Our Electrical Power MSc covers all major disciplines of electrical power. You'll deepen your knowledge, commercial awareness and technical ability to develop advanced skills. Specialise in one of three streams: electrical power, power distribution engineering or advanced electrical power.
Your course during COVID-19
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The University has terms and conditions which create a positive environment for learning and academic achievement.
Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the commitments outlined are subject to the guidelines that may be in place at the time.
About this course
About this course
Newcastle University is home to the UK's largest academic research group in Electrical Power, giving you an enhanced learning experience. Taught by leaders in their field, you will benefit from research-led teaching and access to state-of-the-art research facilities. You'll learn from researchers solving problems of global importance by engaging with industry and working across disciplines.
Our MSc programme is designed for graduates in:
electrical and electronic engineering
related disciplines
The flexible nature of this programme allows you to specialise in one of three streams:
Electrical Power
Power Distribution Engineering
Electrical Power (advanced option)
Electrical Power Stream
We developed this stream alongside industry experts. It will provide you with a thorough understanding of key areas of electrical power and applications including:
advanced power electronics
power systems operation
electrical machines
control of electric drives
design and analysis of electrical machines
renewable energy and smart grids
Power Distribution Engineering Stream
We developed this stream alongside industry experts. Industry experts will also help to deliver it. It covers all aspects of modern and future power distribution systems including:
fundamentals of distribution engineering
environmental, health and safety management for power distribution engineers
asset management, maintenance and condition monitoring
network design and automation
energy economics and markets
Electrical Power (advanced) Stream
This stream is designed for those who want to advance their knowledge further in electrical power. It encompasses the key areas of electrical power. There is an emphasis on project work, such as:
practical electrical power and control project developing experimental skills communicated in a technical report
technology review project reviewing developments and future trends
multidisciplinary individual project applying knowledge and expertise to solve a complex problem
Our industry-focused approach equips you with the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams. This will demonstrate your in-depth commercial awareness and technical knowledge. Throughout your course you'll typically be able to take part in:
industry guest lectures
site visits
technical projects
placements
employment opportunities with added support from our Careers Service
This stream is ideal if you want to work within the electrical power and renewable energy sectors. It has been designed alongside industry experts. This means you'll gain an advanced education, plus the skills needed to make sound decisions in this dynamic global industry.
You will:
develop insight into modelling and control of power converters, advanced dc/dc converters and multilevel and modular power electronic converters
gain an advanced understanding and critically analyse power networks/systems
identify problems and solutions to network operational problems
understand the modes of operation of electrical machines at an advanced level and have the ability to model in steady state and transient modes
develop advanced knowledge of electric drive systems through theory and practice including simulation studies
gain an understanding of electrical machines and drives and experience the physical design process
understand the challenges and future developments of renewable energy sources including conversion and distribution
Power Distribution Engineering Stream
This stream is both highly academic and practical. You'll acquire specialist knowledge in electrical power distribution systems at an advanced level. You will gain an appreciation of real-life issues and problems in an area of industry where skills are in great demand. Working alongside industry experts, you'll develop a unique understanding of the theory and apply it to solve problems in real-life situations and practical environments.
You will:
understand fundamental principles of the operation of power distribution systems
gain knowledge of global environmental issues, regulation and legislation. This gives you the skills to manage health and safety of power distribution engineering
appreciate the important role of asset management in developing skills in maintenance and condition monitoring
develop knowledge and transferable skills in business and technical aspects of network design, automation, and control
analyse and solve complex engineering problems in power distribution engineering through an individual research project
You will also have the opportunity to select optional modules that cover:
construction and operation of switchgear technology*
technology related to the design, use and operation of power cable systems*
design of network and substation earthing systems
power transformer technology and its application with a focus on new technologies
economics of energy and energy markets*
(*running 2021/22)
Electrical Power (advanced) Stream
Complemented by themes featured in the Electrical Power Stream, this advanced stream will enable you to extend your knowledge in electrical power further through enhanced practical learning. Structured projects will allow you to develop the skills sought by industry.
You will:
gain practical experience in the design, simulation, construction, testing, evaluation and verification of an electrical drive system, developing analytical and experimental skills
conduct a technology review project reviewing modern engineering developments and future trends. You'll take into consideration the financial, ethical and sustainability issues in relation to the topic
apply knowledge and expertise to solve a complex problem through the individual project. You will analyse, design and develop an original system or device using multi-disciplinary skills gained throughout the course
We have a multidisciplinary approach to teaching. This means you will engage with students across key engineering disciplines as well as being taught by senior industry experts. Our industry experts range from network operators to solution developers, and from infrastructure manufacturers to consultants. This offers a rich and diverse learning experience.
Throughout your course you will you will have the opportunity to carry out research and development projects in multi-million-pound, state-of-the-art facilities. You'll typically have the chance to work alongside active collaborations between the University and industry.
The Institution of Engineering and Technology is one of the world's largest engineering and technology institutions. It is a global diverse home for over 168,000 engineering and technology professionals in 150 countries. It provides support at every stage of your career.
The Engineering Council is the UK regulatory body for the engineering profession. It sets and maintains the internationally recognised standards of professional competence and ethics that govern and award and retention of these titles.
Our accreditations give you an additional benchmark of quality to your degree, making you more attractive to graduate employers. It can also open the door to higher-level jobs, most of which require Chartered Engineer status.
Depending on your chosen stream, you will combine the skills, knowledge and understanding gained from the modules you've undertaken. You'll hone your research skills on a relevant topic. You will develop crucial engineering and organisation skills.
Electrical Power Stream
You will undertake an individual project during semesters 1 and 2 (year 2 if studying part-time). In this project you'll apply your engineering and computing expertise to investigate a complex problem. Your project will encompass the analysis, design and development of an original system or device and develop your multi-disciplinary skills. You will be able to formulate planning and organisational strategies enhancing a number of transferable skills gained throughout your studies, including:
research
analysis
problem solving
computer literacy
communication skills
risk assessment and ethical awareness
Power Distribution Engineering Stream
You will undertake a research project during semester 3 (year 2 if studying part-time). In this project you will develop a detailed understanding and broad overview of electrical power distribution. This multi-faceted project will include the analysis, design and/or development of an original system or device. You will approach this project using your conceptual and procedural knowledge, but also strategic knowledge involved in planning and organisational strategies. Transferable skills gained include analysing and solving complex problems using calculations and evaluation as well as the ability to communicate effectively both orally and written.
Electrical Power (advanced) Stream
This advanced level stream will extend your knowledge in electrical power further through three structured projects during year 2.
Electrical Power and Control Project (semesters 1,2 and 3):
You will gain practical experience and transferable skills. You'll:
research electrical drive technology
design and simulate an electric drive system
construct an electric drive
conduct an experimental test, analysis and verification of the system
produce a written technical report
Technology Review Project (semester 1):
You will review modern engineering developments and future trends taking into consideration the financial, ethical and sustainability issues in relation to the topic. The project will enable you to:
demonstrate knowledge and understanding of technology
critically analyse and evaluate different techniques and strategies
communicate effectively through information gathering and presentation
Individual Project (semesters 1,2 and 3):
You will combine your advanced knowledge and expertise to investigate a complex problem through this individual project. You will:
demonstrate strategic knowledge and approach
analyse, design and develop an original system or device
utilise multi-disciplinary skills gained throughout the course
Projects can be linked to our research activities. You will be supported by staff who are experts in their field. Past projects have included simulations as well as small prototypes tested in our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.
We have a multidisciplinary approach to teaching and you will engage with students across all key electrical and electronic engineering disciplines. This offers a rich and diverse learning experience.
Our teaching typically consists of:
lectures
seminars
practical lab sessions
group work
personal supervision
Modules are taught by block delivery, allowing you to immerse yourself and understand the subject in more depth.
Our strong industrial engagement means our courses are shaped by industry. During your studies you will typically benefit from:
industry guest lectures*
site visits
projects
employment opportunities with added support from our Careers Service
You have access to a range of dedicated specialist facilities in the School of Engineering and across campus to support your studies and enhance your learning experience.
The information above is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
Curious about what our graduates have gone on to do? Find out about opportunities they’ve pursued, and how we can help you develop your career.
Graduate destinations
As a graduate you will have the enhanced skills and knowledge preparing you for wide range of careers across electrical and electronic engineering and other engineering sectors.
Graduate destinations have included:
Siemens
Northern Powergrid
National Grid
This course also provides a route into PhD level study.
Careers Service
Our award-winning Careers Service will help you to explore your options and make informed choices to achieve your career goals.
Work experience
Work experience placements are a great way to develop relevant skills to excel in your chosen career.
Find out about paid and unpaid work experience options and other ways you can add to your degree.
communications, information and control engineering
building electricity and intelligence
computer science and technology
We will consider your application on an individual basis if you have lower or non-standard qualifications and significant, relevant professional experience.
Find out the equivalent qualifications for your country.
You apply online, track your application and contact the admissions team via our applicant portal. Our step by step guide can help you on your way.
Applying for your stream
You will need to choose one of these options:
Electrical Power, MSc (1 year full time). You will initially apply for the Electrical Power MSc (5059F), but choose a specialist stream upon registration (Electrical Power or Power Distribution Engineering)
Electrical Power, MSc (2 years part time). You will initially apply for the Electrical Power MSc (5059P), but choose a specialist stream upon registration (Electrical Power or Power Distribution Engineering)
Electrical Power, MSc (2 years full time) – programme code 5441F (Electrical Power (advanced) Stream)
The course starts in September. There is no application closing date for this course.
We suggest international students apply at least two months before the course starts. This is so that you have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.
Deposit
If you live outside the UK/EU you must:
pay a deposit of £1,500
or submit an official letter of sponsorship
The deposit is payable after you receive an offer to study at Newcastle University. The deposit is non-refundable, but is deducted from your tuition fees when you register.
