MSc Renewable and Sustainable Energy Transition
Heriot-Watt University
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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

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Location

Edinburgh Campus

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

1 year

Course info

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

Edinburgh Campus

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

1 year

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Course info

OverviewDesigned to specifically address the key drivers of energy transition to net zero globally.This interdisciplinary masters degree is ideal for professionals looking to become leaders in realising energy transition. The course is delivered by experts in renewable energy, economics and transition engineering at the International Centre for Islands Technology (ICIT) in Stromness, Heriot-Watt Universitys Orkney campus. The learning environment is enhanced by the action research group, the ...Read more

Overview

Designed to specifically address the key drivers of energy transition to net zero globally.

This interdisciplinary masters degree is ideal for professionals looking to become leaders in realising energy transition. The course is delivered by experts in renewable energy, economics and transition engineering at the International Centre for Islands Technology (ICIT) in Stromness, Heriot-Watt University's

  • Orkney campus
  • . The learning environment is enhanced by the action research group, the Transition Lab, in the Islands Centre for Net Zero (ICNZ). ICNZ is a partnership led by the Orkney-based European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) working closely alongside our leading academics and a range of other business and community organisations across the Scottish Islands of Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides. Collectively, current ground-breaking research is helping to navigate the challenges we face and making progress in the development and delivery of new renewable and sustainable energy supply and end-use systems.

    This course focuses on the key drivers of the exciting new and growing field of energy transition and transition engineering:

    • Policy and economics of net zero carbon
    • Renewable energy technologies, development processes and grid integration
    • Energy transition in transport, primary production, construction and manufacturing
    • Action for climate change through organisation, enterprise and technical shift
    • Transition engineering in the broadest sense of figuring out how to build sustainable change through decarbonisation projects

    Our graduates gain skills across renewable energy technology, integration and development, and the processes of creating and leading just transitions for enterprises, organisations and communities. The course addresses the needs of multiple circular economy sectors such as renewable energy developers, communities and organisations under pressure to meet net zero targets and address climate change. Teaching is reinforced with project work where emphasis is placed on simulating real-life situations and processes. Students learn how to use key communication platforms including digital tools for data analysis, modelling and other interactive approaches.

    By choosing to study at our Orkney Campus, you will benefit from several activities including guest lectures from leaders in the sector and hands-on practical sessions which help to develop your skills and knowledge in your field of study. Orkney as a destination also offers the opportunity to network with leading ingenuity-led industry employers involved in many renewable energy sectors, providing a range of employment possibilities post-graduation

    Key stats

    WUSCA ranking:
    WUSCA student ranking
    These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
    90/101
    CUG Subject Ranking
    CUG Subject Ranking
    Source: Complete University Guide 2025
    68th
    CUG Ranking
    CUG Ranking
    Source: Complete University Guide 2025
    42nd
    What students say
    SR
    Student Reviewer
    04 Apr 14

    Some things are poor here - Accommodation and the Clubs & Societies in my opinion, however being in Edinburgh is fantastic - great city and I think the course is good and I am..Read more

    Modules

    Modules (Year 1)
    IDP Connect

    Entry requirements

    Masters (MSc) level entry applicants must have one of the following: Minimum of 2:2 honours degree or equivalent academic qualification in a related subject area. For postgraduate conversion courses, non-related degrees will be considered. Corporate (or chartered) membership of relevant professional institutions will also be considered. PG Diploma level entry applicants must have an ordinary degree in a related subject area and relevant post qualification industry experience. Candidates who do not meet the above entry requirements or have no formal academic qualifications will be considered individually based on their CV and possibly interview. Admission via this route will be at the discretion of the Director of Recruitment.

    Tuition fees

    Students living in

    Domestic

    £9,152 per year

    This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
    Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

    Students from Domestic

    This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

    This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

    £19,056 per year

    This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
    Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

    Students from EU

    The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

    The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

    £19,056 per year

    This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
    Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

    Students from International

    The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

    The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

    IDP Connect

    Latest reviews

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    SR
    Student Reviewer
    04 Apr 14
    Some things are poor here - Accommodation and the Clubs & Societies in my opinion, however being in Edinburgh is fantastic - great city and I think the course is good and I am...
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    Uni info

    Heriot-Watt University
    Heriot-Watt University , Edinburgh

    Heriot-Watt University has a 200-year history, and over that time has cultivated an outstanding reputation for its quality of teaching...

    Student rating
    ( 4.1) View reviews
    CUG ranking
    42nd
    Heriot-Watt University
    Riccarton Edinburgh Edinburgh, City Of EH14 4AS United Kingdom
    Nearest train station: Curriehill  0.4 miles away
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