Energy Engineering

This programme introduces Energy Engineering as a vital and rapidly evolving field addressing the global transition to sustainable and equitable energy systems. It integrates fundamental engineering principles with contemporary energy technologies, enabling students to understand, analyse, and design efficient, low carbon solutions for energy generation, distribution, and use in real-world contexts.

UofG is built on a unique energy legacy, including James Watt, Joseph Black, Lord Kelvin and William Rankine, whose discoveries laid the foundations of thermodynamics and modern power systems. Today, that heritage continues to shape Glasgow’s role as a leader in advancing energy engineering for a sustainable net‑zero future.

Programme structure

Year 1

Build core engineering foundations through a shared curriculum covering mathematics, dynamics, materials, and thermodynamics. You’ll also develop practical skills in electronics, manufacturing, and engineering design, preparing you to analyse energy systems and low-carbon technologies.

Year 2

Develop essential knowledge in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mechanical design, and power electronics, supported by engineering mathematics and hands-on application. You’ll be introduced to renewable energy systems, sustainability, and civil engineering concepts such as geology and surveying.

Year 3

Advance your expertise in energy systems engineering, including control, heat transfer, and power engineering. You’ll apply simulation, instrumentation, and data analysis in design-focused projects, culminating in an integrated team project tackling real-world energy challenges.

Year 4

Undertake advanced study in energy engineering, combining a substantial individual research project with optional modules in areas such as power systems, thermofluids, environmental engineering, and emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and optimisation.

BEng or MEng?

BEng: Focus on advanced energy engineering and an individual research project, with optional modules for technical specialisation.

MEng: Includes advanced study, a team-based energy systems project, and business and management content, preparing you for leadership roles in the energy sector

Our international links

You can apply to spend one year of your academic studies abroad at an accredited partner university. In year 5 MEng students can work on their project at overseas institutions.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for careers across the evolving global energy sector, including roles in renewable energy, power systems, heating and cooling, and sustainability. The programme develops in-demand technical, analytical, and professional skills, supporting progression towards Chartered Engineer status and long-term career development. Students benefit from dedicated careers support from the University’s Careers Service, enhanced by the James Watt School of Engineering’s strong industry connections and employer engagement.

Accreditation

This programme has been developed in line with the requirements of professional engineering accrediting bodies. The University plans to seek accreditation once the first cohort has graduated.

http://gla.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/energy-engineering/?utm_source=ucas&utm_medium=profile&utm_campaign=mar-cose-ug&utm_content=energyeng-beng-courses#coursedetails