Electrical Power Systems with Advanced ResearchMSc

You’ll discover the challenges facing the electrical power industry and learn how to develop innovative solutions to power system problems. Earn a qualification respected around the world and prepare for a PhD.

Course structure

Join a 2 year full-time adventure with our programme, offering a rich array of experiences such as lectures, laboratory work, tutorials, and assignments. The centrepiece of the programme is the advanced research project which you'll be dedicating a lot of time to in your second year.

• Study in our state-of-the-art School of Engineering building, featuring electronics and electrical projects spaces, a full-size set of railway points, the University’s pantograph test rig, and a test track for the scaled hydrogen-powered train.
• Equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge, you'll be ready to lead teams shaping the future of electrical power systems and networks, including smart grids.

• Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts.
• Engage in tutorials and seminars that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning.
• Engage in projects and practical assignments that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing your understanding and retention of concepts.
• Experience increased engagement and motivation with 1:1 supervision, held in a supportive environment where you feel valued throughout your academic journey.
• Develop critical technical and analytical skills, including experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem-solving, and familiarise yourself with specialised equipment and techniques through laboratory work.

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

Year1: 2025/26

Performance required for progressing to Year 2: Successful completion of Year 1 with a good overall 2.1 is needed.

Core modules:

Year 2: 2026/27

Core module:

Students are able to study any of the Research Skills Training modules currently available to MRes, MSc by Research or PhD students (not for award of credit).

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

Note: The fees above are for the first year of the programme, this is taught component of the programme.

Year 2

Year 2 is the research section of the course. Fees for year 2 will not be confirmed until 2025. The year 2 fees below are relevant to students who started in 2024.

• UK students – £4,921
• International students - £28,320

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

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.