MSc Electrical Engineering for Sustainable and Renewable Energy

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

This one‑year MSc develops advanced skills in electrical engineering — power electronics, machines, and systems — with a strong focus on sustainable and renewable energy technologies. It suits graduates from engineering or related backgrounds who want to pivot into roles driving the energy transition.

Curriculum structure

Year one (taught semesters):
In the autumn and spring semesters students cover core modules such as Holistic Engineering Design and Project Design and Development, helping them apply engineering design thinking in sustainable contexts. They also choose optional modules like Sustainable Energy Futures, Electrical Machines, Drive Systems and Applications, Advanced Power Electronics and others such as Applications of AI in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, thereby building a foundation in how renewable‑tech and electrical engineering combine.
Summer (individual project):
In the summer the student undertakes an individual research or simulation‑based project (MSc Project, 60 credits) under supervision — allowing in‑depth exploration of a real‑world engineering challenge in sustainable/renewable energy systems.
Spring optional modules (continued):
Further into the taught period students may select modules such as Distributed Generation and Alternative Energy, Energy Storage, Technologies for the Hydrogen Economy, Power Networks and Renewable Generation Technologies, which deepen their expertise in specific emerging technologies and system integration in sustainable energy.

Focus areas

Advanced electrical machines & drives · Power electronics · Renewable generation systems · Energy storage & hydrogen technologies · Sustainable design and system integration

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to design, analyse and integrate electrical engineering systems for sustainable and renewable energy applications; critically evaluate technologies such as wind, solar, hydrogen and energy storage; and manage engineering projects considering environmental, ethical and societal impacts.

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).

Reputation (employability rankings)

– The University of Nottingham is ranked 10th in the UK for Electrical & Electronic Engineering in the 2025 Guardian University Guide.
– Graduate outcomes: in the Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, 93.1% of postgraduates secured graduate‑level employment or further study within 15 months; average starting salary £35,766.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the MSc Electrical Engineering for Sustainable and Renewable Energy programme at the University of Nottingham gain extensive practical experience alongside theoretical study. From the start, they engage with advanced simulation tools, design and test power electronics and electrical machine systems, and develop solutions for renewable energy generation. The Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering (EEE) supports this hands-on learning through dedicated laboratories, project spaces, and specialised research facilities, enabling students to apply engineering principles in real-world contexts.

The programme’s experiential learning includes:

Technical software training: Students use industry-standard simulation tools and software for modules such as Advanced Power Electronics, Power Electronic Applications and Control, and Renewable Generation Technologies.
Collaborative projects: Group-based design modules like “Holistic Engineering Design” and “Project Design & Development” develop teamwork, project planning, and engineering solution skills.
Individual MSc project: Each student completes a substantial 60-credit project, carrying out practical, theoretical, or simulation-based work under faculty supervision, gaining experience in research or industry-style challenges.
Access to specialised facilities: Students work in the Power Electronics & Machines Centre, which includes labs for electrification, propulsion systems, and zero-carbon technology research, alongside other institute-level energy facilities.
Blended teaching approach: Learning combines lectures, practical classes, lab sessions, workshops, group study, and tutorials to ensure theory is directly linked to hands-on practice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this programme go on to roles such as Electrical Engineer in renewable energy generation, Power Systems Design Engineer for sustainable grids, and Energy Storage and Integration Engineer supporting the energy transition. With the technical depth of power electronics, machines and renewable conversion, they’re well‑placed to influence low‑carbon tech roll‑out. And because the qualification is accredited for further learning towards Chartered Engineer status, it underpins long‑term professional recognition.

Here’s what the University offers and how this degree supports your career:

Comprehensive careers support: the University advertises individual careers help for post‑graduate students, including CV help, interview coaching, employer‑facing events and an online vacancy service with over 1,100 employers.
Employment outcomes: 93.1 % of postgraduates from the Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering secured graduate‑level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation; average starting salary £35,766 (HESA data 2020‑21 to 2022‑23).
University–industry partnerships and research edge: the Department’s Power Electronics, Machines & Control Research Group (PEMC) is one of the largest globally and works in facilities such as the £40 million PEMC building, with strong industry‑funded projects and partnerships (e.g., with Sprint Electric).
Accreditation and long‑term value: The programme is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council, as meeting the requirements for Further Learning towards Chartered Engineer status.
Strong graduation outcome: More than nine in ten graduates secure employment or further study, and the technical content deeply aligns with the growing global demand for sustainable and renewable energy solutions.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, students could advance to a research‑based degree such as an MRes or PhD in fields like power electronics for renewable systems, energy storage technologies, smart grids or electrified transport. They could also pursue professional engineering registration (Chartered Engineer status) using this programme as the foundation and build toward leadership roles in engineering, policy or consultancy in the sustainable energy sector.