Delft University of Technology

What you'll study

The track combines theoretical fundamentals with applied engineering and laboratory work to prepare you for technical and design challenges in modern power systems. Core topics typically include power system analysis and stability, power electronics for grid applications, high-voltage engineering and insulation, protection and control of power networks, and grid integration of renewable energy sources.

Programme components commonly consist of:

• Advanced lectures on steady-state and dynamic behaviour of power systems, power system control, HVDC and FACTS technologies, and electromagnetic transients.
• Power electronics and drives modules addressing converters, inverters and their control for grid connection and storage systems.
• Protection, monitoring and automation covering relay protection, fault diagnostics, SCADA and wide-area monitoring.
• Smart grids and distributed energy resources with topics on microgrids, demand response, and integration of solar, wind and storage.
• Laboratory and simulation work using industry-standard tools and test facilities to model, simulate and measure system behaviour under realistic conditions.
• Electives and multidisciplinary projects that allow specialisation in areas such as energy markets, sustainable power systems, power system cyber-physical security or power system economics.
• Individual research project / master’s thesis based in a research group or industry setting, culminating in a substantial technical report and defence.

Typical structure

The track is organised around a combination of taught courses, practical labs and project work, culminating in a research-intensive master’s thesis. Students normally select a coherent set of electives to tailor the programme towards either a research-oriented or industry-oriented career.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline with a strong foundation in circuit theory, signals and systems, electromagnetics, and mathematics. Relevant coursework in power engineering, control theory or power electronics is advantageous.

Typical application elements include:

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or equivalent.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating sufficient preparation in core subjects (mathematics, electromagnetics, circuits, signals).
• A curriculum vitae and a motivation letter describing relevant experience and choice of specialisation.
• Letters of recommendation are often requested for research-focused applicants.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose prior education was not in English (accepted tests or institutional evidence).

Selection is based on academic performance, match between prior training and the track content, and the capacity to complete an advanced engineering programme. Some applicants may be asked to follow a preparatory programme or take specific pre-master courses if their background is incomplete.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Electrical Power Engineering track pursue technical and managerial roles across the energy sector. Common career paths include:

• Power system engineer at transmission and distribution system operators or utilities, working on planning, operation and stability of grids.
• Application and design engineer for manufacturers of transformers, switchgear, power converters and protection systems.
• Grid integration specialist in renewable-energy companies and independent power producers, focusing on connection studies and system integration.
• Consultant or project engineer in engineering consultancies working on smart grid projects, microgrids and electrification initiatives.
• Research and development roles in industrial R&D or academic institutions, or continuation to a PhD in power systems, power electronics or related fields.

The programme emphasises hands-on skills and modelling competence valued by employers involved in the energy transition, grid modernisation and large-scale electrification projects.

Why study at Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is a technical university with a long-standing profile in electrical engineering and power systems education. The department combines theoretical research groups with applied laboratories and test facilities, allowing students to work on state-of-the-art problems in power electronics, high-voltage technology and system integration.

Delft offers an international learning environment, strong connections with industry and energy stakeholders, and opportunities to collaborate on projects with utilities, manufacturers and research institutes. Students benefit from experienced academic staff, access to specialised labs and simulation tools, and a campus culture that supports innovation and entrepreneurship in the energy domain.