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School of Construction Management and Engineering
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability Energy for a sustainable future
Postgraduate
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability
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A well-established programme with an international reputation which has attracted students from over 70 countries since 1986.
The course will equip students with globally sought after skills, thereby maximising employability.
This unique programme examines the technical and policy questions arising from global demands for secure, affordable and sustainable energy.
The School of Construction Management and Engineering is an internationally recognised centre of excellence in the area of sustainability.
The course contents are suited to graduates from a variety of backgrounds.
Closely aligned with the Innovative and Sustainable Technologies (IST) research group within the School of Construction Management and Engineering.
A series of site visits throughout the year and invited industry experts will expose the students to some of the technology in the field.
Teaching is informed by the latest research of the School’s internationally leading academics, complemented by selected experts in renewable energy.
Academic excellence combined with a focus on real-world problems.
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability The Postgraduate programme in Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability aims to provide students with a robust understanding of the applications of renewable energy and sustainable technology, combined with a strong awareness of the impact on the environment of using non sustainable technologies. The programme examines the technical and policy questions arising from global demands for secure, affordable and sustainable energy. The course covers rapidly evolving fields that are vitally relevant to how society develops in the 21st Century.
There is international concern about the environmental damage associated with the
conversion of energy from all sources. Renewable energy sources can make a signifi-
cant contribution to the reduction of pollution, if used in a sustainable way. Renewable
fuels and energy systems can also offer protection against future shortages and price
increases of conventional energy, and can provide energy supplies in remote areas.
The School of Construction Management and Engineering is an internationally
recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in the built environ-
ment; we aim to broaden your horizons and teach you to think differently.
The reputation of the School is based on the authority of its academic staff, all of
whom have extensive research and consultancy experience. The School is truly
multi-disciplinary in nature with over thirty members of full-time academic staff,
including eight Professors. The School boasts a diverse and inclusive environment
which continually attracts the industry leaders of tomorrow. The School is among
the strongest within the University in terms of international students. We are inter-
national both in terms of outlook, and in terms of our faculty. You can be sure of the
warmest of welcomes, together with exemplary academic and pastoral support.
Our courses
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability 12 months full-time 2 years part-time
PGD Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability 8 months full-time
Standard offers
Candidates should hold a good first degree in a relevant subject area, including environmental science, mathematics, engineering, physics, construction, geography, agriculture, chemistry, geology, economics, planning and management, business studies, computer science.
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability
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Research projectsMSc candidates undertake an individual research project, which allows a detailed investigation of a particular aspect of the course.
Projects can involve modelling, design and practical work. A number of projects
will be proposed and supported by industrial partners, whilst candidates may also
suggest project ideas from their own experience. The project is assessed through a
written dissertation and seminar. Annual project presentations are well attended
by industry representatives and supporters of the course.
Recent projects have included:• Feasibility study into locally sourced
straw-fired energy production for a
small town in Southern England.
• The heating potential by ground
source heat pumps based on the
geology of Reading.
• Is hydropower a viable option for
distributed renewable generation
in London?
• Determining the ideal renewable
electricity Investment in the UK.
• An investigation to understand the
effects of the application of greywater
to green roofs.
• Reconciling UK static wind capacity
data and an assessment of the factors
impacting wind capacity growth
to 2020.
• Potential inaccuracy of the UK Tidal
Stream Resource Estimate; a review
of alternative methods for estimating
energy tidal currents.
‘I selected Reading because it offered the only MSC course in renewable energy which combined a high standard of academic excellence with a solid grounding in engineering, whilst being open to non-engineering graduates like myself.
The course has delivered on all of these grounds as well as exceeding my expectations in terms of its collaborative and non-stuffy organisational culture. The academic and admin staff are approachable and supportive and this makes us feel more like a family than as components in a machine, which is sometimes the case in higher education. I think these factors made it extremely easy for us all to bond into a group as students and friends, which has in turn reinforced our learning experience and made it a very enjoyable one.’
I would have no hesitation in recommending the MSC in Renewable Energy to anyone.’
Mike MedasMSC student, 2013
Why choose Reading?The University of Reading is recognised as being in the top 1% of global universities and as one of the UK’s top 20 research-intensive universities. Nearly 90% of our research has been rated as being of international standing (RAE 2008).
We have a long history of welcoming
international students and currently
host a thriving international com-
munity of around 3,500 international
students from 130 countries. 89% of our
students reported being satisfied with
their experience at Reading, with 92%
of international students saying they
were satisfied/very satisfied with the
support they received. International
students, both undergraduate and
postgraduate, are guaranteed a place
in university accommodation if they
apply for a room with a firm offer from
the University before 1 August. Other
reasons for international students to
come to Reading include the following:
• The Whiteknights campus is set in
130 hectares of beautiful parkland,
with green open spaces, a lake and
plenty of trees and wildlife.
• We have recently invested over £100
million in the redevelopment of
campus facilities, including halls of
residence and the Sports Park.
• The town of Reading is home to a
large shopping and recreational
centre, as well as being located close
to London, Oxford and Birmingham,
all of which make great day trips.
• The University of Reading has a
thriving Student Union providing
entertainment and student support.
There are over 100 sports clubs and
societies. The University of Reading is
recognised as being in the top 1% of
global universities.
The School of Construction Man-
agement and Engineering is an
internationally recognised centre of
excellence for teaching and research;
we aim to broaden your horizons and
teach you to think differently. The
reputation of the School is based on the
authority of its academic staff, who have
extensive research and consultancy
experience. The School is truly multi-
disciplinary in nature with over thirty
members of full-time academic staff,
including eight Professors. The School
boasts a diverse and inclusive environ-
ment which continually attracts the
construction leaders of tomorrow. The
School is among the strongest within
the University in terms of international
students. We are international both in
terms of outlook, and in terms of our
faculty. You can be sure of the warmest
of welcomes, together with exemplary
academic and pastoral support.
FacilitiesThe School is well endowed in terms of research infrastructure, with approximately 300m2 of laboratory space together with a supporting machine workshop. Facilities include a dedicated environmental chamber, a grey water facility, a photovoltaic roof and a recently refurbished wind tunnel.
The laboratories are especially impor-
tant in supporting students to conduct
experimental work. There is also an
extensive range of materials-testing
equipment which is available to support
students. The School possesses a dedi-
cated innovation lab which utilises a
range of digital technologies, includ-
ing 3D laser scanners for the purposes
of creating digital models of physical
spaces. Access is available to the 3D
immersive VR facility located within
the School of Systems Engineering (SSE).
Teaching facilities include a dedicated
computer lounge equipped with the
latest digital technology to support
experimentation in building informa-
tion modelling (BIM). Software is also
available to support the teaching of
building energy simulations and urban
microclimate modelling.
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability
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Core modulesEnergy, Carbon and Environment 10 credits
Energy underpins our current standard
of living and economic development. The
environmental impact of energy use and
transition to a lower carbon economy
presents significant challenges. This
module is concerned with an introduc-
tion to the technical, environmental,
economic and social issues associated
with the production of energy. It includes
an introduction to energy production
and consumption trends, traditional
means of energy production, renewable
energy, sustainability, environmental
issues and political and economic con-
cepts in energy.
Sustainable Heat and Power40 credits
Students are introduced to renewable
energy technologies. These include
biomass, solar, wind, hydro and marine
energy. Technical, environmental and
social issues are considered. Technologies
associated with the production of power
from renewable energy sources are
described. Technical and non-technical
barriers and issues limiting wide spread
use of renewable energy are discussed.
Assessment through laboratory based,
software and group activities gives stu-
dents an opportunity to examine and
analyse data as well as to investigate
issues concerned with the use of renew-
able energy.
Energy in Buildings10 credits
Comprises, a comprehensive overview
of energy use in buildings. Coverage
comprises an introduction to renew-
able energy technologies and methods
for improving energy efficiency in
buildings, including environmental
architectural design, environmental
systems operation and adaptive occupant
behaviour. Particular emphasis is given
to tools and procedures for the assess-
ment of building energy consumption.
Research methods10 credits
Students will learn how to access the
necessary sources to conduct a criti-
cal literature review on a topic of their
choice which is relevant to their degree
programme. The module is specifically
designed to assist students in the prepa-
ration of their final project/dissertation.
Coverage includes the need to identify
gaps in current knowledge, formula-
tion of a focused research question and
the development of a full research pro-
posal. Research planning is addressed
to ensure successful completion within
the allocated timescale. Additional
topics covered include the preparation
of professional quality reports and an
understanding of ethical issues relating
to research involving human subjects.
Different types of research are covered
together with the use of different
research methods. Students also gain
training and practical experience in the
oral presentation of research findings.
Energy in Buildings – part two10 credits
Students will gain an understanding
of building simulation with hands-
on experience of using commercial
software packages such as Integrated
Environmental Solutions (IES).
ICT and Energy Management 10 credits
Focuses on people-centred energy effi-
ciency in the operation phase of the
building life cycle. A particular emphasis
is placed on the use of ICT approaches
for monitoring and managing energy
consumption in buildings. The module
addresses information and building
energy technologies and their application
to inform, engage and empower build-
ing users to achieve substantial energy
savings at modest cost. In addition to
technical approaches for achieving energy
efficiency in buildings, attention is also
given to organisational barriers and the
need to develop an awareness of relevant
regulations. Quality systems also have
an important role to play in achieving
energy efficiency. Students gain hands-on
experience of the latest digital technolo-
gies and energy data processing software,
thereby enhancing their employability.
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability
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Sustainable Urban Systems10 credits
Consideration of urban energy systems
is used to introduce wider systems
thinking approaches that offer new
insights and currently have an evolv-
ing place in energy and sustainability
research. Emerging technologies,
especially alternative vehicles and
electricity based heating systems,
have potential to bring a rapid change
in demand on energy systems. This
module will consider the possible
impacts of such changes and appropri-
ate mitigation approaches, including
the emergence of smarter energy grids.
Carbon management 10 credits
Frames the need for carbon man-
agement against the scientific
understanding of climate change,
noting how clear understanding of
scientific uncertainty is fundamental
in developing appropriate carbon man-
agement policy and actions. Explores
political, economic and technological
responses to climate change, recognis-
ing how these are/ can be implemented
across a range of scales from global /
regional agreements, through national
policy approaches, down to actions
taken by businesses and individuals.
Carbon Management and Analysis 10 credits
Builds on the Carbon Management
module to develop analytical and
investigative skills, essential to consul-
tancy and policy advisory roles and of
increasing value to business. Assesses
the effectiveness of political, economic
and technological responses to climate
change, recognising how initiatives
can be applied at a range of scales
and contexts.
Project Management for Engineering and Construction 10 credits
A study of contemporary project man-
agement as a discipline and the use of
various tools and their application to con-
struction and renewable energy projects.
MSc Project, Dissertation and Seminar60 credits
Dissertations are written during the
summer term and summer vacation
and are between 12,000 – 15,000 words
on a theme of interest to the student,
in accordance with the aims of the
degree programme.
Related subjects
MSc in Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments
MSc in Construction Management
MSc in Project Management
MSc in Construction Cost Management
MSc in Construction in Emerging Economies
Research degrees
In addition to taught programmes, we offer research degrees. For more information about the availability of research degrees, please contact [email protected], phone 0118 378 8982 or visit www.reading.ac.uk/ cme-pgr-about.aspx
Core modules (cont . . .)
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability
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EmployabilityThe School has international alumni spread throughout the
globe. Many are in senior positions within governments,
NGOs or the private sector. Graduates from the MSc in
Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability will be
uniquely equipped to engage with the challenges of reducing
the carbon footprint of energy generation and use. Students
acquire the expertise and skills to significantly enhance their
employability options in a wide range of energy and sustaina-
bility-related occupations. Particular attention is given to the
development of research skills and critical thinking ability.
The specific aim is to develop specialist skills. These arise
from the student’s exposure to theory, research and methods
of critical evaluation, whilst enabling career development.
Continuous Professional Development Individual modules may be taken as part of a personal
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.
CPD delegates are not assessed and only attend module
sessions. A University certificate is awarded on completion
of each module.
Careers options
All subjects at Reading offer access to our Careers Advisory Service. It is designed to open doors, launch our students’ careers and ensure they are well equipped to make the most of their potential and the job opportunities ahead. Common careers include:
Energy Officer
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainable Energy Consultant
Renewables Engineer
Renewables Consultant
Technical Director
Project Analyst
Researcher
Sales and Marketing Specialist
Design Engineer
For more information on our Careers Advisory Service, visit www.reading.ac.uk/careers
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FundingThere are a range of possibilities of accessing funding
to participate in our programmes.
• The Panasonic Trust Fellowships - for UK students with
first degrees in Engineering; more information available
from the Royal Academy of Engineering,
www.panasonictrust.org.uk/fellowships/default.aspx
• The Wallace and Muriel Hirst Fund - bursaries for
international students from developing countries and
territories identified for OECD official development
aid, particularly people who are working in the field of
renewable energy. The fund is available every other year.
Suitable candidates are invited to apply for the studentship
once an offer of a place on the course has been made.
• e8 scholarship programme – for international students
from developing countries and territories identified for
OECD official development aid. For more information,
www.e8.org/index.jsp?numPage=79
• University studentships information available from
www.reading.ac.uk/life/life-fundingsearch.aspx
• A good starting point for international students seeking
funding is to contact their local British Council office.
Further information is available from their website:
www.educationuk.org
Our staffThe course is led by research active academic staff. Specialist expertise is provided by a number of visiting experts who contribute to the course as external lecturers.
Dr Maria Vahdati
Director MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability [email protected]
Dr Phil Coker Lecturer in Renewable Energy [email protected]
Professor Tim Dixon Chair in Sustainable Futures in the Built Environment [email protected]
Dr Emmanuel Essah Lecturer in Sustainable Technologies [email protected]
Dr Katherine Hyde Lecturer in Environmental Sustainability [email protected]
Dr Zhiwen Luo Lecturer in Sustainable Technologies [email protected]
Dr Michael Peters Lecturer in Energy Policy [email protected]
Professor Li Shao Chair in Sustainable Technologies in the Built Environment [email protected]
Dr Stefan Smith Lecturer in Energy Systems in the Built Environment [email protected]
Dr Jacopo Torriti Lecturer in Energy Economics and Policy [email protected]
Professor Runming Yao Director MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments and Chair in Building and Urban Sustainability [email protected]
Further details of staff can be found here www.reading.ac.uk/CME/cme-staff.aspx
MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability
For more information, please contact:
Programme Administrator MSc Renewable EnergySchool of Construction Management and Engineering University of Reading Whiteknights Reading, RG6 6AW
[email protected] Tel (0118) 378 7560 Fax (0118) 931 3856
www.reading.ac.uk/CME/pg-taught/
The University of Reading is committed to equal opportunities and diversity.
Whilst the University of Reading makes every effort to ensure that the contents and statements made in this publication are fair and accurate, it can accept no liability for omissions, errors or subsequent changes.
The statements made and information provided are a general guide and there may be changes following publication which affect the contents. Programmes or modules may be altered or withdrawn without notice and assessment arrangements may be changed. For details of any changes made since publication, please refer to the website address at the bottom of this page.
This document is © University of Reading 2013. It was designed and printed in July 2013.
B08202 07.13
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