Compulsory modules

Solar Photovoltaics (DL) (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to enable students to have a comprehensive understanding of solar photovoltaic technologies. This will include introducing the facts governing the nature, availability and characteristics of the solar resource as well as the underlying fundamental scientific concepts of photovoltaic device operation, and how performance of photovoltaic devices changes under varying ambient conditions. Different photovoltaic conversion technologies will be critically examined in terms of their design, efficiency and costs.

Practical considerations for scaling from small area cells to full sized modules shall be introduced including the design, implementation, and performance assessment of full systems. Techniques for characterisation and performance modelling will equip students with the skills to assess and optimise full scale systems. The module will be useful for those going into technologist, designer or consultant roles in the field of PV or general renewable energies.

Wind Power (DL) (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to enable students to contribute to the development and deployment of wind power, both onshore and offshore.

Water Power (DL) (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to equip students with the understanding and skills to assess the available energy resource and suitability of different turbine technologies for inland water power systems and for marine wave and tidal schemes.

Renewable Energy Technologies in Society (DL) (15 credits)

The aim of the module is to develop a critical understanding of the broad social, economic, and environmental contexts in which renewable energy technologies are deployed. The module examines global, regional, and UK perspectives, considering socio-economic factors, policy and regulatory frameworks, and sustainability issues. These will be explored through the lens of energy systems in transition, addressing the interconnected challenges of economic viability, the climate emergency, and energy justice and security.

Core Professional Skills for Research and Employability (15 credits)

This module aims to develop the study, employability and research skills to meet the complex learning and professional requirements of postgraduate study. The module which is delivered through a blended approach brings together three discrete elements of study, employability and research skills. Learning content will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous teaching provision.
Key aims include:

  • To deliver a series of high quality, interactive study skills and blended learning activities to provide students with a broad foundation to support their development within their chosen field.
  • To provide a series of skills to support students within their employability profiles.
  • To provide students with the opportunity to develop research skills for engineering and business, including data gathering and analysis skills and ethical awareness.
  • To provide students with the opportunity to develop effective communication skills for engineering and business, including skills synthesise complex scientific data to engineering and non-engineering audiences

MSc Individual Project (60 credits)

The aims of this module are:

  • To give students an opportunity to conduct a research and/or development project on a topic of relevance to their specific programme of study.
  • To provide students with the key skills and experience needed to plan, manage and deliver a complex extended project.
  • To prepare students for future employment and professional practice in a relevant engineering sector at an advanced technical or managerial level.