Masters Degrees (Sustainable Energy)

Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Power Engineering and Sustainable Energy at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

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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UCC have developed a Masters in Engineering Science in Sustainable Energy, in recognition of the growing international market for sustainable energy systems and the shortage of qualified engineers. This programme is open to Engineering graduates of all disciplines with an 8 month programme option leading to a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Energy.

Visit the website: http://www.ucc.ie/en/ckr26/

Course Details

In Part I students take modules to the value of 50 credits and a Preliminary Research Report in Sustainable Energy (NE6008) to the value of 10 credits. Part II consists of a Dissertation in Sustainable Energy (NE6009) to the value of 30 credits which is completed over the summer months.

Part I

Students take 50 credits as follows:

NE3002 Energy in Buildings (5 credits)
EE3011 Power Electronic Systems (5 credits)
EE4010 Electrical Power Systems (5 credits)
NE3003 Sustainable Energy (5 credits)
NE4006 Energy Systems in Buildings (5 credits)
NE6003 Wind Energy (5 credits)
NE6004 Biomass Energy (5 credits)
NE6005 Ocean Energy (5 credits)
NE6006 Solar and Geothermal Energy (5 credits)
NE6007 Energy Systems Modelling (5 credits)

Depending on the background of the student, the Programme Coordinator may decide to replace some of the above taught modules from the following list of modules up to a maximum of 20 credits:

CE4001 The Engineer in Society (Law, Architecture and Planning) (5 credits)
EE3012 Electromechanical Energy Conversion (5 credits)
EE4001 Power Electronics, Drives and Energy Conversion (5 credits)
EE4002 Control Engineering (5 credits)
EE6107 Advanced Power Electronics and Electric Drives (5 credits)
ME6007 Mechanical Systems (5 credits)
NE4008 Photovoltaic Systems (5 credits)
PE6003 Process Validation and Quality (5 credits)

In addition, all students must take 10 credits as follows:

NE6008 Preliminary Research Report in Sustainable Energy (10 credits)

Part II

NE6009* Dissertation in Sustainable Energy (30 credits)

*must be submitted on a date in September as specified by the Department

Detailed Entry Requirements

Candidates must have a BE(Hons) or BEng (Hons) Degree or equivalent engineering qualification, with a minimum grade 2H2. However, candidates with equivalent academic qualifications and suitable experience may be accepted subject to the approval of College of Science, Engineering and Food Science. In all cases, the course of study for each candidate must be approved by the Programme Coordinator.
Candidates, for whom English is not their primary language, should possess an IELTS of 6.5 (or TOEFL equivalent) with no less than 6.0 in each individual category.

Candidates from Grandes Écoles Colleges are also eligible to apply if they are studying a cognate discipline in an ENSEA or EFREI Graduate School and are eligible to enter the final year (M2) of their programme.

Assessment

- Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Energy -

Students who pass but fail to achieve the requisite grade of 50% across the taught modules and the Preliminary Research Report will be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Energy. Candidates passing Part I of the programme who do not wish to proceed to Part II may opt to be conferred with a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Energy.

How to apply: http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/how/

Funding and Scholarships

Information regarding funding and available scholarships can be found here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/cblgradschool/current/fundingandfinance/fundingscholarships/

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The Masters in Sustainable Energy is an interdisciplinary programme that will equip you for employment within the international energy sector. This programme addresses all the key aspects of sustainable energy, from the most advanced technologies through to ethical and economic considerations.

Why this programme

◾This programme provides an in-depth knowledge of the social and economic drivers of the current UK and international energy industry, and insights in the behavioural, business and technical aspects concerned with energy production and distribution.
◾Students will learn a range of technical knowledge in the science and engineering of energy production and use, with emphases towards chemical, electrical and mechanical engineering, dependent on the students’ preferences and past experience.
◾Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Glasgow is consistently highly ranked recently achieving 1st in Scotland and 4th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2017).
◾Students will graduate from this programme with a complete scientific knowledge and appreciation of the relevance of traditional and emerging energy technologies.
◾Learning will be underpinned with regular industrial lectures and commentary so that the context is maintained and highlighted throughout the year.

Programme structure

Modes of delivery of the MSc in Sustainable Energy include lectures, seminars and tutorials and allow students the opportunity to take part in lab, project and team work.

You will take a combination of core and optional courses, and a project which you will select from a list of standard projects or you can suggest a project of your own choosing.

Core courses
◾Energy and environment
◾Energy conversion systems
◾Energy from waste
◾Integrated system design project
◾Renewable energy
◾MSc project.

Optional courses
◾Electrical energy systems
◾Environmental biotechnology
◾Environmental ethics and behavioural change
◾Impacts of climate change
◾Introduction to wind engineering
◾Nuclear power reactors
◾Power electronics
◾Project planning, appraisal and implementation
◾Theory and principles of sustainability.

Projects

-◾To complete the MSc degree you must undertake a project worth 60 credits, which will integrate subject knowledge and skills that you acquire during the MSc programme
◾The project is an important part of your MSc where you can apply your newly learned skills and show to future employers that you have been working on cutting edge projects relevant to the industry.
◾You can choose a topic from a list of MSc projects in Sustainable Energy. Alternatively, should you have your own idea for a project, department members are always open to discussion of topics.

Example projects

Examples of projects can be found online

*Posters shown are for illustrative purposes

Industry links and employability

◾You will be taught by academic staff with expertise from across a range of disciplines within the Colleges of Science & Engineering and Social Sciences. This interdisciplinary approach will provide you with high quality teaching of contemporary, industrially relevant courses which will together provide an excellent background in sustainable energy.
◾You will benefit from significant input from industry to our teaching programme, including teaching on some courses, guest lectures and seminars. There are also informal opportunities to meet people from industry at open events and visits to company offices. Projects may be carried out in conjunction with industry.
◾Many of the courses within the programme will be backed up by specific project work and much of this will be linked in to research activities across the University.

Career prospects

The degree is designed to develop future leaders and decision makers in the growing international energy business. Graduates may expect to forge careers in established energy generation and transmission companies (for instance in the UK, National Grid, Scottish and Southern Energy, etc.), energy consultancy businesses, traditional oil, gas and construction companies who are moving rapidly into renewables, or fresh new companies in the wind, marine, solar or biomass sectors. Scotland, in particular, has seen great expansion in sustainable energy businesses in the last decade, with some of the best worldwide potential for wind, wave and tidal generation.

Graduates of this programme have gone on to positions such as:
Research Assistant at a university
Geothermal Energy Engineer at Town Rock Energy
Hydropower Engineer at Renewables First
Research Analyst at Cognolink
Research and Development Consultant.

Accreditation

The MSc Sustainable Energy is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineering. An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.

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Renewable energy production is increasing rapidly and there is a global shortage of trained engineers. With this master’s course you’ll have a highly relevant qualification that’s accredited by the Engineering Council via the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

The course covers topics such as photovoltaic, wind, thermo-mechanical energy conversion systems, hybrid renewable energy systems, energy efficiency, building energy modelling and engineering optimisation.

The University has a well-established reputation for renewable and sustainable energy technologies.

You’ll benefit from excellent technical facilities including specialist workshops. We also have a laboratory that’s dedicated to power networks, wind energy, photovoltaics and battery testing for electric vehicles.

For more information about the January start for this course, please view the website: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/renewable-and-sustainable-energy-technologies-msc-ft-dtfrws6/

Learn From The Best

Our teaching team includes experts from Renewable and Sustainable Energy Research Group. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.

The quality of their research has put Northumbria University among the UK’s top 25% of universities for the percentage of research outputs in engineering that are ranked as world-leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2014).

Our reputation for quality is reflected by the range and depth of our collaborations with industry partners. Our industrial links help inform our curriculums and ensure a variety of site visits and input from practitioners via guest lectures.

Teaching And Assessment

Our teaching methods include lectures, seminars, workshops, individual tutorials, and group projects. As this is a master’s course there is a significant element of independent learning and self-motivated reflection.

You’ll undertake a master’s project that will hone your skills in evaluating and applying research techniques and methodologies. The topic of the project will reflect your own unique interests.

Assessments are designed to give feedback as well as to monitor your level of achievement. The assessed projects will enable you to test your skills in ways that relate to current industrial practice. Specific assessment methods include assignments, exams, technical reports and presentations.

Module Overview
KB7003 - Building Energy and Environmental Modelling (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7030 - Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7040 - Sustainable Development for Engineering Practitioners (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7042 - Thermo-Mechanical Energy Conversion Systems (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7043 - Multidisciplinary Design & Engineering Optimisation (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7045 - Wind, Photovoltaic and Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7052 - Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

Northumbria University provides outstanding facilities for renewable and sustainable energy technologies. For example our New and Renewable Energy Laboratory is an excellent resource for research into power networks, wind energy, photovoltaics and battery testing for electric vehicles. All our facilities are backed up by a team of technicians who will give support and advice when you need it.

Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) is embedded throughout the course with tools such as the ‘Blackboard’ eLearning Portal and electronic reading lists that will guide your preparation for seminars and independent research. Our use of lecture capture software will help you revise challenging material.

To facilitate group projects there is a working space called The Hub that’s well equipped for meetings and working with IT. The Zone is another area that’s popular with students undertaking group work or individual study.

Research-Rich Learning

Northumbria’s strong research ethos is an essential aspect of how you will develop as a critical, reflective and independent thinker. With our problem-solving approach you’ll acquire a wide range of research and analytical skills as you progress through the course. These skills will come together in the master’s project that you’ll undertake, which will require independent research and appropriate techniques of inquiry, critical evaluation and synthesis.

Throughout the course your learning will be directly impacted by the teaching team’s active research. One of Northumbria’s signature research themes is ‘Future Engineering’, which is about innovation in the engineering industry so that it’s fit for purpose in the 21st century. We also have particular interests in smart materials and sustainable technologies.

Give Your Career An Edge

MSc Renewable and Sustainable Technologies has been accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Chartered status is associated with improved employability and higher salaries.

The course will equip you with the expertise to design, optimise, apply and evaluate renewable and sustainable energy technologies. Your master’s project will extend your practical experience of industry-standard hardware and software tools. At the same time you’ll develop transferable key skills and personal attributes that promote employability and lifelong learning.

When it comes to applying for jobs our Careers and Employment Service offers resources and support that will help you find roles matching your interests and skills. You will be able to access a range of workshops, one-to-one advice, and networking opportunities.

Your Future

By the end of this course you’ll be in an excellent position to start or continue a career in renewable and sustainable energy technologies. Renewable energy production could increase by up to 1,000% by 2050 compared to 2010, according to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, so there will be a pressing need for well-trained professionals.

You could also undertake a postgraduate research degree such as an MPhil, PhD and Professional Doctorate. If you decide to start up your own business, it’s good to know that the combined turnover of our graduates’ start-up companies is higher than that of any other UK university.

Whatever you decide to do, you will have the transferable skills that employers expect from a master’s graduate from Northumbria University. These include the ability to tackle complex issues through conceptualisation and undertaking research, the ability to contribute to new processes and knowledge, and the ability to formulate balanced judgements when considering incomplete or ambiguous data.

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Introduction:

This is a one-year postgraduate course designed to provide civil engineers and other suitably qualified professionals with a good understanding of energy management and efficiency as well as sustainable energy generation. The course will further advanced knowledge in efficiency techniques, sustainable energy technologies and energy management systems and strategies. It will include theory and practice along with economics, current legal requirements and standards. The course will be of particular interest to those already in employment as part of ongoing professional training as well as leading to the widening of new job opportunities for its graduates. The Diploma award is based on a combination of the results of two examination papers and an individual project. Students must pass each paper and the project and neither of these can be deferred.

Course Content:

The course consists of 3 taught modules each carrying 20 ECTS credits.

Module 1: Energy management and efficiency will introduce topics such as energy physics, energy resources, climate change and environment. Energy demand and energy management will be detailed sectorally in terms of energy in buildings; in transport and in industry. There will be a focus on measures for energy reduction and energy efficiency along with assessment procedures. Topics in energy economics, policy, embodied energy and life cycle analysis and finally energy legislation and energy markets will be addressed.

Module 2: Sustainable energy technologies will introduce energy generation and conversion. It will concentrate on renewable energy generation technologies (and include lectures on wind, wave, tidal, biomass, biofuels, geothermal, hydro, solar, waste to energy) and low carbon technologies (nuclear energy, hydrogen, fuel cells). Grid integration and energy storage will be addressed as well as the future of fossils including clean coal and carbon capture and storage.

Module 3: Individual project is a key element of the course where the theoretical and technical aspects of Sustainable Energy which have been presented, analysed and discussed in the other two modules are brought into practical and innovative focus. Each student will be expected to engage in a piece of original study to reveal a novel aspect of sustainable energy.

Lectures will be held on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings each week throughout the two semesters (September to April), with laboratories or site visits scheduled for Saturday mornings. In addition to attending lectures, students are required to prepare and submit individual original pieces of coursework relating to the subject matter of each of the modules. Assessment is by examination and coursework.

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This programme provides state-of-the-art education in the fields of sustainable energy generation, distribution and consumption. It is intended to respond to a growing skills shortage for engineers with a high level of training in renewable energy, smart grids and sustainability.

By the time you graduate, you will have a thorough understanding of sustainability standards, various renewable energies, smart grid and power electronics for renewable energy and energy use management in buildings, urban design and other areas. Research on sustainable energy technology has opened up many job opportunities in industry, government institutions and research centres.

What are benefits of the programme?

• studying at international university recognised throughout the world
• close cooperation with world-famous universities and research centres to solve major technical challenges including energy crises and environmental pollution
• excellent research opportunities, using advanced experimental equipment including a network analyser, power analyser, Dspace controller, wind turbine and PV testing system
• continuous development of core modules to meet the requirement of industrial innovation
• cutting-edge research in the intelligent and efficient utilisation of solar, wind energy and other renewable energy sources

Lab Facilities

Power electronics laboratory equipped with advanced experimental equipment
• Sustainable energy laboratory equipped with advanced experimental equipment including a 600W wind turbine, two 270W solar modules, batteries, an inverter with sinusoidal output and main controller
• Electric machine and power system laboratory

Modules

• Sustainable Energy and Environment
• Nuclear Energy Technology
• Power System Network and Smart Grid
• Integration of Energy Strategies in the Design of Buildings
• Photovoltaic Energy Technology
• Renewable Kinetic Energy Technologies
• Power Electronics and Applications for Renewable Energy
• Sustainable Urban Planning Strategies
• Msc Project

What are my career prospects?

Graduates of this programme will typically work on professional tasks including the implementation of sustainable energy technologies within existing or new systems, and modelling and evaluation of the impact on ecosystems, economics and society. Graduates may be employed as electric power system engineers, electric power system consultants, sustainable technology consultants, electric power projects managers, sustainable cities and building design consultants, managers and team leaders in government.

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Renewable energy production is increasing rapidly and there is a global shortage of trained engineers. With this master’s course you’ll have a highly relevant qualification that’s accredited by the Engineering Council via the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

The course covers topics such as photovoltaic, wind, thermo-mechanical energy conversion systems, hybrid renewable energy systems, energy efficiency, building energy modelling and engineering optimisation.

The University has a well-established reputation for renewable and sustainable energy technologies.

You’ll benefit from excellent technical facilities including specialist workshops. We also have a laboratory that’s dedicated to power networks, wind energy, photovoltaics and battery testing for electric vehicles.

In the second year, for one semester, you’ll undertake an internship, study in another country or join a research group. This valuable experience will enhance your employability and further develop your theoretical and practical skills.

Internship

This option offers the opportunity to spend three months working full-time in one of the many companies/industries with which we have close links. You may be able to extend this over more than one semester in cases where it is adjacent to a vacation period. We will endeavour to help those who prefer this option to find and secure a suitable position but ultimately we are in the hands of the employers who are free to decide who they take into their organisation.

Research

If you take this option, you will be assigned to our Engineering, Physics and Materials Research Group. There is every possibility that you may contribute to published research and therefore you may be named as part of the research team, which would be a great start to a research career.

Study Abroad

We have exchange agreements with universities all over the world, including partners in Europe, Asia, the Americas and Oceania. If you take the Study Abroad option you will spend a semester at one of these partners, continuing your studies in English but in a new cultural and learning environment. Please note that this option may require you to obtain a visa for study in the other country.

Learn From The Best

Our teaching team includes experts from Renewable and Sustainable Energy Research Group. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.

The quality of their research has put Northumbria University among the UK’s top 25% of universities for the percentage of research outputs in engineering that are ranked as world-leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2014).

Our reputation for quality is reflected by the range and depth of our collaborations with industry partners. Our industrial links help inform our curriculums and ensure a variety of site visits and input from practitioners via guest lectures.

Teaching And Assessment

Our teaching methods include lectures, seminars, workshops, individual tutorials, and group projects. As this is a master’s course there is a significant element of independent learning and self-motivated reflection.

You’ll undertake a master’s project that will hone your skills in evaluating and applying research techniques and methodologies. The topic of the project will reflect your own unique interests.

Assessments are designed to give feedback as well as to monitor your level of achievement. The assessed projects will enable you to test your skills in ways that relate to current industrial practice. Specific assessment methods include assignments, exams, technical reports and presentations.

The Advanced Practice semester will be assessed via a report and presentation about your internship, study abroad or research group activities.

Module Overview
Year One
KB7003 - Building Energy and Environmental Modelling (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7030 - Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7040 - Sustainable Development for Engineering Practitioners (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7042 - Thermo-Mechanical Energy Conversion Systems (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7043 - Multidisciplinary Design & Engineering Optimisation (Core, 20 Credits)
KB7045 - Wind, Photovoltaic and Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (Core, 20 Credits)

Year Two
KB7052 - Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)
KF7005 - Engineering and Environment Advanced Practice (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

Northumbria University provides outstanding facilities for renewable and sustainable energy technologies. For example our New and Renewable Energy Laboratory is an excellent resource for research into power networks, wind energy, photovoltaics and battery testing for electric vehicles. All our facilities are backed up by a team of technicians who will give support and advice when you need it.

Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) is embedded throughout the course with tools such as the ‘Blackboard’ eLearning Portal and electronic reading lists that will guide your preparation for seminars and independent research. Our use of lecture capture software will help you revise challenging material.

To facilitate group projects there is a working space called The Hub that’s well equipped for meetings and working with IT. The Zone is another area that’s popular with students undertaking group work or individual study.

Research-Rich Learning

Northumbria’s strong research ethos is an essential aspect of how you will develop as a critical, reflective and independent thinker. With our problem-solving approach you’ll acquire a wide range of research and analytical skills as you progress through the course. These skills will come together in the master’s project that you’ll undertake, which will require independent research and appropriate techniques of inquiry, critical evaluation and synthesis.

Throughout the course your learning will be directly impacted by the teaching team’s active research. One of Northumbria’s signature research themes is ‘Future Engineering’, which is about innovation in the engineering industry so that it’s fit for purpose in the 21st century. We also have particular interests in smart materials and sustainable technologies.

Give Your Career An Edge

MSc Renewable and Sustainable Technologies has been accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Chartered status is associated with improved employability and higher salaries.

The course will equip you with the expertise to design, optimise, apply and evaluate renewable and sustainable energy technologies. Your master’s project will extend your practical experience of industry-standard hardware and software tools. At the same time you’ll develop transferable key skills and personal attributes that promote employability and lifelong learning.

The Advanced Practice semester will help you develop a track record of achievement that will help you stand out from other job applicants.

A two-year master’s course, like this one, will carry particular weight with employers. They’ll understand that you’ll have a deeper understanding of topics as well as more hands-on practical experience.

When it comes to applying for jobs our Careers and Employment Service offers resources and support that will help you find roles matching your interests and skills. You will be able to access a range of workshops, one-to-one advice, and networking opportunities.

Your Future

By the end of this course you’ll be in an excellent position to start or continue a career in renewable and sustainable energy technologies. Renewable energy production could increase by up to 1,000% by 2050 compared to 2010, according to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, so there will be a pressing need for well-trained professionals.

You could also undertake a postgraduate research degree such as an MPhil, PhD and Professional Doctorate. If you decide to start up your own business, it’s good to know that the combined turnover of our graduates’ start-up companies is higher than that of any other UK university.

Whatever you decide to do, you will have the transferable skills that employers expect from a master’s graduate from Northumbria University. These include the ability to tackle complex issues through conceptualisation and undertaking research, the ability to contribute to new processes and knowledge, and the ability to formulate balanced judgements when considering incomplete or ambiguous data.

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The University of Calgary’s Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Development (SEDV) is an interdisciplinary graduate program providing a balanced education related to energy and environmental management. A combined offering through the Haskayne School of Business, Schulich School of Engineering and the Faculties of Law and Environmental Design, SEDV is an unprecedented program designed for professionals and students who are seeking a broad-based and comprehensive education in sustainable energy.

SEDV curriculum is delivered by recognized experts, leading academics and professionals from the associated faculties. This highly qualified group works together to ensure the courses are relevant and speak to current themes seen in today’s energy sector; it is this interdisciplinary blend that provides a unique experience for our graduate students.

Upon completion, graduates leave equipped to effectively manage sustainable energy projects and operations, while minimizing impact on the environment and maximizing the socio-economic benefits to society. SEDV alumni can be found in a variety of roles within oil and gas, renewable energy, government and non-government organizations, policy-making bodies, environmental consultation, etc. As more companies move toward sustainable energy practices, your possibilities are endless!

Regardless of your background - be it design, business or law, economics, biology, or engineering - if you want to drive the future of sustainable energy development, you belong here.

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Climate change, the global consumption of energy and the use of fossil fuels to provide us with heat, power and transportation are all engineering challenges which need addressing now and in the future. It is clear that solutions to these long-term problems ­– ensuring the best use of resources, and developing new more sustainable ways to produce and use energy – will require graduates who can work in an increasingly multidisciplinary environment.

This course will offer you the knowledge and expertise you will need in relation to sustainable energy and the environmental impact of energy systems.

The distinctive features of the programme include:

• The opportunity for students to learn in a research-led teaching institution serviced by staff rated in the highest possible category by independent Government assessment.

• The opportunity to work in facilities commensurate with a top-class research unit.

• The opportunity for students to undertake project work in a successful, research-based environment.

• The programme has been designed to provide technical and managerial skills needed by industry, academia and the public sector.

• The substantial industrial input to the programme through invited lecturers and where appropriate offer industrially-based projects.

• A variety of specialist modules on offer.

• An open and engaging culture between students and staff, with student representatives as full members on School committees.

Structure

The programme is presented as a two-year part-time Master's level programme, and is also available in full-time mode over one year.

The programme is presented in two stages: In Stage 1 students follow taught modules to the value of 120 credits, with a limited amount of choice between optional modules. Stage 2 consists of a Dissertation module worth 60 credits.

Core modules:

Risk and Hazard Management in the Energy Sector
Energy Management
Energy Studies
Fuels and Energy Systems
Sustainable Energy and Environment Case Study
Dissertation: Sustainable Energy and Environment

Optional modules:

Earth and Society
Low Carbon Footprint
Environmental Fluid Mechanics
Advanced Power Systems & High Voltage Technology
Condition Monitoring, Systems Modelling and Forecasting
Alternative Energy Systems
Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer 1
Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer 2
Waste Management and Recycling

Teaching

A wide range of teaching styles are used to deliver the diverse material forming the curriculum of the programme. You will be required to attend lecture-, lab- and tutorial-based study during the semesters, and later undertake an individual research project.

While a 10-credit module represents 100 hours of study in total, typically this will involve 24–36 hours of contact time with teaching staff. The remaining hours are intended to be for private study, coursework, revision and assessment. Therefore all students are expected to spend a significant amount of time (typically 20 hours each week) studying independently.

At the beginning of Stage 2, you will be allocated a project supervisor. Dissertation topics are normally chosen from a range of project titles proposed by academic staff in consultation with industrial partners, usually in areas of current research or industrial interest. You are also encouraged to put forward your own project ideas.

Learning Central, the Cardiff University virtual learning environment (VLE), will be used extensively to communicate with students, support lectures and provide general programme materials such as reading lists and module descriptions. It may also be used to provide self-testing assessment and give feedback.

Assessment

Achievement of learning outcomes in the majority of modules is assessed by a combination of coursework assignments, plus University examinations set in January or May. Examinations count for a third to a half of assessment in Stage 1 of the programme, depending on the options chosen, the remainder being largely project work and pieces of coursework.

Award of an MSc requires successful completion of Stage 2, the Dissertation, with a mark of 50% or higher. Candidates achieving 60% may be awarded a Merit and for those achieving a 70% average a Distinction may be awarded. Candidates failing to qualify for an MSc may be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma of Higher Education for 120 credits in Stage 1. Candidates failing to complete the 120 credits required for Stage 1 may still be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Certificate of Higher Education for the achievement of at least 60 credits.

Career prospects

Graduates typically gain employment in large energy-focussed companies, the public sector, consultancies, research and development, or set up their own companies. A number also go on to undertake PhD study.

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The economic wealth of a country depends not only on its research base but also on its ability to exploit the commercial potential of its intellectual property. This course provides students with advanced skills and vital training in renewable energy, energy efficiency and business.

Students will gain essential technical skills in the field as well as becoming fluent in the financial, marketing and managerial aspects of modern business. The course aims to develop confidence and understanding in the specialist field of entrepreneurship applied to technology that can arise from the research base of sustainable energy subjects. Graduates from the course will be well placed to pursue careers in renewable energy technology industries.

By the end of the course, you will have gained useful and technical knowledge in the areas of sustainable energy and business as well as the application of technologies to proposed business models, and you will be adept at communicating and presenting yourself and your projects to an audience.

Students will develop:
useful and technical knowledge in the areas of sustainable energy and business
the ability to plan and undertake an individual project
interpersonal, communication and professional skills
the ability to communicate ideas effectively in written reports, verbally and by means of presentations to groups
the ability to exercise original thought
knowledge of the application of technologies to proposed business models

Previous projects have included:

promotion of energy efficient building technologies in developing countries through Clean Development Mechanism
Solar Decathlon Zero Carbon House - Mass market solution for the Solar Eco House concept
technical analysis of photovoltaic for small scale application & its economic viability - case study Nigeria
design of a framework for the application of CDM measures to promote rural electrification of microcredit systems

Scholarship information can be found at http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/graduateschool/funding/index.aspx

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Programme status: pending accreditation

As this is a new programme, more information will follow. See information below for a basic overview.

​​​​Acquire a solid foundation in sustainable energy system management. Topics include modelling, technologies, markets & innovation, scientific framework (law, policy, societal acceptance, environmental aspects). Work on real life projects, and specialise at a partner institute. This programme is for students with a background in economics, managerial engineering or equivalent.​

Important information:

School: Institute of Engineering

Degree awarded: European Master of Science in Sustainable Energy System Management, as well as EUREC certificate​

Specialisations:

• System Integration & Optimization

• Sustainable Energy Management

Duration: 3 semesters/1.5 Years, one semester abroad.

Credits: 90 ECTS.

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About the course

Energy management using sustainable technologies and implementation of environmental initiatives play a rapidly increasing role in many public organisations and industry.

There is an urgent need for trained personnel to advise, implement and deliver strategies and management for sustainable practices. This programme empowers graduates with a sound knowledge of sustainable technologies and skills for effective energy management with regard for environmental protection. It will enable them to create new opportunities for their employers by bringing an appreciation for current research into industrial use.

Building Services Engineering courses awarded the Happold Brilliant Award for teaching excellence by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers.

College Research wins CIBSE Building Performance Award 2013.

Aims

This programme will give graduates the sound knowledge and skills required for effective energy management and environmental protection.

Students will develop themes of expertise facilitated by an MSc project and dissertation, which also provides a useful introduction to students thinking of embarking on a doctoral research degree.

Links with industry are a key element of the programme, including guest speakers from various industry sectors.

Course Content

Compulsory Modules:

Energy Conversion Technologies
Sustainable Built Environment
Renewable Energy Technologies
Sustainable Energy Development
Environmental Legislation: Energy and Environmental Review and Auditing
Environmental Hazard and Risk
Research Methods and Sustainable Engineering
Masters Project and Dissertation

Optional Modules (choose one)

Strategic Management, Innovation and Enterprise
Project Management

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 each stage. Examinations are normally taken in May/June. Successful completion of the taught modules allows the student to proceed to the dissertation stage. To qualify for the award of the MSc degree, the student must submit a satisfactory dissertation.

Special Features

Award-winning, accredited courses
Brunel’s Building Services Engineering courses have received the Happold Brilliant Award for teaching excellence by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers. Brunel offers a number of MSc courses in mechanical engineering, 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) and Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).

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.

World-class research
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

Sustainable Energy : Technologies and Management MSc is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineering (IMechE), and The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). Additionally we are seeking reaccreditation with the Energy Institute as appropriate additional academic study (further learning) for those seeking to become qualified to register as Chartered Engineers (CEng).

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The MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems is an interdisciplinary degree addressing the scientific, engineering and technical aspects of global concerns about the availability of energy sources, sustainability of these sources through exploitation of new technologies or preservation of existing sources, and environmental concerns. The impetus to specialise in this area stems from the large projected increases in global population and energy demand and is underscored by the need for new workable global supplies of affordable sustainable energy. These concerns elevate this energy need as perhaps the greatest single challenge facing the world in the 21st century. The current acute nature of the challenge results from the confluence of concerns about energy supply and demand, security, and the effects of energy production and use on the environment. As a result there is an increasing demand for postgraduates specialising in this field.

This programme will provide you with unique expertise in the fundamentals of energy and the environment. Specialist modules provide knowledge and understanding of existing technologies as well as the ability to contribute to the design and development of new technologies and devices in this field, to develop new technologies to extract energy from diverse energy sources and to use existing and design new energy conversion devices as necessary.

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The MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures aims to develop the next generation of leaders in the energy sector.

The course provides a grounding in the major features of global energy issues, sustainable energy technologies, and their interactions with economics, the environment and policy.

Taking a quantitative approach to the study of technology and systems, the MSc attracts students with engineering and physical science backgrounds, although not exclusively.

It will also appeal to those with some post-degree experience who wish to gain a broader, more strategic perspective on energy issues.

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The global demand for sustainable energy, combined heat and power, and higher energy efficiency is growing rapidly.

As a Sustainable Energy Planning and Management student at Aalborg University you learn to understand these issues. The broad knowledge you build within engineering and economics prepares you for a leading role within the energy system.

Our aim is to give you a comprehensive understanding of the technological, institutional, and economic issues and methods related to energy planning and sustainable development. You acquire not only theoretical and methodological knowledge but also the practical ability to apply your knowledge to particular cases.

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