Course summary
Power system engineering is about keeping things in balance. Not just the balance between generation and load, but also about the balance between the cost of energy and its environmental impact or the balance between the security-reliability of the supply and the investments needed to develop the system. This programme will teach you how to apply technological advances and implement sophisticated computing techniques to power systems. The programme has been significantly improved in several areas: you will learn static and dynamic modelling of electric machines and power electronics. You will be able to apply this modelling in dynamics and stability assessment, with particular emphasis on power converters stability. You will also learn control aspects of micro-grids, technologically advanced solutions in distribution networks, the fundamentals of communications in power systems, as well as the resilience aspects in modern power systems. First semester In the first semester you learn how power systems are designed and operated. This involves studying not only the characteristics of the various components (generators, lines, cables, transformers and power electronics devices) but also how these components interact. Through lectures and computer based exercises you become familiar with power system static and dynamic phenomena and modelling. Experiments in our high voltage laboratory give you an appreciation for the challenges of insulation co-ordination. Second semester During the second semester the course units explore in more depth the 'operation' and the 'plant' aspects of power systems. For example, you will study how renewable generation is integrated in a power system or how to assess and remedy stability and reliability issues. You will also apply the acquired knowledge to study modern distribution networks, protection with communications, as well as planning and resilience of power systems. Prior to your summer break a preliminary study and the outline of your MSc dissertation project is completed, this is fully developed throughout the second year of the course. The year-long enhanced individual research provides you great opportunities to develop advanced research skills and to explore in depth some of the topics discussed during the course. This includes training in research methods, and advanced simulation and experimental techniques in power systems and high voltage engineering as well as academic paper writing and poster and paper presentation.
Entry requirements
We require: a good Upper Second Class Honours degree or international equivalent in electrical, electronic or mechatronic engineering, mechanical engineering, or chemical engineering. Other disciplines including computer science, mathematics, or physics will be considered on a case-by-case basis. And evidence of strong relevant content within your degree programme. When assessing your academic record and the suitability of your degree background, we take into account your grade average with particular emphasis on relevant course units and the standing of the institution where you studied your qualification. We will be checking for sufficient relevant content in at least one of the following areas: electrical power systems, control and automation, maths and programming.
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | IELTS at least 6.5 overall with no subtest below 6.0. |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 90 | TOEFL iBT : at least 90 overall with no subtest below 20. We do not accept 'MyBestScore'. We do not accept TOEFL iBT Home Edition. |
All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is: IELTS at least 6.5 overall with no subtest below 6.0. TOEFL iBT : at least 90 overall with no subtest below 20. We do not accept 'MyBestScore'. We do not accept TOEFL iBT Home Edition. Pearson PTE : at least 70 overall with no subtest below 65. An acceptable equivalent English Language qualification . Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found here.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
For fees for entry in 2025, please view the course listing on our website.
Sponsorship information
We offer a number of postgraduate taught scholarships and awards to outstanding UK and international students each year. The University of Manchester is committed to widening participation in master's study, and allocates £300,000 in funding each year. Our Manchester Master's Bursaries are aimed at widening access to master's courses by removing barriers to postgraduate education for students from underrepresented groups. We also welcome the best and brightest international students each year and reward excellence with a number of merit-based scholarships. See our range of master’s scholarships for international students . And, if you have completed an undergraduate degree at The University of Manchester, or are currently in your final year of an undergraduate degree with us, you may be eligible for a discount of 10% on tuition fees if you choose to study on a taught postgraduate course here. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply . For more information on master's tuition fees and studying costs, visit the University of Manchester funding for master's courses website to help you plan your finances.
Provider information
University of Manchester
Oxford Road
Manchester
M13 9PL