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Course overview
Take the lead in the future of our energy networks. Our two-year MSc will develop your advanced power engineering skills and prepare you for a research career.
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.
The best thing about the course is that I experienced both taught and research curricula. In the first year, I had the opportunity to be taught by lecturers with many years of experience in the academic and power industry. In the second year, the research curriculum gave me an insight into research work as a pre-PhD student.
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.
In this term, you'll immerse yourself in three compulsory modules tailored to offer immersive learning opportunities. Our teaching approach integrates lectures, tutorials, and simulation-based lab experiments to facilitate hands-on understanding of electrical power systems and deep into the material. Each module is assessed through a combination of presentations, group assignments, individual tasks, and a final examination. The culmination of this term is marked by the final examination, scheduled for January.
Course highlights
Learn advanced concepts of electrical power systems and renewable energy. We’ll prepare you to lead teams in the design, control and operation of smart grids, the electrical power systems and networks of the future. In your second year, you’ll focus on an extended research project and delve deeper into your chosen topic.
- 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.
Study a course which is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Develop power engineering skills through expert teaching and extensive research in collaboration with industry partners.
Course delivery
Benefit from instruction by world-leading experts in electrical power systems. You’ll take part in an intensive year-long advanced research project, tackling original problems to hone your research skills and enhance your career prospects.
- 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.
Module information
Our course is suitable to take full-time, part-time or by module to gain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points. You'll undertake six 20-credit modules in the first year and an extensive research project in the second year.
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.
Year: 1
2025/26 Session
Performance required for progressing to Year 2: Successful completion of Year 1 with a good overall 2.1 is needed.
In order to be awarded an accredited degree a student must have achieved 100 credits in taught modules given that the pass mark at this level is 50.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM HVDC and FACTS | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Introductory Module for Electrical Power Systems | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Power Systems Stability Control and Protection | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Renewable Energy Systems Integration | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Power System Economics | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Power Systems Operation and Control | 20 | Semester 1 |
Year: 2
2026/27 Session
Performance required for progressing to Year 2: Successful completion of Year 1 with a good overall 2.1 is needed.
In order to be awarded an accredited degree a student must have achieved 100 credits in taught modules given that the pass mark at this level is 50.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Electrical Power Systems with Advanced Research Project | 120 | Full Term |
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).
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
In Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or a relevant subject.
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
Fees and scholarships
- £11,740
Full-time
- £5,870
Part-time
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.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
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.
Career opportunities
Whether you are a future or current engineer, elevate your skill set by learning advanced concepts in electrical power systems and renewable energy. Be the next leader involved in the operation, control, design, and economic analysis of the electrical power systems and networks including smart grids.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
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.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.