University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

The programme develops applied economic skills for analysing energy markets, carbon pricing and climate policy, alongside practical methods for policy appraisal and modelling of low‑carbon transitions. Teaching combines core modules in microeconomics, environmental and energy economics, and applied econometrics with specialised modules that examine energy market design, regulation, renewable integration, policy instruments and the economics of decarbonisation.

• Core topics typically include: energy and environmental economics, policy instruments for climate change, and quantitative methods/econometrics for policy evaluation.
• Specialist modules commonly cover: electricity and gas market structures, renewable energy economics, carbon pricing and emissions trading, energy efficiency policies, and sustainability assessment.
• Applied skills training focuses on energy system modelling, cost‑benefit and policy appraisal, data analysis, scenario assessment and the use of modelling tools relevant to energy and climate policy.
• The programme culminates in an independent dissertation or applied project that allows you to investigate a policy‑relevant question, often in collaboration with industry, government or research centres.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree at honours level in economics, finance, environmental studies, engineering, physical sciences, mathematics or a related social science. A background with quantitative elements—such as microeconomics, statistics, econometrics or maths—is important because of the programme's emphasis on applied economic analysis and modelling.

• Relevant professional experience in energy, environmental policy, consultancy, or analytics can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants whose first degree is in a different discipline.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved qualification or test where their first degree was not taught in English.
• Admissions decisions may consider transcripts, references and a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience or quantitative skills.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles across public, private and third‑sector organisations that design, implement and analyse energy and climate policy. Typical employers include national and local government departments and regulators, international organisations, independent policy institutes and think tanks, energy utilities, renewables developers, consultancies and financial institutions assessing low‑carbon investment.

• Common job titles include energy economist, policy analyst, regulatory analyst, market analyst, sustainability consultant, and research associate.
• The degree also provides a pathway to doctoral research for those interested in academic or specialist research careers in energy and climate economics.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde offers an interdisciplinary environment with close links between economics, engineering and policy research centres, providing access to applied expertise on energy systems and climate policy. The university engages actively with industry, regulators and government agencies, enabling applied projects and guest lectures that connect students to current policy and market practice.

• Students benefit from the university's research centres and networks focused on energy, innovation and sustainability, and from practical learning opportunities informed by ongoing policy work.
• Located in Glasgow, the university provides proximity to a large energy and renewables sector and to a strong local and national policy community, useful for placements and networking.
• Support services for careers and enterprise help students translate technical and policy skills into roles across the public, private and NGO sectors.