Program Overview

MSc Advanced Electrical Power & Energy Systems

The MSc Advanced Electrical Power & Energy Systems is a two-year advanced programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to lead the transformation of the energy sector. This programme is the UK's first two-year advanced programme in this field, providing a comprehensive education that blends advanced technical knowledge with strategic and professional development.

Key Facts

• Start date: September
• Accreditation: Institution of Engineering & Technology
• Study mode and duration: 21 months full-time
• Industry Engagement: Competitive internships available

Study with Us

This MSc programme is designed to meet the growing global demand for highly skilled professionals capable of shaping the future of the energy sector. Delivered by the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, the course provides a comprehensive education that blends advanced technical knowledge with strategic and professional development.

What You'll Study

This MSc course is structured to provide both depth and flexibility. Students will study a selection of taught compulsory and optional taught modules focused on the technologies, applications, regulatory policies, and operations associated with power and energy systems. These modules are designed to develop advanced technical expertise and knowledge alongside the leadership and professional engineering skills needed for a successful career in the dynamic, high-growth power and energy sectors.

Year 1

• Autumn semester - September to December: 60 credits of compulsory modules
• Spring semester - January to May: 60 credits of compulsory modules

Year 2

• Autumn semester - September to December: 40 credits of optional modules
• Autumn & Spring semesters - September to May: 80 credits for MSc project

MSc Project

Students who pass all required taught modules will progress to the MSc Project, undertaken between May and August, and culminating with the Poster Presentation Day, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their research. MSc Projects involve an in-depth investigation on a topic chosen by the student within the field of electronic or electrical engineering. Projects may be:

• research-based, aligned with current departmental research themes, or
• industry-based, conducted as an unpaid internship with one of the department’s partner companies

Compulsory Modules

• Advanced Power & Energy Systems (20 credits)
• High Voltage Technology & Electromagnetic Compatibility (20 credits)
• Power Electronics for Energy & Drive Control (20 credits)
• Power System Economics, Markets & Asset Management (20 credits)
• Wind Energy & Distributed Energy Resources (20 credits)
• Assignment & Professional Studies (20 credits)

Optional Modules

Students will study no more than 40 credits of optional modules. Please note that the below is an indicative list of modules, reflecting the curriculum in the current year. These modules are subject to change, but are likely to include:

• Digital Signal Processing Principles (20 credits)
• Information Transmission & Security (20 credits)
• Control Principles (20 credits)
• Software Engineering (20 credits)
• Wind Turbine Technology (20 credits)
• 5G Communications Networks (20 credits)
• Hardware IoT Communication System Design (20 credits)
• Data Analytics & AI for Energy Systems (10 credits)

Learning & Teaching

The MSc is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining both in-person and online methods to provide a flexible and engaging educational experience. Teaching methods include:

• lectures (in-person & online)
• problem-solving tutorials
• hands-on, project-based laboratory sessions

Assessment

Each module employs a variety of assessment methods designed to maximise learning and help students realise their full potential. These methods may include:

• coursework – involving research, design & analysis tasks
• examinations – testing core theoretical knowledge & problem-solving
• lab reports – documenting technical investigations
• presentations – developing the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly & professionally
• group projects – fostering collaboration & innovation skills
• final MSc Project – a substantive piece of independent work demonstrating mastery of a specialist area

Professional Development & Employability

The MSc offers:

• access to cutting-edge facilities & state-of-the-art laboratories
• guidance from academic experts who are leaders in their fields
• opportunities for industry engagement through internships, guest seminars, careers events & networking sessions

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements/experience: Normally a first-class or second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in electronic, electrical, power or energy engineering.
• English language requirements: If English is not the first language, please visit the English language requirements page for full details of the requirements in place before making an application.

Fees & Funding

All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.

• Scotland: £11,900
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £11,900
• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• International: £31,100

Careers

This MSc provides the advanced knowledge and technical expertise required for exciting, well-paid, and impactful careers in the fast-paced and dynamic power and energy sectors. Graduates are equipped to take on challenging roles across the global energy landscape, including:

• power generation, supply, and distribution
• network operation and grid management
• renewables, low-carbon, and clean energy technologies

Recent graduates have secured professional and technical positions as electrical engineers, power systems specialists, and distribution and asset managers in leading national and multinational energy utilities. Beyond the energy sector, the technical and professional skills developed through this MSc open doors to a wide range of other industries, including manufacturing, construction, engineering consultancy, telecommunications, defence, and transportation.