International Programmes 2023/2024

Online MSc Wind Energy Systems Online MSc Wind Energy Systems

University of Kassel • Kassel

Degree
Master of Science (MSc)
In cooperation with
  • Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology (IEE)
  • Industry experts
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

English

Mode of study
Fully online
Programme duration
7 semesters
Beginning
Winter semester
Additional information on beginning, duration and mode of study

The Online MSc Wind Energy Systems will enable you to educate yourself while pursuing your full-time job – any time and everywhere in the world. All courses are taught 100% in English and online in virtual classrooms. You can choose to attend the online lectures live or access the recording at a later point. There is no need to visit us in order to take an exam, as the exams take place online as well. Furthermore, you will have the flexibility to apply for as many or as few courses per semester as you like or even take a semester off whenever you need it.

Application deadline

Master's programme
All applicants: 1 September

Check our website for application deadline extensions.

Diplomas of Advanced Studies (DAS)
Winter semester: 1 October
Summer semester: 1 April

Tuition fees per semester in EUR
2,000 EUR
Additional information on tuition fees

The costs depend on the chosen study format:

  • Whole Master's degree: 14,000 EUR
  • Diploma of Advanced Studied (DAS): 6,000 EUR
  • Single module: 600 EUR (3 credit points); 1,200 EUR (6 credit points)
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

The broad teaching philosophy of the MSc Wind Energy Systems is reflected in the large number of modules (28 in total) offered to students which can choose flexibly between them. The fundamental modules teach participants the basics about the functioning of electrical and mechanical components of a wind turbine as well as the electrical engineering behind it. Furthermore, students learn how to use various simulation programmes (including MATLAB, OPEN FOAM) and how to model the flows in wind energy systems.

The Master's programme offers two specialisation paths that build on the foundation laid in the fundamental modules. The first specialisation, Energy System Technology (EST), imparts knowledge about the energy system technologies of a wind turbine. This includes, for example, the design of a nacelle system and the control and operational management of a wind turbine. In addition, it offers learnings beyond the technology of a wind turbine, like the grid integration of renewable energies and their storage as well as energy meteorology.

In the second specialisation, Simulation and Structural Technology of Wind Energy Systems (SST), students learn about the design and structure of rotor blades as well as the material behaviour of soils in order to determine the appropriate locations for a wind turbine. They will learn to identify the flow field of a wind turbine and analyse their aerodynamic processes.

The variety of the programme is further expressed in various non-engineering subjects. These teach students management skills needed for the construction of wind farms and wind parks. The study is rounded off with legal knowledge taught in elective modules such as Contract Law and Energy Law.

The broad range of courses offered at Master's level entitles students to pursue a doctorate after graduation. As many subjects have a high university standard, graduates are suited to pursue a career in research. However, the core of the education is to train the students for the wind industry job market. Classic occupational fields are the R&E departments of a wind power manufacturer and at a planner and project developer office.

Course organisation

The Master's programme consists of a total number of 120 credits:

  • At least 30 credit points must be selected from the Fundamental modules.
  • At least 30 credits must be selected from one of the specialisations: Simulation and Structural Technology (SST) or Energy System Technology (EST).
  • Furthermore, a minimum of 12 credits must be acquired from the Additional Key Competencies modules.
  • Another 18 credits must be selected from the following: modules of both specialisations, the Additional Key Competencies modules and/or Fundamentals modules. You can select modules freely from all of these categories.
  • The Master's thesis module comprises 30 credits.

All modules are shown in the picture below.

In addition to our Master's programme, we offer several Diplomas of Advanced Studies (DAS) that allow you to specialise in different aspects of wind energy. All Diplomas of Advanced Studies (DAS) consist of five carefully selected modules from the Master's programme. As a DAS student, you will be studying together with the Master's students. After your successful participation – or even during your DAS studies – you can choose to switch to the Master's programme in October of any year. You will find all our DAS listed here on our website.

International elements
  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
Integrated internships
  • Optional project week in Germany
  • Optional internship at Fraunhofer institute or at a German company
Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Pace of course
Mixed (e.g. fixed exam dates and duration, study content can be studied at any time)
Phase(s) of attendance in Germany (applies to the entire programme)
Yes, voluntary
Types of online learning elements
  • Discussion forums and / or groups
  • Online sessions
  • Online study material provided by institution
  • Video learning (Pre-recorded videos, Vlogs, Video-Podcasts)
Tuition fees per semester in EUR
2,000 EUR
Additional information on tuition fees

The costs depend on the chosen study format:

  • Whole Master's degree: 14,000 EUR
  • Diploma of Advanced Studied (DAS): 6,000 EUR
  • Single module: 600 EUR (3 credit points); 1,200 EUR (6 credit points)
Semester contribution

Approx. 140 EUR for Master's students

Funding opportunities within the university
No
Academic admission requirements

(1) Applicants are required to have a Bachelor's degree, "Diplom", or equivalent degree with at least 180 credits in a technical or scientific course in one of the following subject areas:

  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Physics

or an equivalent in a course with basic subjects in mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering of at least 60 credits, of which at least 18 are in the field of mathematics (analysis, algebra).

(2) Letter of motivation (max. two pages) convincingly explaining personal motivation and suitability for the Master's programme, along with a record of previous academic achievements, field training, and scientific work

(3) Proof of at least one year of any kind of work experience after finishing your first degree of higher education is necessary. In special cases, the examination board can decide that the work experience that you had gained before you had finished your first degree of higher education is acceptable as well.

(4) Proof of English language knowledge (details below)

(5) School-leaving certificate with which you fulfil the entrance requirements for higher education

Language requirements

Proof of English language knowledge corresponding to level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (e.g. TOEFL 87 or IELTS 5.0).

Technical equipment and programmes
  • Computer
  • camera
  • microphone/ headset
  • stable internet connection
Application deadline

Master's programme
All applicants: 1 September

Check our website for application deadline extensions.

Diplomas of Advanced Studies (DAS)
Winter semester: 1 October
Summer semester: 1 April

Submit application to

Application with a degree obtained outside of Germany:
You will find a detailed application guide here on our website.

Application with a degree earned in Germany:
Click here, please.

Supervisor-student ratio
We have small classes (few students per lecturer), meaning you have the opportunity to talk directly to the teacher and ask questions at any time – during the lecture or at another time via message.

University of Kassel

University location

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