MSc Electrical Power Engineering

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

This master’s programme offers a deep dive into the world of electrical power engineering, covering emerging technologies such as power electronics, smart grids, electric drives, wind- and photovoltaic-based distributed generation. It is ideal if you have a background in electrical or electronic engineering and you’re keen to specialise in sustainable energy systems, power generation/distribution, and want to work in a sector that’s rapidly evolving.

Curriculum structure
Year 1 (Taught modules)
In your first year you will build core technical depth: modules such as Wind Energy Conversion Systems introduce you to the design and performance optimisation of wind turbines and distributed wind generation. You’ll study Power Electronics and Drive Systems, learning about converter topologies, PWM techniques, electric machines and drives for renewable integration. Then in Smart Grids you’ll examine modern power networks, including integration of renewables and EVs, power quality, and modelling/ICT considerations.

Year 2 (Dissertation / project)
In your second year you undertake the MSc Engineering Project (or in a 2-year, advanced-practice route the additional advanced practice semester), where you apply your learning to a research or industry-linked practical problem. You’ll develop project management skills, research enquiry, data analysis, and presentation of technical findings. For example your project might explore grid integration of renewables or power electronics for electric drive systems.

Focus areas
Renewable energy systems; power electronics & drive technology; smart grid design & integration; distributed generation; electric machines; advanced power systems modelling; research and project work.

Learning outcomes
Upon graduation you will be able to critically analyse and design modern electrical power systems (including renewables and smart grids), apply advanced power electronics and drive concepts in industry-relevant contexts, carry out independent research or technical investigation, interpret professional standards and cost/quality considerations, and work effectively within interdisciplinary teams and industry settings.

Professional alignment (accreditation)
This MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) — when paired with a suitably accredited undergraduate degree.

Reputation (employability rankings)
Northumbria University has a strong reputation for graduate employability: it achieved 5 Stars in the QS Stars rating for Employability and other categories, with around 94% of its graduates employed within 12 months of graduation. Additionally, the University is ranked within the top 35 in the UK and among the best 100 young universities in the world.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

If you’re interested in Northumbria University’s MSc in Electrical Power Engineering, this program gives you far more than just theoretical knowledge — it’s designed around real-world application and hands-on learning. From the very start, you’ll engage directly with advanced electrical systems, renewable technologies, and industry-standard tools. Students spend significant time in specialist laboratories, work on group design projects, and develop their professional skills through guided research and applied problem-solving. The focus is on preparing you to step confidently into roles across power generation, transmission, renewable integration, and smart grid technologies.

Here’s how you’ll gain that hands-on experience in the program:

Advanced laboratories: You’ll work in Northumbria’s Electrical and Electronics Labs equipped with oscilloscopes, signal generators, NI ELVIS platforms, and LabVIEW software for measurement and control experiments.
Renewable energy testing facilities: Access the New and Renewable Energy Laboratory, which supports hands-on learning in photovoltaic systems, wind energy conversion, and EV battery testing.
Industry-linked projects: Group projects mirror professional engineering scenarios — you’ll collaborate to design innovative electrical systems that meet real industrial standards.
Individual dissertation project: A major research or applied engineering project lets you tackle an authentic challenge in electrical power, often connected to ongoing faculty research or external partners.
Research integration: Learn from experts active in Northumbria’s Power and Wind Energy Research (PaWER) group and the Northumbria Photovoltaics Application Centre (NPAC), ensuring what you study reflects the latest industry advances.
Smart grids and renewables modules: Modules such as Smart Grids and Renewable Energy Technologies combine lectures, case studies, and laboratory experiments to strengthen your practical understanding.
Collaborative learning spaces: Facilities like The Hub and The Zone provide modern, tech-enabled areas for group meetings, design sessions, and digital project collaboration.

All of this means you’ll graduate with not only strong technical foundations but also the real-world confidence and problem-solving ability employers expect from a professional power engineer.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Electrical Power Engineering at Northumbria University is designed to prepare you for a high-demand and globally significant industry. Graduates from this program go on to work as Power Systems Engineers, Renewable Energy Project Managers, Electrical Design Engineers, and Smart Grid Specialists — roles that shape the sustainable energy future.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

University Services to support your employability:
- The Careers & Employment Service offers one-to-one guidance, employer networking events, and tailored job-search support.
- Within the Faculty of Engineering, Physics & Mathematics, students gain access to advanced laboratories and real-world research projects that build practical engineering experience.
- The university’s Graduate Futures team helps students secure placements, internships, and global opportunities through partnerships with employers.
Employment stats & salary:
- Around 85% of Northumbria postgraduates enter highly skilled employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.
- Graduates from this MSc report an average salary of approximately £21,000 within a year after completing the course.
- The course maintains a very low unemployment rate, reflecting its strong alignment with industry needs.
University–industry partnerships and facilities:
- The program is closely connected to the Northumbria Photovoltaics Application Centre (NPAC) and the Power and Wind Energy Research (PaWER) Group, giving students exposure to cutting-edge renewable energy research.
- Collaboration with major UK and international energy companies brings guest lectures, site visits, and real case studies into the classroom.
Long-term accreditation value:
- The MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council, fulfilling the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration (for those with an accredited undergraduate degree).
Graduation outcomes:
- Students graduate with a strong command of power electronics, renewable generation, smart grids, and electrical drive systems.
- You’ll also enhance essential skills in project management, research, and problem-solving, all of which employers value in advanced engineering roles.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you can progress to a PhD or MPhil in areas such as Electrical Power Systems, Renewable Energy, or Sustainable Engineering. You may also pursue Chartered Engineer (CEng) status through the IET or undertake specialist executive education in energy management or smart grid innovation to advance into senior technical or leadership positions.