Ranking
6th
Complete University Guide 2026
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Course overview
Discover the technologies of the future. With our Global Energy Technologies and Systems course you’ll prepare for an exciting career solving global challenges.
Explore energy supply and demand, sustainability and addressing climate change. Learn how to develop and deploy new technologies for real-world solutions and you’ll be able to make a big impact on the energy sector.
Accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
IChemE accreditation provides benchmarking of academic programmes against high, internationally recognised standards. This is increasingly important as the globalisation of engineering products and services demands greater confidence by employers in the skills and professionalism of the engineers they recruit.
Why study MSc Global Energy Technologies and Systems at Birmingham?
Course Structure
This course will run over 1 year in a full-time mode. You will study 120 credits of core material to bring breadth and depth as well as a 60 credit research project.
Autumn Term
Autumn Term
The autumn term will focus on an understanding of energy engineering processes and systems, including fundamental concepts in economics and policy.
Spring Term
Spring Term
The spring term will have a more application-centred approach in which here will be more broad considerations of how global energy systems operate, and opportunities to apply the knowledge gained to the design of a pathway to specific energy system for a conurbation in the near future.
Research Project
Research Project
The summer will be spent undertaking a 60 credit research project carried out under the supervision of one of the members of the School’s academic staff. This will give you the opportunity to explore issues in depth and allow you to undertake cutting-edge research on experimental, theoretical, or policy-based projects within one of the School’s internationally-recognised research groups.
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Course highlights
- 6th
in the UK for Chemical Engineering
Complete University Guide 2026
Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 11th amongst UK universities.
As well as broad foundations, on our programme you’ll learn about specific energy technologies and the design of energy systems. You’ll cover the economics and policy of energy to understand how energy systems operate and how they need to change. This is an interdisciplinary course so you’ll be able to apply your new skills to a broad range of careers.
- This challenge-driven, interdisciplinary programme sits alongside internationally-recognised innovation at the Birmingham Energy Institute.
- Collaborate with world-class industry partners and leading-edge engineering and science departments, enhancing your practical skills and industry knowledge.
- Learn about cutting-edge energy developments with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields as part of the Energy Research Accelerator initiative.
- Benefit from tailored guidance and feedback in tutorials, drawing on the University's significant international standing and expertise.
- Participate in workshops with immediate feedback from instructors, enabling timely corrections and improving your application of low carbon technologies.
- Develop independence and professionalism with project work, preparing you for leadership roles in the evolving energy sector.
Course delivery
The core taught material will be delivered in the form of lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops, with the incorporation of expertise both from other Schools in the University, and external professionals from the energy sector.
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields.
- Take part in seminars that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning.
- Develop critical technical and analytical skills, including experimental design, data collection and analysis, and problem-solving.
Lecture
Tutorial
Seminar
Workshop
Projects
Module information
This full time masters course consists of 180 credits. 120 credits from taught modules and 60 credits from your research project.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
2026/27
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Energy Data Analytics and Modelling | 20 |
| Energy Systems Design and Policy | 20 |
| Generation Technologies | 20 |
| Net Zero Energy Systems | 20 |
| Research Project | 60 |
Optional modules
Select 40 credits from the example options below:
Teaching staff
Professor Jonathan Radcliffe
Programme Director
Staff profile for Professor Jonathan Radcliffe, University of Birmingham
Dr Xinfang Wang
Associate Professor
Staff profile for Dr Xinfang Wang at the University of Birmingham
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
or equivalent in engineering or physical sciences.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in other bands, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill
English presessional programmes
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
If you are unsure if you meet our entry requirements, you can also contact the admissions department to discuss whether your application would be considered.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
- £12,150
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Tuition fee deposits for international students
International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Postgraduate Masters loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Birmingham Masters scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Course scholarships
We offer a number of scholarships for MSc programmes in the School of Chemical Engineering.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
- 28 August 2026
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Career opportunities
There is a growing industrial demand fo the education and training of future engineers in this field. This course produces graduates of the highest calibre who will be greatly in demand due to their skills, knowledge and ability to lead in teams involved in the operation, control, design, and economic analysis of the electrical power systems and networks of the future – smart grids.
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
We're first choice for graduate employers... again!
We are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2025). Our graduate stories highlight the achievements of Birmingham alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
Upcoming events
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Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
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