University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme develops advanced theoretical and practical skills across modern power and energy systems. Core topics typically include power system analysis and stability, power electronics and drives, protection and control of electrical networks, high-voltage engineering and insulation, and the modelling and integration of renewable generation.

• Power system modelling and stability – synchronous and inverter-dominated systems, dynamic performance and transient analysis.
• Power electronics for grid applications – converters, control strategies for interfacing renewables and energy storage.
• Protection and control – relay coordination, fault analysis, protection schemes for conventional and smart networks.
• High-voltage engineering and insulation – testing, diagnostic techniques and asset management considerations.
• Smart grids and distribution networks – active distribution management, microgrids, demand-side integration and communications.
• Energy systems and markets – system operation, balancing, policy drivers, and economic aspects of electricity networks.
• Modelling, optimisation and data analysis – simulation tools, optimisation techniques for planning and operation, and application of data analytics to power systems.

Teaching methods combine lectures, laboratory and software-based practicals, group design projects, and individual research leading to a substantial MSc dissertation or project. Students gain hands-on experience with power system simulation packages and laboratory facilities focused on power electronics, protection testing and grid integration studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a good undergraduate degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in electrical engineering, energy engineering, electronic engineering, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a 2:2 or relevant industry experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis, particularly if they can demonstrate strong technical background in power or energy subjects.

International applicants whose first language is not English are expected to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language qualification or equivalent; typical programme-level guidance is equivalent to IELTS 6.5 with no element substantially below the provider's stated threshold, though accepted scores may vary by offer and applicant profile.

Where appropriate, applicants may be required to provide academic references and a statement of purpose outlining relevant experience and interests in power and energy systems.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles across the power and energy sector. Typical career paths include:

• Network engineer or planner with transmission and distribution utilities.
• Grid integration and control engineer in renewable energy developers and system operators.
• Power electronics or electric drives specialist in industry and manufacturing.
• Protection and asset management engineer for utility and consultancy firms.
• Energy systems analyst, market analyst or technical consultant in energy consultancies, aggregators and technology providers.
• Research and development roles or progression to PhD study in universities or industrial research centres.

Strathclyde graduates are well placed to work on contemporary challenges such as decarbonisation of grids, integration of distributed energy resources, and the development of resilient smart networks.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde has a strong tradition in engineering and energy research, with dedicated centres and laboratories focused on power systems, electrical machines and renewable integration. The department maintains close links with industry, system operators and research hubs, providing opportunities for collaborative projects, industrial placements and guest lectures from practitioners.

Students benefit from teaching by staff active in applied research, access to specialist laboratory facilities for high-voltage testing, power electronics and system simulation, and a location in Glasgow that offers proximity to a vibrant energy and engineering sector. The programme is designed to combine academic rigour with practical, industry-relevant skills sought by employers in the power and energy community.