of Verco’s mission to provide the solutions that our clients need to transition to net zero emissions within the next decade is largely reliant on the recruitment and development of team members with an exceptional mix of skills and knowledge. This includes a deep understanding of the interrelated nature of buildings and infrastructure and the role of regulatory, technological and behavioural solutions, which aligns well with the scope of this MSc. With many residual challenges to be overcome on the route to net zero, we are looking for individuals with firm foundations on the technical and commercial practicalities of smart energy systems in the built environment which they can then adapt and rapidly evolve in a dynamic market." 

Sonny Masero, Chief Strategy Officer at Evora said: "At EVORA Global, the real estate investors and asset managers that we work with see the transition to net zero carbon as their No. 1 environmental, social and governance priority. The pathway to net zero carbon and climate resilience lies in our smarter use of energy so these technical skills in the built environment are something we actively seek out. They enable our clients to have a positive impact with their capital allocations."

Employability

The programme has been developed with employability as a key priority, focussing on skills relevant in the sector. We address both technical and transferable skills, including statistics and data analysis, modelling, communication skills, critical thinking and social sciences. You will be encouraged to develop your own solutions to energy problems through both individual assignments and group work, collaborating with peers. Our research-based curriculum also teaches you how to undertake independent research, identify research questions and design a research programme to answer them, but also how to gather, organise and analyse evidence effectively, strengthening both your critical and your creative thinking skills.

Smart Energy and the Built Environment MSc is designed to prepare you for a career in:

• Energy consultancies
• Public sector
• Energy start-ups
• Institutions which value expertise in energy and the built environment

As part of the MSc we organise a series of talks with speakers from the industry every year. The talks complement the academic programme, exposing students to some of the key players in the sector so that they can better understand the work of consultancies, NGOs, government agencies and others in the field.

Teaching and learning

The course material is connected to the latest developments in research and industry, enabling you to relate and apply your learning to real problems. Lectures, seminars and online content are complemented by an emphasis on learning by doing. You will apply your new knowledge to case studies and problems in workshops and tutorials. For example, you will be familiarised with leading software tools through supervised computer lab sessions, and also develop detailed insights from case study analysis of the social and societal impacts of smart energy technologies and services. 

The course assessment is designed to help you develop complementary skills and experience, with assessed presentations, exams and written reports in the styles of academic papers, policy recommendations and consultancy reports. Your learning is enhanced by assessment that doesn’t count towards your grade but enables you to build skills and receive feedback from your tutors and peers.

In the first two terms you will typically attend 8 hours of lectures per teaching week. Most modules also include 8-10 hours of tutorials, timed to fit in with the most appropriate lecture content. You will also complete assignments to support your studies, undertake assessed coursework and revise for exams. In total you are expected to complete around 120 hours of self-study over the duration of each module.

The dissertation module runs in term three and you will primarily work independently on this project. You will be supported by a research supervisor, whom you will typically meet one-to-one, plus benefit from workshops to help you develop key aspects of your work; these hours will be split over terms two and three. Students will also have the opportunity to apply to be placed in one of our internationally recognised research groups, attending meetings and engaging with our teams.

A Postgraduate Diploma is offered where students need to complete five compulsory modules (75 credits) and three optional modules (45 credits). Full time (nine months), Part-time (two years) and flexible (up to five years) study is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate, where students need to complete four modules (60 credits) is also offered. Part-time (one year) and flexible (up to two years) study is offered.

A Postgraduate Diploma, five compulsory modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits). Full time (nine months), Part-time (two years) and flexible (up to five years) study is offered. A Postgraduate Certificate, four modules (60 credits), Part-time (one year) and flexible (up to two years) study is offered.

You will take eight taught modules across Term 1 and Term 2; four during Term 1 and four during Term 2. 

In Term 1, you will learn about the fundamentals of smart energy, building system performance, energy systems in society, data and statistics and community energy systems. These modules set the foundation for the whole Master's, preparing you for further topics and for your research project.

In Term 2, you will gain more specialised and advanced knowledge in distributed energy systems and will have the opportunity to choose three out of ten specialised optional modules depending on your career aspirations, covering a breadth of energy relevant subjects, from data analytics and business models to systems dynamics and urban energy modelling.

You will take four taught modules in year one and four taught modules and the dissertation in year two. The split of modules across the two years is designed to ensure the programme builds upon knowledge and skills in subsequent terms.

In term 1 of your first year, you will learn about the fundamentals of smart energy, including the performance of buildings, and energy systems in society. The modules provide the foundations for later courses to build upon. In term two you will learn about smart distributed energy systems, and choose your first optional module that aligns to your interests and skills. You may choose from ten specialised optional modules and be encouraged to do so in a manner that best supports your studies over the full two years. Available modules cover a breadth of energy relevant subjects, from data analytics and business models to systems dynamics and urban energy modelling.

In year two you will be introduced to smart energy data and statistics, and modelling community energy systems in term 1. In term two you will build on your existing knowledge through your final two optional modules. You will be encouraged to start your dissertation research at the start of year 2, to submit it at the end of the year.

You will take all five compulsory modules, three optional modules and the dissertation over the course of a maximum of five consecutive academic years. Due to their foundational nature you will be encouraged to complete the ‘Fundamentals of smart energy and the built environment’ and ‘Energy systems in society’ modules before completing other taught modules. You will be invited to discuss the order in which you complete the remaining modules, to support your studies and agree a programme that builds your knowledge and skills in a coherent manner.

Compulsory modules

Optional modules.

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MSc in Smart Energy and the Built Environment. Upon successful completion of 120 credits, you will be awarded a PG Dip in Smart Energy and the Built Environment. Upon successful completion of 60 credits, you will be awarded a PG Cert in Smart Energy and the Built Environment.

The core module Fundamentals of Smart Energy and the Built Environment includes a site visit to help you to put your learnings into the context of a real situation. This will be to either a relevant low-energy development, a retrofit project or laboratory within a day-trip distance of UCL.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Online - Open day

Graduate Open Events: UCL Energy Institute

Whether your ambition is to design better buildings, plan better cities, build sustainable communities or help meet the challenge of climate change, The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment could be a big step towards it. This will be a joint session focussing on the master's programmes offered by the UCL Energy Institute: Smart Energy and the Built Environment MSc, Energy Systems and Data Analytics MSc, Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment MSc.

Graduate Open Events: Environmental Design and Engineering

Whether your ambition is to design better buildings, plan better cities, build sustainable communities or help meet the challenge of climate change, The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment could be a big step towards it. Find out more about our courses within the Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering: Health Wellbeing and Sustainable Buildings MSc, Light and Lighting MSc, Environmental Design and Engineering MSc, Smart Buildings and Digital Engineering MSc.

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

Programme also available on a modular (flexible) basis .

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Students will need to provide their own laptops. A high specification is not required, UCL provides further information on computing requirements; we recommend considering a slightly higher specification machine than the UCL minimum recommendation to speed up any data analysis you undertake. No specialist software will need to be purchased.

There is a field trip as a part of Fundamentals of Smart Energy and the Built Environment and additionally, opportunities may arise to undertake visits to local organisations or attend events. Students will need to pay for travel for all such trips, which is expected to be low cost via local rail. The exact cost of the fieldtrip will depend on the location and the price of travel. It is estimated that students would need to contribute between £50 and £100.

If you are concerned by potential additional costs for books, equipment, etc. on this programme, please get in touch with the programme administration team by emailing [email protected].

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

UCL offers a range of financial awards aimed at assisting both prospective and current students with their studies.

In our faculty, The Bartlett Promise Scholarship aims to enable students from backgrounds underrepresented in The Bartlett to pursue master's studies. Please see the UK Master's scholarship and Sub-Saharan Africa Master's scholarship pages for more information on eligibility criteria, selection process and FAQs.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Bartlett Promise Sub-Saharan Africa Masters Scholarship

Deadline: 3 April 2024 Value: Fees, stipend and other allowances (Duration of programme) Criteria Based on financial need Eligibility: EU, Overseas

Bartlett Promise UK Master's Scholarship

Deadline: 31 May 2024 Value: Tuition fees plus £15,364 maintenance/yr (Duration of programme) Criteria Based on financial need Eligibility: UK

Brown Family Bursary

NOW CLOSED FOR 2024/25 ENTRY Value: £15,000 (1 year) Criteria Based on both academic merit and financial need Eligibility: UK

There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications. Further information can be found at Application fees .

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

• why you want to study Smart Energy and the Built Environment at graduate level
• why you want to study Smart Energy and the Built Environment at UCL
• what particularly attracts you to this programme
• how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this programme
• where you would like to go professionally with your degree

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources

[email protected]

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Sustainable energy systems msc.

Part of: Engineering

Become part of the solution to the world’s energy crisis. This MSc programme will teach you the fundamentals of energy sustainability, as well as the scientific, engineering and technical aspects of creating affordable, sustainable energy systems.

The course is designed to give you the skills to become a specialist in this vital, rapidly-expanding industry.

• This is a dynamic course which prepares you for an industry with enduring relevance.
• An interdisciplinary curriculum that gives you an excellent overview of the subject, with scope to specialise.
• Work within our state-of-the-art facilities.

Study options

• Full-time September 2024 | 1 year

What you'll study

The need for new global supplies of affordable, sustainable energy is perhaps the greatest single challenge facing the world this century. As a result, there is an increasing demand for specialists in sustainable energy.

On this MSc course, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation in this field. We’ll build on your existing expertise to give you a sound knowledge of the principles behind existing sustainable energy systems, including wind and solar energy, biofuels and energy storage technologies. You’ll also gain the skills to design and develop new technologies.

The course takes an interdisciplinary approach: you’ll gain skills in engineering and materials research, as well as economic and management insights into energy policy developments. This will give you an enviably broad understanding of the subject – and a wide range of specialist skills to boost your career.

You’ll be integrated into one of our research teams to work on an energy systems-related project, supervised by one of our research staff. You’ll have access to our excellent facilities , enabling you to conduct  cutting-edge research .

• Three compulsory module
• Three elective modules

Research project

Compulsory/core modules, renewable energy sources.

The module aims to equip students with an appreciation of the global energy scene and the impacts of energy production and consumption on the environment. The module provide the students with an understanding of the origin and nature of various renewable/sustainable energy resources, the assessment of their ability to meet our future energy demands, and the design of renewable energy systems.

Extended Research Project

The module is an intensive research module that spans all three MSc semesters. It draws together the knowledge and skills from the taught component to address a research challenge of significant scope to be undertaken independently, under supervision. It focuses on the technical, project management and communication skills needed to successfully execute academic- and/or industry-oriented research. The project entails to apply research methods to solve original problems of fundamental or applied nature.

Introduction to Solar Energy

Solar Energy is an important aspect of Sustainable Energy Engineering. The understanding of key processes within solar energy will provide students with the knowledge needed to progress further within the relevant industry. The module will focus on the following aspects of solar energy: solar insolation, physical background for semi-conductor materials, photovoltaic devices and applications , photocatalysis, learning from nature and photosynthesis, future solutions. The module will be delivered through a series of lectures, as well as sessions focused on laboratory practicals and will feature guest lectures from industrial practitioners.

Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems

This module will focus on electrochemical energy storage principles, energy storage materials, device design and manufacturing, and chemical engineering processes taking place in these type of technologies. It will address fundamental aspects of electrochemistry associated with electrochemical energy storage systems. This module will give the students a thorough knowledge of the importance of energy storage in the field of Sustainable Energy Engineering and provide them with an advanced understanding of key processes in devices such as batteries and supercapacitors, and their important role in the decarbonisation of the power sector.

Solar Energy Engineering

Solar Energy is an important aspect of Sustainable Energy Engineering. The understanding of key processes within solar energy will provide students with the knowledge needed to progress further within relevant industries within Solar Energy. The module will focus on the following aspects of solar energy: solar insolation; physical background for semiconductor materials; photovoltaic devices and applications; photocatalysis; solar thermal technologies.

Compulsory/Core Elective modules

Elective modules, computational engineering.

This is an advanced module in computational modelling focusing on computational solids. The finite element method is covered together with applications to medical, aerospace and mechanical engineering. Hands on experience in solving engineering problems using commercial packages is an important part of the module. There is an introduction of optimisation methods used in computational engineering across industry sectors. Topology shape and size optimisation methods and their applications will be covered. It is envisaged to provide guest lectures by SEMS' Visiting Professors. The student will have assignments with the industry-leading software ABAQUS for solving generic FEA problems as well as structural topology optimisation problems. Student will be encouraged to select problems relevant to their programme of study.

Introduction to Systems Engineering

This module uses the classical V-model to provide a guide to the characteristics of systems and fundamental principles of systems engineering. It addresses how a systems approach can be applied to one or more engineered systems contexts as a part of managed interventions into complex real world problems. Topics include stakeholder analysis, requirements definition, system architecture and concept generation, trade-space exploration and concept selection, design definition and optimisation, system integration and interface management, system safety, verification and validation, commissioning and operations and related/emerging disciplines/topics in Systems Engineering.

Engineering Project Management

To be a successful industry leader, it is important to be able to efficiently manage various types of engineering projects. This module offers essential concepts, tools and techniques of project management, presented through engaging case studies. By understanding the concepts and analytical frameworks of project management, students will acquire practical knowledge and skills in project management, as well as the ability to conduct 'project risk analysis and management' for analysing recent or ongoing large-scale infrastructure projects.

Computational Fluid Dynamics

This module introduces students to numerical analysis and computational methods for solving engineering fluid dynamic problems. It enables students to develop skills in programming and using CFD codes using modern computational techniques, including the properties of discretisations and their application to simple model equations. Aspects of modelling turbulence and microscale capillary flow are considered. The students will generate meshes, solve viscous flow problems and perform the analysis of the quality of the simulations.

Renewable Fuels

This module provides an insight into the physicochemical properties, production and utilisation processes and economics of the renewable and carbon neutral/free fuels. These include liquid and gaseous biofuel, biomass driven fuels (e.g. bio-syngas), hydrogen and hydrogen carriers. Renewable fuel technologies, at different levels of maturity, are discussed and the relevant sustainability issues are identified.

Environment, Ethics and Economics in Engineering Design

This module will introduce several dimensions of ethical design, considering the system life cycle including the impact of end-of-life. Elements incorporating ethics into effective system design using a modern set of theoretical frameworks including circular economy, planetary boundaries and environmental life cycle assessment will be considered. The consequential impact of large scale technology shifts to guard against replacing one problem for another will be covered. The role of meeting and contributing to environmental regulation and policy will be explored and an 'ethical cost benefit analysis' will be introduced that internalises otherwise external environmental costs. Decision making under a complex array of economic and environmental objectives will be considered via multi-criteria decision analysis.

Business Strategy and Technology Entrepreneurship

For students who aspire to become industry leaders and entrepreneurs in the digitalisation era, this module offers knowledge on interpreting the phenomenon of digitalisation and the digital economy in terms of technology, regulation, and the consumer adoption process. It also provides insights on analysing rapidly evolving digital businesses and developing successful strategies for traditional businesses seeking to transform digitally. Specifically, this module allows students to develop a deep understanding of the specific strategies and underlying objectives of highly successful digital companies.

Please note that all modules are subject to change.

• 50% Modules
• 50% Research project
• You will be assessed using a mixture of formal examinations and coursework in your taught modules.
• You will undertake self-directed work in completing your extended research project.

The research project forms a major component of your degree. You’ll complete this under close supervision.

Recent Sustainable Energy Systems MSc research projects include:

• Aerodynamics of wind turbines: Flame characteristics and emissions properties in combustion of H2 and alternative fuels.
• Performance characteristics of surrogate biofuels for aviation.
• Developing methods for fabricating solution-based perovskite solar cells in ambient conditions.

"I was interested in the Sustainable Energy Systems course at Queen Mary as it concentrates on investigating renewable energy sources and technologies as well as addressing environmental issues... Obtaining an MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems from Queen Mary will broaden my horizons in this field and enable me to inspire and teach future generations while tackling energy problems in [my home] Gaza Strip, Palestine." — Mohammed N. A. Herzallah, Sustainable Energy Systems MSc, 2019

You’ll be taught by academics working on a variety of exciting projects, with specialisms in earth resources engineering, sus t a inable drinking water, solar energy, cli mat e -neutral fuels, cleaner com bustion, and energy policy.

Our academic research feeds into our teaching at all levels, ensuring you share in the latest advancements.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars and laboratory sessions, as well as completing coursework for academic feedback.

You will be assigned an Academic Advisor who will guide you in both academic and pastoral matters throughout your time at Queen Mary.

Dr Ana Sobrido

BSc, PhD, MIMMM, MRSC, FHEA

Dr Sobrido holds a prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship to develop alternative electrodes for redox flow batteries. In particular, she is interested in using sustainable resources to replace fossil-derived compounds. Her research group uses scalable processing techniques such as electrospinning and 3D printing that enable the production of freestanding materials that can be easily inserted in energy devices. She also focuses on devising in situ characterisation methods that provide useful insight in structure-property relationship, key for the optimisation of electrochemical systems.

Dr Colin Crick

Dr Crick leads in the development of Novel Functional Materials, focusing on the engineering of surface chemistry and morphology for targeted applications. This includes water repellent materials, materials for water purification, anti-biofouling and self-cleaning surfaces. His expertise encompasses a wide range of materials and coatings synthesis methodologies, advanced characterisation techniques, performance benchmarking and developing novel characterisation methods. He manipulates surface morphology to target plasmonic behaviour to develop sensor substrates.

Dr Edo Boek

PhD, MIoP, MSocPetroleumEng

Dr Boek focuses on sustainable energy and earth resources engineering. He investigates novel technologies to help solve the Energy Trilemma, including; sustainable drinking water treatment, e.g. PFAS remediation, using fluidised/packed bed reactors and image analysis; separation and harvesting of nutritionals, biofuels and pharmaceuticals from cultivated micro-algal suspensions; Geothermal Energy Engineering, incl. development of sustainable and HTHP stable colloidal drilling fluids; smart design of carbon electrodes for electrochemical devices, including Redox Flow Batteries

Dr Joe Briscoe

MSci (Hons), PhD, FHEA, CSci, MIMMM, MInstP

Dr Briscoe’s research focuses on investigating a range of new materials, structures and material combinations for use in nanostructured, low-cost photovoltaics, photocatalysis and other energy harvesting applications. He currently holds a European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grant to develop nanocomposite thin films which combine ferroelectric materials with photo-absorbers to demonstrate a novel photovoltaic mechanism. These devices could potentially convert solar energy to electricity or fuels with efficiencies above current theoretical limits.

Dr Keith Butler

BA, PhD, MIoP

Dr Butler’s research is focused on using data-driven methods and atomistic simulation to accelerate the design, development and characterisation of new green energy materials. Keith has published more than 100 peer-reviewed research articles covering topics such as atomistic modelling of photovoltaics, machine learning-enabled materials design, and deep learning for the accelerated analysis of experimental data. He has developed Machine Learning methods to accelerate materials characterisation, developing approaches to enhance, neutron scattering, X-ray tomography and electron microscopy.

Dr Nader Karimi

BSc, MSc, PhD, FHEA

Dr Karimi researches thermofluids with an emphasis on sustainable energy and fuels. This includes investigations on climate-neutral fuels and thermal management of energy storage systems. Examples of the former involve a series of ongoing works on production and utilisation of hydrogen, biosyngas, ammonia and other e-fuels. The latter includes projects on thermal management of batteries and electrolysers with the aim of improving their performance. He also works on the optimisation of hybridised energy systems. His work combines computational modelling and experimental studies.

Dr Patrick Cullen

BSc (Eng) PhD (Lond)

Dr Cullen synthesising scalably made nanomaterials and embeds them into energy devices for increased performance. These include devices such as Li-ion batteries, Na-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells and catalysts in fuel cells and electrodes for supercapacitors. He also develops novel operando techniques to probe the functional behaviour of materials in energy devices during their use. He works extensively in the laboratories at Queen Mary or at neutron or synchrotron X-ray sources such as ISIS and Diamond.

Dr Paul Balcombe

MEng, PhD, CEng, MIChemE, FHEA

Dr Balcombe specialises in developing unique technology-specific, probabilistic emissions/cost modelling of energy supply chains, particularly relating to methane emissions from natural gas, as well as hydrogen and ammonia supply chains. His broader interests involve the environmental, economic and technical assessments of energy industry to answer a number of key questions: how can we decarbonise our energy use whilst maintaining living standards; what role should fossil fuels have in decarbonisation targets; and how can energy policy help us to do this most effectively?

Dr Radomir Slavchov

BSc, MSc, PhD, MRSC

Dr Slavchov is interested in the interactions of liquids and gases with surfaces. More specifically he is developing an adsorption database with models that allow the distribution of surfactants between several interfaces and phases to be predicted. He is interested in the charging and polarization of surfaces, and the various surface potentials including how they affect the surface forces. This work leads to the study of wetting and its effects on capillary shapes and flows and how mixtures evaporate and their components interact and on to phase separation and the behaviour of fuels.

Dr Roberto Volpe

MEng, MBA, PhD

Dr Volpe is an expert in the thermochemical conversion of solid biofuels for the synthesis of renewable liquid/gaseous energy vectors and porous carbons (biochars, activated carbons). He pioneered synchrotron-based operando x-ray micro computed tomography experiments to time- and space-resolve the evolution of porosity and chemistry of pyrolysing biomass for water remediation, the synthesis of bio-based composite tissues for biomedical applications and catalysts for CO2 conversion.

Professor Stoyan Smoukov

Professor Smoukov develops growing material robotics that is programming matter as inspired by nature, to produce microscopic micro-robots that are both multifunctional and autonomous. He has developed sustainable manufacturing methods for bottom-up assembly from molecules, using phase transitions in confined geometries, including the artificial morphogenesis process discovered for producing regular geometric shapes. His work ranges from experiments in colloids and interfaces and phase transitions to studying the fundamentals of the origin of life.

Professor Xi Jiang

PhD, CEng, FIMechE, AFIChemE, FHEA

Professor Jiang works on energy and environmental engineering applications, using advanced modelling and simulation. He researches cleaner combustion including the use of alternative and sustainable fuels, combustion under extreme conditions such as supercritical and ultra-lean. He is interested in geological and offshore carbon storage and in improving the efficiency of Internal combustion engines and gas turbine combustors. He models by using Digital Twins for marine engine decarbonisation and high performance computing for thermofluid applications such as large-eddy simulation.

Where you'll learn

School facilities include: 

• BioFluids Laboratory
• Combustion Laboratory
• Computational Modelling Facilities
• Confocal Laser Scanning and Super Resolution Microscopy Lab
• Mechanical Testing Facilities
• Polymer Chemistry Laboratory
• Spectroscopy Facility
• Thermal Analysis Facility
• Two-Phase Flow and Heat Transfer Labs
• Workshops for Engineering Manufacture

Explore our facilities using our  virtual tour .

Teaching is based at the School of Engineering and Materials Science’s postgraduate facilities, on Queen Mary’s main Mile End campus , one of the largest self-contained residential campuses in the capital. 

Researchers within the school also have access to other specialised research facilities elsewhere at Queen Mary, such as Nanoforce  and NanoVision .

Our Mile End campus is 15 minutes from Central London by tube, where you will have access to many of the University of London’s other facilities, including the Senate House library.

About the School

School of engineering and materials science.

The  School of Engineering and Materials Science (SEMS)  was the first School in the UK to open a materials department and we’ve been at the forefront of international engineering and materials  research  ever since.

The internationally competitive work of our research groups pushes the boundaries of science: we’ve been awarded substantial grants to explore the creation of  technology to capture energy from sea waves  and  develop artificial kidneys to avoid animal testing . Our research is even  celebrated on stamps !

You will be taught by our internationally recognised staff and will have access to our outstanding facilities.

In the  2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF) , the School ranked 7th overall in Engineering and 2 nd for the measure of the quality of our research outputs. We are in the top 120 international institutions for engineering (THE World University Rankings, 2022). We are part of both the University of London and the  Russell Group .

• Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 8736
• School of Engineering and Materials Science Facebook
• School of Engineering and Materials Science Twitter

Career paths

You’ll leave this MSc as a well-qualified graduate, with opportunities for employment in many leading industries, as well as in research.

Graduates from Sustainable Energy programmes at Queen Mary have gone onto a diverse range of job roles including:

• Graduate Compliance Engineer 
• Thermal Design Engineer 
• Graduate Trainee Engineer 
• IT Consultant 
• Project Planning Engineer 

At organisations including:

• Heatric 
• Cummins Inc 
• Northern Trust 
• Nafath Renewable Energy 
• Steris 

Our  Industrial Liaison Forum gives you a chance to network with our industrial partners and build your professional contacts while at university.

• 96% of Engineering and Materials Science postgraduates are in employment or study 15 months after graduation (GOS, 2019/20)
• 95% of those postgraduates are in highly skilled roles (GOS, 2019/20)

"Queen Mary has staff members who are world-leading academics in sustainability. I wanted to become part of the solution for the world’s energy crisis and do more research into it. T he hands-on experience in the state-of-the-art facilities at Queen Mary gave me an invaluable insight into the world of sustainability and renewable energy storage. The interdisciplinary approach and the mix of engineering and research have helped me in my long-term goals of becoming a researcher." — Agha Hasan, Researcher, Houses of Parliament Sustainable Energy Systems MSc, 2018  

Fees and funding

Full-time study.

September 2024 | 1 year

• Home: £12,650
• Overseas: £28,900 EU/EEA/Swiss students

Conditional deposit

Overseas: £2000 Information about deposits

Queen Mary alumni can get a £1000, 10% or 20% discount on their fees depending on the programme of study. Find out more about the Alumni Loyalty Award

There are a number of ways you can fund your postgraduate degree.

• Scholarships and bursaries
• Postgraduate loans (UK students)
• Country-specific scholarships for international students

Our Advice and Counselling service offers specialist support on financial issues, which you can access as soon as you apply for a place at Queen Mary. Before you apply, you can access our funding guides and advice on managing your money:

• Advice for UK and EU students
• Advice for international students

Entry requirements

Degree requirements.

A good 2:2 or above at undergraduate level in Engineering, Physics or a related discipline.

Additional information

Please note that this programme may require ATAS, find out more here: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/welfare/visas-international-advice/visas-for-study/atas/

Find out more about how to apply for our postgraduate taught courses.

International

Afghanistan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Master Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90%; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 80%; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70%; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Albania We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7 out of 10

Algeria We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licence; Diplome de [subject area]; Diplome d'Etudes Superieures; Diplome de Docteur end Pharmacie; or Diplome de Docteur en Medecine from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Angola We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Grau de Licenciado/a (minimum 4 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 17 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 15 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 13 out of 20

Argentina We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo/ Grado de Licenciado/ Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 7.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6.5 out of 10

Armenia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 87 out of 100 UK 2:1 degree: 75 out of 100 UK 2:2 degree: 61 out of 100

Australia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) or Bachelor Honours degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: High Distinction; or First Class with Honours UK 2:1 degree: Distinction; or Upper Second Class with Honours UK 2:2 degree: Credit; or Lower Second Class with Honours

Austria We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 1.5 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: 2.5 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5.0

The above relates to grading scale where 1 is the highest and 5 is the lowest.

Azerbaijan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90%; or GPA 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 80%; or GPA 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 70%; or GPA 3.5 out of 5

Bahamas We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from the University of West Indies. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours

Bahrain We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0; or 90 out of 100 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0; or 80 out of 100 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.3 out of 4.0; or 74 out of 100

Bangladesh We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.2 to 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 to 3.3 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.3 to 2.7 out of 4.0

Offer conditions will vary depending on the institution you are applying from.  For some institutions/degrees we will ask for different grades to above, so this is only a guide. 

Barbados We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from the University of West Indies, Cave Hill or Barbados Community College. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours*; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0** UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours*; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0** UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours*; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0**

*relates to: the University of West Indies, Cave Hill.

**relates to: Barbados Community College.

Belarus We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9 out of 10; or 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 7 out of 10; or 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 5 out of 10; or 3.5 out of 5

Belgium We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80% or 16/20*; or 78%** UK 2:1 degree: 70% or 14/20*; or 72%** UK 2:2 degree: 60% or 12/20*; or 65%**

*Flanders (Dutch-speaking)/ Wallonia (French-speaking) **German-speaking

Belize We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from the University of West Indies. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours

Benin We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Maitrise or Masters from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Bolivia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Bachiller Universitario or Licenciado / Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 85%* or 80%** UK 2:1 degree: 75%* or 70%** UK 2:2 degree: 65%* or 60%**

*relates to: Titulo de Bachiller Universitario

**relates to: Licenciado / Titulo de [subject area] 

Bosnia and Herzegovina We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7.5 out of 10

Botswana We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 5 years) or Master Degree from the University of Botswana. UK 1st class degree: 80% UK 2:1 degree: 70% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

Brazil We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Título de Bacharel / Título de [subject area] or Título de Licenciado/a (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8.25 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 7.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6.5 out of 10

The above grades assumes that the grading scale has a pass mark of 5.

Brunei We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours

Bulgaria We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 5.75 out of 6.0 UK 2:1 degree: 4.75 out of 6.0 UK 2:2 degree: 4.0 out of 6.0

Burundi We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diplome d'Etudes Approfondies from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 85%; or 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 75%; or 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 60%; or 12 out of 20

Cambodia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80%; or GPA 3.5 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 70%; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 60%; or GPA 2.35 out of 4.0

Cameroon We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree; Licence; Diplome d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce; Diplome d'Ingenieur de Conception/ Travaux; Doctorat en Medecine/ Pharmacie; or Maitrise or Master 1 from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20; or GPA 3.6 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20; or GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Canada We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Bachelor Honours Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.6 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Chile We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Grado de Licenciado en [subject area] or Titulo (Professional) de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 6.5 out of 7 UK 2:1 degree: 5.5 out of 7 UK 2:2 degree: 5 out of 7

China We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 85 to 95% UK 2:1 degree: 75 to 85% UK 2:2 degree: 70 to 80%

Offer conditions will vary depending on the institution you are applying from.  

Colombia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licenciado en [subject area] or Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.60 out of 5.00 UK 2:1 degree: 4.00 out of 5.00 UK 2:2 degree: 3.50 out of 5.00

Congo, Dem. Rep. of We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diplome d'Etudes Approfondies or Diplome d'Etudes Speciales from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20; or 90% UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20; or 80% UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20; or 70%

Congo, Rep. of We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diplome d'Etudes Superieures or Maitrise from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Costa Rica We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachiller or Licenciado from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7.5 out of 10

Croatia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Advanced Diploma of Higher Education Level VII/1 (Diploma - Visoko obrazovanje) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.5 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3 out of 5

Cuba We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado/ Arquitecto/ Doctor/ Ingeniero from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5

Cyprus We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8 out of 10; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 7.0 out of 10; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 6.0 out of 10; or GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Czech Republic We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 1.2 out of 4 UK 2:1 degree: 1.5 out of 4 UK 2:2 degree: 2.5 out of 4

The above relates to grading scale where 1 is the highest and 4 is the lowest.

Denmark We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 12 out of 12 (2007 onwards); or 11 out of 13 (before 2007) UK 2:1 degree: 7 out of 12 (2007 onwards); or 8 out of 13 (before 2007) UK 2:2 degree: 4 out of 12 (2007 onwards); or 7 out of 13 (before 2007)

Dominican Republic We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licenciado/ Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 95/100 UK 2:1 degree: 85/100 UK 2:2 degree: 78/100

Ecuador We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado / Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90%; or 9/10; or 19/20; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 80%; or 8/10; or 18/20; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70%; or 7/10; or 14/20; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Egypt We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 85%; or GPA 3.7 out of 4 UK 2:1 degree: 75%; or GPA 3.0 out of 4 UK 2:2 degree: 65%; or GPA 2.5 out of 4

El Salvador We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licenciado/ Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 5 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 7.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6.5 out of 10

Eritrea We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Estonia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree; University Specialist's Diploma; or Professional Higher Education Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.5 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 3.5 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 2 out of 5

The above grades assumes that 1 is the pass mark. 

Eswatini We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80% UK 2:1 degree: 70% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

Ethiopia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Fiji We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from one of the following institutions: Fiji National University, the University of Fiji, or the University of South Pacific, Fiji. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.0 out of 5.0*; or overall grade A with High Distinction pass**; or GPA 4.0 out of 4.5*** UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.33 out of 5.0*; or overall grade B with Credit pass**; or GPA 3.5 out of 4.5*** UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.33 out of 5.0*; or overall grade S (Satisfactory)**; or GPA 2.5 out of 4.5***

*relates to Fiji National University

**relate to the University of Fiji

***relates to the University of South Pacific, Fiji

Finland We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree/ Kandidaatti/ Kandidat (minimum 180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution; or Bachelor degree (Ammattikorkeakoulututkinto/ Yrkeshögskoleexamen) from a recognised University of Applied Sciences. UK 1st class degree: 4.5 out of 5; or 2.8 out of 3 UK 2:1 degree: 3.5 out of 5; or 2 out of 3 UK 2:2 degree: 2.5 out of 5; or 1.4 out of 3

France We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licence; Grade de Licence; Diplome d'Ingenieur; or Maitrise from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 12 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 11 out of 20

Gambia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80%; or GPA 4.0 out of 4.3 UK 2:1 degree: 67%; or GPA 3.3 out of 4.3 UK 2:2 degree: 60%; or GPA 2.7 out of 4.3

Georgia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 91 out of 100; or 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 81 out of 100; or 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 71 out of 100; or 3.5 out of 5

Germany We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 1.5 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: 2.5 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5.0

Ghana We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: First Class UK 2:1 degree: Second Class (Upper Division) UK 2:2 degree: Second Class (Lower Division)

Greece We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Degrees from recognised selected institutions in the University sector or Degrees (awarded after 2003) from recognised Technological Educational Institutes. UK 1st class degree: 8 out of 10*; or 9 out of 10** UK 2:1 degree: 7 out of 10*; or 7.5 out of 10** UK 2:2 degree: 6 out of 10*; or 6.8 out of 10**

*Relates to degrees from the University Sector. **Relates to degrees from Technological Educational Institutes.

Grenada We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from the University of West Indies. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours

Guatemala We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licenciado / Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90% UK 2:1 degree: 80% UK 2:2 degree: 70%

The above grades assumes that the pass mark is 61% or less.

Guinea We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Master; Maitrise; Diplome d'Etudes Superieures; or Diplome d'Etudes Approfondies from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Guyana We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Graduate Diploma (Postgraduate) or Masters degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Honduras We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado/a / Grado Academico de Licenciatura (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90%; or 4.7 out of 5; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 80%; or 4.0 out of 5; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70%; or 3.5 out of 5; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Hong Kong We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours

Hungary We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor degree (Alapfokozat) or University Diploma (Egyetemi Oklevel) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.75 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5

Iceland We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor degree (Baccalaureus or Bakkalarprof) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8.25 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 7.25 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6.5 out of 10

India We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 75% to 80% UK 2:1 degree: 60% to 70% UK 2:2 degree: 50% to 60%

Offer conditions will vary depending on the institution you are applying from.  For some institutions/degrees we will ask for different grades to above, so this is only a guide.  

For India, offers may be made on the GPA scale.

We do not consider the Bachelor of Vocation (B. Voc.) for Masters entry.

Indonesia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Sarjna I (S1) Bachelor Degree or Diploma IV (D4) (minimum 4 years) from selected degree programmes and institutions. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.6 to 3.8 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 to 3.2 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.67 to 2.8 out of 4.0

Offer conditions will vary depending on the institution you are applying from and the degree that you study.

Iran We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 17.5 to 18.5 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 15 to 16 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 13.5 to 14 out of 20

Iraq We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 85 out of 100 UK 2:1 degree: 75 out of 100 UK 2:2 degree: 60 out of 100

Ireland We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Honours Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours UK 2:1 degree: Second Class Honours Grade I UK 2:2 degree: Second Class Honours Grade II

Israel We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90% UK 2:1 degree: 80% UK 2:2 degree: 65%

Italy We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Laurea (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 110 out of 110 UK 2:1 degree: 105 out of 110 UK 2:2 degree: 94 out of 110

Cote D’ivoire (Ivory Coast) We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diplome d'Ingenieur; Doctorat en Medicine; Maitrise; Master; Diplome d'Etudes Approfondies; or Diplome d'Etudes Superieures Specialisees from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Jamaica We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from the University of West Indies (UWI) or a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0; or First Class Honours from the UWI UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0; or Upper Second Class Honours from the UWI UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0; or Lower Second Class Honours from the UWI

Japan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: S overall* or A overall**; or 90%; or GPA 3.70 out of 4.00 UK 2:1 degree: A overall* or B overall**; or 80%; or GPA 3.00 out of 4.00 UK 2:2 degree: B overall* or C overall**; or 70%; or GPA 2.3 out of 4.00

*Overall mark is from the grading scale: S, A, B, C (S is highest mark) **Overall mark is from the grading scale: A, B, C, D (A is highest mark)

Jordan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 85%; or GPA of 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 75%; or GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70%; or GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0

Kazakhstan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 3.8 out of 4.0/4.33; or 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 3.33 out of 4.0/4.33; or 4.0 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 2.67 out of 4.0/4.33; or 3.5 out of 5

Kenya We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours; or GPA 3.6 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: Second Class Honours Upper Division; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: Second Class Honours Lower Division; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Kosovo We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7.5 out of 10

Kuwait We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.67 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.67 out of 4.0

Kyrgyzstan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.7 out of 5; or GPA 3.7 out of 4 UK 2:1 degree: 4.0 out of 5; or GPA 3.0 out of 4 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5; or GPA 2.4 out of 4

Laos We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Latvia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (awarded after 2002) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 7.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6 out of 10

Lebanon We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree; Licence; or Maitrise from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90% or Grade A; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0; or 16 out of 20 (French system) UK 2:1 degree: 80% or Grade B; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0; or 13 out of 20 (French system) UK 2:2 degree: 70% or Grade C; or GPA 2.5 out of 4.0; or 12 out of 20 (French system)

Lesotho We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours Degree (minimum 5 years total HE study); Masters Degree or Postgraduate Diploma from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 80% UK 2:1 degree: 70% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

Liberia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90% or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 80% or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70% or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Libya We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 85%; or 3.7 out of 4.0 GPA UK 2:1 degree: 75%; or 3.0 out of 4.0 GPA UK 2:2 degree: 65%; or 2.6 out of 4.0 GPA

Liechtenstein We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 5.6 out of 6.0 UK 2:1 degree: 5.0 out of 6.0 UK 2:2 degree: 4.4 out of 6.0

Lithuania We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7 out of 10

Luxembourg We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Macau We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (Licenciatura) (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Macedonia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diploma of Completed Higher Education - Level VII/1 or Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7 out of 10

Madagascar We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Maîtrise; Diplome d'Ingenieur; Diplôme d'Etat de Docteur en Médecine; Diplôme d’Etat de Docteur en Chirurgie Dentaire; Diplôme d'Études Approfondies; Diplôme de Magistère (Première Partie) – also known as Master 1; or Diplôme de Master – also known as Master 2 from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Malawi We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 80% or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 70% or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 60% or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Malaysia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: Class 1; or 3.7 out of 4.0 CGPA UK 2:1 degree: Class 2 division 1; or 3.0 out of 4.0 CGPA UK 2:2 degree: Class 2 division 2; or 2.6 out of 4.0 CGPA

Maldives We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (awarded from 2000) from the Maldives National University. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Malta We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Bachelor Honours Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: First Class Honours; or Category I UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class Honours; or Category IIA UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours; or Category IIB

Mauritius We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: Class I; or 70% UK 2:1 degree: Class II division I; or 60% UK 2:2 degree: Class II division II; or 50%

Offer conditions will vary depending on the grading scale used by your institution.

Mexico We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado/ Titulo (Profesional) de [subject area] from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.0 to 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8.0 to 8.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7.0 to 7.5 out of 10

Offer conditions will vary depending on the grading scale your institution uses.

Moldova We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (Diploma de Licenta) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6.5 out of 10

Monaco We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Mongolia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.6 out of 4.0; or 90%; or grade A UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.2 out of 4.0; or 80%; or grade B UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.8 out of 4.0; or 70%; or grade C

Montenegro We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diploma of Completed Academic Undergraduate Studies; Diploma of Professional Undergraduate Studies; or Advanced Diploma of Higher Education from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8.5 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7 out of 10

Morocco We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Diplome d'Ecoles Nationales de Commerce et de Gestion; Diplome de Docteur Veterinaire; Doctorat en Medecine; Docteur en Medecine Dentaire; Licence; Diplome d'Inegeniuer d'Etat; Diplome de Doctorat en Pharmacie; or Maitrise from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 13 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 11 out of 20

Mozambique We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Grau de Licenciado (minimum 4 years) or Grau de Mestre from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Myanmar We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80% or GPA of 4.7 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: 70% or GPA of 4.0 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: 60% or GPA of 3.5 out of 5.0

Namibia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours Degree or Professional Bachelor Degree (NQF level 8 qualifications) - these to be awarded after 2008 from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80% UK 2:1 degree: 70% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

Nepal We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 80%; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 65%; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 55%; or GPA of 2.4 out of 4.0

Bachelor in Nursing Science are not considered equivalent to UK Bachelor degrees.

Netherlands We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 7 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 6 out of 10

New Zealand We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) or Bachelor Honours Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: A-*; or First Class Honours** UK 2:1 degree: B*; or Second Class (Division 1) Honours** UK 2:2 degree: C+*; or Second Class (Division 2) Honours**

*from a Bachelor degree **from a Bachelor Honours degree

Nigeria We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.50 out of 5.00; or GPA 6.0 out of 7.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.50 out of 5.00; or GPA 4.6 out of 7.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.80 out of 5.00; or GPA 3.0 out of 7.0

Norway We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: Overall B grade with at least 75 ECTS (of 180 ECTS min overall) at grade A or above. UK 2:1 degree: Overall B grade UK 2:2 degree: Overall C grade

Oman We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Pakistan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.0 to 3.8 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 2.6 to 3.6 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.0 to 3.0 out of 4.0

Palestine, State of We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90% or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 80% or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70% or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Panama We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licenciado / Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 91% UK 2:1 degree: 81% UK 2:2 degree: 71%

Papua New Guinea We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: Class I UK 2:1 degree: Class II, division A UK 2:2 degree: Class II, division B

Paraguay We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado / Titulo de [professional title] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out fo 5

Peru We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Grado Academico de Bachiller or Titulo de Licenciado/ Titulo (Professional) de [subject area] from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 17 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Philippines We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from selected institutions or Juris Doctor; Bachelor of Laws; Doctor of Medicine; Doctor of Dentistry/ Optometry/ Veterinary Medicine; or Masters Degree from recognised institutions. UK 1st class degree: 3.6 out of 4.0; or 94%; or 1.25 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 3.0 out of 4.0; or 86%; or 1.75 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 2.5 out of 4.0; or 80%; or 2.5 out of 5

The above 'out of 5' scale assumes  1 is highest mark and 3 is the pass mark.

Poland We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licencjat or Inzynier (minimum 3 years) - these must be awarded after 2001 from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.8 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: 4.5 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: 3.8 out of 5.0

The above grades are based on the 2 to 5 scale, where 3 is the pass mark and 5 is the highest mark.

Portugal We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licenciado (minimum 180 ECTS credits) or Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 14 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 12 out of 20

Puerto Rico We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90/100 or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 80/100 or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 70/100 or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Qatar We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0; or GPA 4.4 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0; or GPA 3.6 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0; or GPA 2.8 out of 5.0

Romania We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.75 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8.0 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7.0 out of 10

Russia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4.0 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5

Rwanda We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours Degree (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 85%; or 17 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 70%; or 15 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 60%; or 13 out of 20

Saudi Arabia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.75 out of 5.0; or GPA 3.75 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.75 out of 5.0; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 5.0; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Senegal We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Maîtrise; Master II; Diplôme d'Études Approfondies (DEA); Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Specialisées (DESS); Diplôme d'État de Docteur en Médecine; Diplôme d'Ingénieur; Diplôme de Docteur en Chirurgie Dentaire; or Diplôme de Pharmacien from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16/20 UK 2:1 degree: 14/20 UK 2:2 degree: 12/20

Serbia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Advanced Diploma of Higher Education from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7 out of 10

Sierra Leone We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (Honours) or a Masters degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: First Class honours; or GPA 4.7 out of 5; or GPA 3.75 out of 4 UK 2:1 degree: Upper Second Class honours; or GPA 4 out of 5; or GPA 3.25 out of 4 UK 2:2 degree: Lower Second Class Honours; or GPA 3.4 out of 5; or GPA 2.75 out of 4

Singapore We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) or Bachelor Honours degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.3 out of 5.0; or GPA 3.6 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.8 out of 5.0; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 3.3 out of 5.0; or GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Slovakia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (180 ECTS credits) (minimum 3 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 93%; or 1 overall (on 1 to 4 scale, where 1 is highest mark) UK 2:1 degree: 86%; or 1.5 overall (on 1 to 4 scale, where 1 is highest mark) UK 2:2 degree: 72%; or 2.5 overall (on 1 to 4 scale, where 1 is highest mark)

Slovenia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Univerzitetni Diplomant (180 ECTS credits) (minimum 3 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 9.5 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 7 out of 10

Somalia Bachelor degrees from Somalia are not considered for direct entry to our postgraduate taught programmes. Holders of Bachelor degrees from Somali National University can be considered for our Pre-Masters programmes on a case by case basis.

South Africa We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: NQF Level 8 qualifications such as Bachelor Honours degrees or Professional Bachelor degrees from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 75% UK 2:1 degree: 70% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

South Korea We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.2 out of 4.5; or GPA 4.0 out of 4.3; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.5 out of 4.5; or GPA 3.3 out of 4.3; or GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.5; or GPA 2.8 out of 4.3; or GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Spain We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo Universitario Oficial de Graduado en [subject area] (Grado) or Titulo Universitario Oficial de Licenciado en [subject area] (Licenciatura) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8.0 out of 10; or 2.5 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 7.0 out of 10; or 2.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 6.0 out of 10; or 1.5 out of 4.0

Sri Lanka We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (Special or Honours) or Bachelor Degree (Professional) (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.5 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Sudan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Honours degree from a recognised institution or Bachelor degree in one of the following Professional subjects: Architecture; Dentistry; Engineering; Medicine/Surgery from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 80% UK 2:1 degree: 65% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

Sweden We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (Kandidatexamen) or Professional Bachelor Degree (Yrkesexamenfrom) (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: Overall B grade with at least 75 ECTS at grade A or above (180 ECTS minimum overall); or at least 65% of credits graded at VG overall UK 2:1 degree: Overall B grade (180 ECTS minimum overall); or at least 50% of credits graded at VG overall UK 2:2 degree: Overall C grade (180 ECTS minimum overall); or at least 20% of credits graded at VG overall.

Switzerland We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor degree (180 ECTS credits) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 5.5 out of 6; or 9 out of 10 UK 2:1 degree: 5 out of 6; or 8 out of 10 UK 2:2 degree: 4.25 out of 6; or 7 out of 10

Syria We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 85% UK 2:1 degree: 75% UK 2:2 degree: 65%

Taiwan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from selected institutions. UK 1st class degree: 85 to 90% UK 2:1 degree: 70 to 75% UK 2:2 degree: 65 to 70%

Tajikistan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Specialist Diploma or Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4.0 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5

Tanzania We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.4 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.5 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.7 out of 5.0

Thailand We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.40 to 3.60 out of 4.00 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.00 to 3.20 out of 4.00 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.40 to 2.60 out of 4.00

Offer conditions will vary depending on the institution you are applying from.

Trinidad and Tobago We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0; or First Class Honours from the University of West Indies UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0; or Upper Second Class Honours from the University of West Indies UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.4 out of 4.0; or Lower Second Class Honours from the University of West Indies

Tunisia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Licence; Diplome National d'Architecture; Maitrise; Diplome National d'Ingeniuer; or Doctorat en Medecine / Veterinaire from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 16 out of 20 UK 2:1 degree: 13 out of 20 UK 2:2 degree: 11 out of 20

Turkey We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.40 to 3.60 out of 4.00 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 2.80 to 3.00 out of 4.00 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.30 to 2.50 out of 4.00

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.60 out of 4.00 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.00 out of 4.00 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.50 out of 4.00

Turkmenistan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Diploma of Higher Education (awarded after 2007) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 4.0 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 3.5 out of 5

Turks and Caicos Islands We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (accredited by the Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0; or 80% UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.3 out of 4.0; or 75% UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.7 out of 4.0; or 65%

Uganda We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 4.4 out of 5.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 4.0 out of 5.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 5.0

Ukraine We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 10 out of 12; or 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 8 out of 12; or 4.0 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 6 out of 12; or 3.5 out of 5

United Arab Emirates We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

United States of America We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: GPA 2.5 out of 4.0

Uruguay We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado/ Titulo de [subject area] (minimum 4 years) from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 10 to 11 out of 12 UK 2:1 degree: 7 to 9 out of 12 UK 2:2 degree: 6 to 7 out of 12

Uzbekistan We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) or Specialist Diploma from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90%; or 4.7 out of 5 UK 2:1 degree: 80%; or 4.0 out of 5 UK 2:2 degree: 71%; or 3.5 out of 5

Venezuela We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Titulo de Licenciado/ Titulo de [subject area] from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 81% UK 2:1 degree: 71% UK 2:2 degree: 61%

Non-percentage grading scales, for example scales out of 20, 10, 9 or 5, will have different requirements. 

Vietnam We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 8.0 out of 10; or GPA 3.7 out of 4 UK 2:1 degree: 7.0 out of 10; or GPA 3.0 out of 4 UK 2:2 degree: 5.7 out of 10; or GPA 2.4 out of 4

Yemen We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters (Majister) degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 90% UK 2:1 degree: 80% UK 2:2 degree: 65%

Bachelor Degrees from Lebanese International University (in Yemen) can be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes - please see Lebanon for guidance on grade requirements for this.

Zambia We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Masters Degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 75%; or GPA 3.7 out of 4.0 UK 2:1 degree: 65%; or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 UK 2:2 degree: 55%; or GPA 2.4 out of 4.0

Zimbabwe We normally consider the following qualifications for entry to our postgraduate taught programmes: Bachelor Degree (minimum 4 years) or Bachelor Honours degree from a recognised institution. UK 1st class degree: 75% UK 2:1 degree: 65% UK 2:2 degree: 60%

English language requirements

If you got your degree in an English speaking country or if it was taught in English, and you studied within the last five years, you might not need an English language qualification - find out more .

The minimum English Language requirements for entry to postgraduate degree programmes within the School of Engineering and Material Sciences are:

6.5 overall including 6.0 in Writing, and 5.5 in Reading, Listening and Speaking. 

92 overall including 21 in Writing, 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening and 20 in Speaking.

71 overall including 65 in Writing, and 59 in Reading, Listening and Speaking.

  either ISE II with Distinction in Writing, Reading, Listening and Speaking, or ISE III with Pass in Writing, Reading, Listening and Speaking.

176 overall including 169 in Writing, and 162 in Reading, Listening and Speaking.

Visas and immigration

Find out how to apply for a student visa .

If you're an international student you'll need to get ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) approval, which will extend the visa application process by 2-4 weeks. Find out more about ATAS

Postgraduate Admissions

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Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy, MSc

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How to Apply

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Are you a UK or International Student?

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Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

Key Course Details

Course Overview

The MSc in Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy equips you with a sound knowledge of semiconductor devices and technologies, advanced power electronics, and advanced power systems.

You will also learn about renewable energy generation technologies, wide band gap electronics, energy harvesting, solar cells and biofuels.

Growing concerns about greenhouse gas emission and global warming mean the subject of power engineering and sustainable energy has never been more vital.

This course offers you the opportunity to do an additional year for an Industry Placement or project , giving you valuable work experience and the opportunity to improve technical plus interpersonal skills.

Support and guidance is provided to help secure your placement however it is not guaranteed. The second Industry Placement Year course fees are £3120 for International students and £1800 for Home students . See more details on How To Apply for the MSc with Industry option below.

Why Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy at Swansea?

Your power engineering and sustainable energy experience.

Your studies will have a strong focus on advanced power systems and state-of-the-art semiconductor technologies.

Conventional and renewable energy generation technologies will also be explored, together with developments in fields such as wide band gap electronics, solar cells and energy harvesting.

Engineering at Swansea has an international community of over 500 postgraduate students and 120 research staff.

You will have access to our on-site library, open 24 hours a day, advanced laboratories, a year-round programme of guest lectures, and dedicated postgraduate work rooms.

Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy Employment Opportunities

Graduates of the Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy MSc degree at Swansea are strongly positioned for specialist employment.

Your future could lie in any of the following roles:

• Control and instrumentation engineer
• Electrical engineer
• IT consultant
• Network engineer
• Systems analyst
• Engineering geologist

The first part of this MSc offers a series of compulsory 10-credit modules on subjects including power semiconductor devices, advanced power systems and environmental analysis and legislation. The second part is entirely dedicated to a dissertation project, worth 60 credits.

MSc 1 Year Full-time - September

Year 1 (level 7t), fheq 7 taught masters / pgdip / pgcert, compulsory modules.

FHEQ 7 Taught Masters Dissertation

MSc 1 Year Full-time - January

MSc 2 Year Full-time (with a year in Industry)

Year 2 (Level 7D)

Entry Requirements

Usually the entry requirements for the MSc Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy course is a first or second class honours degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Physics or a closely related subject.

We welcome applications by prospective students from around the world and look for evidence of previous study that is equivalent to the entry requirements stated above. The Postgraduate Admissions Office are happy to advise you on whether your qualifications are suitable for entry to the course you would like to study. Please email  [email protected] for further information.

If English is not your first language, you will need an acceptable pass in an approved English Language qualification to make sure you get the full benefit from studying at Swansea. We consider a wide range of qualifications, including the Swansea University English Test, the British Council IELTS test (with a score of at least 6.5 and 5.5 in each component). A full list of acceptable English Language tests can be found at: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/admissions/english-language-requirements

How You're Taught

We are proud to provide an outstanding educational experience, using the most effective learning and teaching approaches, carefully tailored to suit the specific needs of your course. Our courses consist of in-person, on-campus teaching, enabling full engagement with your lecturers and fellow students.  

Practical skills sessions, seminars, and workshops predominantly take place in person, allowing for group work and presentations. 

Lecture recordings also allow for more flexibility to revisit material, to revise for assessments and to enhance learning outside of the classroom. Some modules have extra resources in our virtual learning environment (Canvas), such as videos, slides and quizzes enabling further flexible study.

Welsh Provision

Some provision.

There are opportunities for Welsh speakers to study some elements of this postgraduate course through the medium of Welsh but there is not yet enough provision to reach 40 credits in each year. The Programme Director can outline to you what is available in Welsh.

Academi Hywel Teifi is here to support you throughout your time at Swansea University. We can offer you:

• Access to generous Welsh-language study  scholarships or bursaries .
• Access to the Arwain mobile app for the latest information about Welsh-medium courses and modules available to download free on the  App Store  and  Google Play .
• An interview through the medium of Welsh when applying for a place.
• Personal correspondence in Welsh, English or bilingually.
• The option to create and submit your coursework or sit exams through the medium of Welsh (even if you have chosen to study in English), and your work will be assessed in Welsh.
• A Welsh-speaking Personal Tutor.
• One-to-one support to improve your academic Welsh language skills.
• An opportunity to gain an additional free qualification that serves as evidence of your Welsh language ability for future employers.
• Membership of the Swansea University Branch of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol.

Visit the Welsh Language Rights webpage for further information about Students' Welsh Language Rights.

Continuing to study through the medium of Welsh will be:

• a natural step for you if you have studied through the medium of Welsh at undergraduate level.
• a way of maximizing your chances of getting the best education.
• a way of receiving a high level of support as the study groups are smaller.
• a valuable addition to your CV and career development.

Professional Body Accreditation

MSc Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

For information about the importance of accreditation visit:  https://www.engc.org.uk/informationfor/students-apprentices-and-graduates

Meet Your Lecturers

You will be taught by world-class lecturers who are all active researchers. Their research areas of expertise include Advanced Power Electronics, Renewable Energy, Nanoscale Electronic Materials, Next Generation Communications and much more.

 See all the Electrical Engineering staff here .

Tuition Fees

Msc 1 year full time.

MSc 2 Year Full Time With a Year In Industry

MSc 2 Year Part Time

MSc 3 Year Part Time

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3%.

You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page .

International students and part-time study: It may be possible for some students to study part-time under the Student Visa route. However, this is dependent on factors relating to the course and your individual situation. It may also be possible to study with us if you are already in the UK under a different visa category (e.g. Tier 1 or 2, PBS Dependant, ILR etc.). Please visit the University information on Visas and Immigration for further guidance and support.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

Funding and Scholarships

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study.

If you're a UK or EU student starting a master’s degree at Swansea University, you may be eligible to apply for Government funding to help towards the cost of your studies. To find out more, please visit our postgraduate loans page.

To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Academi Hywel Teifi at Swansea University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. For further information about the opportunities available to you, visit the Academi Hywel Teifi Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Additional Costs

Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at Swansea University. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up .

You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):

• Travel to and from campus
• Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
• Purchase of books or texts
• Gowns for graduation ceremonies

The Placement year course fees are £3120 for International students and £1800 for Home students.

Careers and Employability

Swansea Employability Academy (SEA) will support you at each stage of your career journey helping you build a bright future.

Our career support services include:

• Employability workshops, employers’ talks, bespoke events and careers fairs
• Individual advice and guidance from professionally qualified Careers Advisers
• Help with finding jobs, internships, work placements and volunteering opportunities
• Access to information resources on a wide range of career management topics
• Funding to support student internship opportunities and Student Society/Club events.

We also provide help and advice for Swansea University Alumni up to two years after you graduate.

Academic Support

As well as subject specific support by college teaching staff and your personal tutor, the Centre for Academic Success provides courses, workshops and one-to-one support in areas such as:

• Academic writing
• Maths and statistics
• Critical thinking
• Time management
• Digital skills
• Presentation skills
• Note taking
• Revision, memory and exam techniques
• English language skills (if English is not your first language).

In addition, if you have a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD), disability, mental health or medical condition, the Centre for Academic Success have Specialist Tutors to support your learning, working alongside the Disability Office and Wellbeing Service to support all your needs and requirements whilst studying at Swansea University.

Please apply through the University’s central application system .

MSc with Industry candidates will need to supply a personal statement addressing the following 2 questions:

Question 1: What can I bring to the industrial placement?

Question 2: What do I hope to gain from the industrial experience?

Your application must include the following information: 

• Academic Transcript (including grading structure)
• Evidence of any academic prizes/awards you have obtained for academic excellence
• Personal statement answering the two questions listed above
• Evidence of any sporting achievements, volunteering experience, professional qualifications
• Please also note that letters of support will form part of selection process and it is your responsibility to ensure your nominated referees submit references by the closing date

For further guidance please visit our  how to apply for postgraduate study pages.

EU students - visa and immigration information is available and will be regularly updated on our information for EU students page.

Application Deadlines

We recommend that you submit your application to our courses as early as you can in advance of our application deadlines. Courses will close earlier than the application deadlines listed if all available places are filled. You can find further information on our Application Deadlines webpage.

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Energy Systems Management, MS

Climate change is driving a dramatic transition in global energy systems, which requires switching to clean sources of energy while continuing to power economies affordably and reliably. Come to USF and learn how to decarbonize electric grids, electrify transportation, and make industry and buildings more efficient. Come learn about the existing energy system and the technologies, markets, and policies required to transform it.

• Program Overview
• Advisory Board
• Financing Your Education
• How To Apply

Apply Now for 2024

The Fall 2024 application is now open. We will continue to accept applications until the program has reached capacity.

What Makes a Master’s in Energy Systems Management Different at USF?

USF offers you expertise, access, and opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.

Study Clean Energy in the Epicenter of Change

Come join the energy transformation in San Francisco, where companies, government agencies, venture capital, and nonprofits converge in a booming new energy sector.

Take a STEM Program

We are designated as a STEM program. Eligible international students may apply to work in the United States for up to three years after graduation via the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program and STEM extension.

Tap Faculty Expertise

Learn the technological, regulatory, and business aspects of energy. Gain deep insight into wind and solar power, electric utility planning, energy law and finance, and the role of digital technology.

Gain Access to the Industry

Study with globally recognized renewable energy experts. Network with guest lecturers and industry leaders. Take advantage of corporate partnerships and internships.

Sustainability Careers in Energy Systems Management

The best climate-focused master’s programs will give you a mix of practical and theoretical instruction, real-world experience, and career connections — opening doors so you can land a fulfilling job that helps save our planet. In this in-depth sustainability guide, we explore skill sets, job titles, and career outcomes for climate professionals.

Dive Deeper

Fulbright Scholar Pursues Clean Energy in Pakistan

USF Team Wins National Clean-Energy Competition

Financing the Sustainable Energy Transition

Take the next step, admission & aid.

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Public Engagement team celebrate six years of sector-leading Academy

Vaccine storage innovators win Imperial's women-led startup competition

Imperial and University of Ghana sign major research and education partnership

• Energy Futures Lab
• MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures

Funding and Scholarships

Aziz Foundation / Imperial College Sustainable Energy Futures Scholarship

The scholarship offers a unique opportunity for an exceptional Muslim student active in British Muslim communities and keen to build bridges with all parts of British society. The student will have the commitment and intelligence to support and represent Muslim communities in wider society, as well as the credibility to bring and explain new learning experiences back to the community, and will thus create mutual understanding between Muslims and others and contribute to the creation of a more cohesive society.

The scholarship will cover the full home tuition fee.

 Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Have submitted a complete application to the MSc Sustainable Energy Futures programme.
• Be active within your local and/or faith community and demonstrate a desire to develop intellectual skills within a multi-faith/secular environment.
• Be able to demonstrate long-term commitment to community/societal development and good relations work through public leadership.
• Be Zakat eligible/ in financial need and therefore cannot cover the costs of tuition. 
• Have an excellent understanding of the sustainable energy industry and how to progress within it, with relevant, prior experience and/or achievements in the field.
• Have knowledge of how the programme will enable you to generate social impact.
• Be a UK national and eligible for Home fee status at the University.

Submit a statement of no more than 1,000 words setting out how you meet the criteria above, addressing also how you hope to use this scholarship for your future work.

Please submit the statement to [email protected] by 1 May 2024 . Remember to include your full name and your CID in your email.

Energy Futures Lab Scholarships

Excellence Scholarship funded by Equinor

This scholarship is available to students with Home (UK) fee status and covers  the full home tuition fee  and a  bursary of up to £7,500 . No application is required for this scholarship and it will be awarded on academic merit. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interview, possibly by MS Teams. The decision should be made by the end of July 2024. 

Widening Participation Scholarship funded by Equinor

This scholarship is aimed at helping Home (UK) students from underrepresented groups access our Sustainable Energy Future course. This studentship covers the full home tuition fee and a bursary of up to £7,500 , which, in combination with postgraduate loans, is expected to enable a candidate to fully fund this one-year full-time course. A number of criteria must be met in order to be eligible for this scholarship. Please note if there are more eligible applications than places, meeting the criteria is no guarantee of an award.

The candidate must meet at least one of the criteria below to be considered for this scholarship. As we expect to receive many more applications than places, successful applications would normally meet more than one:

• You have been in public care for a minimum of three months since the age of 11 and will be under the age of 25 on the course start date. Time spent in care could refer to foster care, residential care (mainly children’s homes) or other arrangements outside the immediate or extended family.
• You're from a low-income background evidenced by receipt of a maintenance grant and/or a higher rate of maintenance loan during undergraduate studies. Consideration will be given to the number of years that a maintenance grant was received and the amount awarded, or the rate of maintenance loan received (if you started your undergraduate course following the phasing out of maintenance grants).
• You come from one of the most deprived areas of the UK as indicated by ACORN and LPN data. This is based on home postcode before attending university. 
• You are/were in receipt of a Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) as part of your undergraduate studies or are receiving/received support from your undergraduate university’s disability office.
• You have been recognised as a refugee or asylum seeker or been granted humanitarian protection status by the UK government, or are the partner or child of someone who has been granted refugee, asylum seeker or humanitarian protection status.
• You regard yourself as being of African or Caribbean origin – for example, ‘Black British’, ‘Black-African’, ‘Black-Caribbean’, or ‘Other Black’ background. This includes people of Mixed heritage.
• You are a carer. We define a carer as anyone who has a commitment to providing unpaid care to a family member or friend who couldn't cope without their support. This may be due to illness, disability, a mental health issue or substance misuse. A caring responsibility may be short term (such as supporting someone with their recovery following an accident) or long term (such as helping someone with a long term illness).
• You consider yourself estranged from your family (not supported by your family). We define estranged students as under 25 and studying without the support of a family network. You'd usually have been assessed as independent by Student Finance due to estrangement and/or:

o    You've had no communicative relationship with your parents/guardians for at least six months and this situation isn't likely to change; 

o    You've been homeless or ‘sofa surfing’;

o    You've been in foster or local authority care but aren't classed as a care-leaver;

o    Both of your parents have passed away and you have no alternative family support in place.

Applicants for this scholarship need to first apply online for the MSc Sustainable Energy Futures course (H9A1) and receive a College ID number. Once an admission offer is made then email a statement to [email protected] outlining how you meet the scholarship criteria. The deadline for submission is 1 June 2024 .

Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interview, possibly by MS Teams, and will be notified by email as soon as possible after the deadline. The decision should be made by the end of July 2024.

Alan Howard Scholarship

The scholarship covers fees and a contribution towards living expenses up to a total of £50,000. Applicants should fulfil all of the following criteria:

• Be a national of (or permanently domiciled in) Israel
• Be classed as an overseas student for fee purposes
• Hold an offer to study the MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures
• Have a good undergraduate degree (equivalent to a 1 st )
• Meet the higher level English language requirement  (for IELTS this is 7 or above overall and minimum 6.5 in each element)

Application

Once an offer has been made then applicants for the scholarship should write a personal statement of no more than 500 words, explaining how they meet the criteria and why they should be considered for the scholarship. The personal statement should be sent to [email protected]. The deadline to submit this additional statement is 1 June 2024 .

Presidential Scholarship for Black Students

Presidential scholarships for black students.

Imperial College London is offering Master’s (MSc and MRes) Presidential Scholarships in each Faculty for Black students with Home fee status. More information and the link to apply are available online . 

ASEAN – UK SAGE: Women in STEM Scholarships

Asean – uk sage: women in stem scholarships  .

In partnership with the  British Council , Imperial College London is offering 6 full scholarships for female students who are a passport holder and permanent resident of Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Timor-Leste. More information and the link to apply are available online . 

GREAT - Imperial College London Scholarship

In partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, Imperial College London is offering 4 scholarships to students from Ghana, Greece, Malaysia and Mexico applying for postgraduate courses in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine and Business subjects. More information regarding the scholarship is available online .

Other available scholarships

Imperial College London offers  a wide range of scholarships for postgraduates to support them through their studies .

The organisations who have recently offered scholarships to students to study on our course are listed below:

Azerbaijan Government  (Azerbaijani applicants only)

Bolashak International  

British Council Women in STEM

BSEISU-Imperial

Commonwealth

George Moore

Ghana Educational Trust Fund

Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership

Government of the Sultanate of Oman

Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP)

La Caixa Foundation Europe

MOB Foundation

Said Foundation

Scottish Power

Singapore Sustainability

Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF)

(formerly MS in Green Technologies)

Application Deadlines

Spring: September 1

Fall: January 15

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Sustainable Engineering is a highly interdisciplinary degree program that emphasizes green systems and the environment, energy technology and efficiency, and sustainability and society. The discipline seeks opportunities for alternative sourcing, conservation, efficiency, and repurposing through an understanding of product life cycles from origins to recycling or inevitable disposal. Sustainability technologists will design products, processes, and complex infrastructure systems to promote sustainable attributes of importance to the environment and the global community.

The interdisciplinary nature of this program allows students to form plans-of-study that accommodate diverse engineering perspectives in support of unique and challenging career opportunities. Students also benefit from numerous green and sustainable projects throughout the Los Angeles region.

• This program requires completion of 27 units of coursework
• Eligible for the OPT STEM extension
• USC Catalogue
• USC Schedule of Classes

Visit our Ready to Apply page for more information

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicants to the master's of science programs in Green Technologies are required to have a bachelor’s degree or be in the process of completing a bachelor's degree. Degrees in any engineering or engineering-related disciplines are frequently represented among our program applicants, including but not limited to the following:

• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Energy Science
• Mechanical Engineering

Applicants without a Bachelor’s degree in the preferred majors listed above will only be considered with coursework and demonstrated proficiency in the acceptable courses listed below ( or equivalent ). 

Applications are reviewed holistically; simply taking these courses does not guarantee admission.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

The following materials are required to be included with your online application:

• Transcripts
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation (2 required)

NOTE:   The GRE is   not required   for 2025 applications.

The following link will take you to an overview of the tuition & fees for graduate engineering students, including payment information. Both on-campus and DEN@Viterbi students pay the same tuition

Use the link below to download the   Cost of Attendance  to see a summary of tuition and fees by semester. The document is a typical example and the number of courses, and time to complete the program, will vary by student.

Estimated Cost of Attendance - 27 Unit Program

    AYTEN KAHYA

How has living in Los Angeles impacted your experience as a Green Technologies student? It is great to be in L.A. as California pioneers the country in sustainability. So, it is a great opportunity to follow up with recent technologies, implementations, and progress. In my experience, I have seen and learned about great green tech solutions here and have been able to follow up with some of the efforts for sustainability. I have also seen that there are a lot of improvements to be done as green tech and sustainability approaches are not broadly adopted.

As a Green Technologies student, what do you see as two of the most pressing changes our businesses and society must make in the coming years? I believe that the most important thing that needs to change is the awareness of climate change threat; society and business have to realize how serious the problem is. Businesses that are focused on short term returns should stop viewing it as an external issue that needs a few adjustments to handle. Instead, they should include it in their strategy for long term viability. The most difficult one but probably one of the most important things that can aid the situation is changing consumer behavior.

Why did you choose to enroll at USC? I had visited before as a tourist and really liked the campus. Also, the program content of Green Tech met my interests.

    ALEXANDER HENDRICKS

How has living in Los Angeles impacted your experience as a Green Technologies student? Living in LA has greatly impacted my experience as a Green Technologies student. Los Angeles is one of the most innovative cities in terms of Green Technologies and there are countless companies and groups that are moving towards more sustainable energy in the city. Being able to see these different companies and their work firsthand has really inspired me in my classes. In addition, a lot of the professors draw on data and events in the LA area, which really makes the classes much more interactive and applicable.

Why did you choose to enroll at USC? I chose to enroll at USC as it had a program that uniquely fit my interests. After finishing undergrad, I knew I wanted to go into the renewable energy field and USC's Green Technology program precisely prepares students for work in the field while also allowing for flexibility in pursuing other interests, such as environmental policy or green buildings.

Looking back, what is an experience at USC that you'll never forget? An experience during my time at USC that I won't forget was going to a USC Women's soccer game with my dad in the Fall. My dad is a high school soccer coach and had two players playing in the game, so it was fun to both cheer on my school and share a fun experience at USC with my dad.

What are some personal achievements or experiences you'd like to share? While at USC, there are a couple of personal achievements that I have made. First, I have become accredited as a LEED Green Associate and earned my engineer-in-training certification, thanks to the education I have gotten through my graduate program thus far. In addition, I recently accepted an internship with ENGIE, the 6th largest energy company in the world, to work on renewable energy projects in Southern California.

    PRISCILA OLIVEIRA

What has been your favorite Green Technologies project that you worked on at USC and why? My favorite Green Technologies project was the one I worked on in my Renewable Energy in Power Systems course for a few reasons. This was the first course I've taken on renewable energy and on electric power systems and I really enjoyed all the topics that I learned there. I am also very curious about the development and deployment of clean energy technologies toward a sustainable future, which I was able to learn throughout this course. I worked on a team of six students of diverse backgrounds which was an enjoyable experience and a great opportunity to learn from my teammates and exchange ideas with them.

How has living in Los Angeles impacted your experience as a Green Technologies student? Green Technologies is a highly interdisciplinary degree program that emphasizes green systems and the environment, energy technologies and efficiency, and sustainability and society. I benefit from multiple green energy and sustainable projects throughout the Los Angeles region. I have either studied some of them in my classes at USC or learned about them during my previous internship experience at the Los Angeles Water Quality Control Board. In addition, many of the engineering consulting and energy firms that I would like to work for after I graduate have offices in Los Angeles, and I have had the opportunity to meet and network with some of them at professional events on campus.

Looking back, what is an experience at USC that you'll never forget? An unforgettable experience at USC was being a student delegate at the 2019 Climate Forward Conference, which brought together international experts to discuss productive paths for action. I heard from state senators, a former governor, a UN Ambassador, CEOs, journalists and more. Former Secretary of State John Kerry, who led the U.S. in global Paris Agreement negotiations, delivered the keynote speech, and Mayor Eric Garcetti delivered a powerful lunch address on city-level action. Student delegates then went to the post-conference retreat at the USC Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island, where we distilled key takeaways from the panel discussions and participated in workshops. Ultimately, we came away with a resolution outlining actions that are key for seizing our individual climate power.

2022 First Destinations Survey - Outcomes*

Alumni Employment - 2022* (Companies & Job Titles)

Agility - Site Engineer  

Air Astana – Commercial Pilot  

ARAMCO - Lead Project Engineer, Project Engineer, Project Engineer III, Projects Management, Project Engineer  

Arcadis Inc. - Environmental Engineer  

BeaconFire Solution Inc. - Software Engineer  

Boeing - EE System Design Engineer   

Charles Abbott Associates Inc. CAA - Assistant Engineer  

City of Los Angeles - Assistant Division Manager  

Clinpharma Consulting Global Group LLC - Engineer Intern  

Dow Chemical - Civil/Structural Engineer  

Dreyfuss Construction - Assistant Project Manager  

Emerald City Homes, Inc. - CEO - Founder  

Fehr & Peers - Engineer/Planner I  

FTF Engineering, Inc. - Engineering Designer  

Google - Software Engineer  

Hathaway Dinwiddie - Preconstruction Engineer, Project Engineer  

HSA & Associates, Inc. - Structural Designer  

JCE structural Group - Structural Designer  

KAFD Development Management Company - Prevention and Risk Manager  

KPFF Consulting Engineers - Civil Engineering  

Lily, Inc. - Vice President  

Los Angeles Department of Water & Power - Civil Engineering Associate   

MainStreet Property Group LLC - Assistant Development Project Manager  

Michael Baker International - Civil Associate I Water/Wastewater Engineer  

MTM Construction, Inc. - Project Engineer  

National Grid - Graduate Development Program (Associate Engineer)   

Onshore Maintain Potential Projects Dept. Saudi Aramco - Project Engineer  

Pinnacle Structural Engineers, Inc. - Graduate Engineer  

PMI KSA Chapter - VP of Marketing  

Propel Engineering, Inc. - Transportation Engineering Specialist I  

Saudi Aramco - Project Engineer  

Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries SAEI - Facility and Equipment Planning Manager  

Secretariat International – Associate  

Southwest Value Partners - Senior Asset Manager  

TEKsystems - Quantity Surveyor Engineer  

Turner Construction - Field Engineer  

University of Southern California - Web Developer I, Resource Employee  

Webcor Construction LP - Project Engineer

Internships (Previous Years)

Aperture LLC; Barry & Wynn Architects, Inc.; Condon Johnson & Associates; Corgan Associates; DPR Construction; Mark G. Anderson Consultants, Inc.; Nebraska Department of Transportation; Structural Focus; Tipping Structural; San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency; VINCI Construction LLC; W.E. O'Neil; Walter P. Moore and Associates, Inc.; West Power Energy; WSP USA Inc.

* Information is based on a voluntary survey and should not be interpreted as a comprehensive view of the 2022 graduating class.

This program is also available online to professional engineers through DEN@Viterbi. Because the DEN@Viterbi program provides a fully equivalent academic experience, the degree a USC engineering student earns is the same whether they are on-campus or online.

If you are interested in beginning classes as a DEN@Viterbi student next semester, explore the requirements and steps to enrolling as a Limited Status Student.

Learn More About DEN@Viterbi

Detailed Program Curriculum and Requirements Schedule of Classes

DEN@VITERBI ONLINE COURSE OFFERINGS

The following courses and program requirements serve as program planning for DEN@Viterbi students. Course offerings and availability are subject to change. Please consult with advisor if you have any questions.

Published on July 6th, 2017

Last updated on June 14th, 2024

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Energy Transition Systems and Technologies, MSc

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• Energy Transition Systems and Technologies

Introduction

The transition to cleaner, more sustainable, energy requires a fundamental restructuring of our entire energy infrastructure while ensuring continued access to reliable and affordable energy.

This is the challenge energy engineers face today and what this programme sets out to address by providing you with an in-depth understanding of the diverse technical and non-technical challenges associated with the transition to net zero.

This programme is also available to study part-time online .

Webinar: Join us online on 10 June to learn more about our MSc programmes in renewable and sustainable energy. Register here .

Study Information

At a glance.

In recent years, the transition towards sustainable energy systems has gathered huge momentum. Yet, despite the substantial progress being made in renewable generation, the transition to greener more sustainable energy continues to pose significant technological, commercial and political challenges for businesses and governments.

Energy transition engineers, as well as policy-makers, are faced with the challenge of redesigning our entire energy infrastructure while ensuring continued access to reliable and affordable energy at times of rapid and substantial swings in supply or demand.

This programme is designed to address this challenge by combining a detailed knowledge of the technical and commercial aspects of Low Carbon Technologies with a broader systems-thinking approach to understanding the complex and interconnected nature of multi-energy systems.

You will learn about the latest technological innovations in areas such as wind, tidal and hydrogen, energy storage, carbon storage and biofuels and engage with the wider economic and political aspects of the energy transition.

Based in the School of Engineering, this MSc draws on much of the ground-breaking research being conducted within the Centre for Energy Transition (CET), along with expert contributions from the School of Geosciences, the School of Business and the School of Law.

Aberdeen is an exciting place to study the energy transition as the city is at the forefront of the UK's net zero strategy with multiple major energy transition projects already up and running including Equinor’s Hywind project, the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre, and the new Energy Transition Zone.

What You'll Study

Compulsory courses.

15 Credit Points

This course gives students an introduction and overview of energy transition, by focussing on the three key areas of demand, technology and economics. It begins with an introduction to the current energy system and the motivation for an energy transition. There follows a characterisation of the key drivers that underpin our social and economic reliance on energy. Subsequently, behavioural measures and technologies to enable the energy transition are examined and assessed according to diverse technical, economic and environmental criteria.

This course presents an overview of the motivations, challenges and technological solutions associated with Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS). The main carbon capture technologies and methods, CO2 transportation and underground storage are covered. These are introduced in terms of their technical, economic, and environmental criteria, as well as stage of development. Examples of operating pilot plants are shown, complemented by industrial guest lectures and webinars.

Optional Courses

Select ONE from the following:

• Energy from Biomass (EG50M1)
• Solar Energy (EG503V)
• Geothermal and Hydro Energy (EG503A)

Plus, ONE from the following:

• Economic Analysis (BU5061)
• Corporate Finance and Accounting for Energy (BU5074)
• Introduction to GIS Tools, Techniques Cartography and Geovisualisation (GG5065)

This course describes in detail the technologies used to convert biomass into energy. The course covers combustion, gasification, pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion, bioethanol and biodiesel.

This course aims to provide a broad understanding of generation from solar sources, the associated technologies and the main technical challenges.

To provide an understanding of the physical principles, technologies and systems associated with renewable energy generation from geothermal and hydro sources. To provide an understanding of the position of these sources of energy in the current and future global energy requirements and the technical challenges in meeting the future energy demand.

The course will cover the main elements of Microeconomic Theory. Consumer theory will be examined by discussing how consumers choose under the constraint of a budget to generate demands. This theory will then be extended to include choice under uncertainty and intertemporal choice. Some basic elements of competitive markets will also be presented. Producer theory will be examined to understand how firms decide the quantity to be produced under the constraint of a technology. Other relevant topics, such as public goods, externalities, and auctions, will be covered.

This course ensures students understand why companies behave the way they do with respect to financing choices and how this interacts with financial markets, with particular reference to the petroleum and energy industries. The course covers Investment Appraisal Techniques Employed in the Petroleum Industry, Risk Analysis, Portfolio Theory and the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM).

This module will introduce students to remote sensing techniques and fundamental geospatial tools for displaying and analysing geospatial data. This will include: navigation, measurement, spatial queries, geocoding, scripting, buffering, digitising, and overlay analysis. Several ‘real world’ examples will be used to illustrate the application of the tools for data exploration, spatial analyses, mapping, and visualisation. Emphasis will be placed on obtaining a sound understanding of the principles of each technique, as well as the importance of selecting the correct approach to a problem, analysing the data, and interpretation of the results.

To gain an understanding of the need to and the efficiency behind conversion of energy form one form to another and in the need to store energy in distinct forms. To understand the reasoning behind energy losses and how they might be minimised or overcome.

This course is one of the key courses for MSc Energy Transition. The aim of this course is to provide students with knowledge and skills of critical analysis, multi-criteria assessment and planning of various multi-energy systems by taking into account system integration considerations. The course will provide the opportunity of putting the acquired knowledge and skills into practice by delivering hands on individual and group system integration projects.

Select TWO from the following:

To provide an understanding of the physical principles, technologies and systems associated with renewable energy generation from wind and marine sources. To provide an understanding of the position of these sources of energy in the current and future global energy requirements and the technical challenges in meeting the future energy demand

The course aims to develop a broad understanding about the renewable energy legislation and of the relevant aspects of economics and safety.

The course aims to develop a broad understanding about the challenges and requirements of integrating renewable generators (RE) to grid, how these requirements can be met using converters, and high voltage direct current (HVDC) as a method of connecting RE to AC grids.

60 Credit Points

The MSc Individual Project is an independent piece of research based on a topic related to a student’s degree programme. Students are encouraged to focus on a problem confronting industry or a related area. The individual project provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate how the in-depth skills and knowledge they have gained during the taught courses can be used to provide solutions to practical problems. The individual project should contain a degree of original research.

We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page .

Fee Information

Additional fee information.

• In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses .
• For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page .

International Applicants

More information about fee status, living costs, and work allowances for international students is available here .

Scholarships

Self-funded international students enrolling on postgraduate taught (PGT) programmes will receive one of our Aberdeen Global Scholarships, ranging from £3,000 to £8,000, depending on your domicile country. Learn more about the Aberdeen Global Scholarships here .

To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database .

Related Programmes

You may also be interested in the following related postgraduate degree programmes.

• Advanced Mechanical Engineering
• Decommissioning
• Petroleum Engineering
• Renewable Energy Engineering

Why Study Energy Transition Systems and Technologies?

This is the first programme of its kind in the UK focusing on the transition from fossil fuels to renewables through the integration of Low Carbon Technologies (LCTs) into our current and future energy systems.

This programme combines technical knowledge of individual Low Carbon Technologies (LCTs) like renewable energy, including wind, tidal, solar, hydrogen and biomass, with non-technical aspects such as economic and political developments.

You will take a systems thinking approach to energy transition, to understand complex and interconnected energy systems. The energy transition is resulting in the digitalisation of the whole energy system, meaning much more data and interconnectedness. Only a systems approach can embrace these changes.

You will also learn various relevant methods for system-level analysis, including Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Energy System Analysis. These methods are augmented by technical, economic and environmental tools of analysis, which are used to assess and compare different technologies.

Aberdeen is a major international energy centre, and the School of Engineering is particularly known for world-class energy programmes in oil and gas, renewable energy and subsea engineering.

In recent years, non-hydrocarbon based energy has grown significantly in Aberdeen, mainly due to the large talent pool of energy engineers and scientists based in the Aberdeen region and the abundant wind and tidal energy resources off the Aberdeenshire coast.

• Equinor selected Aberdeenshire as the location for Hywind, the world’s first floating wind farm. Vattenfal also chose Aberdeen as the location of the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre, Scotland’s largest offshore wind test and demonstration facility. The pioneering Aberdeen Hydrogen Bus Project has created Europe’s largest hydrogen-powered bus fleet and the city's Energy Transition Zone fast track the development of Low Carbon Technologies.

Our location at the heart of the energy industry means that our programmes benefit from direct involvement from UK energy companies, as well as from overseas. This includes industry advisory panels, guest lectures, field trips, site visits, networking and careers events, and industry supported student projects.

Upon completion, students should have an overview of the key issues in energy transition, and be well equipped to address some of them with the taught methods (as they must in their final project).

Interested in this programme?

Entry requirements, qualifications.

The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.

2:1 (upper second class) UK Honours degree, or an Honours degree from a non-UK institution which is judged by the University to be of equivalent worth, in Engineering o r a related field such as the natural sciences, physical sciences or mathematics.

2:2 (lower second class) UK Honours degree in Engineering o r a related field , or equivalent with 5+ years relevant experience.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate

The CAH3 code for this degree is CAH10-01-09. Students who need a visa to live or study in the UK must apply for ATAS clearance. The ATAS clearance certificate must be valid when you apply for a visa to enter the UK. To find out if you need to apply for ATAS clearance, please visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/academic-technology-approval-scheme

Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.

English Language Requirements

To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

IELTS Academic:

OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0

OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21

PTE Academic:

OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59

Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency:

OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169

Read more about specific English Language requirements here .

Document Requirements

You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.

Additional details for international applicants, including country-specific information, are available here .

Aberdeen Global Scholarship

Eligible self-funded postgraduate taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore our Global Scholarships, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.

There is an urgent, strong need to for properly trained and qualified professionals who are able to address the challenges associated with UN SDG Goal of “Affordable and Clean Energy”, and also the UK mission of achieving net-zero of greenhouse emission by 2050. Upon completion of the programme, you will have a good understanding of, and be well equipped to apply the methods and skills you have learned, to address the key challenges of the energy transition.

Graduates will be well placed to pursue careers across a wide range of industries, public sector organisations or academia. Typical employers for graduates of the programme include energy service providers, energy technology manufacturers, infrastructure (gas, heat, power) operators, utilities, aggregators, public sector organisations (local and national government, ministries) and many more.

Typical job roles rely on the critical systems thinking and detailed knowledge of the challenges and solutions for energy transitions. These include, for example:

• Data Scientist/Analyst
• Strategic Energy Advisor
• Energy Planners
• Energy System Operator
• Energy Infrastructure Planner
• Business Development Manager

Our Experts

Information about staff changes, get in touch, contact details.

• Call Us +44 (0)1224 272090
• Enquire Now Using an online form

Climate Change

Joint statement on sustainable bioenergy for climate and development goals.

In consideration of the persistent debates about what role bioenergy should play in support of climate and sustainable development goals, and acknowledging the most recently available scientific evidence, the undersigned organizations issued the following joint statement.  

Sustainable bioenergy is a component of the bioeconomy . It can be produced from biomass resources in multi-functional, integrated agriculture, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture systems, along with food, feed and/or bio-based products, from biogenic waste and residue streams, or as a co-product of ecosystem management.

Sustainable bioenergy can be produced with energy-efficient and low-emission technologies , and is derived from sustainable biomass resources .

Sustainable bioenergy can make a crucial contribution to keep global warming below 1.5 °C by the end of the century. It plays a unique role in just and inclusive energy transitions , and is especially important for sectors and regions where other decarbonization options are costly or not yet available.

Biomass and its bioenergy derivatives are versatile, storable and dispatchable ; they can replace fossil energy and complement variable renewables and other low-carbon options in transport, power and heat production, industrial processes and clean cooking, thereby enhancing resilience in the energy system.

Sustainable bioenergy can contribute to energy security, clean energy access, rural development, increased agricultural productivity, improved farmer incomes, job creation, gender equality, responsible industrial development, poverty eradication, and climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies .

Benefits and trade-offs of bioenergy systems depend on context, scale, and local needs and priorities. Good governance of bioenergy systems is key to maximize opportunities and minimize risks of negative impacts , and to ensure an integrated approach that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Good governance builds on evidence-based assessment of environmental, economic, social and political factors, and safeguards food and energy security, climate justice, biodiversity stewardship, land and water rights and local development priorities. It follows the principles of nature-based solutions, [1] including local stakeholder engagement, and free, prior and informed consent. Recognized norms for quality and sustainability can facilitate investment, fair trade, monitoring and verification.

Through good governance, sustainable bioenergy addresses the risks related to the land and resources used for its production and the potential impacts on food security, natural ecosystems and carbon stocks, [2] as well as the challenges in managing equity and justice, and achieving economic competitiveness and affordability.

This statement was developed by a Cross-Initiative coordination group on bioenergy convened by the Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP). The Statement was issued by:

Clean Energy Ministerial Biofuture Platform Initiative

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP)

International Energy Agency (IEA)

IEA Bioenergy Technology Collaboration Programme

International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)

United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)

[1] United Nations Assembly Resolution on nature-based solutions for supporting sustainable development (UNEP/EA.5/Res.5).

[2] As discussed in IPCC, 2019. Climate Change and Land: an IPCC special report on climate change, desertification, land degradation, sustainable land management, food security, and greenhouse gas fluxes in terrestrial ecosystems (P.R. Shukla, J. Skea, E. Calvo Buendia, V. et al. [eds.]). 

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Joint Statement on Sustainable bioenergy for climate and development goals

21 June 2024

In consideration of the persistent debates about what role bioenergy should play in support of climate and sustainable development goals, and acknowledging the most recently available scientific evidence, the undersigned organizations issued the following joint statement.  

Sustainable bioenergy is a  component of the bioeconomy . It can be produced from biomass resources in multi-functional, integrated agriculture, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture systems, along with food, feed and/or bio-based products, from biogenic waste and residue streams, or as a co-product of ecosystem management.

Sustainable bioenergy can be produced with  energy-efficient  and  low-emission technologies , and is derived from  sustainable biomass resources .

Sustainable bioenergy can make a  crucial contribution to keep global warming below 1.5 °C  by the end of the century. It plays a  unique role in just and inclusive energy transitions , and is especially important for sectors and regions where other decarbonization options are costly or not yet available.

Biomass and its bioenergy derivatives are  versatile, storable and dispatchable ; they can replace fossil energy and complement variable renewables and other low-carbon options in transport, power and heat production, industrial processes and clean cooking, thereby enhancing resilience in the energy system.

Sustainable bioenergy can contribute to  energy security, clean energy access, rural development, increased agricultural productivity, improved farmer incomes, job creation, gender equality, responsible industrial development, poverty eradication, and climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies .

Benefits and trade-offs of bioenergy systems  depend on context, scale, and local needs and priorities.   Good governance   of bioenergy systems is key to maximize opportunities and minimize risks of negative impacts , and to ensure an integrated approach that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Good governance  builds on evidence-based assessment of environmental, economic, social and political factors, and safeguards food and energy security, climate justice, biodiversity stewardship, land and water rights and local development priorities. It follows the principles of nature-based solutions, [1]  including local stakeholder engagement, and free, prior and informed consent. Recognized norms for quality and sustainability can facilitate investment, fair trade, monitoring and verification.

Through good governance, sustainable bioenergy  addresses the risks   related to the land and resources  used for its production and the potential impacts on food security, natural ecosystems and carbon stocks, [2]  as well as the challenges in managing equity and justice, and achieving economic competitiveness and affordability.

This statement was developed by a Cross-Initiative coordination group on bioenergy convened by the Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP). The Statement was issued by:

Clean Energy Ministerial Biofuture Platform Initiative

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP)

International Energy Agency (IEA)

IEA Bioenergy Technology Collaboration Programme

International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)

United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)

[1]  United Nations Assembly Resolution on nature-based solutions for supporting sustainable development (UNEP/EA.5/Res.5).

[2]  As discussed in IPCC, 2019.  Climate Change and Land: an IPCC special report on climate change, desertification, land degradation, sustainable land management, food security, and greenhouse gas fluxes in terrestrial ecosystems  (P.R. Shukla, J. Skea, E. Calvo Buendia, V.  et al.  [eds.]). 

For further information, please contact:  

Jossy Thomas , Industrial Development Officer, UNIDO.

Sustainable energy systems, MSc

Global warming and declining fossil-fuel resources have placed the development and implementation of sustainable energy systems at the top of the political agenda worldwide. Major investments in new energy technologies and systems will revolutionise our societies and economies in the coming decades. With unique research facilities and instruction from world-leading researchers and industry professionals, this state-of-the-art education will prepare you to operate at the forefront of that revolution.

Sustainable energy systems master's programme​ at Chalmers

Global warming and fossil fuel depletion increasingly place the development of sustainable energy systems at the top of political agendas around the world. Major investments in new energy technologies and systems to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions will continue to grow in the coming decades.

To meet this challenge this master’s programme provides a state-of-the-art education by world-leading researchers and industry professionals in combination with access to unique research facilities.

The future will most likely mainly be powered by renewable energy sources like hydropower, bioenergy, solar energy and wind power, but in the process of getting there, society needs a bridge between the technologies of today and the ones of the future.

At Chalmers, we are experts with respect to many of the technologies of the future, but also in the bridging technologies and systems that will characterize the professional careers of energy engineers in the coming decades. For instance, several departments conduct cutting-edge research with respect to carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), aspects which will be covered in this master's programme.

Besides analysing the present and expected future energy systems and technologies, the programme covers the transition between them. With this, we offer world-leading education in technologies for clean and efficient heat and power generation, Carbon capture and storage (such as chemical looping and oxyfuel combustion), optimization and CO2 mitigation of chemical and industrial processes, efficient energy use in buildings, smart power grids for wind and solar power integration and bioenergy. At a system level, we specialize in energy systems modelling and planning and in environmental impact analysis of the energy sector through life cycle analysis, ecological risk and environmental assessments.

Energy is one of the university's areas of advance and tops the budget list for our strategic research and educational plan. Our faculty consists of world-renowned researchers who are active in the courses. This unique, hands-on and state-of-the-art education in the area of advanced energy technologies and systems provides you with the proficiency needed to undertake energy engineering tasks that assess both technical, environmental and financial aspects. You will be able not only to master current energy systems and technologies but also get a close insight into the ones of the future.

The master's programme has close collaborations with many key players in the energy sector, for example, electric power utilities, the chemical and process industry, energy companies and energy equipment manufacturers. Our courses have guest lecturers from the industry, industrial site visits and analysis of real industrial cases. This will give you close contact with several sites in the Gothenburg area such as GoBiGas (the world’s largest biogas project), GoteborgWindLab (Sweden’s largest windmill), the West Coast chemical industry and refinery cluster, the car manufacturer Volvo, and the workshop of the boiler manufacturer Valmet.

As we strive for the students to achieve a deep and holistic understanding of technologies and systems, we seek a balance between different forms of teaching. In the courses, you will take part in individual and group assignments, in addition to lectures, projects, case studies, problem-solving sessions, laboratories and seminars, providing you with an opportunity to train in teamwork as well as in written and oral communication and presentation skills. 

Creating energy system models and seeing advanced technologies during plant visits does not only deepen our understanding of sustainable energy, but also motivates us in creating a more sustainable future

Topics covered

The subjects of sustainability and energy technology are fundamental areas in the Sustainable energy systems master’s programme at Chalmers. The courses span a wide range of topics, from higher-level energy systems and process industry to more fundamental processes at a more detailed level, such as combustion processes and computational fluid dynamics. We offer a number of suggested “Profile tracks” where you can choose courses that align best with your interests. In this way, we educate energy engineers with a broad knowledge of the energy systems, but with detailed knowledge in specific and important areas.

Programme structure

Profile tracks, sustainable development.

The energy sector is arguably the largest industrial sector globally. With the challenge of resource depletion and climate change, there will be a future need for energy engineers who have core competencies in energy system analysis. By acquiring deep technical knowledge of the main energy technologies and by understanding how they interact with economics and energy policies, our graduates become experts in identifying sustainable solutions to complex problems in the energy field.

Graduates from our programme will be well-prepared for tasks such as the design, development and implementation of energy systems and technologies. Graduates will also be able to contribute to energy policy development. Examples of career opportunities after graduation from the programme include the utility industry, the energy-intensive process industry, district heating and cooling companies, larger municipalities, consulting companies, energy equipment manufacturers, research institutes and government agencies.

A significant number of the master's thesis projects in the programme are conducted together with the industry. This is often also the place where our graduates obtain their first job. In addition, a number of our students also pursue higher-level academic studies, such as PhD positions both at Chalmers and other academic institutions.

Chalmers has a very strong international position in energy research, with external research funding from industry, the EU and the Swedish Energy Agency in the areas of energy conversion technologies and energy systems analysis and design. Chalmers campus hosts smart grid labs, about half of all the chemical looping reactors that exist, an oxyfuel rig, an indoor climate lab and an energy machines lab.

The world's largest fluidized bed combustion research facility and gasifier are also located centrally on campus and are closely connected to the programme. 

Most of the research projects connected to energy systems and energy technology are given by teachers who have active contact with the industry through their projects which benefits our students. There is also a strong presence of industrial partners in the programme, exchange of knowledge, networking and keeping the programme in line with the continuously developing needs of the industry. For example, our students learn and use Epsilon and Aspen, software that is currently being used at several heat and power plants and industries.

Find out more about research in Space, earth and environment

Requirements

General entry requirements, specific entry requirements, english language requirements, required documents.

How to apply - From application to admission

This is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Master's programme at Chalmers University of Technology.

• Educational area Mechanical and Industrial design engineering
• Degree Master of Science, MSc
• Language English
• Place of study Johanneberg
• Duration: 2 Years
• Rate of study: Full-time, 100%
• Instructional time: Daytime
• Tuition fees 160 000 SEK / academic year

Mid-October – Mid-January Chalmers bachelor’s students only: Beginning of April

Questions about the application

• [email protected]
• +46 31 772 25 90

Phone hours 10:00–11:00 (weekdays)

Specific programme questions

• [email protected]
• +46 31 772 14 43
• To personal page

Important dates

• Application opens 16 October 2023
• Application closes 15 January 2024