Masters Degrees (Energy)

Discover the real-world career opportunities in the energy sector with this MSc in Energy and Environmental Technology and Economics.

Who is it for?

Wherever you are, energy has an implication. This course is for students who want to engage with different types of settings to research and establish the energy, environmental and technological implications that exist within them. Energy and Environmental Technology and Economics students will care for the environment as a sustainable system and ultimately have a desire to improve conditions for the wider population.

Students come from a range of backgrounds including engineering, finance and economics – and from within the energy industry itself.

Objectives

This Masters degree has been designed to give you a wide perspective when it comes to analysing and forecasting the future for energy, environmental technology and economics. We engage with the industry so you gain a real-world understanding of the problems that exist, and we consider our own ethical responsibilities in relation to energy use.

Imagine a Grade 1-listed building such as the Guildhall in London. As an energy consultant your task is to analyse the site to make it more efficient. But there is a caveat: you cannot make any structural changes to the walls or the windows. The MSc Energy and Environmental Technology and Economics course gives you the tools to examine and address these kinds of challenges.

The MSc Energy and Environmental Technology and Economics course is not about learning academic theories. Instead we focus on the breadth of the subject in the real world. By engaging with practising businesses and trade associations we identify a range of perspectives, and look at the influence of a myriad of other forces at play, from regulation and government funding, to behavioural psychology and emerging technologies. Here are some of the questions the course poses:
-Does this new form of technology operate as it should?
-How does the UK relate to other European countries when it comes to energy efficiency?
-How does organisational psychology affect energy use within a company?
-How do you decide which energy contract to choose?
-What is the impact of a consumer society on personal energy use?

Placements

There is no formal requirement to do an industry-based placement as part of the programme. However, some students arrange to undertake their dissertation research within a company or within their part of the world. A recent student investigated the future of coal-fired generation in Turkey, and another student is combining a work placement at The World Energy Council with their dissertation.

Academic facilities

As part of the University of London you can become a member of Senate House Library for free with your student ID card.

Teaching and learning

Teaching is organised into modules comprising four consecutive day courses taken at a rate of one a month or so. This format makes the programme accessible for students who want to study part time while working.

Full-time students are also welcome. Whether you choose to take the course as a part-time or full-time student, we will offer a great deal of support when it comes to helping you prepare for the modules and project work. You will be expected to devote a significant part of your non-taught hours to project work as well as private study.

Our course is led by an exceptional group of experts in energy, supply, demand management and policies. As an example, one of our module leaders leads the UK contribution to writing international energy management standards and informing policy through the European Sector Forum for Energy Management. This forum looks at methodologies across the continent. There is also input to global standards development through the International Standards Organisation (ISO). At City we bring on board people with well-established academic careers as well as leaders from the energy industry. The programme has strong links with industry and commerce and involves many visiting lecturers who hold senior positions in their fields.

The Energy and Environmental Technology and Economics MSc gives you the opportunity to consider the role of International Energy Management Standards. You will explore the opportunities these standards provide for global service users and providers in relation to reducing energy costs and the environmental impact of energy use.

You will discover the range of current European and International Standards, explore why they are needed and how they are developed, and examine the benefits they deliver through case studies.

The UK has had a leading role in developing these standards in terms of both their writing and implementation. For example the Energy Audit standard, which forms part of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive, Article 8, mandates audits for private sector, non-SME organisations. In the UK this has been implemented as the Energy Savings Opportunities Scheme (ESOS).

Modules

Each course module is taught over four consecutive days of teaching with one module each month. Alongside the teaching you will have coursework to complete for each module. The modules run from October to April, and in the remaining time, you will concentrate on your dissertation, which forms a significant part of the programme.

The dissertation gives you the opportunity to create your own questions and to decide on your own area of interest. It should be a detailed investigation into a subject on energy supply and/or demand, with your own analysis and conclusions outlining the way forward. You may see the focus of your dissertation as a future career path, but whatever your area of study, these final few months of the degree should embody your vision of the future.

You will take four core modules and have six elective modules from which you can choose four topics from diverse subjects relating to energy supply and demand. These include energy in industry and the built environment, renewables, energy markets from the purchaser’s perspective and water supply and management. The latter has close parallels, and directly engages, with energy. You start the course with an introduction to energy and environmental issues and energy policies and economic dimensions in the first term, but you do not need to follow the course in any particular order from this point onwards.

If you are interested in sustainability, you have the option of taking up to two elective modules from the MSc in Environmental Strategy offered by the University of Surrey.

Completing eight modules and four examinations and four modular assessments will lead to a Postgraduate Diploma. Completing four core and four elective modules and a dissertation will lead to a Masters degree. If you are interested in this course may also be interested in the MSc Renewable Energy and Power Systems Management.

Core modules
-Introduction to energy and environmental issues (15 credits)
-Energy policies and economic dimensions (15 credits)
-The energy market from the purchaser's perspective (15 credits)
-Corporate energy management (15 credits)

Elective modules
-Energy, consumer goods and the home (15 credits)
-Transport energy and emissions (15 credits)
-Energy in industry and the built environment (15 credits)
-Renewable energy and sustainability (15 credits)
-Risk management (15 credits)
-Water supply and management (15 credits)

Career prospects

The story of energy is now part of public debate and climate change drives the international agenda. In the UK, there are additional energy supply issues, through the decline of existing nuclear capacity, growing imports of fossil fuels and challenging medium-term targets for renewables and low carbon supply.

Our priority is to make you employable in a range of sectors in which effective energy supply and demand side management has become an important consideration.

You will graduate with economic and market-based skills relevant to complying with relevant legislation and technical and engineering skills related to energy generation and management.

With strong industry links and working level experience from our exceptional team of expert lecturers, as well as the diverse modules on offer, you will be equipped to become a leader and entrepreneur in your chosen area of specialisation within the realm of energy management, supply or policy making.

Our graduates have gone on to hold high-ranking positions as energy consultants, data analysts and directors of corporate sustainability working within organisations including:
-AK Home Energy
-Enelco Environmental Technology
-Energy Institute
-Equinoxe Services Ltd
-Log Tech Consultancy
-Ofgem
-Peckham Power
-RWE NPower Renewables
-SCFG

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Mission and goals

Energy Engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the design and the management of energy plants and their components in order to ensure the best use of the available resources with the minimum environmental impact. Energy plants are systems in which energy forms are transformed and utilized. To name a few examples: large thermal power stations, air-conditioning and climate control equipment for residences and offices, vehicle engines, airplane propellers, solar panels etc.
The Master of Science in Energy Engineering prepares professionals to design, select and use the main technologies in energy transformation, to actively follow scientific improvements and to operate effectively in a competitive and multi-disciplinary industrial context, characterized by significant environmental, regulatory and safety constraints. Students will analyze broad themes as well as specific subjects for which both a rigorous methodological approach to thermodynamics and an open attitude towards related interdisciplinary topics are required.

See the website http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/energy-engineering/energy-engineering-track/

Professional opportunities

Graduates can find employment in several sectors: in the technical area of designing, testing, running, and maintaining the energy systems, like heating and cooling systems, thermal power and hydro-electric power plants, engines, oil and gas fields; in the energy management area; and in utilities and public boards that supply energy as electricity and natural gas.

Presentation

See http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/uploads/media/Energy_Engineering_MI.pdf
Energy Engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the design and the management of energy plants and their components in order to ensure the best use of the available resources with the minimum environmental impact. Energy plants are
systems in which energy forms are transformed and utilized. To name a few examples: large thermal power stations, air-conditioning and climate control equipment for residences and offices, vehicle engines, airplane propellers, solar panels etc. The Master of Science in Energy Engineering prepares professionals to design, select and use the main technologies in energy transformation, to actively follow scientific improvements and to operate effectively in a competitive and multi-disciplinary industrial context, characterized by significant environmental, regulatory and safety constraints. Students will analyze broad themes as well as specific subjects for which both a rigorous methodological approach to thermodynamics and an open attitude towards related interdisciplinary topics are required.
Graduates can find employment in several sectors: in the technical area of designing, testing, running, and maintaining the energy systems, like heating and cooling systems, thermal power and hydro-electric power plants, engines, oil and gas fields; in the energy management area; and in utilities and public boards that supply energy as electricity and natural gas. The programme is taught in English.

Subjects

- Five tracks available: Power Production; Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning; Oil and Gas Engineering; Energy Engineering for an Environmentally Sustainable World (offered on Piacenza campus, see separate leaflet); Energy for Development.

- Subjects and courses common to all the tracks: Heat and Mass Transfer; Fundamentals of Chemical Processes; Advanced Energy Engineering and Thermoeconomics;; Combustion and Safety; Energy Conversion or Refrigeration, Heat Pumps and Thermal Power Systems and Components; Energy Economics or Project Management or Management Control Systems; Graduation Thesis.

- Optional subjects according to the selected track: Development Economy; Engineering and Cooperation for Development; Power Production from Renewable Sources; Engineering of Solar Thermal Processes; Petroleum Reservoir Engineering; Petroleum Technology and Biofuel; Transport Phenomena in the Reservoirs; CFD for Energy Engineering Analysis; System and Electrical Machines; Advanced Energy Systems; Dynamic Behavior and Diagnostics of Machines; Materials for Energy; Turbomachinery; Internal Combustion Engines; Air Conditioning and Room Pollutant-Controlling Plants, Energy Savings and Renewable Energies in Buildings; Applied Acoustics and Lighting; Design of Thermal Systems; Energy Systems and Low-Carbon Technologies; Air Pollutions and Control Engineering; Operation and Control of Machines for Power Generation; Bio-energy and Waste-to-Energy Technologies; Smart Grids and Regulation for Renewable Energy Sources.

See the website http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/energy-engineering/energy-engineering-track/

For contact information see here http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/energy-engineering/energy-engineering-track/

Find out how to apply here http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/how-to-apply/

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*Why do energy efficiency measures often fail?
*How will we transition into a post-carbon energy system?
*Why do some energy technologies spread, while others disappear?
*How can people be persuaded to change their energy habits?

The MSc in Energy and Society investigates energy systems from all angles. On this course you will look at energy in practice, what it means to make an energy transition, what we mean by energy justice, and how energy practices change.

The programme brings in leading experts in energy studies at Durham from Anthropology, Engineering, Economics, Law, Geography, Geosciences and many other departments. It is taught through intensive block-teaching, field-study, original dissertation research and a range of optional modules that complement the core teaching. You will learn about current and new energy technologies, histories of energy, how to understand energy policy, and how to study energy practices.

A broad range of optional subjects enables you to tailor the course according to your particular interests – you can take modules in law, international politics, advanced engineering, geography, risk, development or resilience, depending on your prior qualifications. In your fully supported personal research project you will deepen your expertise in your chosen area.

The full-time course consists of two terms of teaching, during which students are introduced to the range of research questions and methods, and a dissertation, involving the design, development and implementation of an independent research project. Students work closely with academic staff, and have the opportunity to become involved in active research projects.

Compulsory modules

-Dissertation
-Energy in Practice (Field Study)
-Context and Challenges in Energy
-Energy Society and Energy Practices

Optional modules from across the University and have previously included:

-Academic and Professional Skills in Anthropology
-Fieldwork and Interpretation
-Group Renewable Energy Design Project
-Key Issues in Sociocultural Theory
-Society, Energy, Environment and Resilience
-Computational Methods for Social Sciences
-Anthropology and Development
-Negotiating the Human
-Statistical Analysis in Anthropology
-Energy, Markets and Risk
-Renewable Energy and the Environment
-Risk Frontiers

Please see http://www.durham.ac.uk/anthropology/postgraduatestudy/taughtprogrammes/mscenergyandsociety for further information on modules.

Dissertation

We place an emphasis on independent learning. This is supported by the University’s virtual learning environment, extensive library collections and informal contact with tutors and research staff. We consider the development of independent learning and research skills to be one of the key elements of our postgraduate taught curriculum and one which helps our students cultivate initiative, originality and critical thinking.

The dissertation is a significant piece of independent research that constitutes a synthesis of theory, method and practice in anthropology and is supported by an individual supervisor and the dissertation coordinator.

Previous dissertations and research projects as part of the course have been undertaken in partnership with DONG Energy UK, Haringey Borough of London, National Energy Action, Durham County Council, energy enterprises and community energy schemes.

Careers

This course attracts high quality applicants from all over the world and delivers highly-skilled graduates who are able to communicate across disciplines and countries to further environmental progress and energy justice. Graduates of the MSc will be in demand from industry, community organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations and governments around the world. Graduates have gone on to work in Energy justice organisations, local authorities, energy consultancies and further Doctoral study.

Student support

Throughout the programme, all students meet regularly with the degree tutor, who provides academic support and guidance. Furthermore, all members of teaching staff have weekly office hours when they are available to meet with students on a ‘drop-in’ basis. In term time, the department also has an extensive programme of departmental and research group seminars which postgraduate students are encouraged and expected to attend. The undergraduate Anthropology Society also organises its own visiting lecturer programme. We ensure that we advertise any other relevant seminars and lectures in Durham, Newcastle and further afield, and encourage students to attend relevant conferences.

Before the academic year starts, we provide information on preparation for the course. On arrival we have induction sessions and social events, headed by the Director of Postgraduate Studies and attended by both academic and administrative staff. Students also attend an “Introduction to Research Groups in Anthropology”.

Postgraduate study at Durham University

The MSc Energy and Society is based in Durham University’s Department of Anthropology in association with the Durham Energy Institute. Durham has one of the largest Anthropology departments in the world with 40 research active academic teaching staff working across the full range of the discipline. Our Anthropology department is ranked in the top 50 of the prestigious QS World University Subject Rankings. The overall QS rankings also placed Durham 54th in the world for citations, recognising the impact and influence of its research among other academics, and 31st globally for employer reputation, giving recognition to the quality of, and international demand for, Durham’s graduates.

Students on this course can become members of the Durham Energy Institute (DEI) community and can attend its wide range of seminars and events, benefitting from its extensive network of contacts in the energy sector. DEI ( http://www.durham.ac.uk/dei/ ) covers the spectrum of energy research from technological innovation, to the social, political and economic dimensions of energy. DEI addresses energy challenges collaboratively through strong partnerships with industry, international partners, governments, community groups and other academic institutions. This ensures our research is relevant, timely and effective.

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Overview

This is a 12 month full-time Masters degree (See http://www.postgraduate.hw.ac.uk/prog/msc-renewable-energy-development-red-/ ) course taught at our Orkney Campus. It involves studying 8 taught courses and completing a research dissertation equivalent to 4 taught courses. If you can demonstrate that you have already mastered the subject, you may apply for an exemption from one of the taught courses and undertake a Design Project instead.

For more information visit http://www.hw.ac.uk/schools/life-sciences/research/icit.htm

Distance learning

The Renewable Energy Development MSc/Diploma is also available for independent distance learning. For distance learners, the main difference is that you will undertake the Development Project alone rather than as part of a group. You can still obtain the full MSc in Renewable Energy Development, or you can opt to study fewer courses, depending on your needs.

Programme content

- Energy in the 21st Century
This course is designed to give you a broad understanding of the environmental, political and socio-economic context for current developments in renewable energy. The course examines the extent of current energy resources and how energy markets function. It covers some energy basics you will need for the rest of the programme (e.g. thermodynamics, efficiency conversions) as well as environmental issues associated with energy use, climate change and the political and policy challenges involved in managing energy supply and achieving energy security.

- Economics of renewable energy
This course gives an understanding of the economic principles and mechanisms which affect energy markets today. It covers price mechanisms, the economics of extracting energy and the cost-efficiency of renewable energy technologies. You will learn about economic instruments used by policy-makers to address environment and energy issues, economic incentives to stimulate renewable energy development and about environmental valuation.

- Environmental Policy & Risk
This course explores the legal and policy context in which renewable energy is being exploited. You will gain an understanding of international law, particularly the Law of the Sea, property rights and how these relate to different energy resources. The course also looks at regulatory issues at the international, European and UK level, which affect how energy developments are taken forward, as well as risk assessment and management in the context of renewable energy developments.

- Environmental Processes
Particularly for those without a natural science background, this course provides a broad overview of the environmental processes which are fundamental to an understanding of renewable energy resources and their exploitation. You will study energy flows in the environment, environmental disturbance associated with energy use, and an introduction to the science of climate change. You will also learn about ecosystems and ecological processes including population dynamics and how ecosystems affect and interact with energy generation.

- Renewable Technology I: Generation
This course explores how energy is extracted from natural resources: solar, biomass, hydro, wind, wave and tide. It examines how to assess and measure the resources, and the engineering solutions which have been developed to extract energy from them. You will develop an understanding of the technical challenges and current issues affecting the future development of the renewable energy sector.

- Renewable Technology II: Integration
This course explores the technical aspects of generating renewable energy and integrating it into distribution networks. You will learn about the electricity grid and how electrical power and distribution systems work. You will find out about different renewable fuel sources and end uses, and the challenges of energy storage.

- Development Appraisal
Looking at what happens when renewable energy technologies are deployed, this course examines development constraints and opportunities: policy and regulatory issues (including strategic environmental assessment, environmental impact assessment, landscape assessment, capacity issues and the planning system). It also looks at the financial aspects (valuation of capital assets, financing projects and the costs of generating electricity) and at project management.

- Development Project
This is a team project, where students have the opportunity to apply what they have learned through the other courses in relation to a hypothetical project. You have to look at a range of issues including resource assessment, site selection, development layout, consents, planning and economic appraisal, applying the knowledge and tools you have studied.

- Optional design project
For students who can demonstrate existing knowledge covered by one of the courses, there is the option of understanding a design project supervised by one of our engineers.

- Dissertation
This research project (equivalent in assessment to 4 taught courses) allows you to focus on a specific area of interest, with opportunities to collaborate with businesses and other stakeholders. You choose your dissertation subject, in discussion with your supervisor.

- Additional information
If you study at our Orkney Campus, you will also benefit from a number of activities including guest lectures and practical sessions, which help to develop your skills and knowledge in your field of study, and offer opportunities to meet developers and others involved in the renewable energy industry.

Scholarships available

We have a number of fully funded Scottish Funding Council (SFC) scholarships available for students resident in Scotland applying for Renewable Energy Development (RED) MSc. Find out more about this scholarship and how to apply http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships/postgraduate-funded-places.htm .

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, or your first degree was not taught in English, we’ll need to see evidence of your English language ability. The minimum requirement for English language is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. We offer a range of English language courses (See http://www.hw.ac.uk/study/english.htm ) to help you meet the English language requirement prior to starting your masters programme:
- 14 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5 with no more than one skill at 4.5);
- 10 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5 with minimum of 5.0 in all skills);
- 6 weeks English (for IELTS 5.5 with minimum of 5.5 in reading & writing and minimum of 5.0 in speaking & listening)

Distance learning students

Please note that independent distance learning students who access their studies online will be expected to have access to a PC/laptop and internet.

Find information on Fees and Scholarships here http://www.postgraduate.hw.ac.uk/prog/msc-renewable-energy-development-red-/

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Why this course?

The MSc in Global Energy Management (GEM) is an intensive course aiming to produce future leaders in the energy sector.

The global energy system is undergoing a process of rapid change including:
- escalating demand
- constraints on supplies
- increasing energy prices
- regulatory pressures to reduce carbon emissions
- changing demographics and patterns of energy use and supply

Industries, economies and societies face complex challenges and uncertainties that could become more extreme in the future. Both government and industry need to be able to understand and adapt to this changing context.

Through this course you’ll gain a rigorous analytical training and in-depth real-world knowledge of global energy systems. There’s also hands-on training in the management of energy-related issues. Your training will help to give you an unrivalled edge in the energy job market.

This Masters degree is delivered by the Department of Economics.

See the website https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduatetaught/globalenergymanagement/

You’ll study

Core classes are designed around the latest academic research on the issues facing energy managers today. You’ll also have the opportunity to pursue your own interests through a variety of optional courses.

We run a series of interactive seminars called the Global Energy Forum. Leading international energy experts in business, government and other organisations provide you with practical insights and inside knowledge.

There are also field trips, conferences and you will complete a summer project.

Core classes:
- Global Energy Issues, Industries & Markets
- Global Energy Technologies, Impacts & Implementation
- Global Energy Policy, Politics, Business Structures & Finance
- Global Energy Forum
- Energy Economics
- Microeconomics or Macroeconomics

Elective classes:
You’ll be able to choose from many postgraduate classes offered in:
- The Strathclyde Business School
- The Faculty of Engineering
- The Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences

Facilities

The Strathclyde Business School is situated in a modern building in heart of Glasgow’s city centre. It’s designed to meet the demands of both corporate clients and students. Our school is equipped with up-to-date computing and technology facilities, study areas and its own café.

Accreditation

The MSc in Global Energy Management is accredited by the Energy Institute, the professional body for the energy industry. It is the first Masters course to hold academic accreditation for the professional status of Chartered Energy Manager.

The Strathclyde Business School is a triple accredited business school. It’s one of only a small percentage worldwide to hold this prestigious status, with full accreditation from the international bodies, AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS.

Energy Master Exchange Programme (EMEP)

Strathclyde Business School and Dauphine Université, Paris, have joined forces to bring future leading energy market professionals together by forming the Energy Master Exchange Programme (EMEP) Workshop.

Further information will be given when you enter the programme.

Pre-Masters Preparation Course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course for international students (non EU/UK) who do not meet the entry requirements for a Masters degree at the University of Strathclyde. The Pre-Masters programme provides progression to a number of degree options.
To find out more about the courses and opportunities on offer visit isc.strath.ac.uk or call today on +44 (0) 1273 339333 and discuss your education future. You can also complete the online application form , or to ask a question please fill in the enquiry form and talk to one of our multi-lingual Student Enrolment Advisers today.

Learning & teaching

You’ll be taught by highly committed and enthusiastic staff distinguished by their internationally-recognised research in energy and environmental related fields.
The course offers excellent opportunities to network with international energy specialists from a range of organisations.

Careers

Energy is the largest and most critical industry in the global economy today. It employs over 135,000 people directly and 500,000 in supporting roles.

Employers are seeking out skilled graduates to work in the energy industry and related fields. As a graduate in global energy management, you’ll be well placed to manage the complex challenges facing the global energy system in the 21st century.

We’ve designed this course to maximise the opportunities for industry engagement. You’ll take part in industry events such as the Scottish Oil Club.

While on the course you’ll become Learning Affiliates of the Energy Institute. You’re entitled to free Energy Institute membership. Membership includes:
- access to a wealth of energy related information
- significant discounts to attend conferences and seminars
- many opportunities to meet professionals across the energy sector

How much will I earn?

The range of typical starting salaries for an energy manager is £22,000 to £33,000 depending on the work sector and geographical area. Starting salaries may be higher for those with postgraduate qualifications and experience.*

*information is intended only as a guide.

Find information on Scholarships here http://www.strath.ac.uk/search/scholarships/index.jsp

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The Master in Global Energy Transition and Governance aims to give a deep understanding of the complexity of the current energy transformations in Europe and worldwide. The programme offers a unique, multidisciplinary approach which distinguishes it from other Master’s courses in the field of energy studies: It analyses the links between the different levels of energy governance, from an international to a local level, offering problem-focused learning at the crossroads of theory and practice. The one-year Master’s programme stretches over three terms and takes place in two study locations: Nice and Berlin.

Overview of the year

Nice

The first term in Nice encompasses classes on the basics of the four energy modules (International energy governance, Economic energy governance, the EU energy governance and Energy and territories). Each module is complemented by seminars dealing with current energy issues. An academic or professional expert is invited for each event.

Berlin

For their second term students move on to Berlin where teaching in the four modules continues in the form of workshops. Each module organises a half-day workshop with an expert. Students prepare the workshops in group work delivering papers on themes linked to the topic of the seminar (climate negotiations, energy stock exchange, the role of the EU interconnections in the European energy market, the EU funds and the territorial energy policy). To better understand the local energy challenges in the framework of the German Energy Transition Field, visits will also be organised in co-operation with local institutions and companies. Another focus of this term will be put on the methodology classes, one dedicated to the research work and the Master’s thesis, the second one to project management.

Nice

In April students return to Nice. The third term aims at deepening their knowledge on the four energy modules. A special focus is also given to the methodological support for the students’ work on their thesis including individual meetings with the academic supervisors. In the two simulations the participants will forge their negotiation techniques with regard to the construction of wind farms at local level and work out of a strategy for an international energy cooperation. Written and oral exams in June will conclude this term.

During this term students will finalise their work on their thesis in close contact with their academic supervisors. The thesis will be delivered in mid-June and defended at the end of June.

Curriculum

International energy governance

This module delivers the theoretical knowledge on the main international energy related issues and conflicts (resource curse, neoinstitutionalism, developmentalism, weak/strong States etc.).
It also provides the participants with concrete examples of the emergence and regulation of energy conflicts worldwide in order to analyse better how they exert pressure on the security and diversification of the energy supply. (10 ECTS)

Economic energy governance

Economic and market fundamentals are applied to the energy sector in order to understand the current multiple national, regional, and local low carbon energy pathways in the world.
The module examines how the different markets are regulated and how they influence the transitions from fossil fuels to renewable energies. The economic perspective will highlight the role of liberalisation, privatisation and regulation of the sector. (10 ECTS)

European energy governance

The aim of this module is to highlight the EU priorities and its decision-making process regarding clean energy transition in Europe, thus helping to understand political economy factors that both inhibit and accelerate it.
While focusing on how the different EU policies challenge institutional architectures and multilevel governance schemes, the module provides an insight into issues currently facing European policy makers such as social acceptance, sustainability of renewable energies as well as rapid advancement in clean energy technologies. (10 ECTS)

Energy and territories

Participants will examine how EU regions and cities and more generally territories develop their own low carbon strategy at the crossroads of many policies (housing, waste management, transport, fuel poverty, environment and energy) and in the framework of a multilevel governance system.
Concrete examples of local and regional strategies will be delivered in order to analyse the levers and obstacles for more decentralisation. (10 ECTS)

Methodology modules

Students will acquire skills in research methodology, energy project management and the elaboration of energy strategies. They will concretely experiment different methodological tools: first of all through the research work for their thesis, second thanks to the methodological tools of project management. Students will be involved in a simulation game in which they will have to decide on the construction of a wind park in a territory. In a negotiation game, participants will have to elaborate a common strategy in the perspective of international energy cooperation. (20 ECTS)

Thesis

For their Master’s thesis participants will carry out a profound research work on an energy issue, chosen and elaborated in regular coordination with their supervisor.
The thesis will require the application of the methodological tools which the students have acquired during the programme.
The academic work will involve in-depth desk research, possible interviews with external partners and the writing of a thesis of approximately 17,000 words. Candidates will defend their thesis in an oral exam. (30 ECTS)

Applications and Scholarships

Candidates can submit their application dossier by using the form available on the Institute’s website. They should also include all the relevant documents, or send them by post or e-mail. An academic committee meets regularly in order to review complete applications.
A limited number of scholarship funds can be awarded to particularly qualified candidates to cover some of the costs related to studies or accommodation. The deadline for applications is: 15 August

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any enquiry.

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Overview

This is a 12 month full-time MSc degree course (See http://www.postgraduate.hw.ac.uk/prog/msc-marine-renewable-energy/#overview ) taught at our Orkney Campus. It involves studying 8 taught courses. If you can demonstrate that you have already mastered the subject, you may apply for an exemption from one of the taught courses and undertake a Design Project instead. The MSc programme is completed with a research dissertation equivalent to 4 taught courses.

For more information visit http://www.hw.ac.uk/schools/life-sciences/research/icit.htm

Distance Learning

The Marine Renewable Energy MSc/Diploma is also available for independent distance learning. For distance learners, the main difference is that you will undertake the Development Project alone rather than as part of a group. You can still obtain the full MSc in Marine Renewable Energy, or you can opt to study fewer courses, depending on your needs.

Scholarships available

We have a number of fully funded Scottish Funding Council (SFC) scholarships available for students resident in Scotland applying for Marine Renewable Energy. Find out more about this scholarship and how to apply http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships/postgraduate-funded-places.htm .

Programme content

The Diploma and MSc degree course involves studying the 8 taught courses outlined below. If a student can demonstrate that they have already mastered the subject, they may undertake a Development Project instead of one of these courses.

- Energy in the 21st Century
This course is designed to give you a broad understanding of the environmental, political and socio-economic context for current developments in renewable energy. The course examines the extent of current energy resources and how energy markets function. It covers some energy basics you will need for the rest of the programme (e.g. thermodynamics, efficiency conversions) as well as environmental issues associated with energy use, climate change and the political and policy challenges involved in managing energy supply and achieving energy security.

- Economics of renewable energy
This course gives an understanding of the economic principles and mechanisms which affect energy markets today. It covers price mechanisms, the economics of extracting energy and the cost-efficiency of renewable energy technologies. You will learn about economic instruments used by policy-makers to address environment and energy issues, economic incentives to stimulate renewable energy development and about environmental valuation.

- Environmental Policy & Risk
This course explores the legal and policy context in which renewable energy is being exploited. You will gain an understanding of international law, particularly the Law of the Sea, property rights and how these relate to different energy resources. The course also looks at regulatory issues at the international, European and UK level, which affect how energy developments are taken forward, as well as risk assessment and management in the context of renewable energy developments.

- Oceanography & Marine Biology
This course is designed to give you an understanding of the science of waves and tides, and how this affects efforts to exploit energy from these resources. You will also learn about marine ecosystems and how these may be impacted by energy extraction and about the challenges and impacts associated with carrying out engineering operations in the marine environment.

- Marine Renewable Technologies
You will gain an understanding of renewable energy technologies which exploit wind, wave and tidal resources. The focus is on technical design issues which developers face operating in the marine environment, as well as the logistics of installation, operations and maintenance of marine energy converters.

- Renewable Technology: Integration
This course explores the technical aspects of generating renewable energy and integrating it into distribution networks. You will learn about the electricity grid and how electrical power and distribution systems work. You will find out about different renewable fuel sources and end uses, and the challenges of energy storage.

- Development Appraisal
Looking at what happens when renewable energy technologies are deployed, this course examines development constraints and opportunities: policy and regulatory issues (including strategic environmental assessment, environmental impact assessment, landscape assessment, capacity issues and the planning system). It also looks at the financial aspects (valuation of capital asses, financing projects and the costs of generating electricity) and at project management.

- Development Project
This is a team project, where students have the opportunity to apply what they have learned through the other courses in relation to a hypothetical project. You have to look at a range of issues including resource assessment, site selection, development layout, consents, planning and economic appraisal, applying the knowledge and tools you have studied.

- Dissertation
This research project (equivalent in assessment to 4 taught courses) allows you to focus on a specific area of interest, with opportunities to collaborate with businesses and other stakeholders. You choose your dissertation subject, in discussion with your supervisor.

- Additional information
If you study at our Orkney Campus, you will also benefit from a number of activities including guest lectures and practical sessions which help to develop your skills and knowledge in your field of study, and offer opportunities to meet developers and other involved in the renewable energy industry.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, or your first degree was not taught in English, we’ll need to see evidence of your English language ability. The minimum requirement for English language is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. We offer a range of English language courses (http://www.hw.ac.uk/study/english.htm ) to help you meet the English language requirement prior to starting your masters programme:
- 14 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5 with no more than one skill at 4.5);
- 10 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5 with minimum of 5.0 in all skills);
- 6 weeks English (for IELTS 5.5 with minimum of 5.5 in reading & writing and minimum of 5.0 in speaking & listening)

Distance learning students

Please note that independent distance learning students who access their studies online will be expected to have access to a PC/laptop and internet.

Find information on Fees and Scholarships here http://www.postgraduate.hw.ac.uk/prog/msc-marine-renewable-energy/#overview

Visit the Marine Renewable Energy MSc/Diploma page on the Heriot-Watt University web site for more details!

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About the course

Renewable energy is an essential and vital resource for the world’s future, and future there is an urgent need for engineers capable of solving the industry’s complex challenges in this field.

Studying Renewable Energy Engineering at Brunel provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to make a strategic real-world impact in the resolution of the world’s energy problems.

Graduates from Brunel’s MSc in Renewable Energy Engineering will develop:

- The versatility and depth to deal with new, demanding and unusual challenges across a range of renewable energy issues, drawing on an understanding of all aspects of renewable energy principles including economic assessment.

- The imagination, initiative and creativity to enable them to follow a successful engineering career with national and international companies and organisations.

- Specialist knowledge and transferable skills for successful careers including, where appropriate, progression to Chartered Engineer status.

Aims

Huge business incentives, markets and a wide variety of employment opportunities throughout the world are expected with the development of renewable energy resources as a substitute for fossil fuel technology.

The purpose of the MSc programme is to help meet this demand by cultivating qualified and skilled professionals with specialist knowledge in relevant technologies within the renewable energy sector.

The primary aim is to create Master’s degree graduates with qualities and transferable skills ready for demanding employment in the renewable energy sector. These graduates will have the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development and acquiring new skills at the highest level, and the programme also establishes a strong foundation for those who expect to continue onto a PhD or industrial research and development.

Initial programme learning outcomes

The programme will provide opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding of:

1.The principles and environmental impact of renewable energy technologies, including solar (thermal and electricity), wind, tidal, wave and hydro, geothermal, biomass and hydrogen.
3. The principles of energy conversion and appropriate thermodynamic machines.
4. The heat and mass transfer processes that relate to energy systems and equipment.
5. The principles, objectives, regulation, computational methods, economic procedures, emissions trading, operation and economic impact of energy systems.
6. The diversity of renewable energy system interactions and how they can be integrated into actual energy control systems and industrial processes.

At the cognitive thinking level, students will be able to:

1. Select, use and evaluate appropriate investigative techniques.
2. Assemble and critically analyse relevant primary and secondary data.
3. Recognise and assess the problems and critically evaluate solutions to challenges in managing renewable energy projects.
4. Evaluate the environmental and financial sustainability of current and potential renewable energy activities
5. Develop a thesis by establishing the basic principles and following a coherent argument.

In terms of practical, professional and transferable skills, students will be able to:

1. Define and organise a substantial advanced investigation.
2. Select and employ appropriate advanced research methods.
3. Organise technical information into a concise, coherent document.
4. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
5. Design and select renewable energy equipment and systems based on specific requirements/conditions.
6. Work as part of, and lead, a team.

Course Content

The taught element of the course (September to April) includes eight modules; delivery will be by a combination of lectures, tutorials and group/seminar work. A further four months (May to September) is spent undertaking the dissertation.

Compulsory modules:

Renewable Energy Technologies I-Solar Thermal and electricity systems
Renewable Energy Technologies II-Wind, Tidal, Wave, Hydroelectricity
Renewable Energy Technologies III-Geothermal, Biomass, Hydrogen
Power Generation from Renewable Energy   
Renewable Energy Systems for the Built Environment
Energy Conversion Technologies
Environmental Legislation: Energy and Environmental Review and Audit
Advanced Heat and Mass Transfer
Dissertation

Teaching

Students are introduced to subject material, including key concepts, information and approaches, through a mixture of standard lectures and seminars, laboratory practical, field work, self-study and individual research reports. Supporting material isavailable online. The aim is to challenge students and inspire them to expand their own knowledge and understanding.

Preparation for work is achieved through the development of 'soft' skills such as communication, planning, management and team work. In addition, guest speakers from industries provide a valuable insight into the real world of renewable energy.

Many of the practical activities in which the students engage, develop into enjoyable experiences. For example, working in teams for laboratory and field work and site visits. We encourage students to develop personal responsibility and contribution throughout the course. Many elements of coursework involve, and reward, the use of initiative and imagination. Some of the projects may be linked with research in CEBER, CAPF and BIPS research centres.

1 Year Full-Time: The taught element of the course (September to April) is delivered by a combination of lectures, tutorials and group/seminar work. From May to September students undertake the dissertation.

3-5 Years Distance Learning: The programme is designed to enable you to conduct most of your studies at home, in your own time and at your own pace. Students are supplied with a study pack in the form of text books and CD-ROMs; cut-off dates for receipt of assignments are specified at the beginning of each stage. Examinations can be taken either at Brunel University London or in the country you are resident in. The dissertation is carried out in one year.

Modules are assessed either by formal examination, written assignments or a combination of the two.

Assessment

Each module is assessed either by formal examination, written assignments or a combination of the two. Cut-off dates for receipt of assignments are specified at the beginning of the academic year. Examinations are normally taken in May. The MSc dissertation project leading to submission of the MSc Dissertation is normally carried out over four months (FT students) or one year (DL students).

Special Features

Excellent facilities
We have extensive and well-equipped laboratories, particular areas of strength being in fluid and biofluid mechanics, IC engines, vibrations, building service engineering, and structural testing. Our computing facilities are diverse and are readily available to all students. The University is fully networked with both Sun workstations and PCs. Advanced software is available for finite and boundary element modelling of structures, finite volume modelling of flows, and for the simulation of varied control systems, flow machines, combustion engines, suspensions, built environment, and other systems of interest to the research groups.

About Mechanical Engineering at Brunel
Mechanical Engineering offers a number of MSc courses all accredited by professional institutes as appropriate additional academic study (further learning) for those seeking to become qualified to register as Chartered Engineers (CEng). Accrediting professional institutes vary by course and include the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), Energy Institute (EI) and Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).

Teaching in the courses is underpinned by research activities in aerospace engineering, automotive/motorsport engineering, solid and fluid mechanics, and energy & environment. Staff generate numerous publications, conference presentations and patents, and have links with a wide range of institutions both within and outside the UK. The discipline benefits from research collaboration with numerous outside organisations including major oil companies, vehicle manufacturers, and other leading industrial firms and governmental laboratories. We have links with at least six teaching hospitals and work with universities in China, Poland, Egypt, Turkey, Denmark, Japan, Brazil, Germany, Belgium, Greece, Italy and the US.

Women in Engineering and Computing Programme

Brunel’s Women in Engineering and Computing mentoring scheme provides our female students with invaluable help and support from their industry mentors.

Accreditation

The requirement of UK-SPEC reinforces the need for a recent graduate with a Bachelor degree to take an appropriate postgraduate qualification in order to become a chartered engineer (currently, an accredited Bachelors degree does not enable the graduate to proceed to Chartered Engineer status without additional learning at M level).

This MSc program will be compliant with the further learning requirements of UK-SPEC. Accreditation will be sought from the Institute of Mechanical Engineering (IMechE) and Energy Institute. As a result, it will appeal to recent graduates who have not yet obtained the appropriate qualifications but intend to become Chartered Engineers. Most importantly, it will appeal to Mechanical, Chemical and Building Services Engineering graduates who wish to specialise in energy, or suitably experienced graduates of related subjects such as Physics.

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The Master of Science course in Energy Engineering is aimed at students trained as general engineers with skills on the new technologies relevant to the energy conversion and its rational use. Candidates will be required to plan, design and manage energy systems blending creative solutions with up-to-date technologies relative to energy conversion and efficiency enhancement.

At the end of the course, engineers will be good at operating in the current technological/industrial environment - i.e. a dynamic and competitive one - and sensitive to the main industry, environment and security issues and standards.

The main aim of the course is to offer an in-depth theoretical and practical understanding of the most advanced energy conversion technologies, including renewable energy generation and energy storage.

Please visit http://www.en2.unige.it for any further information.

The Course is held at Savona Campus, in the city of Savona.

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

The course consists of modules that include thermo-fluid dynamics and thermo-chemical dynamics, as well as fluid machinery and energy conversion systems (co-generation, fuel cells, power plants from renewable energy sources and smart grids), traditional energy and civil engineering plants, electric networks, economics, available and emerging technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental monitoring.

A rising interest in and increased urge for 20/20/20 policies in Europe has resulted in a growing industrial demand for highly qualified Energy Engineers with a sound knowledge and specific skills to analyze, design and develop effective solutions in a broad range of contexts. Furthermore, in the last few years both emerging industrial countries and developing ones have increased their awareness of environmental issues and energy production and started implementing large energy engineering projects thus boosting the job opportunities worldwide. The course is aimed at students seeking high qualification in the following main fields:

Energy conversion processes from chemical, bio-chemical, thermal sources into mechanical and electrical ones

Sustainable & Distributed Energy: renewable energy (solar, geothermal, wind, hydro), fuel cells, bio-fuels, smart power grids, low emission power plants Sustainable Development: C02 sequestration, LCA analysis, biomass exploitation, Energy Audit in buildings, energy from waste, recycling, modeling and experimental techniques devoted to optimum energy management.

The MSc course work in partnership with industries and research institutes in Liguria, in Italy and abroad.

WHAT DOES THE MASTER IN ENERGY ENGINEERING OFFER TO ITS STUDENTS

In the last years both industrialization and population growth have brought to a higher demand for sustainable energy, smart energy management with reduced environmental impact. As a result the MSc Energy Engineering was born out of the need to better cope with Sustainable Development issues and progress in energy conversion technologies, in including renewable energy generation and energy storage, NZE buildings, with an increasing attention devoted to greenhouse gas emissions reduction through a multidisciplinary approach.

This MSc course is taught in English and students are supported in achieving higher English language skills. The University of Genoa set its modern campus in Savona and in the last few years, public and private funds have been invested to improve its infrastructures, sport facilities, hall of residence, library and an auditorium.

The University of Genoa and Siemens jointly developed a smart polygeneration microgrid in Savona Campus – officially commissioned on February 2014.

Since then the campus has largely generated enough power to satisfy its own needs with the help of several networked energy producers, i.e. total capacity 250Kw of electricity and 300kW of heating.

The grid includes microgasturbines, absorption chillers, a photovoltaic plant, a solar power station and electrochemical and thermal storage systems.

This huge facility together with a series of laboratories located at the Campus (e.g. Combustion Lab, Energy Hub Lab) offer the students a unique opportunity for hands-on activities, e.g. to measure and investigate the performance of real scale innovative energy systems.

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Programme Description

This fresh, new programme for 2017 is a collaboration between the School of GeoSciences and the School of Social and Political Sciences.

The world is facing an ‘energy trilemma’; how to achieve energy security, energy equity and environmental sustainability. Whilst equipping students with an active understanding of low carbon technologies, policies and markets, this new MSc programme is focused squarely on analysing the social, societal and environmental dimensions of energy transitions. You will examine how citizens are involved in and are affected by changes in energy systems.

On a more theoretical level, the programme will enable you to relate supply-side issues to geo-politics and political economy, whilst energy demand will be studied in relation to broader challenges of sustainable consumption.

On a more practical level you will explore the potential of ‘smart’ ICT to affect consumption and inform strategic choices in sustainable living at household and community level. With Scotland being a world leader in renewable electricity generation (especially wind and marine), but also being economically dependent on declining North Sea oil and gas and suffering from high levels of energy poverty, this interdisciplinary MSc. benefits from close access to a high number of insightful case studies, which will serve to examine links between global and local issues, explore international best practices and identify locally suited pathways to more sustainable energy management.

Applicants receiving an offer of admission, either unconditional or conditional, will be asked to pay a tuition fee deposit of £1,500. Please see the fees and costs section for more information.

Programme Structure

The programme has been designed to develop transdisciplinary perspectives on the energy trilemma and integrative analytical skills (qualitative and quantitative) which are in short supply in the energy sector. The full-time programme is divided into two semesters of taught courses, followed by a field trip at Easter before the dissertation period over the summer. We are happy to accommodate different working patterns for part-time students, including a half day a week schedule for three-year part time study.

The programme consists of four core modules (20 credits each, two core courses per semester), two optional modules (20 credits, one for each semester) and a 60 credit dissertation.

Compulsory courses*

Semester 1:

Energy and Society I: Key themes and issues

Energy in the Global South

Semester 2:

Energy and Society II: Methods and applications

Energy Policy and Politics

Students will also undertake one 20 credit course per semester. The University of Edinburgh offers an unrivalled selection of relevant optional courses for the MSc in Energy, Society and Sustainability. Bearing in mind your particular background and interests, the Programme Director will assist you in your choice from a large menu of optional courses related to six potential specialisation pathways; sustainable technologies and economics, politics, development, environmental sustainability, science and technology and public policy.

Optional courses may include*:

Technologies for Sustainable Energy (10 credits) AND

Energy and Environmental Economics (10 credits)

Applications in Ecological Economics

Global Environment: Key issues

Global Environmental Politics

Resource Politics and Development

Governance, Development and Poverty in Africa

Principles of Sustainable Development

Human Dimensions of Environmental Sustainability

Climate Change Management

Case Studies in Sustainable Development

Science, Knowledge and Expertise

Development, Science and Technology

Controversies in Science and Technology

Economic Issues in Public Policy (Semester 1)

Political Issues in Public Policy (Semester 2)

**Please note, courses are offered subject to timetabling and availability and are subject to change.

Learning Outcomes

The programme aims for students to develop transdisciplinary skills in the assessment of the transition potential of energy systems towards greater sustainability, focussing especially on the human dimension of technological change and working and experimenting with energy users to co-produce knowledge about pathways to change.

Upon successful completion of the programme, students will have gained:

Understanding of energy systems and the energy trilemma

Understanding of social theories that underpin human attitudes and behaviour in relation to energy use

Understanding the non-technical and more-than-technical aspects of energy transitions

Understanding how energy-related decisions are linked to other societal challenges and socio-technical developments

Career Opportunities

UK research councils cite a major skills gap in the energy sector, one of the biggest growth sectors within the UK economy in recent years. Demand has never been higher for sound evidence on behavioural change, public engagement with energy issues, and public support for community and commercial investments in low carbon energy generation. We train our graduates to translate complex science into effective policies and new business opportunities. We have strong links with government departments, energy relevant NGOs and key industry players who want to make use of these skills. Committed to helping you meet prospective employers and network with those active in the field, we organise careers events and encourage dissertations conducted in partnership with external organisations.

Understanding of energy literacy

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Programme description

The importance of well-functioning energy markets to the global economy cannot be exaggerated. As the energy mix employed by countries around the world becomes increasingly diversified, there also arises the need to develop academic curricula designed to educate a new workforce suited to this dynamic sector.

MSc Energy Finance and Markets applies principles of financial and resource economics to prepare students for careers in old and new energy markets and industries, as well as the public sector.

Although the programme content relates to a wide array of energy sector career paths, the programme is specifically targeted at candidates who are interested in career opportunities in the finance departments of energy utilities, energy/commodity trading desks of financial and energy firms, energy consultancies, as well as relevant public, academic and third sector positions.

The programme incorporates significant input from energy industry and energy commodities trading executives. Students on the programme work with industry partners to develop cutting edge trading and project solutions within consultancy projects sponsored by energy firms and commodity trading desks of financial and oil and gas institutions.

MSc Energy Finance and Markets provides students with a vital understanding of how energy markets work and energy projects are appraised from both policy and financial economics perspectives. This is done through the delivery of a careful selection of academically grounded courses with significant practical elements.

The programme is designed for candidates who desire to pursue careers that require the understanding of the political economy and financial and resource economics issues in the energy industry. It is also suited to those who desire careers in the public sector and further study in the academia.

The courses offered provide strong academic conditioning for the students, but also offer relevant industry-facing applications. Given the importance of industry relevance, the programme regularly hosts key industry stakeholders as guest lecturers and master class leaders. Students are therefore readily exposed to practical application of financial modelling and analytical techniques widely employed in the execution of energy projects, as well as those used for trading execution in the wider energy markets.

Contemporaneous policy issues are also explored in great detail, underscoring the dynamic nature of the programme’s content.

Programme structure

Learning will primarily be through lectures, set reading, class discussions, exercises, group-work assignments, problem solving in tutorials and case studies. Assessment methods include examinations, assignments, presentations or continuous assessment.

Learning outcomes

By the conclusion of the programme, students should be able to:

demonstrate an advanced knowledge of key theoretical finance and economic concepts underpinning the operations in global and regional energy markets
demonstrate knowledge of how key regional and global energy markets (oil, gas, electricity etc) are structured and how they work
have in-depth understanding of the relationships existing among the key global energy markets; for example, how gas prices translate into less demand for coal and other energy commodities
conduct financial appraisal of energy projects within relevant regulatory contexts
trade energy commodities on global and regional markets’ exchanges/trading platforms by using state of the art software packages and harnessing the power of relevant real-time energy industry data
demonstrate an appreciation of the role played by global, regional and national policies in shaping the demand and supply of energy commodities, as well as relevant energy mixes
demonstrate an appreciation of the complex nature of global energy markets, especially the oil and gas markets, which incorporates supply from developing countries with varied market/operational structures

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Take advantage of one of our 100 Master’s Scholarships to study Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy at Swansea University, the Times Good University Guide’s Welsh University of the Year 2017. Postgraduate loans are also available to English and Welsh domiciled students. For more information on fees and funding please visit our website.

The Master's course in Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy places strong emphasis on state-of-the-art semiconductor devices and technologies, advanced power electronics and drives, and advanced power systems. The Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy course also covers conventional and renewable energy generation technologies. Exciting new developments such as wide band gap electronics, energy harvesting, solar cells and biofuels are discussed and recent developments in power electronics are highlighted.

Key Features of MSc in Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy

The College of Engineering has an international reputation for electrical and electronics research for energy and advanced semiconductor materials and devices.

Greenhouse gas emission and, consequently, global warming are threatening the global economy and world as we know it. A non-rational use of electrical energy largely contributes to these.

Sustainable energy generation and utilisation is a vital industry in today’s energy thirsty world. Energy generation and conversion, in the most efficient way possible, is the key to reducing carbon emissions. It is an essential element of novel energy power generation system and future transportation systems. The core of an energy conversion system is the power electronics converter which in one hand ensures the maximum power capture from any energy source and on another hand controls the power quality delivered to grid. Therefore the converter parameters such as efficiency, reliability and costs are directly affecting the performance of an energy system.

Transmission and distribution systems will encounter many challenges in the near future. Decentralisation of generation and storage systems has emerged as a promising solution. Consequently, in the near future, a power grid will no longer be a mono-directional energy flow system but a bi-directional one, requiring a much more complex management.

The MSc in Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy is modular in structure. Students must obtain a total of 180 credits to qualify for the degree. This is made up of 120 credits in the taught element (Part One) and a project (Part Two) that is worth 60 credits and culminates in a written dissertation. Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy students must successfully complete Part One before being allowed to progress to Part Two.

Part-time Delivery mode

The part-time scheme is a version of the full-time equivalent MSc in Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy scheme, and as such it means lectures are spread right across each week and you may have lectures across every day. Due to this timetabling format, the College advises that the scheme is likely to suit individuals who are looking to combine this with other commitments (typically family/caring) and who are looking for a less than full-time study option.

Those candidates seeking to combine the part-time option with full-time work are unlikely to find the timetable suitable, unless their job is extremely flexible and local to the Bay Campus.

Modules

Modules on the MSc Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy course can vary each year but you could expect to study:

Advanced Power Electronics and Drives
Power Semiconductor Devices
Advanced Power Systems
Energy and Power Engineering Laboratory
Power Generation Systems
Modern Control Systems
Wide Band-Gap Electronics
Environmental Analysis and Legislation
Communication Skills for Research Engineers
Optimisation

Facilities

The new home of MSc in Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy is at the innovative Bay Campus provides some of the best university facilities in the UK, in an outstanding location.

Engineering at Swansea University has extensive IT facilities and provides extensive software licenses and packages to support teaching. In addition the University provides open access IT resources.

Our new WOLFSON Foundation funded Power Electronics and Power System (PEPS) laboratory well-appointed with the state-of the-art equipment supports student research projects.

Careers

Employment in growing renewable energy sector, power electronic and semiconductor sector, electric/hybrid vehicle industry.

The MSc Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy is for graduates who may want to extend their technical knowledge and for professional applicants be provided with fast-track career development. This MSc addresses the skills shortage within the power electronics for renewable energy sector.

Links with industry

BT, Siemens, Plessey, GE Lighting, Schlumberger, Cogsys, Morganite, Newbridge Networks, Alstom, City Technology, BNR Europe, Philips, SWALEC, DERA, BTG, X-Fab, ZETEX Diodes, IQE, IBM, TSMC, IR, Toyota, Hitachi.

As a student on the MSc Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy course, you will learn about numerical simulation techniques and have the opportunity to visit electronics industries with links to Swansea.

Research

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 ranks Engineering at Swansea as 10th in the UK for the combined score in research quality across the Engineering disciplines.

The REF assesses the quality of research in the UK Higher Education sector, assuring us of the standards we strive for.

World-Leading Research

The REF shows that 94% of research produced by our academic staff is of World-Leading (4*) or Internationally Excellent (3*) quality. This has increased from 73% in the 2008 RAE.

Research pioneered at the College of Engineering harnesses the expertise of academic staff within the department. This ground-breaking multidisciplinary research informs our world-class teaching with several of our staff leaders in their fields.

With recent academic appointments strengthening electronics research at the College, the Electronic Systems Design Centre (ESDC) has been re-launched to support these activities.

The Centre aims to represent all major electronics research within the College and to promote the Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree.

Best known for its research in ground-breaking Power IC technology, the key technology for more energy efficient electronics, the Centre is also a world leader in semiconductor device modelling, FEM and compact modelling.

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Mission and Goals

The Master of Science programme in Energy Engineering for an Environmentally Sustainable World (EEE-SW) is taught in English and offers a broad overview of the various technical issues related to energy and the environment. This special programme aims to prepare technicians capable of following and actively directing technological advances, operating effectively in a competitive and multi-disciplinary industrial context.

See the website http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/energy-engineering/energy-engineering-for-an-environmentally-sustainable-world-track/

Career Opportunities

Graduates find employment in numerous industrial sectors, including industries producing and distributing energy, thermal, thermal-electric, air-conditioning and refrigeration plant design and management companies, energy management in companies or bodies with production objectives which may be far-removed energy. A Master of Science Engineer has openings in research and development as well as in activities related to the feasibility study and design of large-scale plant, innovative processes and development of technologically advanced machines and components.

For the academic year 2014-2015 prospective students with a university qualification obtained abroad can apply only for the 1st semester. This study course does not accept applications for the 2nd semester.
Applicants are required to take the GRE test (Graduate Record Examination) through ETS DI code 6939 in due time to have test scores sent to Welcome Desk Piacenza (welcome.piacenza(at)polimi.it) within the last day of the application period.

Recommended minimum GRE scores to be achieved for admission:
Verbal Reasoning: 155
Quantitative Reasoning: 155
Analytical Writing: 4.0

Only students with a Degree earned at an Italian University can apply without taking GRE test and they can also apply for admission at the 2nd semester.

Presentation

See http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/uploads/media/Energy_Engineering_01.pdf
The programme provides a mix of design, operational and management skills, with particular emphasis on system and process engineering related to the production of basic energy carriers (electricity, heat and fuels) under tight environmental constraints. Students will learn how to evaluate and solve engineering issues (thermal, environmental, mechanical, chemical, electrical) raised by energy conversion systems, as well as analyze and assess operational and maintenance issues. Particular attention will be devoted to renewable energy sources, non-conventional energy technologies, emission control, electric systems with distributed power generation, etc. Teaching is organized around 3 core aspects: modeling and simulation tools; interdisciplinary vision; problem-solving approach. The programme is taught in English.

Subjects*

1st year – 1st semester
- Advanced Mathematical methods for energy engineering
- Advanced Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
- Fundamentals of chemical processes for energy and the environment
1st year – 2nd semester
- Turbomachinery and internal combustion engines
- Energy and environmental technologies for building systems
- Electric conversion of renewable energy sources
- Materials and manufacturing process for energy

2nd year – 1st semester
- Energy systems and low-carbon technologies
- Air pollution and control engineering
- Operation and control of machines for power generation
2nd year – 2nd semester
- Bio-energy and waste-to-energy technologies
- Smart grids and regulation for renewable energy sources
- Major independent project work

* The list and titles of the courses to be followed is undergoing a revision aimed at enhancing the focus of the programme on the connection between Energy and the Environment. This will entail a reduction of the credits devoted to manufacturing, operation and control of machines and an increase of the credits devoted to optimization methods, renewable energy, industrial ecology. The final list of courses to be taken for the Academic Year 2016-17 will be available in January 2016.

See the website http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/energy-engineering/energy-engineering-for-an-environmentally-sustainable-world-track/

For contact information see here http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/educational-offer/laurea-magistrale-equivalent-to-master-of-science-programmes/energy-engineering/energy-engineering-for-an-environmentally-sustainable-world-track/

Find out how to apply here http://www.polinternational.polimi.it/how-to-apply/

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Who is this programme for?:

The MSc Global Energy and Climate Policy (GECP) is the first Masters programme to jointly address the issues of climate and energy policy in an interdisciplinary fashion. It tackles policy and regulatory change, the historical and technological evolution of energy sources, energy markets and their participants, the global governance of climate change as well as the challenges associated with transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

The programme specifically addresses the requirements of those wishing to deepen their theoretical and practical understanding of how energy and climate policies are designed, shaped, advocated and implemented and by whom across a multitude of cases drawn from the Global North and South and across multiple levels of political organisation from global to local arenas.

The MSc is designed for those engaged with or planning a career in professional contexts relating to energy and/or climate policy. It prepares for a multitude of careers in public and private contexts, including in public administration and government departments, strategic policy and risk advisory, government relations and public affairs, policy advocacy, think tanks and academia.

Guest speakers on the programme's modules have included Angus Miller (Energy Advisor, UK Foreign Office), Tom Burke (Founding Director, E3G and Environmental Policy Advisor, Rio Tinto), Jonathan Grant (Asst. Director Sustainability and Climate Change, PwC), Kash Burchett (European Energy Analyst, IHS Global Insight), Chris Dodwell (AEA Technology, former Head of International Climate Policy, UK Department of Energy and Climate Change) and Andrew Pendleton (Head of Campaigns, Friends of the Earth).

The programme draws on the teaching and research strengths of CISD and of the SOAS departments of International Politics, Law, Economics and area studies (especially of Asia, Africa and the Middle East) as well as a wide range of languages. In particular, students will be able to benefit from the expertise located at the Centre for Environment, Development and Policy (CEDEP), the Law School's Law, Environment and Development Centre (LEDC), the Centre on the Politics of Energy Security (CEPES), the Centre for Water and Development, and the SOAS Food Studies Centre.

In addition to the three core modules of Global Energy and Climate Policy (1 unit), Applied Energy and Climate Studies (0.5 units) and Global Public Policy (0.5 units) students choose a fourth module to meet their specific professional needs and personal interests.

Students on this course will have the opportunity to participate in CISD's Study Tour of Paris and Brussels.

Programme objectives

- Excellent understanding of the nature and development of global energy and climate policy, drawing on a variety of contributing disciplines

- Excellent knowledge of regulatory challenges and their impact on public and private stakeholders in both the Global South and North

- Ability to critically contribute to contemporary policy debates about reforms of international energy and climate governance architectures and their interaction with national and sub-national policy and regulatory frameworks

- Development of practical skills including policy analysis and policy advocacy, risk analysis, strategic communication and media

We welcome applications from a wide variety of fields and backgrounds. It is not necessary to have a degree in a discipline directly related to global energy and climate policy.

Each application is assessed on its individual merits and entry requirements may be modified in light of relevant professional experience and where the applicant can demonstrate a sustained practical interest in the international field.

Listen to the MSc Global Energy and Climate Policy and CISD's 1st Annual Energy and Climate Change Conference (May 2011) podcast (http://www.4shared.com/mp3/EdRUc-qq/CISD_Energy_and_Climate_Change.html), organised by students.

Visit the website http://www.soas.ac.uk/cisd/programmes/msc-global-energy-and-climate-policy/

Programme Specification

Programme Specification 2015/2016 (pdf; 172kb) - http://www.soas.ac.uk/cisd/programmes/msc-global-energy-and-climate-policy/file80890.pdf

Teaching & Learning

The programme may be taken in one year (full time) or in two or three years part time with the schedule designed to allow participation by those in full time employment. Participants may choose a combination of courses to meet their professional needs and personal interests. The programme is convened on a multi-disciplinary basis, and teaching is through lectures, tutorials and workshops conducted by SOAS faculty and visiting specialists.

The Centre endeavours to make as many of the courses for Global Energy and Climate Policy (GECP) accessible to part time students. The majority of CISD lectures are at 18.00 where possible however lecture times will be rotated on a yearly basis for some courses (between evening and daytime slots) so that part time students will have access to as many courses as possible over the duration of their degree. Associated tutorials are repeated in hourly slots with the latest taking place at 20.00. Students sign up for tutorial groups at the start of term and stay in the same group throughout the academic year. There is a minimum of two and a half hours formal teaching a week (lecture and tutorial) for each GECP course taken. Practical exercises may take place at weekends.

Teaching includes:

- Theory and practice of global energy and climate change policy as intertwined global issues

- Practical toolkit including policy analysis and planning, risk analysis, strategic communication, policy advocacy and negotiation skills

- Interaction with policymakers and government officials, energy industry and NGO representatives, and other practitioners

- An elective from a wide range: International Relations, International Law, International Economics, International Security, Multinational Enterprises in a Globalising World or a course offered by other SOAS departments (e.g. Development Studies, Politics, Economics, Law)

Further activities:

Also included in the degree programme:

- Week-long study trip to energy and climate change related organisations in Brussels and Paris
- Advanced media and communication skills training by current and former BBC staff
- Participation in workshops attended by public and private sector stakeholders
- Opportunity to organize and run the Centre’s annual Energy and Climate Policy conference
- Guest lectures by leading scholars and senior practitioners (visit the CISD website (http://www.cisd.soas.ac.uk/all-audios/1) to listen to the podcasts)

This course is also available online and is designed for those engaged with or planning a career in professional contexts relating to energy and/or climate policy and who wish to study in a flexible way. Please click here to view more information http://www.soas.ac.uk/cisd/programmes/msc-global-energy-and-climate-policy-online/

Find out how to apply here - http://www.soas.ac.uk/admissions/pg/howtoapply/

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The 21st century calls for graduates with an interdisciplinary training and problem-solving competence in the fields of ecology, energy, resources etc. Process engineering, for example, with such fields as environmental- and energy engineering, is now seen as one of the key disciplines. It deals with the engineering required for a wide range of processes and the transformation of materials, in which raw materials are converted in a series of unit operations into salable intermediate and final products.

One focus of training within the discipline relates to the development and application of various environmental and energy technologies. Both environmental- and energy engineering are classified as green technologies, which have developed at an above-average rate in the last few years. That is due to growing social awareness for sustainability and the finite nature of our resources on the one hand and legal constraints on the other. The latter in particular call for innovative processes and technologies in response to today’s challenges. The Master program in Environmental, Process & Energy Engineering is designed to communicate the knowledge, methodology and problem-solving competence needed to tackle a very wide range of engineering problems in the above mentioned fields. With its commitment to bridge-building between the academic and the business worlds, Management Center Innsbruck also provides essential teaching in the increasingly important horizontal disciplines of law and economics, and the skills needed for today’s labor market.

Major Energy Engineering

In the light of dwindling energy resources and volatile energy prices, energy engineering has become an integral economic factor with enormous potential for growth, especially in such fields as energy generation from non-fossil primary energy sources, energy distribution and energy savings. MCI graduates with a specialization in Energy Engineering typically deal with a wide variety of processes, from conventional power plant engineering to the conversion of energy carriers and their various precursors, and decentral energy supply systems. The major in Energy Engineering caters for these market requirements by communicating the relevant knowledge and skills with a combination of in-depth teaching and practical applicability.

Given their interdisciplinary training and the program’s strong practical orientation, graduates are particularly well qualified to work as engineers at the interface with business and management with special reference to the following areas:

Energy trading, energy management & natural resources
Renewable energies
Glass industry
Oil industry
Consulting engineers, consulting & engineering
Paper and paper products
Chemicals
Gas and heating supply industries

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