MSc Power Electronics and Energy Systems
- MSc
Overview
Power electronics and energy systems are at the heart of the global transition to a cleaner, smarter and more sustainable energy future. From electric vehicles and renewable energy systems to aircraft electrification, data centres and modern electricity grids, power electronics enables the efficient conversion, control and distribution of electrical energy.
The MSc in Power Electronics and Energy Systems is designed for graduates in electrical and electronic engineering and related disciplines who want to specialise in one of the fastest growing and most strategically important areas of engineering. Whether your ambition is to develop next-generation electric vehicles, design renewable energy systems, improve electricity networks or pursue cutting-edge research, this programme will equip you with the knowledge and practical skills to succeed.
You will study the principles and design of advanced power electronic converters, power semiconductor devices, electrical machines and drives, renewable energy integration and smart grids. Through research-led teaching and design projects, you will develop expertise in modelling, analysis and system design using industry-standard engineering tools.
A distinctive feature of the programme is its systems-level approach. You will learn how semiconductor devices, converters, machines, and electricity networks work together to create efficient, reliable and sustainable energy solutions. This perspective reflects the multidisciplinary nature of modern engineering and prepares graduates to solve complex real-world challenges.
The programme is delivered by internationally recognised researchers working at the forefront of power electronics, electrical energy management, smart grids and wide-bandgap semiconductor technologies. Students benefit from research-informed teaching and opportunities to engage with emerging technologies that are shaping the future of electrification and net-zero energy systems.
Graduates will leave with the advanced technical knowledge, analytical capability and practical engineering experience required for careers across the global energy, electric transport and manufacturing sectors, including semiconductors, automotive and renewable energy.
Programme structure
The programme combines taught units with a substantial research project, providing both theoretical depth and practical engineering experience. During the taught component, you will study topics including power electronics systems, advanced electric machines, renewable energy for a sustainable future, energy systems for a just transition, and advanced topics in engineering. You will also learn engineering project skills which enables you to deliver your Capstone Project.
Learning takes place through a combination of lectures, tutorials, laboratories, design project and independent study. You will develop practical skills using industry-standard engineering software and apply your knowledge to realistic engineering challenges through individual and group-based activities.
In the final stage of the programme, you will undertake a research project under the supervision of leading academics. This project enables you to investigate a contemporary challenge in power electronics or energy systems, applying advanced engineering methods while developing the research, analytical and project management skills expected of professional engineers and researchers.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content of this programme.
Entry requirements
You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Microelectronic Engineering, Energy Engineering, or related disciplines including Mechatronics, Semiconductors, Grid or Electric mobility.
Applicants from other related subjects are required to have studied three modules relevant to the programme.
Relevant Modules:
- Analogue Electronic Circuits
- Circuit Theory
- Control / Control Engineering
- Digital Electronics Circuits
- Electrical Machines
- Electrical Principles
- Electrical Systems
- Electromagnetic Fields and Waves
- Electronic Circuits
- Energy Conversion / Energy Conversion Systems
- Energy Systems
- High Frequency Electronic Circuits
- Microelectronics
- Power Distribution
- Power Electronics
- Power Semiconductors
- Power Systems / Electrical Power Systems
- Programming
- Semiconductor Devices.
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.
If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional relevant work experience or qualifications. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / resume) when you apply, showing:
- one year work experience in electrical/electronic engineering, power & energy engineering or related field
- a relevant postgraduate qualification.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £19,600 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £38,300 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
The transition to low-carbon energy systems is creating unprecedented demand for engineers with expertise in power electronics and energy systems. Graduates of this programme are well prepared for careers in renewable energy, electric mobility, aerospace and marine electrification, power systems, energy storage, industrial automation, semiconductor technologies and advanced manufacturing.
Typical roles for graduates could include power electronics design engineer, electrical engineer, energy systems engineer, renewable energy engineer, grid integration engineer, electrical machines and drives engineer, applications engineer, research and development engineer, and systems engineer. Graduates will be well placed to continue to doctoral study and pursue research careers in universities, research institutes or industrial R&D organisations.