MSc in Renewable Energy

About the course

The University of Hull is leading the way in renewable energies and low carbon futures through Aura and the Energy and Environment Institute. As the renewable energy sector expands there is huge demand for trained individuals to plan, implement and manage renewable energy projects with 27,000 new jobs expected by 2030.

The Humber is the UK’s ‘Energy Estuary’ and is rapidly becoming the focus of the renewables industry with great opportunities for industrial placements and career prospects - you could hardly choose a better place to study than the University of Hull.

You will gain a good understanding of a range of technologies, such as wind, tidal, solar and hydro-power, through both lectures and hands-on experience in the laboratory. You will develop an understanding of the key research and analytical skills relevant to renewable energy resource analysis, including GIS and industry software, as well as learning key professional skills such as project management, presentations and group work.

There is a strong industrial component, including site visits, guest speakers from industry and the use of 'real-world' examples building on the expertise of partners in Aura. The programme is also ideal for students interested in further research in this growth sector with research programmes led by the University’sEnergy and Environment Institute.

What you'll study

The teaching programme runs over two semesters. All modules are compulsory. Each module is worth 20 credits Students take 60 credits in each of the two semesters and then 60 credits for the dissertation.

The Summer Dissertation consists of an individually supervised research project often undertaken in association with local authorities, business or industry.

Core module

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

• Dissertation

  You will make an original contribution to research by designing, carrying out and writing up your own project on a topic you choose, supported by your dissertation supervisor.

Compulsory

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

• Principles of Renewable Energy

  ​This module introduces the main forms of renewable energy, focussing on the technology and resource assessment associated with each.​

• Environmental Management and Policy

  Environmental practices (e.g. conservation, renewable energy, pollution prevention, recycling) are heavily steered by the ever-changing realm of policy. You'll gain an understanding of environmental regulation, policy and the practice of environmental management.

• Environmental Data Literacy

  This module provides you with key research and data analysis skills. You will design your own research proposal for your dissertation, including risk and ethics assessments.

• Low Carbon Energy Solutions

  Gain the practical skills and experience required for employment within the low carbon energy industry. The module will focus on a particular low carbon energy.

• Applied Renewable Energy  

  ​This industry-focussed module is composed of a series of guest lectures, site visits and practical work (field and laboratory). It aims to equip you with the practical, analytical writing skills required to work in the renewable energy business.​

• Principles of GIS

  Explore the theory, methods and application of GIS-based methods for socio-economic and environmental applications. You'll gain awareness of available sources of social, economic and environmental spatial data sources, processing methodologies and advanced spatial analysis techniques.