Energy Science is a broad, modern, inter-discipline essential to the global way of life in the 21st century and beyond. Energy Science encompasses the essential aspects of Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Engineering and Business that pertain to the generation and utilisation of Energy.

The connection between physics, chemistry, earth science and economics determines how energy is utilised, the environmental consequences of its use, and in turn determines many government policies across the globe.

A working understanding of each of these areas is necessary for students inspired to pursue a career in the energy sector, or for those interested in communicating or managing the environmental impact of the world’s energy use, such as climate change.

The syllabus covers Energy Economics and Policy, Natural Resource Management, Fossil & Nuclear Energy, Conventional Energy Conversion Devices, Sustainable Energy Technologies, Electricity & Power Electronics, and Mitigation of the Environmental Impact of Energy Utilisation. Each topic starts from the fundamental scientific principles and develops to the actual engineering implementations.

Course Structure

The curriculum is designed to allow students from science, engineering, or other backgrounds with relevant experience, to gain the scientific knowledge needed to contribute to the energy sector. This can be through industry, business, academia, government policy or media communication. Students will examine the fundamental and applied science of how energy resources could be diversified from conventional polluting sources (e.g. CO2, NOX, SMOG) to renewable sources, where the sustainability of both the energy source and the conversion technology is presently unknown.

• Introduction to Energy Science - 60 lecture hours
• Core 1: Conventional Energy Sources & Technologies - 40 lecture hours
• Core 2: Electric Power Generation and Distribution - 40 lecture hours
• Core 3: Sustainable Energy Sources & Technologies I - 40 lecture hours
• Core 4: Sustainable Energy Sources & Technologies II - 40 lecture hours
• Core 5: Managing the Impact of Energy Utilisation - 40 lecture hours
• Core 6: Research Project and Dissertation in Academia or Industry - 15 weeks full-time

Who should apply?

This MSc is suitable for graduates who have achieved an upper second class honours degree or the international equivalent in either physical sciences or engineering. However, applications from similarly qualified candidates from other disciplines are welcome if they can demonstrate a sufficient level of knowledge or interest in the Energy sector.

Career opportunities

The cost of energy is a dominant factor in determining the profitability of any manufacturing business. Large multi-national companies are therefore very concerned by the efficiency and sustainability of their energy usage, as are government organisations.

Graduates who understand the scientific factors that determine these “Energy Bottom Lines” are in high demand. In addition to environmental and energy regulating authorities, graduates of the MSc in Energy Science have knowledge and skills directly applicable to a host of energy orientated industries, including; power generation and distribution; electronics, automotive, aviation, construction and oil & gas. For graduates interested in academic research, the societal pursuit of clean and secure Energy is at the heart of the research agenda of every major country.