Energy EngineeringMEng

From thermodynamics and fluid mechanics to system design and life cycle analysis, you'll explore the science and technologies required to respond to global energy challenges. With a specialist understanding of energy production, conversion and storage, you'll be prepared to start your career as an engineer in the energy sector. 

Course structure

Join our four year full time MEng programme comprising of taught and optional modules. Each module will be assessed in a number of ways, including exams, written assignments and laboratory and project reports.

You'll examine and optimise whole energy system approaches while considering how ethical and sustainable development can enhance our efforts to transition to a net zero energy economy.  

Our teaching relates directly to our own cutting-edge research so you’re always at the forefront of current innovations. Our unique links with key employers will give you a route into different career paths while industry experts deliver guest lectures and offer career developing work experience opportunities.

You’ll also take part in industry related projects as you build transferrable workplace skills such as teamworking and project planning. Your studies will be closely aligned to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals so you’re ready for roles with global importance.

• Join a welcoming, inclusive and collaborative academic community
• Develop skills in data analysis, system design, problem solving and life cycle analysis
• Benefit from close industry ties, with expert guest lectures, potential for placements and networking opportunities
• You will be taught by academic staff, who are global leaders in their field
• Undertake an industry relevant project to design a particular chemical process and apply your learning

Benefit from our unique facilities

The School of Chemical Engineering is the first in the UK to have a research facility for energy storage using cryogenic liquids, comprising new laboratories, state-of-the-art equipment, and a major demonstration plant - The Birmingham Centre for Cryogenic Energy Storage.

• Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields
• Take part in tutorials that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning
• Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work
• Gain valuable experience by engaging in practical assignments that simulate real-world tasks and cultivate job-ready skills

Assessment

Your learning with us is diverse, and the way you'll be assessed is equally so. Each module will be assessed in a number of ways, such as via exams, written assignments and laboratory and project reports. The balance between exams and coursework varies across each module. As you move towards employment or further study, you'll find your final year has a strong emphasis on project work.

Each year contains 120 credits of taught material, delivered in modules that are typically worth 20 credits. In your final year you will complete an industry linked design project. 

To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.

Number of A-levels required: 3.

Required subjects and grades: A level Mathematics and Chemistry or Physics.
General Studies, Critical Thinking and Use of Maths A Levels are not accepted.

Foundation Year

Would you like to study this course but lack the entry qualifications? You can consider a Foundation Year programme which can lead to entry onto one of our courses. Learn more:

• UK students (not eligible if studying A-level Mathematics)
• international students

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

• TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 19 in Writing.
• IELTS*: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band.
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills.
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015)***: C1 Advanced - Minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component.
• Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 25 in each skill.
• Trinity ISE II: Distinction all skills.
• Trinity ISE III: Pass in each Skill

Presessional English courses

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

Undergraduate loans

To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries

At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.

View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.

Careers Network

Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.