| UCAS code | H222 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Penryn Campus |
| Discipline | Renewable Energy |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: AAB - ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBB-BBC |
| UCAS code | H223 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Penryn Campus |
| Discipline | Renewable Energy |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A level: AAB - ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBB-BBC |
| UCAS code | H224 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Penryn Campus |
| Discipline | Renewable Energy |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A level: AAB - ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBB-BBC |
Overview
- Designed for those wishing to pursue a non-technical career within the rapidly expanding clean energy sector such as consultancy or project management
- Gain a grounding in the concepts and technology that underpin the Renewable Energy sector, as well as the societal and political considerations that impact its implementation
- Learn from experts in energy policy, renewable technologies, electrical power and networks, environmental law and regulation, sustainable business practice, and environmental science
- Tailor your degree to your interests and career ambitions with a variety of options covering the legal, political and business aspects of the sustainable energy transition
- Cornwall is where the UK’s renewable energy revolution began and offers state of the art facilities and exciting opportunities to engage with and contribute to solutions for environmental challenges
Top 10 in the UK for Engineering
10th for General Engineering in The Complete University Guide 2025
New state-of-the-art Renewable Engineering Energy Facility (REEF) provides dedicated workshop and laboratory space
Expertise in energy policy, marine renewables, biofuels, electrical power and networks, wind, photo-voltaic and thermal technologies
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | AAB – ABB |
B in a Science subject*
*Accepted A-Level Science subjects include: Biology/Human Biology**; Chemistry; Computing; Design and Technology; Electronics; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; Geography; Geology; Maths/Pure Maths/Further Maths**; Life and Health Sciences; Physical Education; Physics; Psychology; Science (applied); Statistics. **If more than one of these is taken they would only count as one 'science' but could count as two A-levels towards our general requirements. |
| IB | 34/665-32/655 | HL5 in a Science Subject |
| BTEC | DDD-DDM | See below |
| GCSE | C or 4 A or 7 | Grade C or 4 in English and Grade A or 7 in Mathematics |
| Access to HE | 30 L3 Credits at Distinction Grade and 15 L3 credits at Merit Grade - 24 L3 Credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade. | 12 L3 credits at Merit Grade in an acceptable Science subject area |
| T-Level | Distinction |
The following T-Levels only:
|
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: BBB-BBC |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B1. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
BTEC Extended Diploma (2010)
Applicants studying one of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas will be considered without the GCE A-Level science subjects: Applied Science, Building Services Engineering, Construction and the Built Environment, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Environmental Sustainability, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Maintenance Engineering, Pharmaceutical Science, Sport, Sport and Exercise Science.
BTEC Extended Diploma (2016)
Applicants studying one of the following new BTEC Extended Diplomas will be considered without the GCE A-Level science subjects: Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering.
For any questions relating to entry requirements please contact the team via our online form or 01392 724061
Course content
Throughout your programme, you will gain an understanding of the renewable energy sector and develop consultancy and project management skills. Renewable energy is a key part of our sustainable future and the combination of energy sector knowledge with legal, political and business learning will enable you to engage with and contribute to, solutions for some of the most pressing challenges facing our planet.
Your first year gives a strong foundation in topics such as renewable energy systems, energy policy, data science and environment, society and business. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme enables you to explore a range of subjects and discover what interests you most. The variety of optional modules in your second and final year give you the opportunity to shape your degree according to your career ambitions.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENE1010 | Mathematics 1A | 15 |
| ENE1001 | Renewable Energy Systems 1 | 15 |
| ENE1004 | Applied Computing for Energy Studies | 15 |
| ENE1005 | Energy Policy, Markets and Law | 15 |
| BEP1150 | Environment, Society and Business | 30 |
| LAW1016C | A Legal Foundation for Environmental Protection | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 15 credits | ||
| GEO1419 | Introduction to Data Science | 15 |
| GEO1408B | Global Issues in Environmental Science | 15 |
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENE2001 | Energy Management | 15 |
| ENE2004 | Renewable Energy Systems 2 | 15 |
| ENE2008 | Project Management and Accounting | 15 |
| LAW2016C | Environmental Regulation and Redress | 15 |
| BEP2210 | Circular Enterprise Economy | 15 |
| BEP2070 | Social Enterprise Management | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 30 credits | ||
| GEO2449 | Green Consultants | 15 |
| POC2114 | Green Politics | 15 |
| LAW2112C | Legal Foundations of Business | 15 |
| GEO2463 | Hazards and Human Society | 15 |
If you are studying ‘with Industrial Placement’ or 'with Study Abroad' you will either spend the third year of your four year degree on a placement or abroad and will carry out a 120 credit module. For more information about these options, please see the course variants below.
With Industrial Placement
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENE3014 | Year in Industry | 120 |
With Study Abroad
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENE3015 | Study Abroad | 120 |
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENE3001 | Third Year Field Course (Group Project) | 15 |
| ENE3011 | Renewable Energy Dissertation | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 75 credits | ||
| ENE3003 | Marine Renewable Energy | 15 |
| ENE3004 | Life Cycle Analysis | 15 |
| ENE3005 | Wind Energy | 15 |
| ENE3008 | Work Placement Report | 15 |
| ENE3010 | Sustainable Architecture | 15 |
| GEO3437B | Climate Change & Society | 15 |
| BEP3010 | Social and Technological Innovation | 15 |
| LAW3016C | Legal Response to Environmental Destruction | 15 |
| POC3117 | The Politics of Climate Change | 15 |
Course variants
UCAS code: H223
Our four-year ‘with Study Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, studying with one of our many partner universities.
Why Study Abroad?
Living and studying in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language – all key qualities that employers are looking for in today’s competitive employment environment.
Where can I Study Abroad?
We have partnership arrangements with many prestigious institutions across the globe. Exactly where you can apply to study will depend on the subjects you are studying at Exeter. For a full list please visit the Study Abroad website.
Does it count towards my degree?
Credit for academic work during your year abroad is arranged by agreement between the University of Exeter and the host institution. These marks are then translated back into your degree at Exeter. If you are Studying Abroad for a semester or full year, your time abroad will count toward your final degree. Please refer to your College Study Abroad co-ordinator for further details.
How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?
For the year that you spend studying abroad you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter, but nothing to your host university – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your Study Abroad year.
UCAS code: H224
Our four year ‘with Year in Industry’ programme includes a paid placement in business or industry for the duration of your third year. Work experience is a real advantage when entering the graduate job market. It’s also a great way to try out different jobs and to make contacts within companies you’re interested in working for.
Does it count towards my degree?
Yes, it’s worth 120 credits.
How does it affect my tuition fee?
During this year you will pay a reduced tuition fee. Visit the Tuition Fees page for more information.
How do I apply?
You can apply for this programme through UCAS using the code at the top of this page.
Preparation and support
We will help you to prepare for your work placement from early in your studies. A special module 'Employability and Placement Preparation for Engineers' takes place at the start of your second year. This is an opportunity to start thinking about your placement well in advance. You’ll also be invited to attend workshops offering guidance and support.
Fees
Tuition fees for 2024 entry
UK students: £9,250 per year
International students: £29,700 per year
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students, such as our Global Excellence Scholarships*. Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Facilities
The campus is equipped with the latest facilities for teaching and research. Our teaching laboratory contains technology for the study of biomass heating; water flows; hydroelectric turbines; photovoltaics; solar thermal; fuel cells; hydraulic systems; wind power; and electronics and electrical power systems.
The lab is also equipped with industry standard software for the analysis of flows of liquids, gases (Solidworks) and electricity; computer aided design (AutoCAD); wind energy resource assessment (Windfarmer, Wind Farm); and wind turbine design (Bladed). As an undergraduate student, you’ll be able to use all of these programs and facilities in the lab which can be viewed via the virtual tours on our website.
A variety of devices producing renewable energy exist around the campus including two solar powered buildings on campus: Daphne du Maurier and the Performance Centre, plus a 3 x 1MW fully condensing gas boiler and a ground source heat pump system. As part of the continuing expansion of the campus, the University has developed the Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI). The ESI opened in late 2012 and employs both solar and wind energy technology as well as benefitting from state-of-the-art energy efficiency. The campus is 500m from the Roskrow Barton commercial wind development that comprises 2 x 850kW, V52-850 Vestas wind turbines.
Learning and teaching
Formal teaching and learning methods vary between modules but typically include lectures, laboratory classes, practical work, seminars, tutorials, computer-based learning packages, and residential or one-day field-based activities. You will typically have 16-20 hours of formal contact time per week. You’ll be expected to spend roughly the same amount of time in independent learning and some work will be expected during the vacations.
There is an increasing use of interactive computer-based approaches to learning through our virtual learning environment where the details of all modules are stored in an easily navigable website. Students can access detailed information about modules and learning outcomes and interact through activities such as the discussion forums.
Research-inspired teaching
We believe that every student benefits from being part of a culture that is inspired by research and taught by experts. Our department includes leading research groups in areas including marine energy, solar technologies, power electronics and smart grids, energy storage, renewable heat and energy policy. Students will therefore be taught by lecturers at the forefront of clean energy technology and policy development, and have the opportunity to pursue projects in these areas directly linked to ongoing research. We also work closely with industry partners to ensure the ‘real-world’ relevance of the knowledge and skills that students develop through their taught modules and project work.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary between modules, but usually combine exams and coursework (which might include practical laboratory work, professional posters, group exercises, essays or verbal presentations). Your first year doesn’t count towards your final degree classification, but you do have to pass it in order to progress. If you study a three-year programme, assessments in the final two years both count towards your classification, and if you study a four-year programme then the final three years all contribute.
Academic support
The Penryn Campus offers a friendly, supportive community, where staff and students get to know each other well. All students have a personal tutor who is a member of academic staff with whom you can discuss personal and academic issues. There are also a number of services on campus where you can get additional advice and information. You can find further information about all these services in the University’s undergraduate prospectus or online.
Taking modules outside of your programme
With Proficiency in Law
Students in disciplines outside of Law are now able to add a ‘With proficiency in Law’ to their degree title, by gaining a strand of additional legal knowledge and skills that adds value to their degree
The ‘With proficiency in Law’ modules being offered to non-law students provide a theoretical and technical basis for understanding the regulatory and legal frameworks that a student operating within their main field might encounter. These modules lend themselves strongly to students wishing to develop their skillset to work across the environment and sustainability sector and in wider business.
Students who accrue at least 60 credits in elective law modules will have ‘With proficiency in Law’ added to their degree title.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Proficiency in a second subject
If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.
- A Foreign Language
- Data Science
- Entrepreneurship
- Innovation
- Law
- Leadership
- Social Data Science
Your future
This degree programme has been designed to include the knowledge and skills required for the wide range of non-technical careers in the clean energy sector. You will gain an awareness of the environmental, economic, social and sustainability issues that are an integral part of the energy professional’s role in society.
Employer-valued skills this course develops
- Leadership and project management
- Analytical, independent, and innovative thinking
- Team working
- Self-awareness and motivation for personal development
- Decision making and problem-solving
- Discussion and group work
- Written and verbal communication
- Organising, planning and time management
Career paths
Potential careers could include the following roles within industry, NGOs and governmental organisations:
- Energy & renewables consultant
- Energy & Utilities manager Energy Systems Associate
- Energy data analyst
- Sustainability project manager
- Sustainability data analyst
- Sustainable development coordinator
- Sustainability strategist/consultant (energy industry)
- Energy policy advisor
- Net Zero consultant
- Project developer/manager
- Climate Emergency Programme Manager
- Climate Change and sustainability adviser
- Environmental coordinator
- Environmental strategy officer
You will also be well placed to continue your studies at postgraduate level and/or to become future energy entrepreneurs.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award
Many of our students participate in the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award. These schemes encourage you to participate in employability related workshops, skills events, volunteering and employment which will contribute to your career decision-making skills and success in the employment market.
Developing your skills and career prospects
We provide a range of support to help you develop skills attractive to employers. You will be able to access a range of specific activities such as careers skills sessions and employer-led events, or seek bespoke advice and support from Employability Officers.
The Career Zone also organises a busy schedule of activities including careers fairs, skills workshops, and training events, and can advise on graduate opportunities and volunteering.
