University of Western Australia

What you'll study

This programme combines core technical units with electives and a capstone research or industry project to give a broad and applied grounding in contemporary low‑carbon energy systems. Core topics typically include:

• Renewable generation technologies — solar photovoltaic systems, wind energy, bioenergy and emerging conversion technologies.
• Energy storage and batteries — electrochemical storage, flow batteries, thermal storage and system-level storage integration.
• Power systems and grid integration — power electronics, microgrids, distribution networks, stability and control for high-renewable penetration.
• Energy systems modelling and optimisation — techno‑economic modelling, load forecasting, dispatch optimisation and scenario analysis.
• Hydrogen and fuels of the future — production pathways, handling, integration with grids and industry decarbonisation.
• Policy, markets and project development — energy policy, market design, project finance, environmental assessment and regulatory frameworks.

Students select electives to tailor the degree towards advanced technical specialisms (for example power electronics, smart grids, energy economics) or broader systems and policy studies. The programme culminates in a capstone research or industry project that applies skills to a real-world challenge in collaboration with academic supervisors or industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (for example in electrical, mechanical or chemical engineering, physics, mathematics, environmental science or similar disciplines) with an honours year or equivalent academic standing. Applicants with substantial professional experience in energy or engineering may also be considered. Where applicants lack specific background in core areas, the faculty may require completion of preparatory or bridging subjects.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Typical acceptable evidence includes an academic English test (for example an overall IELTS score around the commonly required threshold with no low bands) or equivalent qualifications from recognised institutions. Specific entry conditions and any additional prerequisite units are confirmed by the University during the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates enter roles across the energy sector including utilities, renewable developers, energy storage and hydrogen companies, engineering consultancies, network operators and government agencies. Typical job titles include:

• Renewable energy engineer or project engineer
• Power systems or grid integration engineer
• Energy systems modeller or analyst
• Energy storage specialist
• Policy analyst or energy market consultant
• Project manager for renewable projects and infrastructure

The degree also provides a pathway into research and higher degrees (for example PhD) for those interested in deep technical R&D or academic careers.

Why study at University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia offers this programme within a research‑intensive environment with strong links to Western Australia’s energy and resources sector. Students benefit from access to specialised laboratory facilities, multidisciplinary research centres focused on energy transition, and industry engagement that supports practical projects and placements.

UWA’s location in Perth provides proximity to major utilities, renewable developers and research organisations, enabling collaborative projects and networking opportunities. The curriculum is designed to balance technical rigour with practical, industry‑relevant skills, preparing graduates to contribute to decarbonisation and the transition to resilient future energy systems.