An electric vehicle on charge

Electrical Power Engineering BEng (Hons)

Work with the future of power grids: smart, efficient and sustainable infrastructure for a strategically vital sector. 

Key information

Typical offer:

112-120 points from 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, to include a relevant subject

See full entry requirements
Study mode and duration
Start date

Course information

Please select the page of your interest

Showing content for section Overview

Overview

Design and operate the secure and sustainable power grids needed by advanced industrial nations with this future-focused degree.

You’ll bring together your interests in science and technology, developing expertise in contemporary electrical infrastructure, and put your skills and knowledge to work in hands-on projects shaped by current research. By studying innovations in areas such as electric vehicle charging, smart grids and energy storage, you’ll prepare yourself for power engineering careers that can make a positive impact on global society. 

With increasing global demand for power engineers, and a growing recognition of the strategic importance of the sector, you’ll graduate with a compelling skillset for future employers. 

Course highlights

  • Play a part in mitigating climate change, promoting a greener planet, and fostering economic growth
  • Enter a strategically valuable sector with the skills the industry is seeking
  • Use industry-standard software and equipment in our Renewable Energy and Electrical Power Lab, Electronics Lab and Computer Lab
  • Take on a power engineering placement, follow career-related modules, and explore energy installations on course field trips

Top 30

for student satisfaction

(Times Higher Education, 2024)

Contact information

Admissions

+44 (0) 23 9284 5566

Contact Admissions

Entry requirements

BEng (Hons) Electrical Power Engineering degree entry requirements

Typical offers

  • 112-120 points from 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, to include a relevant subject

English language requirements

  • English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.

We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.

If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

We look at more than just your grades

While we consider your grades when making an offer, we also carefully look at your circumstances and other factors to assess your potential. These include whether you live and work in the region and your personal and family circumstances which we assess using established data.

Explore more about how we make your offer

Careers and opportunities

With a degree in Electrical Power Engineering, you’ll have demonstrable skills and experience to secure roles in power generation, distribution or analysis.

The UK is seeking almost 200,000 roles in energy and utilities over the next decade, looking for “practical, hands-on, technical problem solvers who have the desire and initiative to manage, to lead and develop a career in engineering”.

You’ll be ready to fill those roles, by being on top of current thinking in the sector, with experience of systems, software and tools used by professional power engineers. You’ll also be well placed to develop your learning, whether through professional qualifications or deeper academic study.  

Some potential job roles include:

  • Power Systems Engineer: Specialising in the design, analysis, and optimisation of electrical power systems, ensuring reliable and efficient energy distribution.
  • Renewable Energy Engineer: Focusing on developing and implementing sustainable energy solutions, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power systems.
  • Control Systems Engineer: Designing and maintaining control systems for various applications, including power plants, manufacturing processes, and automation systems.
  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Engineer: Working on the development of electric vehicles, including battery technology, charging infrastructure, and electric drivetrains.
  • Power Electronics Engineer: Designing electronic systems and devices for efficient energy conversion and control, often used in renewable energy systems and electric vehicles.
  • Energy Manager: Overseeing energy usage in organisations, implementing energy-saving initiatives, and ensuring compliance with energy regulations.
  • Research Scientist: Conducting research in academic or industrial settings to advance the field of electrical engineering, contributing to new technologies and innovations.

Modules

Indicative modules

  • Mathematical Principles
  • Introduction to Programming
  • Introduction to Analogue Circuits
  • Principles of Digital Systems
  • Engineering Sciences
  • Introduction to Energy Systems

  • Group Design Project
  • Innovation and Enterprise
  • Fundamentals of Control and Instrumentation
  • Engineering Mathematics
  • Magnetic Circuits and Transformers
  • Electrical Machines

Core modules

  • Individual Project
  • Power Distribution and Transmission
  • Power Electronics and Converters
  • Electrical power Systems and Industry Practices

Optional modules

  • Control Systems Design
  • Wind Energy

Changes to course content

We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.

Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.

Costs and funding

Tuition fees

  • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,250 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
  • EU students – £9,250 a year (including Transition Scholarship – may be subject to annual increase)
  • International students – £20,200 per year (subject to annual increase)

Funding your studies

Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.

Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.

Apply

How to apply

To start this course in 2025, apply through UCAS. You'll need:

  • the UCAS course code – H630
  • our institution code – P80

If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.

You can also sign up to an Open Day to:

  • Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
  • Speak with lecturers and chat with our students 
  • Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join

If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.

Applying from outside the UK

As an international student you'll apply using the same process as UK students, but you’ll need to consider a few extra things. 

You can get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region.

Find out what additional information you need in our international students section

If you don't meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Admissions terms and conditions

When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.