Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

This programme combines economic analysis, policy and practical project skills to provide a broad understanding of contemporary energy systems. Teaching covers market design and pricing, regulation and policy frameworks, technical foundations of energy systems, financing and investment appraisal, and environmental dimensions such as carbon pricing and emissions mitigation.

• Energy markets and pricing: structure and functioning of wholesale and retail markets, spot and forward markets, basics of trading and market liquidity.
• Energy policy and regulation: regulatory instruments, market liberalisation, tariff design, and the role of regulators and public agencies.
• Energy systems and technologies: fundamentals of power systems, generation technologies (fossil, nuclear, renewables), grid integration and distributed generation.
• Project finance and investment appraisal: cash-flow modelling, risk assessment, financing structures for generation and efficiency projects, and public–private partnership basics.
• Energy efficiency and demand-side management: methods for assessing and implementing efficiency measures in industry, buildings and transport.
• Environmental economics and climate policy: carbon pricing, emissions trading, national and EU climate frameworks, and cost–benefit approaches to mitigation.
• Analytical tools and modelling: basics of energy modelling, scenario analysis, forecasting techniques and use of datasets for policy and commercial decision making.
• Applied work: case studies, group projects and a capstone project or practical assignment that address a real-world energy management or investment challenge.

Assessment typically combines written exams, project reports, presentations and practical assignments to reflect both analytical and applied learning.

Entry requirements

• A completed first university degree (Bachelor or equivalent) in economics, business, engineering, natural sciences or another relevant field. Applicants from other backgrounds may be considered if they demonstrate relevant academic or professional experience.
• Academic transcripts and a CV; professional experience in the energy sector is welcomed and can strengthen an application but is not always mandatory.
• Proficiency in the language of instruction. Courses may be offered in Hungarian and/or English; evidence of language ability is required when applicable.
• A motivation letter or statement outlining your objectives for taking the programme; some applicants may be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a variety of roles across the public and private sectors, benefitting from a combination of economic, policy and project-focused skills.

• Energy analyst or market specialist in utilities and energy trading companies
• Regulatory affairs or policy officer in government agencies, regulators and international organisations
• Consultant in energy, infrastructure and sustainability consulting firms
• Project developer or asset manager for renewable energy and conventional generation projects
• Corporate sustainability or energy manager in industrial and commercial firms
• Investment analyst or structurer in banks, funds and institutional investors focusing on energy and infrastructure

The programme is designed to help participants progress within their current organisations or pivot into energy-focused roles by combining technical understanding with economic and financial skills.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

Corvinus has a long-standing reputation in economics, business and public policy education in Hungary and the Central European region, giving the programme an applied economics perspective that is especially relevant to energy markets and regulation. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary curriculum that bridges economics, business and technical aspects of energy.

• Industry links: regular guest lectures, case studies and project partnerships with utilities, consultancies, regulators and NGOs active in the region.
• Experienced faculty: teaching staff combine academic research in energy economics and policy with professional experience in the sector.
• Location and network: based in Budapest, the university provides access to Central European energy markets, policy forums and a broad alumni network in business and public service.
• Flexible format: the diploma is suitable for early-career graduates and professionals seeking part-time study options to combine work and learning.

Taken together, these features make the Corvinus Graduate Diploma a practical, regionally informed route to building specialist capabilities in energy management and economics.