MSc Wind Energy Systems

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

This MSc is specifically designed to equip students with advanced technical expertise for the fast‑growing wind energy industry — covering both onshore and offshore systems, turbine design, grid integration and performance optimisation. It’s ideal for engineering graduates (especially in electrical, electronic, mechanical, or renewable energy backgrounds) who want to specialise in wind energy systems and make an impact in the global renewables sector.

Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (full‑time, 12 months):

In the Autumn semester students begin with core modules such as Assignment & Professional Studies (20 credits) which supports their academic and professional development.
They also take Power Systems & Wind Integration (20 credits) covering wind‑turbine generation, rotor aerodynamics, structural design, power conversion and control, plus integration with grids and distributed energy resources.
The module Wind Turbine Technology (20 credits) gives a deeper understanding of the wind resource and turbine conversion design including multi‑megawatt machines.
Optional modules include from List A: Power Electronics for Energy & Drive Control, High Voltage Technology & EMC, Advanced Power & Energy Systems, Power Electronics, Machines & Applications. List B includes modules such as Renewable Marine Energy Systems or Inspection & Survey.
The programme concludes with an MSc Project (60 credits) between May and August, where students undertake an independent investigation (research‑ or industry‑based) within wind energy system themes.

Focus areas:
“Wind turbine design and manufacture; onshore & offshore wind systems; power system integration and grid stability; wind resource assessment; power electronics and drives; high voltage technology; renewable energy regulation and compliance.”

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to design, analyse and optimise wind energy systems; understand the integration of large‑scale wind generation into electrical grids; apply advanced modelling and simulation tools; appreciate regulatory, environmental and socio‑economic issues in wind energy; and complete an independent project which demonstrates their ability to address real‑world wind energy challenges.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This programme is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) as indicated on the programme page.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Strathclyde’s Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering is a leading centre for power and energy research in Europe, with industry‑engaged labs and strong links to real‑world applications (for example the Power Network Demonstration Centre). The wind energy MSc positions graduates for roles in onshore/offshore wind farm development, turbine design, grid integration and consulting.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students enrolled in the MSc Wind Energy Systems at Strathclyde engage in a rigorous, practice‑oriented programme that blends advanced engineering of wind‑turbine and wind‑farm technologies with system‑level integration, project‑based learning and direct industry linkage. Throughout the year they work in high‑specification labs, simulation environments and project teams that mirror real‑world wind‑energy challenges—such as rotor design, grid‑integration, performance forecasting and maintenance strategies. The result is a learning journey that fosters both technical depth and practical readiness for careers in onshore/offshore wind and broader renewable energy systems.

Key experiential components include:

Module‑based technical labs & simulation tools: Learners use simulation tools and carry out technical modules such as “Wind Turbine Technology” (covering rotor dynamics, power conversion, structural design) and “Power Systems & Wind Integration” (covering wind resource assessment, distributed generation, grid integration). These modules include hands‑on activities and lab sessions.
Individual research or industry‑aligned project: After taught modules, each student undertakes an MSc project (60 credits) between May and August that can be “research‑based, aligned with current departmental research themes, or industry‑based, conducted as an internship with one of the department’s partner companies.” Site visits, access to technical data & facilities, and mentorship from an industry professional are part of that experience.
Industry engagement & professional context: The programme emphasizes strong industry linkage via internships, guest seminars, and real‑world engineering challenges in wind energy. Students gain exposure to business operations, regulatory frameworks, and the socio‑economic dimensions of wind‑energy deployment.
Blended learning and group‑based work: Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, problem‑solving workshops and group projects—fostering teamwork, communication and practical engineering skills. Each module typically involves a mix of in‑person and independent study supported by virtual learning resources.
Access to strong research‑informed infrastructure: The programme is delivered by one of Europe’s leading power and energy technology research groups, enabling learners to link with cutting‑edge developments in wind‑energy systems and grid integration.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Strathclyde MSc in Wind Energy Systems leave ready for specialist roles such as Wind Turbine Design Engineer, Operations & Maintenance Specialist for on‑shore or off‑shore wind farms, Renewable Energy Systems Analyst and Power Systems Integration Engineer—thanks to its advanced focus on wind technologies, grid integration and renewables systems.

University services: The programme is delivered by the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering and offers competitive internships, guest lectures from industry professionals, and access to high‑voltage labs and smart grid test‑beds.
Employment stats & salary figures: Entry‑level electrical engineers in the UK typically earn around £37,000/year, rising to about £52,000/year with more experience; roles such as Wind Energy Advisor average around £47,500/year and can rise to £70,000+ for senior positions.
University–industry partnerships: The MSc emphasises real‑world industry engagement—including internships and project collaborations with companies in wind‑power development and grid integration.
Long‑term accreditation value: The programme is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), supporting progression towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status—an important credential in engineering professions.
Graduation outcomes: Students gain advanced technical mastery of wind turbine design, turbine‑farm deployment, grid and energy‑storage integration, performance modelling and environmental/regulatory aspects of wind energy systems.

Further Academic Progression:
After this MSc, students may progress to a PhD in Wind Energy Systems, Offshore Wind Engineering, Smart Grid & Distributed Generation or Renewable Systems Integration, utilising Strathclyde’s strong research base in power and energy technologies. Alternatively, graduates could pursue professional certifications in wind‑farm project management, renewable asset operation or smart‑grid integration—positioning themselves for senior specialist or leadership roles in the global wind‑energy sector.