Program Overview

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Sustainable Energy Technologies (MSc)

About this course

This Sustainable Energy Technologies MSc offers an introduction to current and modern energy technologies for sustainable power generation. You’ll gain expertise and practical skills in areas of energy research including photovoltaics, fuel cells, energy storage and batteries, combustion, electrical power systems, and wind, wave and tidal energy.

Sustainable energy technologies need to meet a range of criteria across economic, social and environmental metrics.

This master’s course will give you an understanding of sustainable energy systems, resources and usage. You’ll learn to design and assess the performance of fuel cells and photovoltaic systems, wind power and hybrid propulsion systems. You’ll also learn how thermo-fluid engineering processes can be used for the production of low-carbon energy.

You'll also look at other renewable technologies and have the option to undertake a range of specialist modules, covering subjects such as waste resource management to bioenergy.

Under the guidance of world-class experts, you’ll have the chance to put theoretical and practical skills to the test as you undertake a piece of independent research culminating in a dissertation.

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

Your course leader is Dr Carlos Ponce de León Albarrán, a senior lecturer within Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research interests include borohydride fuel cells, aluminium air batteries, and metal recovery from water. Read Dr Carlos Ponce de León Albarrán's staff profile to find out more about his work.

Accreditations

This master's programme is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) as meeting the academic requirement for Further Learning, for Chartered Engineer registration. Candidates must hold a BEng/BSc undergraduate first degree that is accredited for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

European Accreditation of Engineering Programmes (EAEP)

Engineering Council

Learn more about this subject area

Civil engineering

Use creativity and technical expertise to come up with innovative solutions to society's pressing challenges. Design and build structures and systems to meet our energy, transport, water and other essential needs.

Course locations

This course is based at Highfield and Boldrewood.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

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Entry requirements

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in one of the following:

• chemical, mechanical, electrical or civil engineering
• maths
• physics

You'll also need a 2:1 in maths modules.

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.

Information for students who have studied in China

This programme only accepts applicants who have studied at an X1, X2, X3 or X4 institution.

View acceptable grades from Chinese universities.

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

IELTS score requirements

• overall score: 6.5
• reading: 6.0
• writing: 6.0
• speaking: 6.0
• listening: 6.0

If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of our pre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. Learn more about the programmes available.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email:
Tel:+44(0)

Course structure

This full-time master's course runs for a whole year.

The first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) will focus on the taught part of the course. You'll sit exams at the end of each 12-week semester.

You’ll spend the last 4 months of the course working on your research project and dissertation.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules

You must study the following modules:

Advanced Photovoltaics, Fuel Cells and Batteries

This module aims to provide the understanding of solar cell operation, relevant optical structures, photovoltaic systems and advanced concepts for high efficiency and low cost. Charge carrier statistics and transport are discussed in detail with applications to photovoltaic systems.

Applications of Renewable Energy, Storage and Nuclear Energy

This module covers applications of renewable energy, storage and nuclear power. The module is split equally across the three aspects of renewable energy, storage and nuclear power.

Introduction to Energy Technologies, Environment and Sustainability

This module covers energy conversion fundamentals and technologies whilst relating these elements to sustainability. This module looks at energy from social, environmental and economic perspectives.

MSc Research Project

Within the context of your programme of study, students will undertake independent, original and critical research on a relevant topic. Students will then communicate the research objectives, methodology, analysis, results and conclusions effectively both in written and oral forms.

Principles of Photovoltaics, Fuel Cells and Batteries

This module covers the aspects of design and operation of modern fuels cells and photovoltaic systems. It discusses the fundamentals, structure, materials and operation of these systems. Students attending this module are expected to have understood the principles of photovoltaics, fuel cells and batteries.

Renewable Energy from Wind, Wave and Tide

The atmospheric and gravitational processes present on the earth generate flows of wind and water. This module studies these resources and practical methods/technologies for extracting cost-effective electrical and other energy conversions. The main focus is on wind energy, but wave and tidal energy are also covered.

Sustainable energy systems, resources and usage

The module provides an understanding of general energy concepts and how to apply energy related techniques gained through specialist courses to every-day situations. We will also take a look at the energy flows around our planet and consider issues such as energy security, energy poverty and climate change.

You must also choose from the following modules:

Advanced Electrical Systems

To provide an introduction to power system analysis and power electronics, and an in-depth coverage of electrical machine operation and design in the context of applications from the fields of renewable energy, marine propulsion, robotics and electric vehicles.

Bioenergy

The bioenergy industry is undergoing rapid growth due to the policy drivers underpinning the current interest in bioenergy, such as energy security and climate change. This module provides an overview of key topics on sustainable bioenergy production, including feedstocks, conversion technologies, and end-use applications.

Data Analytics in Civil, Environmental, and Energy Systems

Given the importance of data analytics, this module provides students with a systematic and comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of applied statistical modelling. It shows how statistical analysis can be used to solve civil and environmental engineering problems.

Energy Performance Assessment of Buildings

This module gives an overview of the policy issues, various planning aids and assessment methods available to quantify energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings. Students will be able to use different tools to investigate building energy performance.

Offshore Engineering & Analysis

Offshore infrastructure forms a key part of our global communication, energy generation, material transport and environment monitoring networks. This module examines the general engineering concepts and analytical techniques that are fundamental to design, construction and operation of offshore systems.

Thermo-Fluid Engineering for Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS)

Hydrocarbon fuels contribute more than 85% of world energy production, but also contribute more than 60% of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. As research continues to find alternative and more sustainable energy production technologies hydrocarbon fuels will continue to play a significant role in the energy mix.

Waste Resource Management

The module considers solid wastes from industry, commerce and domestic sources. The concept of a waste management hierarchy is introduced and practical ways in which it might be implemented are discussed. These include waste minimisation, reuse, recycling, energy recovery and landfill.

Learning and assessment

Learning

Learning methods depend on your choice of modules, but could include:

• lectures
• tutorials
• individual and group exercises
• practical work

Assessment

We'll assess you through:

• written exams
• coursework
• problem-solving exercises
• laboratory reports
• design exercises
• essays
• presentations
• individual and group projects

Dissertation

You’ll carry out a major piece of independent research and present your findings in a dissertation.

This is a chance for you to show the skills and knowledge you’ve gained during the master's. Your project will focus on a topic you've studied in the taught part of the course.

Academic Support

We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.

Careers and employability

Employability skills

This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.

The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:

• Research
• Critical thinking
• Commercial awareness
• Self-management
• Confidence
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Creativity
• Problem solving
• Resilience

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview

Career pathways

Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:

• Information and Communication,
• Education,
• Finance and Insurance,
• Public Administration and Defence,
• Scientific and Technical,
• Manufacturing,
• Transport.

Careers directly related to this course:

• Sustainability consultant
• Environmental engineer
• Energy consultant
• University lecturer
• Research scientist
• Environmental statistician
• Environmental monitoring officer
• Ecologist
• Conservation officer

See more

Wider career opportunities:

• Project manager
• Data scientist
• Building control surveyor
• Risk assessor
• Nuclear engineer
• Energy assessor
• Consultant
• Project engineer
• Analyst

See more

Example job titles of Southampton MSc Sustainable Energy Technologies graduates*:

• Analyst
• Energy consultant
• Sustainability consultant
• Project engineer
• Renewable energy analyst
• Research and development supervisor
• Submarine officer
• Data analyst
• Sustainability coordinator
• Secondary school teacher

See more

Job prospects for MSc Sustainable Energy Technologies graduates

£30k

Average professional salary

93%

In a skilled profession or further study

100%

Graduate employment rate

Source

*Example graduate job titles and job prospect statistics taken from The Graduate Outcomes Survey, which gathers information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after finishing their course.

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Read more

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV and interview skills and workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,250.
• EU and international students pay £31,500.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

Deposit

If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.

Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.

Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on our tuition fees for overseas students page.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

• accommodation costs
• living costs
• budgeting advice
• fees, charges and expenses regulations

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

1. Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions).
6. Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.

Application deadlines

There are different deadlines for this course:

• International students who require an ATAS: Tuesday 29 July 2025, midday UK time
• International students who do not require an ATAS: Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time
• UK students: Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.

If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.

You’ll need to include information about:

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

References are not required for this programme.

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email:
Tel:+44(0)

Related courses

Sustainable Energy Technologies (MSc) is a course in the Civil engineering subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area:

• MSc Applied Coastal and Offshore Geoscience
• MSc Civil Engineering
• MSc Civil Engineering with Integrated Qualifying Year
• MSc Energy and Sustainability: Energy, Environment and Buildings
• MSc Energy and Sustainability: Energy, Resources and Climate Change
• MSc Transportation Planning and Engineering: Behaviour
• MSc Transportation Planning and Engineering: Infrastructure
• MSc Transportation Planning and Engineering: Operations