MSc Advanced Electrical Power Systems Engineering / Course details

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.

• Provide an advanced education in electrical power engineering.
• Give graduates the education, the knowledge and the skills they need to make sound decisions in a rapidly changing electricity supply industry.
• Give a sound understanding of the principles and techniques of electrical power engineering.
• Give a broad knowledge of the issues and problems faced by electrical power engineers.
• Give a solid working knowledge of the techniques used to solve these problems.
• Educate students with advanced research skills necessary to address current and future technological advancements.

You are required to take eight examinations. In addition, course work (eg lab reports) accounts for typically 20% of the mark for each course unit. One course units is assessed on the basis of 50% coursework and 50% exam.

The enhanced research project is assessed on the basis of a research poster, an extended abstract, a research papers and a dissertation of about 70 pages.

Excellent facilities

With access to an extensive range of leading facilities , you will get hands-on with industry-standard equipment - improving your knowledge and skills, and preparing you for work post-graduation. Our flagship facilities include the High Voltage Lab and Photon Science Institute .

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