MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems
"An internationally-renowned degree based in a world-leading renewable energy group offering a broad and flexible programme covering the engineering, economic, environmental and policy aspects of energy systems."
Introduction
This course is offered by the Institute for Energy Systems which is part of the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh. The Institute conducts world-class inter-disciplinary research into the systems that control the conversion, transmission and utilisation of many forms of energy. Research activity ranges from fundamental research to applied work to policy studies.
The MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems is designed to equip graduates and working professionals with a broad training in, and understanding of, energy production, delivery, consumption, efficiency, economics, policy and regulation. These are considered in the context of the sustainability of energy supply and consumption patterns, both locally and globally.
A unique feature of the course is its broad approach to the development of sustainable routes to the generation and supply of energy within which renewable energy is a key theme. Students are able to create study programmes suited to their interests and aspirations through their choice of optional modules and research projects. The course is engineering-based but also covers a wider range of topics including economics, sustainability and environmental studies.
The University of Edinburgh is one of the largest and most distinguished teaching and research institutions in the world. The University is located in Scotland's historic and beautiful capital city which offers a wide range of cultural events and recreational facilities, together with easy access to Scotland's unspoilt wilderness.
The course attracts applicants from the UK, Europe and Overseas: in the 2010/11 intake there are 50 students from 12 different countries. The Scottish Government's Fresh Talent programme allows overseas students graduating with degrees from a Scottish University to apply for a permit to work (and look for work) in Scotland.
Course Objectives
The course objective is to facilitate an understanding of the technology, processes, economics and policy that underpin energy systems within the context of the sustainability of energy supply and demand. On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand and evaluate alternative modes of energy supply, including fossil-fuelled, nuclear and renewables-based supply
- Appreciate the development of and constraints on carbon- and non carbon-based energy resources
- Understand the challenges and constraints on end-use efficiency of energy
- Appreciate the economic, policy and regulatory frameworks within which decisions on energy futures are made
- Be conversant with the problems of energy distribution and the constraints on present distribution systems.
- Critically analyse competing claims in the energy sector
- Evaluate options for energy supply, distribution, utilisation
- Articulate environmental sustainability of energy supply systems
- Analyse the technical:economic interaction of developments in the energy system
Course Structure and Assessment
The MSc is currently provided as a full-time course taught over one year starting in mid-September (Exact semester dates can be found in the Postgraduate Prospectus or from the main University website). The course is taught in modules to provide essential background material as well as advanced specialist topics in the field. The course is rounded off by a research project selected by the student.
The programme has a modular structure with the award of credits for successful completion of each module and the project. A total of 180 credits (120 from taught modules plus 60 from the project) are required at a satisfactory level of achievement in all modules for the award of the Master's degree. Details of modules are given in the Course Content page (Please note that the Institute for Energy Systems reserves the right to change the details of any module).
Course Delivery and Outcomes
The MSc is designed to accommodate graduates with differing first degree backgrounds, e.g., in science and engineering or with appropriate professional experience. The course is primarily delivered by expert staff from the University of Edinburgh and, where beneficial, from other industrial or educational bodies.
Graduates from the MSc go on to a wide range of activities from employment with multinational companies to academia, both in Scotland and elsewhere. Visit the Graduates page for more details and recent graduates' views of the MSc.
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