MSc Electrical Power and Smart Grids

The MSc Electrical Power and Smart Grids at the University of Exeter gives students valuable practical experience in developing and managing the next generation of energy systems. Through laboratory activities, simulation-based learning, research projects, and specialist engineering facilities, students gain the skills needed to analyse power networks, integrate renewable energy sources, and design solutions for smarter and more sustainable electricity systems. The programme combines academic knowledge with hands-on experience, allowing students to apply concepts from modules such as Power Systems Analysis, Smart Grids and Sustainable Energy Systems, Digital Twinning for Power System Plant, and Resilience of Electrical Energy Systems to real-world engineering challenges.

Students also complete an MSc Dissertation, where they work on an independent research project in an area related to electrical power, renewable energy, or smart grid technologies. With access to Exeter’s specialist engineering facilities and research environment, students gain experience using advanced equipment, modelling approaches, and digital technologies that support the future of low-carbon energy systems.

Students gain practical experience through:

• Centre for Smart Grid facilities: Students have access to specialist smart grid research facilities, including electrical testing equipment, high-voltage DC sources, dielectric testing systems, frequency response analysers, and tools used for investigating modern power system technologies.

• Electrical Power Systems Laboratory: Students use dedicated laboratory facilities to explore electrical power networks, conduct experiments, and understand the operation, control, and performance of power systems through practical activities.

• Simulation and modelling activities: Students develop practical skills through computer-based simulations that help them analyse power networks, study smart grid operation, and explore renewable energy integration challenges.

• Digital twinning experience: Through the Digital Twinning for Power System Plant module, students learn how digital models and data-driven techniques can be used to monitor, analyse, and improve the performance of electrical infrastructure.

• MSc Dissertation research project: Students undertake an independent research project under academic supervision, allowing them to apply engineering knowledge to a specific challenge in electrical power and smart grids while developing research and problem-solving skills.

• Advanced engineering equipment: Students gain experience with specialist electrical testing and measurement equipment used for research into electrical energy systems, power networks, and sustainable technologies.

• Engineering laboratories and research spaces: Students benefit from the wider engineering facilities at the University of Exeter, including specialist laboratories and research environments that support electrical engineering and renewable energy studies.

• Technical software and digital tools: Students use engineering simulation and modelling tools that support power system analysis, energy system design, data analysis, and research activities.

• Industry-focused learning: The programme reflects real challenges faced by the energy sector, helping students develop skills relevant to organisations working in power generation, grid management, renewable energy, and energy innovation.

• Practical exposure to energy systems: Students can gain insight into real-world energy operations through activities such as visits related to power networks and energy infrastructure, helping them understand how large-scale electricity systems are managed.

Graduates of the MSc Electrical Power and Smart Grids at the University of Exeter are well prepared to contribute to the future of sustainable energy systems and the global transition towards smarter electricity networks. The programme develops specialist expertise in smart grids, renewable energy integration, power system analysis, and advanced energy technologies, preparing students for roles such as Smart Grid Engineer, Electrical Power Engineer, Renewable Energy Engineer, and Energy Systems Consultant.

Students benefit from Exeter’s career support, industry connections, and research environment, helping them successfully transition into professional careers:

• Career support services: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s Career Zone, which provides personalised career guidance, employability workshops, skills development sessions, networking opportunities, and support with preparing for graduate employment.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Engineering graduates from the University of Exeter achieve excellent career outcomes, with 96% of Engineering graduates in or due to start employment or further study 15 months after graduation according to HESA Graduate Outcomes data (2022/23).

• Graduate destinations and employers: Graduates have progressed into engineering and technical careers with organisations such as Devon County Council, Balfour Beatty, Pell Frischmann, and AECOM, demonstrating the broad career opportunities available after completing the programme.

• Industry-relevant expertise: The programme focuses on areas with increasing global demand, including smart grids, renewable energy systems, low-carbon technologies, and sustainable power solutions, giving graduates skills aligned with future energy challenges.

• University–industry connections: The University of Exeter works with industry partners on engineering challenges related to renewable energy, sustainable technologies, power systems, and innovation. These connections help ensure that students develop knowledge and skills that reflect real-world engineering needs.

• Research and innovation opportunities: Students benefit from Exeter’s research strengths in smart grids, sustainable energy, and net-zero technologies, creating opportunities to progress into specialist engineering roles or research-based careers.

• Long-term career value: With the growing demand for clean energy solutions and smarter electricity networks worldwide, graduates with expertise in electrical power and smart grid technologies are well positioned for long-term career development in the energy sector.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Electrical Power and Smart Grids, students can continue their studies through PhD programmes in areas such as Electrical Engineering, Smart Grids, Renewable Energy Systems, Power Systems, and Sustainable Energy Technologies. The programme also provides a strong foundation for research careers, specialist engineering roles, and continued professional development in emerging energy technologies.