A distinctive feature of this Master’s programme is its strong focus on small to medium-sized energy systems, which typically have a lower environmental impact. You will gain substantialhands-on experience through field visits to operational plants and direct engagement with companies in the sector, including guest lectures and industry meetings.

You can also take part in the double degree programme with the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona (Spain). 

In this course you will develop:

• knowledge of issues related to the implementation and management of energy supply and distribution networks in the territory,

• the ability to design high-efficiency energy conversion systems, especially small and medium-sized ones, taking into account their correct installation in the territory,

• excellent knowledge of the energy balance of buildings and of the problems associated with the design and implementation of highly efficient air-conditioning systems that optimise the integration of different energy sources (traditional, solar, geothermal),

• knowledge of the interactions between energy conversion processes and the environment, both in terms of material flows (resources used, emissions to air and water) and in terms of energy inputs and outputs,

• knowledge of the economic, organisational and management aspects of energy production and distribution systems, including end-use, energy and environmental costs,

• knowledge of issues related to the integration between generation systems, including hybrid systems, and end users, with particular reference to the energy self-sufficiency of buildings,

• interpersonal and decision-making skills,

• the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in a technical language.

You will attend classes at both the University of Trento and the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano. The timetables are coordinated to facilitate attendance across both campuses. For more details, please consult the website of each university.
 

Classes are highly participatory, often encouraging lively discussions and debates between students and professors. Courses are largely project-based: you will work in teams and be involved in every stage of the project, from planning to execution. In addition to lectures, you will spend many hours in the lab, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in areas such as:

• Energy conversion
• Battery performance analysis
• Hydrogen production and its application in vehicles

This practical approach ensures that you not only understand theoretical concepts, but also know how to apply them in real-world contexts.

Career opportunities

There is a growing demand for energy engineers, and graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to take on management and research roles in manufacturing and servicecompanies, engineering consultancies, and public institutions operating in the energy sector.

Career paths may include work in:

• Energy resource management
• Energy planning and policy
• Design, construction, and operation of renewable energy systems (with a focus on hydroelectric plants)
• Cogeneration and trigeneration systems
• Heating and district heating networks
• Thermotechnical and HVAC industries

Further Studies

Upon graduation, you will also be eligible to apply for PhD programmes in energy engineering or related fields, allowing you to further specialise and contribute to cutting-edge research and innovation.