Engineering Net Zero (MSc)

How will I be taught?

Modules are delivered through a series of lectures, tutorials, practical’s, workshops as well as problems and research-led activities. These methods vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on subject matter and the method of assessment. Supplementary resources are also provided to both aid student learning and provide stretching activities.

Individual modules provide further information on how to study and guidance on learning resources and further support. 

How will I be assessed?

Summative assessments are designed to best reflect practical relevance and to be authentic, while evidencing achievement of the learning outcomes. Formative assessments which carry no marks are used to assist students in preparing for summative assessments. 

This gives a measure of performance to inform you, us as staff, and potential employers about your progress and achievement. It can also help the learning process by highlighting areas of success and areas needing more attention. 

Assessment involves a blend of methods that are selected to suit the outcomes of each module and the course as a whole including: 

• Written assignments such as reports, essays and posters 
• Planning, conduct and reporting of project work 
• Problem-based exercises based on real-world challenges 
• Presentations – oral live and recorded 
• Peer review 
• Reflective practices 

How will I be supported?

You will be allocated a personal tutor to assist with both your academic progress and pastoral support in an informal and confidential manner. We take pride in providing a warm and welcoming environment for all. 

Your personal tutor will see you regularly during the programme. For the dissertation stage, you’ll be allocated a supervisor and if appropriate, an industrial mentor in your specialist field, whom you’ll be expected to meet with regularly. 

In addition to the broad range of support services provided centrally by Cardiff University, our Senior Personal Tutor will be available to help and advise on any personal matters. 

You’ll have access to a comprehensive handbook appropriate to your programme, containing details of the School’s procedures and policies. We make extensive use of the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Learning Central) to share information, teaching materials and support your learning. 

Feedback is an essential element of your learning experience and will be provided during the duration of your studies. Each module will have feedback mechanisms to aid in your learning and development. Formative assessments which have no marks will have feedback that assists you in developing your knowledge, understanding and skills. Feedback following summative assessments will outline the evidence used to mark your submission against set criteria and provide constructive comments towards developing your knowledge, understanding and skills for the future. 

Dedicated School Careers Advisers and staff from Student Futures will also support you to achieve your future career goals and develop your skills to be successful in the Graduate recruitment process. 

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.

On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Apply advanced knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering principles to complex engineering challenges associated with achieving net-zero systems. 
• Evaluate technologies and engineering processes used in decarbonisation, renewable energy systems and low-carbon infrastructure. 
• Evaluate environmental and societal impacts of engineering solutions supporting the transition to net-zero. 
• Plan and critically evaluate an independent research project associated with achieving net zero using appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques, culminating in a coherent and scholarly dissertation.

Intellectual Skills:

• Formulate and analyse complex engineering problems related to decarbonisation and energy transition, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. 
• Select and apply analytical and computational techniques to model low-carbon energy systems and technologies, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. 
• Select and critically evaluate research literature, technical reports and policy frameworks related to net-zero engineering. 

Professional Practical Skills:

• Design engineering solutions that support decarbonisation and sustainable development objectives. 
• Apply a systems approach to the integration of energy, infrastructure and environmental systems in net-zero transitions. 
• Apply project management and regulatory considerations related to the implementation of engineering solutions supporting decarbonisation and net-zero transitions. 

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Communicate complex sustainability and engineering concepts to technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team. Evaluate effectiveness of own and team performance. 
• Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion.