Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

This fully online, coursework-focused MEng concentrates on core power systems topics and applied engineering practice. Typical modules cover:

• Power System Analysis and Modelling – steady-state load flow, network modelling, and phasor analysis for transmission and distribution systems.
• Power System Dynamics and Stability – small- and large-disturbance stability, transient analysis, and dynamic modelling of generators and controls.
• Protection and Relaying – protection schemes for transmission and distribution, relay coordination, fault analysis and protection system design.
• Power Electronics and Drives – converters, inverters and their application to grid-connected systems and distributed energy resources.
• Renewable Energy Integration – photovoltaic and wind generation characteristics, interconnection standards, and impact on system operation and planning.
• Power System Operation and Economics – market fundamentals, unit commitment, economic dispatch and reliability assessment.
• Smart Grids and Control – communications, real-time monitoring, advanced control methods and grid modernisation topics.
• Capstone Project or Advanced Design – an applied project that emphasises hands-on problem solving, system modelling, or an industry-focused design task.

Courses are delivered through online lectures, problem sets, simulation assignments and collaborative projects. The programme places emphasis on practical tools and software used in industry, such as power system simulation packages and real-time data analysis methods.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, power engineering or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution. Typical requirements include:

• A recognised undergraduate degree with strong performance in electrical engineering fundamentals (circuits, electromagnetics, control, and signals).
• Relevant coursework or experience in power systems, control systems, or electronics is advantageous; candidates without direct power systems background may be asked to complete prerequisite modules.
• Submission of official academic transcripts. GRE scores may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the applicant’s background and regional admissions practices.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, an approved English language proficiency qualification is required unless exempted by prior study in English.
• Professional experience is welcomed but not always required; applicants with industry experience may be particularly competitive for the applied capstone work.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MEng typically move into technical and leadership roles across the electricity sector and related industries. Common career paths include:

• Power systems engineer in transmission and distribution utilities, focusing on planning, operations, and reliability.
• Protection and control engineer designing relaying schemes and substation automation.
• Renewables integration specialist working on grid interconnection, inverter controls and hybrid energy systems.
• Grid modelling and analysis consultant delivering studies on stability, power flow, and contingency planning.
• Controls engineer or power electronics engineer for manufacturers of converters, storage systems and smart-grid devices.
• Project manager or technical lead for infrastructure upgrades, microgrid projects and system modernisation initiatives.

The programme’s applied project orientation and WPI’s career support services help graduates demonstrate practical skills valued by employers in utilities, independent system operators, equipment vendors and engineering consultancies.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is known for its project-based approach to engineering education, and the online Power Systems Engineering MEng extends that applied focus to a flexible format. Students benefit from:

• A curriculum emphasising real-world problem solving and the software tools used by practicing engineers.
• Faculty with research and industry experience in power systems, controls and energy systems.
• Flexible online delivery that enables working professionals to continue employment while advancing technical skills.
• Opportunities for an industry-relevant capstone project that can be aligned with an employer’s needs or a research interest.
• Access to WPI’s broader engineering resources and career services to support networking and job placement in the energy sector.