Electrical Power Engineering MSc

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

This one-year MSc immerses students in the latest developments in power generation, conversion, transmission and smart grid technology — preparing them for the fast-evolving world of sustainable, reliable electrical energy. It’s ideal for someone with an undergraduate degree in electrical or electronic engineering (or equivalent knowledge) who wants to specialise in power systems, power electronics and renewable energy integration.

Curriculum structure:

Year (12 months):
The programme unfolds over two taught semesters followed by a summer dissertation project. In the first semester students strengthen their foundations via modules such as Power Systems: Fundamentals & Analysis, Electrical Machines & Drives and Power Electronics for Energy Conversion. In the second semester they progress to advanced topics — for example Renewable Energy Integration & Smart Grids, Advanced Numerical Methods in Power Engineering and optional courses aligned with their interest (like energy storage, distributed resources or grid economics). Finally, they complete an individual research-based dissertation where they apply what they’ve learned to a real-world power engineering challenge.

Focus areas: Modern power systems design, electrical machines and drives, power electronics, renewable energy integration, smart grid architectures, energy storage and distributed generation.
Learning outcomes: Graduates will be able to design and analyse electrical power systems and their components; evaluate and manage renewable and distributed energy resources; apply advanced numerical and research tools to real-world power engineering problems; and step confidently into industry or further research.
Professional alignment (accreditation): While specific accreditation is not stated on the programme page, Edinburgh’s engineering taught-masters programmes often map to the academic requirements for professional engineering registration in the UK — you should check directly with the School of Engineering for current status.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Edinburgh is globally respected, and its Engineering School is well regarded for research and graduate outcomes. According to a summary the MSc in Electrical Power Engineering “immerses students … in the most current developments in the area” and supports entry into the power engineering sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc Electrical Power Engineering at University of Edinburgh gain real-world, practical experience — right from day one through to the dissertation stage.

Students will work in state-of-the‐art engineering labs, using industry-relevant software and tools, taking part in group design projects and research under supervision. They’ll access electrical power systems labs, power electronics and machines test equipment, and benefit from guest industry lectures and workshops. From the power-electronics bench to simulation tools and group design tasks, the programme is built to convert theory into real engineering practice.

Here’s a breakdown of key features and experiential opportunities:

Practical laboratories: students undertake hands-on work in electrical machines, power electronics, and power systems labs as part of taught courses.
Group design projects: the programme includes group design assignments (for example on wind turbine or power system design) to develop teamwork, problem‐solving and design skills.
Research project & dissertation: after the two taught semesters, students complete a summer dissertation project under the supervision of academic staff (and often collaborating with industry) selecting a real-world topic in electrical power engineering.
Industry–relevant curriculum and guest input: modules include power systems, electrical machines, power electronics, renewables integration, economic aspects of power systems; guest lectures from industry experts are built into the programme.
Access to university engineering facilities: the School of Engineering offers dedicated “Electrical Power Lab” and “Engineering Makerspace” and over 60 laboratories and workshops for teaching and research.
Accreditation: the MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), so the practical training aligns with professional engineer requirements.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Electrical Power Engineering at the University of Edinburgh are well-positioned for a dynamic career in the global energy sector. Many go on to work in areas such as power generation, transmission, and renewable energy integration, taking up roles such as Power Systems Engineer, Electrical Machines Specialist, Renewable Energy Project Engineer, or Smart Grid Technology Consultant.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
• The University’s Careers Service provides dedicated support from the start of the programme through to graduation and beyond, offering one-to-one career guidance, CV reviews, interview preparation, and access to employer networking events and internships.
• Graduates from similar engineering programmes at the University report strong employment outcomes, with a typical salary of around £27,500 fifteen months after graduation in the UK.
• The School of Engineering maintains active industry partnerships with leading organisations such as National Grid Electricity Transmission, Scottish Power, SSE Energy, and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, ensuring that students engage with real-world challenges and research.
• The MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), guaranteeing that it meets internationally recognised standards and contributes towards achieving Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
• The programme’s strong industry links and technical focus enable graduates to build impactful careers in power engineering, renewable energy systems, and advanced electrical technologies.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, graduates may choose to advance to a PhD in Power Systems, Renewable Energy, or Sustainable Energy Engineering, or pursue additional professional qualifications that lead towards Chartered Engineer accreditation or specialised research in emerging power technologies.