MSc Electrical Power Engineering

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Glasgow Caledonian University

Program Overview

The MSc Electrical Power Engineering at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) equips students with the advanced technical and analytical expertise needed to design, operate, and manage modern electrical power systems. It’s ideal for engineering graduates aiming to work in renewable energy, smart grids, or sustainable power generation — key growth sectors in today’s energy landscape.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-time MSc)
In the first trimester, students gain a deep understanding of power system fundamentals through modules such as Power Electronics, Electrical Machines and Drives, and Modelling and Analysis of Electrical Power Systems. These courses strengthen knowledge in circuit operation, control systems, and the dynamic behavior of electrical machinery — vital for any professional power engineer.

The second trimester moves into more applied and future-oriented topics like Smart Grids and Sustainable Energy Systems and Control Systems Engineering. Students explore the integration of renewable energy sources, grid stability, and the digital technologies transforming the energy sector. Case studies and simulation work give practical insight into how smart grids are designed and optimized.

Finally, the third trimester focuses on the MSc Dissertation Project, where students conduct an independent research investigation — often aligned with current industry challenges such as grid decarbonization, advanced control strategies, or energy storage systems.


Focus Areas: Power Systems, Renewable Energy, Smart Grids, Electrical Machines, Control Engineering

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will develop the ability to analyze, model, and design advanced electrical power systems; apply control and automation techniques; assess the impact of emerging technologies; and manage sustainable energy projects from concept to implementation.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is designed in accordance with The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) standards, supporting graduates in achieving Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Glasgow Caledonian University is ranked among the UK’s top modern universities for engineering research impact and graduate employability (The Guardian University Guide 2024; HESA Graduate Outcomes 2023).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students enrolled in the MSc Electrical Power Engineering program at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) gain deep technical expertise through hands-on, applied learning that mirrors the realities of the global energy industry. The course is designed around practical experience, giving students the opportunity to work with professional-grade equipment, simulation tools, and research projects focused on sustainable energy systems and smart grids. The program blends classroom knowledge with extensive laboratory sessions, industrial insights, and real-world applications to ensure graduates are career-ready in the power and energy sectors.

Students have access to outstanding facilities and learning environments that support every aspect of their training, including:

  • Specialist Power Engineering Laboratories featuring equipment for power electronics, machine drives, and renewable energy system testing.

  • Simulation software and digital design tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, and ETAP for system modeling, control design, and performance analysis.

  • Hands-on laboratory work exploring advanced control systems, energy conversion, and high-voltage applications.

  • Industry-relevant projects and group assignments that simulate engineering consultancy and system design work typical in the energy and utilities sectors.

  • Research opportunities through GCU’s Institute for Sustainable Engineering and Technology Research (ISETR), where students engage in projects related to renewable integration, smart grids, and energy efficiency.

  • Access to GCU’s Smart Grid and Renewable Energy Labs, which support experimental and investigative learning in power systems.

  • The Sir Alex Ferguson Library, offering extensive technical databases, IEEE and IET journals, and digital learning resources for engineering research.

  • Professional networking opportunities and industrial guest lectures connecting students with leaders from the UK and international energy industries.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Glasgow Caledonian University’s MSc Electrical Power Engineering play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable energy systems and smart grids. The program equips students for specialist positions such as power systems engineer, renewable energy consultant, electrical design engineer, and grid integration analyst — roles that are increasingly in demand across the global energy sector.

You’ll gain a strong professional edge thanks to GCU’s focus on employability and applied industry experience:

  • Career support: GCU’s Careers Service provides tailored support including mock interviews, employer networking events, and access to international job boards for engineering graduates.

  • Employment outcomes: Over 93% of GCU postgraduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey).

  • Industry partnerships: The program maintains strong links with major companies such as Scottish Power, Siemens, National Grid, and Atkins, ensuring course content reflects current industrial needs and offering opportunities for collaboration and real-world projects.

  • Professional accreditation: The MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), providing graduates with a recognised pathway toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status — a key professional benchmark in the engineering industry.

  • Graduate results: Graduates have progressed to roles in energy utilities, renewable energy firms, and engineering consultancies, contributing to innovation in low-carbon technologies and electrical infrastructure development.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Electrical Power Engineering, students can continue to a PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering or related fields at Glasgow Caledonian University or other leading institutions. This advanced research pathway enables graduates to specialise in renewable energy integration, power electronics, or smart grid systems, preparing them for careers in academia, advanced R&D, and leadership roles in the energy sector.

Program Key Stats

£18,800 (Annual cost)
£8,900
Jan Intake : 24th Oct


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

2.7
4 Years

N/A
N/A
6.0
78
2:2

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Electrical Design Engineer
  • Power Systems Engineer
  • Control Systems Engineer
  • Electronics Engineer
  • Project Engineer
  • Instrumentation Engineer
  • Renewable Energy Engineer
  • Transmission and Distribution Engineer
  • Automation Engineer
  • Test and Commissioning Engineer
  • Maintenance Engineer
  • Building Services Engineer
  • Substation Engineer
  • Research and Development Engineer
  • Embedded Systems Engineer
  • Systems Integration Engineer
  • Grid Connection Engineer

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