Why study a masters in sustainable energy

In today's world, where the environment needs our help more than ever, sustainable energy specialists and professionals play a crucial role in advancing clean and renewable energy sources while promoting energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Discover the gateway to an exciting future in this field with our cross-disciplinary MSc programmes in Sustainable Energy.

About the courses

On our Sustainable Energy MSc programmes, you'll delve deep into the intricacies of sustainable and renewable energy systems, while unravelling the web of social, economic, regulatory, and environmental factors that steer the course of sustainable energy.

The transition to cleaner, smarter and more sustainable energy systems is one of the defining challenges of our time. Our Sustainable Energy MSc prepares the next generation of engineers, scientists and energy professionals to develop innovative solutions that will help shape a more sustainable future.

While renewable energy generation remains a core focus of the programme, students also examine emerging technologies that are shaping the future of the energy sector. These include sustainable energy storage systems, green hydrogen technologies, smart grids and intelligent energy networks, as well as digital approaches for managing increasingly complex energy systems. Together, these technologies are expected to play a critical role in accelerating the transition towards net-zero energy systems worldwide. Dr Bahman Amini Horri, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering and Sustainable Energy; Leader of MSc Sustainable Energy; Fellow at the Institute for Sustainability

Also part of the programme team, Professor Ravi Silva, distinguished leader at Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute (ATI), not only directs the Nano-Electronics Centre (NEC) but also champions sustainability initiatives to work towards Carbon Net Zero, such as the Surrey Solar Farm. His expertise extends to shaping future technologies, and he spearheaded a £3 million consortium to advance perovskite solar cells for wearable tech and Internet of Things (IoT) devices in 2022.

Professor Mahmoud Shafiee, Professor and Chair in Energy Resilience at the School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences said: “Our MSc course in Sustainable Energy will prepare students with invaluable hands-on experience, challenging case studies, and real-world projects. The student will have the opportunity to work in groups, to design, build and test net-zero energy systems, as part of the group project module”.

Professor Suby Bhattacharya, chair in Geomechanics at the University and co-founder of University Spin-off company, Renew Risk holds expertise in offshore wind energy and has authored several books on offshore windfarms. He says, “With the world’s shift towards green energy, the coming decade is poised for remarkable expansion in the offshore wind sector, projected to burgeon into a $1 trillion industry by 2040. Offshore wind can provide energy security to island nations and will pave the path for a low carbon planet. The course will also focus on offshore wind sector."

Excellent careers prospects

Our Sustainable Energy MSc programmes are your stepping stones to becoming a sought-after specialist in this pivotal and ever-expanding industry. Our curriculum comprises a rich blend of both theory and hands-on experience, meticulously curated and delivered by world-renowned academics who are luminaries in their respective fields.

What's more, you'll have the unique opportunity to partake in a placement year that could open doors to your dream career. Our faculty boasts unparalleled connections with a prestigious roster of industrial partners, including giants like Fluor, ExxonMobil, BAE Systems, Cres Power, and NPL. Your journey to a sustainable energy future begins here, and the possibilities are boundless.

Governments and industries worldwide are investing heavily in renewable energy, energy storage, smart grids and low-carbon technologies, creating exciting career opportunities for skilled graduates. Our Sustainable Energy MSc equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills sought by employers across the energy, engineering and sustainability sectors. Graduates can pursue careers in renewable energy companies, energy consultancies, utilities, sustainable manufacturing, policy organisations and research institutions, both in the UK and internationally.

Find out more about our Sustainable Energy MSc masters programme.