Program Overview

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Introduction to the Sustainable Energy Engineering MSc

The Sustainable Energy Engineering MSc at the University of Birmingham is designed to help students develop the knowledge and skills needed to lead the transition to a net-zero future. This program focuses on the technologies, concepts, and approaches required for sustainable energy, enabling students to progress their careers and drive sustainability in the energy industry.

Course Overview

The MSc Sustainable Energy Engineering is a 1-year full-time course, involving 120 credits of taught material and a 60-credit research project completed over the summer. It can also be taken on a part-time basis over 2 years, with the research project completed in a single 3-month period at the end of year 2.

Course Structure

• Autumn Term: Students begin with a core module, Introduction to Sustainable Energy Engineering, which provides fundamental knowledge for developing sustainable energy systems. They also have a choice of specialized optional modules covering net-zero systems, thermal energy, advanced energy systems, hydrogen and fuel cells, and industrial engineering.
• Spring Term: Continuation of taught modules.
• Research Project: A 60-credit project completed over the summer (for full-time students) or in a single 3-month period at the end of year 2 (for part-time students).

Course Highlights

• Ranked 6th in the UK for Chemical Engineering by the Complete University Guide 2026.
• The University of Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, maintaining its position in the top 100 universities globally and placing it 11th amongst UK universities.
• Develop a deep understanding of the energy sector, exploring sustainable energy technologies, digitization, and power engineering.
• Learn from global experts and build a skillset to make data-driven decisions that accelerate innovations in energy.
• Flexibility to tailor studies to areas of specialist interest, such as net-zero systems, thermal energy, hydrogen technology, and industrial engineering.

Course Delivery

Teaching is delivered by world-leading researchers from the Birmingham Energy Institute, using a range of methods including lectures, tutorials, and workshops. These methods allow students to absorb large amounts of information, apply their knowledge to novel problems, and develop critical technical and analytical skills.

Module Information

The MSc course consists of 180 credits, with 100 core credits from Introduction to Sustainable Energy Engineering, Power Engineering, and the Research Project. The remaining 80 credits are from optional modules chosen by the student. Modules are subject to change to ensure they remain current and relevant.

Core Modules

• Introduction to Sustainable Energy Engineering (20 credits)
• Power Engineering (20 credits)
• Sustainable Energy Engineering Research Project (60 credits)

Optional Modules

Students select 80 optional credits from a list of modules, including but not limited to:

• Advanced Energy Systems
  • Energy Data Analytics and Modelling (20 credits)
  • Energy Systems Design and Policy (20 credits)
• Hydrogen and Fuel Cells
  • Electrolysis and Hydrogen Distribution (20 credits)
  • Fuel Cell Systems, Modelling, and Control (20 credits)
  • Hydrogen Safety, Policy and Markets (20 credits)
  • Introduction to Hydrogen and Fuel Cells (20 credits)
• Energy Systems
  • Net Zero Energy Systems (20 credits)
  • Thermal Energy (20 credits)
• Industrial Engineering
  • Industry 4.0 and Big Data (20 credits)
  • Strategy Development and Delivery (20 credits)
  • Sustainable fuel technologies (20 credits)

Teaching Staff

The program is led by Professor Sara Walker, with teaching delivered by world-leading researchers from the Birmingham Energy Institute.

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham, students must meet the general entry requirements and those specific to the course. This includes:

• A 2:1 Honours Degree in an engineering or physical sciences subject.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, or equivalent qualifications.

Fees and Scholarships

• Tuition fees for 2026 entry: £12,150 (full-time), £6,075 (part-time).
• The University offers more than £33 million in student support and scholarships.
• Postgraduate Masters loan available to all UK students.
• Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Application Process

Applications are submitted online, with a deadline of 28 August 2026 for UK and non-visa requiring applicants. Early applications are encouraged.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Sustainable Energy Engineering will be ready to begin or continue their careers in the ever-evolving energy sector, with a growing focus on net-zero technologies. The University's Careers Network provides support and guidance to help students gain an advantage in the job market or advance in their field.

Related Courses

• Global Energy Technologies and Systems MSc

Student Experience

At Birmingham, students have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life. The University offers a range of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, and all the support and advice needed. The campus is green and spacious, with state-of-the-art facilities, and the city of Birmingham provides a vibrant and cultural environment.