M.Sc./P.Grad.Dip. Energy Science

Course Description

This is a 1 year full time M.Sc. level course worth 90 ECTs, jointly taught between the Schools of Physics, Chemistry and Natural Science. The aim is to provide students with a science, engineering or other appropriate background, with a broad knowledge and experience of the science and application of both conventional and sustainable energy technologies. The connection between physics, chemistry, earth science and economics determines how energy is utilised, the environmental consequences of its use, and in turn determines many government policies across the globe. A working understanding of each of these areas is necessary for students inspired to pursue a career in the energy sector, or for those interested in communicating or managing the environments impact of the world's energy use, such as climate change.

The syllabus covers energy economics and policy, natural resource management, fossil and nuclear energy, conventional energy conversion devices, sustainable energy technologies, Electricity and power electronics, and mitigation of the environmental impact of Energy utilisation. Each topic starts from the fundamental scientific principles and develops to the actual engineering applications.

The course will be delivered across 6 modules each worth 10 ECTS, and will include a 30ECTS project:

Module 1: Introduction to Energy Science, will include lectures on Energy Economics and policy, environmental impact, and foundation courses on thermodynamics, electromagnetism and materials science.
Module 2: Conventional Energy Sources and technologies, will include lectures on Fossil Fuels, Combustion, Engines and Emissions, and Nuclear reactions, materials and reactor technology.
Module 3: Electric Power Generation and Distribution, will include lectures on electrical machines, power electronics, power systems analysis and smart grids.
Module 4: Sustainable Energy Sources and Technologies I, will include lectures on Electrochemical Cell technology, Photovoltaics, Carbon Dioxide Capture and storage.
Module 5: Sustainable Energy Sources and Technologies II, will include
Module 6: Managing the impact of Energy Utilisation will include lectures on Wind Energy Generation and Storage, Biomass, Biofuels and Hydrogen.

Lectures will be held on a full time basis on weekdays during semester 1 and semester 2. The research project can be carried out in academia or industry and will take place in June-August.