University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme develops the economic tools and policy understanding needed to assess energy systems and climate interventions. Core modules typically cover micro- and macro-economic analysis as applied to energy and environmental goods, quantitative methods and econometrics for policy evaluation, and the economics of energy markets.

• Energy and Climate Economics: theory and application of externalities, carbon pricing, abatement cost curves and the role of market instruments.
• Energy Markets and Regulation: structure and behaviour of electricity, gas and oil markets, market liberalisation, network regulation and tariff design.
• Applied Econometrics and Modelling: econometric methods, causal inference, time-series and panel techniques for energy and climate data analysis.
• Policy Appraisal and Evaluation: cost–benefit analysis, distributional impacts, appraisal of low-carbon policies and adaptation measures.
• Energy Systems and Technology: overview of generation, networks, storage and emerging technologies with implications for economics and policy.
• Climate Change Economics and Policy: international climate agreements, carbon markets, nationally determined contributions and adaptation policy frameworks.
• Optional modules / electives: subjects may include renewable energy finance, urban energy systems, behavioural public policy, or law and governance of environmental regulation.

The programme normally concludes with a substantial individual dissertation or applied project in which you apply quantitative and policy analysis to a real-world energy or climate question. Some students can undertake placements, consultancy-style projects or collaborate with industry partners depending on availability.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a good honours degree (or international equivalent) in economics, finance, engineering, environmental studies, mathematics or another relevant quantitative discipline. A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) is commonly required, though applicants with a strong 2:2 plus relevant work experience may be considered.

• Quantitative skills: competence in mathematics, statistics or econometrics is essential; evidence of quantitative coursework or professional experience strengthens an application.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements.
• Supporting materials: applications typically require a personal statement explaining your motivation, degree transcripts and references; a CV highlighting relevant experience is helpful.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for roles that require economic and policy analysis of energy and climate issues. Typical career paths include:

• Policy analyst or adviser in central or regional government and regulatory bodies focusing on energy, environment and climate policy.
• Analyst or economist roles in energy utilities, energy trading firms and renewable developers.
• Consultancy positions in economic, environmental and energy consultancies delivering policy appraisal, market analysis and project evaluation.
• Roles in international organisations, non-governmental organisations and think-tanks working on climate finance, carbon markets and low-carbon transition strategies.
• Research and PhD study in energy economics, climate policy or related social sciences.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

University of Strathclyde has a long-established reputation for applied research and close engagement with industry and policy makers. The university’s location in Glasgow offers proximity to Scotland’s energy sector, networks of renewable developers, utilities and government organisations involved in climate and energy policy.

Students benefit from multidisciplinary teaching that draws on economics, engineering and public policy, and from academic staff who undertake research on energy systems, market design and climate policy evaluation. The university also fosters links with industry and public bodies, giving access to guest lectures, applied projects and potential employer networks.

Overall, the programme is designed to provide practical, evidence-based skills for analysing and designing energy and climate policy in public, private and third-sector settings.