Joint Masters Sustainable Energy SystemsMSc

Explore energy systems and technologies along with the economic models that could make them effective in addressing climate change. Benefit from the expertise and industry relationships at Birmingham and IIT Madras to open up your career opportunities.

Course Structure

 You’ll be encouraged to consider technology development, engineering, economic, societal, environmental and policy aspects in the context of net zero targets.

Enjoy real workplace experience with an industrial placement, helping an industry partner on their own journey towards a low carbon future.

You’ll also take part in a research project with an internationally recognised research group in India and the UK, so you can apply your knowledge to provide solutions to the global energy crisis and climate change challenges.

You will be able to select from two programme options when you apply. Both programmes begin with six months at IIT Madras.

Then, the Birmingham majority option sees you spend 12 months at Birmingham for the remainder of the taught programme and to conduct a programme of research over the summer.

The IITM majority option has you spending six months in Birmingham before returning to IIT Madras to complete the research project and undertake the last part of the taught programme.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

Consideration may also be given to excellent applicants with degrees in life sciences and economics where these included an adequate component of mathematics.

Further consideration may be given to candidates with extensive, relevant post-degree experience.

* For applicants from India: Holders of a Bachelors degree of three or four years in duration from a recognised university in India will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 55% - 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or 50% - 55% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

Either: A four-year Bachelors degree (first class or very good upper second class)
Or: A three-year Bachelors degree (first class) from recognised institutions in India.

Some content on this course will be delivered by Social Sciences and so emphasis on writing proficiency will be more pronounced.

English requirements

For students whose first language is not English or have received a degree from a majority English speaking country, one of the following English language qualifications are required.

• The IELTS requirement is 6.0 minimum overall, with at least 5.5 in each component and minimum 6.0 in writing component. The equivalencies for this from the Indian Standard XII English are:
   - 75% from ISC, CBSE, and Maharashtra
   - 75% from West Bengal
  - 80% from Other State boards

• TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 21 in Writing.

• Pearson Test of English (PTE)
  PTE Academic: Pearson Test of English (PTE) including online: PTE Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills.

• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015)
  Cambridge English: Advanced Minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component.

• Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI)
  B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 25 in each skill

• Trinity ISE II
  Distinction all skills

• Trinity ISE III
  Pass in each Skill

Applicants with appropriate grades in Standard XII English (English Core/English Elective/Functional English in CBSE) do not require additional SELT qualifications.

A valid English qualification is required on the enrolment date of the programme, not the arrival date to the UK for the part of the programme studied at Birmingham.

Apply for this programme through the IIT Madras website

Studying in both India and the UK will equip you with a unique international perspective with specialised knowledge and skills. Your access to industry partnerships will expand the breadth of your understanding of renewable energy systems and sustainability.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.