MSc Smart Grids with the Comillas Pontifical University Madrid

The Smart Grids programme is a joint effort between the University of Strathclyde and Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, working closely with industry partners like Iberdrola. It is a one-year course designed to train engineers in the skills they need to lead the digital transformation of the electric grid. The programme covers the design of modern energy systems, data analytics, and cybersecurity, which are essential for the transition to a sustainable power network.

This is a double degree programme where students spend a term in Madrid and then Glasgow for another term, and they put their skills to the test during a final term doing a paid industrial internship at a partner company in the UK or Spain. This structure offers graduates an international learning experience that is both theoretical and practical, preparing them for the energy industry.

The University of Strathclyde, founded in 1796, is located in the centre of Glasgow, Scotland's largest city. It is a leading public research university and was the first technological university in the UK. It was built on the principle of offering "useful learning." The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in four faculties: Engineering, Science, the Strathclyde Business School, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

Strathclyde has received various awards, including being the only university to be awarded UK University of the Year twice by the Times Higher Education Awards. The university is making its campus a first-class learning environment for all students, and staff with investments from sponsors. It is known for research and powerful connections with industries, which help its programmes stay current and relevant, and prepare its graduates for the workplace.

Candidates need to submit a personal statement, and relevant information regarding their studies, an academic and/or employer reference, and their CVs to show their work experience. If a candidate is selected, they will be invited for an interview.

Grade Requirements:

• Candidates must have a first-class and second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in electronic, electrical, or telecommunications engineering or a related physical science subject.

English Proficiency:

• Candidates should submit an overall score of 7.0 in the IELTS test.
• PTE Academic and TOEFL IBT are also accepted.

The international students’ tuition fee for the MSc Smart Grids with the Comillas programme at the University of Strathclyde is €24,237.

The University of Strathclyde offers scholarships for this course, including the Iberdrola Scholarship, which covers all or most of the costs for a Master's programme in energy-related fields, including smart grids, and even provides a living stipend of £14,400 per year, paid monthly. It is for exceptional students who want to build a career in the power industry. The Gridspertise Scholarship, on the other hand, covers half of the tuition fees and a paid internship at Gridspertise, giving them industry experience and a potential for future jobs.

Both scholarships are competitive, and the application deadlines and selection process are handled jointly by the universities and the companies involved. Strathclyde University also offers a scholarship of up to £12,000 for some students and a 15% tuition fee discount for its own graduates who are pursuing another postgraduate course. Some students may receive awards from £9,000 to £12,000, while others might be eligible for automatic scholarships worth £6,000 to £8,000 simply by applying for postgraduate courses.

Graduates of the MSc Smart Grids with the Comillas programme from the University of Strathclyde can become:

• Smart Grid Engineer
• Power Systems Consultant
• Power Distribution Engineer
• Transmission System Operator
• Research and Innovation Engineer

Admission to the MSc Smart Grids at Comillas is made through the university’s online portal. If you need further assistance, our advisors at AHZ can assist you with your application process.