Renewable Energy Engineering MSc
Subject and course type
- Engineering, Electronics and Robotics
- Environmental Science and Renewable Energy
- Postgraduate
Lead the way in the green energy revolution with Kingston University’s Renewable Energy Engineering MSc. Gain cutting-edge skills to drive innovation in sustainable energy.
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Build a sustainable future
Whether you pursue a career in solar, wind, or hydrogen energy, you'll gain hands-on experience with key industry technologies.
In the Kingston University Renewable Energy Lab, you'll work with advanced tools for testing and optimizing solar PV systems, solar thermal energy applications, wind power plants, and fuel cell technologies, giving you the practical skills needed for a wide range of roles in the renewable energy sector.
Master the most widely used software in the renewable energy sector, including Polysun (solar PV and solar heating systems), windPRO (wind farm design), GaBi (life cycle assessment), Ansys (engineering simulations), and CAD software like Solidworks and Siemens NX. By developing proficiency in these industry-standard applications, you'll be prepared to meet the demands of any renewable energy career path.
You'll be prepared to work in established companies, launch your own business, or pursue research opportunities in the field. The course offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips you with the technical knowledge needed to succeed in any renewable energy sector. You'll gain in-depth understanding of key technologies in solar, wind, hydrogen, and fuel cell energy, along with research and design skills, enabling you to tackle diverse challenges and contribute to innovation in the industry.
The course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Graduates can pursue Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, a globally recognized qualification that significantly boosts career opportunities and professional credibility.
I'm immensely grateful for the enriching experiences and knowledge I've gained at Kingston University. This educational journey has been transformative, and I feel well-prepared for a successful career in renewable energy engineering.
Field trips
Why choose this course
At Kingston University, we’re at the forefront of renewable energy education, offering an MSc that combines advanced engineering principles with sustainable innovation. This course is accredited by the Engineering Council, reflecting its alignment with industry standards and boosting your employability.
Through industry-standard accreditations, this course meets the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) - if you already have an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons).
Our curriculum is designed to equip you with the latest knowledge in renewable energy technologies, from wind and solar power to emerging hydrogen and biofuel systems. You'll benefit from industry partnerships, expert guest lectures, and opportunities to work on real-world projects.
With a strong focus on practical skills, the course includes lab sessions, site visits, and project-based learning, ensuring that your education extends beyond the classroom. Our state-of-the-art facilities support your learning, providing the tools needed to develop and test renewable energy technologies. You will use computer-aided simulation technologies to explore your field of enquiry:
- Polysun for solar energy applications
- windPRO for wind farm applications
- GaBi, a key industry software for life cycle assessment and carbon footprint calculations.
Through option modules, you will be able to specialise in project engineering and management, risk management or engineering design and development. Advanced topics include 3D solid modelling and simulation, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and simulation.
Students engage directly with renewable energy technologies, including solar PV, solar thermal, wind power and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. Learn in practical, hands-on lab sessions, alongside project-based studies for real-world application.
Accreditation
The MSc will meet, in part, the academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Accredited MSc graduates who also have a BEng(Hons) accredited for CEng, will be able to show that they have satisfied the educational base for CEng registration.
It should be noted that graduates from an accredited MSc programme, who do not also have an appropriately accredited honours degree, will not be regarded as having the exemplifying qualifications for professional registration as a chartered engineer with the Engineering Council; and will need to have their first qualification individually assessed through the individual case procedure if they wish to progress to CEng.
Course content
The course provides an in-depth knowledge of renewable energy systems design and development, commercial and technical consultancy and project management within the sustainable engineering environment.
You will gain technical skills and knowledge in solar power, wind power, hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, as well as renewable energy business and management. In addition, you will gain practical skills in up-to-date computer-aided simulation technologies such as Polysun for solar energy applications, WindPRO for wind farm applications and GaBi for Life Cycle Assessments (LCA).
Option modules enable you to specialise in project engineering and management, as well as risk management or engineering design and development. Advanced topics, such as 3D solid modelling, computer-aided product development and simulation, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and simulation allow you to gain further practical and theoretical knowledge of analytical software tools used in product design.
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.
If you start this course in January, you will complete the same modules as students who started in September but in a different format – please contact us at SECAdmissions@kingston.ac.uk for more information.
Teaching on this course usually takes place in two separate specific week blocks (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm). For further details please contact secpgstudentoffice@kingston.ac.uk.
For a student to go on placement they are required to pass every module first time with no reassessments. It is the responsibility of individual students to find a suitable paid placement. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity.
Please note
Optional modules only run if there is enough demand. If we have an insufficient number of students interested in an optional module, that module will not be offered for this course.
Modules
Core modules
15 credits
This broad-based module comprehensively examines fuel cell technology, the principle engineering methodologies for producing hydrogen and electricity as a prime source of power and the relevant applications for renewable energy generation. The content continues by considering how the design and manufacturing processes involved may be applied in the development and optimisation of new and innovative renewable energy systems. The content concludes by examining and evaluating some of the key issues relating to environmental concern as well as socioeconomical impact of fuel cell policy.
The module is primarily delivered through formal lectures and simulation for life cycle assessment sessions, supported by case studies and tutorials, with comprehensive course material available via CANVAS.
Set against the background of climate change, sustainability issues, the acquisition and development of renewable energy sources and how these factors are influenced by government and international organisations, thus affecting business decision making. The comprehensive content examines the different aspects of social, economic, and environmental business management and how this can create operational efficiencies and a competitive advantage. The module also considers the aspects of corporate social responsibility.
15 credits
The comprehensive content of this module examines the measurement and assessment of wind resources together with the principles and technology of machines used in the generation of power from the wind, including their aerodynamics, the aero-elastic and fatigue characteristics of their materials and the operation of ancillary equipment including gear boxes and electrical machines.
The module also considers the latest developments and technical progress of wind powered installations and covers all aspects of life-time project management, including planning and public acceptance, costing and financial incentives, technologies, plant operation including maintenance and power system integration.
Set against the background of climate change, sustainability issues, the acquisition and development of renewable energy sources and how these factors are influenced by government and international organisations, thus affecting business decision making. The comprehensive content examines the different aspects of social, economic, and environmental business management and how this can create operational efficiencies and a competitive advantage.
The module also considers the differential effect applicable to varying industries and concludes by focusing on aspects of corporate social responsibility.
15 credits
This is a core module which provides a detailed examination of the solar energy conversion process, system design and applications. The comprehensive content considers how the principles of solar energy, as a prime source of power, can be used in the design, development and manufacture of relevant energy systems and technologies. The module content examines current and future technological requirements and considers key energy policies, practices and influences surrounding solar energy deployment.
The module also considers the latest developments and technical progress of solar powered installations and covers all aspects of life-time project management, including planning and public acceptance, costing and financial incentives, technologies, operational and maintenance aspects, and power system integration.
Set against the background of climate change, sustainability issues, the acquisition and development of renewable energy sources and how these factors are influenced by government and international organisations, thus affecting business decision making. The comprehensive content examines the different aspects of social, economic, and environmental business management including social responsibility and how this can create operational efficiencies and a competitive advantage.
30 credits
This module introduces you to the practical and virtual skills needed in the design and development of renewable power systems for solar, wind and fuel cells technologies, and how you can individually, or as part of a team, assess the viability of, and implement such developments.
This module will equip you with cognitive and practical skills for conceptual research, design, and critical evaluation of performance characteristics of relevant renewable energy powered engineering systems to minimise greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This would lead to the design and development of environmentally benign products. The module delivery is in the format of lectures, hands on practical and tutorials. A significant part of the teaching time is spent in laboratory sessions during which you will work in small groups, involving peer group activities, as well as learning how to use the latest software technologies for individual investigative assignment. The teaching material will be influenced by extensive research activities of the academic staff engaged in delivery of the module. Feedback and feed forward in the form of formative assessments will be organised.
30 credits
Research Techniques, Innovation and Sustainability equips you with the skills and knowledge required to select and justify a research topic and then to plan and execute that research project. Research is a broad topic covers a variety of activities that range from undertaking a project as part of an academic programme, through research and development in the commercial environment, to acquiring information to inform projects undertaken as part of routine business practice. This module introduces research in these contexts and allows you to develop your own research plan. As part of the module, you will consider setting research questions and determining hypotheses, acquire relevant information and data, apply suitable analytical techniques, and evaluate the significance and potential applications of their research findings. You will also develop your innovation skills through a combination of workshops and team working, resulting in submission of an innovation proposal aimed to address UN Sustainable Development Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The module covers many practical aspects surrounding research in the commercial environment including intellectual property and professionalism, and sustainability is embedded throughout the module both in course content and via development of the innovation proposal.
60 credits
Drawing on previous knowledge and experience, the dissertation module allows you to study an area of interest within your chosen field in significant depth. In undertaking the dissertation, you will develop not only a deeper understanding of your subject area but will also be able to demonstrate a high level of autonomy in terms of project dissertation planning and management. You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and competence in reviewing existing published literature and data and, through your own efforts, apply one or more of a range of research methods to collect and analyse data and draw well-founded conclusions as a result of your research. The main output from the module is a final report but the option is available for you to prepare their work in the format of an article suitable for submission to a relevant conference or journal.
Optional modules
15 credits
This module is structured in a way to develop an in-depth understanding of computer-aided design techniques such as solid and surface modelling that can support the development of engineering products. This module also aims to help you develop a fundamental understanding of the role of these technologies within a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM).
15 credits
This module extends your knowledge and skills beyond the basic fluid mechanics methods which are normally introduced at early undergraduate level, and to provide a theoretical and analytical introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). In the lectures, emphasis is placed on the numerical models and analytical techniques in fluid dynamics and heat transfer and some of the more advanced theories behind CFD.
The module also provides you with advanced computational knowledge in fluid dynamics, therefore enhancing your employment potential in a wide range of industries.
Professional placement
Professional placement
120 credits
The Professional Placement module is a core module if you're following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement. It provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in your chosen discipline. You may wish to use the placement experience as a platform for a major project or your future career.
It is your responsibility to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by your Course Leader prior to commencement to ensure its suitability. You will have access to the standard placement preparation activities offered by the Student Engagement and Enhancement (SEE) group.
Read more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
Careers opportunities
By completing the Renewable Energy Engineering MSc, you’ll join a global movement towards a more sustainable future, equipped with the skills to make a real impact in the green energy sector.
Graduates from this programme are well-positioned for careers in engineering consultancies, energy companies, and environmental agencies.
You may choose to pursue roles across a range of industries, including:
- energy companies
- engineering consultancies
- environmental agencies
- government organisations.
Career opportunities include positions such as:
- renewable energy consultant
- energy systems engineer
- sustainability analyst
- project manager for renewable energy projects.
Kingston University has strong links with industry, providing opportunities for networking, internships, and collaborations with leading energy firms. Our relevant industrial links span many countries. Examples include work with: Matra-Marconi Space, Ericsson, Balfour Beatty, the National Health Service, and British Gas. This industry-guided course ensures that you’re academically prepared and connected to a network that will support your career growth.
The Renewable Energy Engineering program at Kingston University played a crucial role in securing my position as a Technical Supervisor at MIMAH Company, a firm specializing in power plant procurement across Africa, including solar power projects. The program provided me with in-depth technical knowledge and analytical skills essential for my role.
Teaching and assessment
When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.
As a student at Kingston University, we will make sure you have access to appropriate advice regarding your academic development. You will also be able to use the University's support services.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 180 credits across a year (typical for a postgraduate course) would equate to 1,800 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- 17% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
How you will be assessed
- Year 1: coursework: 59%; exams: 38%; practical: 4%
Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. Depending on optional modules chosen, this breakdown may change.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
You will be part of an intimate cohort of 20-40 students which provides dedicated academic guidance and advice as well as the opportunity to build a life-long network of colleagues. Some modules are common across other postgraduate programmes; you may therefore be taught alongside postgraduates from other courses.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £11,400 |
| Part Time | £6,270 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £19,300 |
| Part Time | £10,615 |
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £10,900 |
| Part Time | £5,995 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £18,500 |
| Part Time | £10,175 |
Funding support for postgraduate students
If you are a UK student living in England and under 60, you can apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree on the government's website.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying Renewable Energy Engineering MSc at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support:
This scholarship offers a 40% reduction in fees across a range of taught postgraduate courses. Learn more about eligibility criteria for Inspire the Future applicants.
If you are an international student, find out more about scholarships and bursaries.
We also offer discounts for Kingston University alumni.
There are Progression Scholarships available for certain postgraduate courses. Review our range of funding opportunities for masters-level study.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Courses involving placements or direct work with vulnerable groups may require a DBS check or other security checks.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes.
If you choose to do a placement year, travel costs will vary depending on your location. These costs could be up to £2,000.
Some courses may require professional memberships.
Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year. A £10 voucher will be supplied to help cover the cost of the safety boots when purchasing with our supplier Activity Work Wear. Safety boots can range in cost between £25 and £100.
How to apply
Before you apply
Please read the entry criteria carefully to make sure you meet all requirements before applying.
How to apply online
Use the course selector drop down at the top of this page to choose your preferred course, start date and mode, then click 'Apply now'. You will be taken to our Online Student Information System (OSIS) where you will complete your application.
If you’re starting a new application, you’ll need to select ‘new user’ and set up a username and password. This will allow you to save and return to your application.
Application deadlines
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Applications will close when the course is full.
Information required to confirm your place
If English is not your first language, we will require proof of your proficiency to allow us to confirm your place on the course. This will generally be either an IELTS or TOEFL test certificate, which can be forwarded to us after you have submitted your application. If you do not hold a formal English language qualification, please indicate how you have acquired your proficiency in written and spoken English.
After you have applied
For courses that select on application alone, applicants should normally receive an initial decision or a request for more information within four to six weeks of receipt of their application. Our admissions team will notify you of the decision by email.
Learn more about the postgraduate application process in detail.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
I have always had a passion for electrical power, all I wanted to be growing up was an electrical engineer. I majored in power systems for my first degree. After some years in the industry back in my home country, I yearned for more. A postgraduate degree in Renewable Energy Engineering was a no-brainer. I saw it as a platform to add value to the world around me through the energy space.
The course has been instrumental in my professional development, particularly through advanced analytical techniques, hands-on projects, and industry-relevant case studies that provided practical insights. The expert feedback from professors and guest lecturers refined my skills, while networking opportunities broadened my professional connections. Additionally, the emphasis on strategic thinking has been crucial in making informed, long-term decisions in my career.
