A European Master run by renewables-experienced universities

The EUREC member network of renewable energy research centres covering all EU member states, the European Master in Renewable Energy has been designed in cooperation with nine universities in five EU countries, with each institution adding its specialised technological knowledge to the programme.

The core is taught by universities having a strong record in general renewable energy technology teaching: Students can follow the core alternatively at the following universities:

■ Loughborough University, UK (language: English)

■ Carl von Ossietzky University at Oldenburg University, Germany (language: English)

■ Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain (language: Spanish)

■ Ecole des Mines de Paris at Sophia Antipolis (Nice), France (language: French) The core lasts from October to December and ends with a series of exams.

The specialisations take place at universities with a specific focus on one renewables technology: As specialisations, all taught in English, are available :

■ Wind energy — at the National Technical University of Athens, Greece

■ Biomass — at Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain

■ Photovoltaics — at University of Northumbria at Newcastle, UK

■ Hybrid systems — at Kassel University, Germany

■ Solar buildings — at University of Athens, Greece

The specialisation lasts from January to April and ends with a series of theory and practical exams.

In later years, it is expected that the list of specialisations available will grow. A specialisation in water power (to include micro-hydro, wave and tidal power) would be especially welcome and relevant as this technology is expected to soon reach a commercial stage.

A truly European course

Different to the few other existing Master-level RE courses, the European RE Master plays the European card: students are required to study in at least two different European countries. This feature reflects the fact that there is at present a tendency to cross national borders and set up foreign representations or carry out project work abroad, even for small and medium RE companies. Clearly, intercultural awareness and foreign languages are assets that present a plus for any employer today.