Overview

The M.Sc. Renewable Energy Engineering at Heriot-Watt University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the rapidly evolving global energy landscape. This specialist programme focuses on the integration of sustainable technologies, including wind, marine, biomass, and solar energy, into modern power systems. Students develop the technical skills required to design, evaluate, and implement creative solutions for energy capture and storage.

The curriculum bridges the gap between fundamental energy science and practical engineering applications. Participants engage in project-led learning, where they assess renewable resources and evaluate the socio-economic and environmental impacts of energy activities.

Why Renewable Energy Engineering at Heriot-Watt University?

Heriot-Watt University was recently ranked first in Scotland by the Guardian University Guide 2026, reflecting its excellence in teaching and industry engagement. The university is a leader in engineering research, with 96% of its research output classed as world-leading in the REF 2021 review. Students benefit from the expertise of the Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering, which promotes innovation across diverse research themes.

Learning is further enhanced by the Energy Academy, a virtual centre that connects energy-related research across the institution. This provides students with direct access to the latest developments in energy policy, strategy, and conversion. The programme is informed by active research in five principal areas, including photovoltaics, biofuels, and wind energy, ensuring the content remains at the forefront of the industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 26296 per year
• National fee: GBP 12584 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme structure includes mandatory fundamental courses alongside a selection of optional modules to suit specific interests. Modules may include:

• Renewable Energy Technologies
• Economics of Renewable Energy
• Electrical Power Systems
• Climate Change, Sustainability and Adaptation
• Technology Futures and Business Strategy
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Demand Management and Energy Storage
• Masters Dissertation

Careers with Renewable Energy Engineering

Graduates are prepared for successful careers in the expanding renewable energy sector, equipped with the knowledge to develop and manage complex energy systems. The programme focuses on producing career-ready professionals capable of working in roles related to energy conversion, resource assessment, and system design. According to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024, almost 90% of the university's graduates are in employment or further education within fifteen months of finishing their studies.

Accreditation

This programme is accredited by Energy Institute (EI).  

Students completing an EI accredited degree are deemed to have met part or all the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered or Incorporated Engineer and are in a strong position to move on to achieve professional engineering status after a period of initial professional development in industry.