MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability

Pursue or develop your career in energy and sustainability with our MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability degree.

Why study MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability at the University of Reading?

On this master’s programme you will develop your understanding of:

• the applications of renewable energy and sustainable technologies
• the environmental impact of using non-sustainable technologies
• the design, construction, and operation of the buildings and places in which we live, work and play
• the issues and debates around the role of energy, including the technical and policy questions that arise from global demands for secure, affordable, and sustainable processes
• carbon management
• energy use.

The University of Reading has a long history of teaching and research in this field. We have delivered a master’s programme in the subject area for more than 40 years. What started as a master’s in alternative energy, has evolved to incorporate the significant advancements in the field and our expertise in sustainability, carbon, and life cycle assessment. Graduates from any discipline are welcome.

Accreditation

Our MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability degree is accredited by the Energy Institute and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers. Successful completion of this programme satisfies the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Choose the University of Reading

The School of Construction Management and Engineering has a wide-ranging and diverse research agenda that seeks to understand the built environment across the scales, from buildings to neighbourhoods and cities, in a way that addresses societal aspirations.

Lecturers are involved in research and scholarship, all of which feeds into the teaching you will receive. We also have strong links with industry and  we will help you to build your network of contacts during your studies.

• The University of Reading is one of the UK’s top-ranking institutions for Building. We’re ranked 3rd for Building in the Complete University Guide 2025 and 5th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
• The University of Reading is ranked in the top 100 in the world for Architecture/Built Environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024).
• 96% of our master’s students said they are satisfied with the overall quality of their course (Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2024, responders from our School of Construction Management and Engineering).
• Overall, 92% of graduates from Construction Management and Engineering are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation; of those in full-time employment, 93% are in graduate-level roles (based on our analysis of HESA data © HESA 2024, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22; includes postgraduate (taught) Construction Management and Engineering responders).
• 100% of our research in Architecture, Built Environment and Planning is of international standing (REF 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Architecture, Built Environment and Planning). 100% of our research impact has been classed 'outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ (REF 2021, combining 4* and 3* submissions – Architecture, Built Environment and Planning).
• We are ranked 6th in the UK for research power in Architecture, Built Environment and Planning. (Times Higher Education, Institutions Ranked by Subject, based on its analysis of the latest REF 2021).

Flexible study options

Our MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability is offered as a one-year full-time programme, and as a flexible modular programme that can be taken over two years from September, or over three years from February. Both the full-time and flexible modular options are delivered via residential weeks at our Whiteknights campus in Reading and supported by our online learning environment.

Join our global community

Become part of a vibrant, inclusive community comprising students, academics, and alumni. Forge connections with industry practitioners to shape and advance your career.

Research-led education

Benefit from research-led teaching that integrates the latest advancements relevant to the built environment sector into your learning experience.

Interactive learning experience

Engage in intensive on-campus study sessions alongside independent online learning. Collaborate with peers of varied backgrounds and experiences.

Personalised support

Benefit from strong staff-student relationships. Our dedicated academics understand your individual aspirations and needs, offering tutorials and one-to-one guidance throughout your journey.

Industry engagement

Immerse yourself in industry events, site visits, and guest lectures. Network with professionals through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events and the Reading University Construction Society (RUCS).

Find out more about Reading University Construction Society

Well-equipped facilities

Our facilities include a resource room and a dedicated computer lounge for students. It's equipped with an array of digital technology and software, including building information modelling (BIM), 3D laser scanning, building energy simulations and urban microclimate simulations.

You will have access to our immersive virtual reality systems. There is also laboratory space and experimental equipment to support student research projects.

Prime location

We're located in the South East of England, just 23 minutes from London by fast train, with excellent transport connections to airports and transport hubs. Our proximity to London means you have easy access to a huge, global construction market. You are surrounded by multinational employers and fantastic examples of construction, architecture and infrastructure.

Focused learning

Explore two-week modules featuring inspiring guest lectures. Develop collaborative, leadership, and adaptive skills crucial for the evolving industry landscape.

Find out more about how you’ll study

Interdisciplinary approach

Benefit from being part of the School of the Built Environment, which draws together expertise from a range of disciplines, including architecture, organisation and management, design, sustainability, surveying, construction, procurement, sociology, economics, energy and engineering.

The School also has close links with the department of Real Estate and Planning in the triple-accredited Henley Business School. This interdisciplinary approach reflects collaborative ways of working in the industry.