Program Overview

MSc Fusion Energy Science and Technologies

The MSc Fusion Energy Science and Technologies program is designed to push the boundaries of science and technology in the quest for limitless clean energy. This program is offered by the University of York, a research-intensive university and a member of the Russell Group.

Overview

The program starts with a series of foundation modules covering the essential concepts that underpin the main approaches to achieving fusion energy. Students will learn about both the science and technologies necessary for magnetic and inertial confinement approaches to fusion. These topics are supported by opportunities to develop and apply academic and technical skills to topics important to fusion.

Course Content

The course content includes:

• Fusion: from Concepts to Technologies
• Professional & Technical Skills in Fusion
• Plasma Physics and Fusion
• Circular Economy and Sustainable Engineering
• Frontiers of Fusion and Fusion Technology
• Computational and Data Science for Fusion
• Advanced Plasma Physics for Fusion and Applications
• Critical Evaluation of Renewable Energy System
• Machine Learning
• Advanced Project Management

Research Project

The research project is a team project that allows students to develop deep knowledge in a specific aspect of fusion or a related area of plasma science or technology. Team Projects are based at York Plasma Institute with some opportunities to visit and study in collaboration with industry partners and national laboratories.

Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes for this course include:

• Knowledge & understanding: Articulate the opportunities, challenges and unknowns at the forefront of fusion energy science and technology.
• Finding solutions: Develop and present solutions to complex problems using scientific, engineering, management and/or computational techniques.
• Critical analysis: Critically evaluate research, technical, management or policy literature and data.
• Delivering a project: Within a team, outline, develop and execute an open-ended independent investigation in fusion energy.
• Communicating to stakeholders: Communicate complex ideas associated with fusion science and technology in clear, precise, and accessible terms.

Fees and Funding

The annual tuition fees for 2026/27 are:

• UK (home): £13,900 (full-time), £6,950 (part-time)
• International and EU: £32,900 (full-time), £16,450 (part-time)

Teaching and Assessment

The teaching format includes lectures, industry speakers, seminars, frontier and practical workshops, directed reading, and independent study. Assessment is based on a mixture of closed- and open-book exams, essays, and oral presentations.

Careers and Skills

This course will start students off on a career in various fields within the growing plasma and fusion energy sector. Students will develop strong foundations in plasma and fusion concepts with the skill sets needed for seeking solutions to challenging and often complex problems.

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for this course is a 2:2 or equivalent in a broad range of STEM subjects. English language requirements include IELTS (Academic and Indicator) with a minimum score of 6.0, or equivalent qualifications.

Related Courses

Related courses include:

• MSc Renewable Energy Technologies
• MSc Intelligent Robotics
• MSc Data Science

About the University

The University of York is a research-intensive university and a member of the Russell Group. It is located in York, UK, and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university is committed to excellence, equality, and opportunity for all.