About this program
Master of Solar Energy Engineering
The European Solar Engineering School (ESES) at Dalarna University offers you a specialised educational experience that will broaden your professional opportunities in the renewable energy industry. For close to two decades, students from over 40 countries have come to a small town in central Sweden to gain knowledge and skills that are desired by the solar energy industry. Examples of subjects covered are the design of photovoltaics, solar thermal and hybrid systems, energy storage, solar project management, and the economics and financing of solar energy.
Admission requirements
If you are interested in becoming part of the fast-growing field of renewable energy, then you are strongly encouraged to apply.
Specific entry requirements
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (mechanical, electrical, energy, engineering physics) or equivalent field of study of at least 180 credits (ECTS), or an equivalent degree.
- An approved Video Statement of Purpose.
- Proof of English language proficiency equal to the course "English 6" or "English B" in the Swedish upper-secondary system.
Documenting English language proficiency
The most common tests and important scores that are accepted are:
- IELTS (academic training): 6.5 (with no part of the test below 5.5)
- TOEFL (internet-based): 90 (with a minimum of 20 on the written part)
- TOEFL (paper-based): 575 (with a minimum of 4.5 on the written part)
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Learn moreProgram content
Semester 1
- Applied Solar Engineering
- Solar Radiation and Solar Geometry
- Photovoltaics
- Economics of Solar Energy
- Solar Thermal
Semester 2
- Design of PV and Hybrid Systems
- Design of Solar Thermal Systems
- Energy Storage
- Scientific Communication
- The Social Context of Energy Systems
Summer
- Solar Engineering Internship (Optional)
Semester 3
In this semester, you may choose either to take the following courses at Dalarna University or to complete a semester-worth of courses at an approved partner university. You can also replace some of the courses below with a solar engineering related internship in Sweden or abroad.
- Dynamic Simulation of Energy Systems
- Sustainable Energy Systems
- Solar Building Design
- Project Course in Solar Energy Systems
- Solar Thermal Power
Semester 4
- Degree Thesis in Solar Energy Engineering
Scholarships & funding
There are a number of scholarships available for successful applicants to the Solar Energy Engineering program who are not EU/EEA citizens.
- Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership Scholarship
- Swedish Institute Study Scholarships
- Dalarna University Scholarships
For more information about scholarships, please visit the university website.
Tuition
- First Tuition Fee Installment: 67 500 SEK
- Total Tuition Fee: 270 000 SEK
EU/EEA Citizens or exchange students are not required to pay tuition fees.
Tuition fees are paid in per-semester installments and the first payment (67 500 SEK) must be paid no later than June 1. This allows for reasonable processing time for a residence permit application.
Qualification
Upon completion of the program, students will graduate with a Degree of Master of Science (120 Credits) in Solar Energy Engineering.
Program objectives
After completing the program, the student will be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding
- show a considerable degree of in-depth understanding of various solar energy technologies in terms of physical processes and mathematical models for energy output in converting solar radiation into electrical or thermal energy
- show detailed knowledge regarding the components of importance in solar energy systems and how their function depends on solar radiation and other climatic factors
- show detailed knowledge of how heating, cooling, ventilation and daylight needs in both buildings and communities are affected by solar radiation and other climatic factors
- show a broad knowledge of different solar energy technologies, their role and their framework, from the perspective of large energy systems, as well as the potential that exists to combine them with other technologies for the production of electricity, heating, and cooling
Competence and Skills
- demonstrate the ability, using a scientific approach, to theoretically, experimentally and independently analyse both individual components and whole solar energy systems, their functions and their interrelations
- demonstrate the ability to independently design efficient solar energy systems in terms of technical components, climate, energy demands, and other relevant conditions
- demonstrate the ability to use different types of advanced software to model, design and optimize different types of solar energy systems
- demonstrate the ability to measure, process and systematically as well as critically analyse the relevant data for solar energy applications, and evaluate the reliability in the obtained results
- demonstrate the ability to derive the investment, operating and life-cycle costs of solar energy systems
Judgement and Approach
- critically evaluate existing facilities for both solar electricity and solar thermal, and propose measures to improve performance or correct deficiencies
- demonstrate the ability to evaluate the technical, social, economic and ethical barriers and drivers for implementing solar energy technologies
- evaluate how solar solutions can contribute towards a transition to a sustainable society from a social, economic and environmental and climatic perspective
- demonstrate the ability, from an engineering science perspective, to independently evaluate the role that various solar energy technologies can play in the energy supply of heating systems and the electrical systems as well as in the energy balance in buildings.
Career paths
Until a few years ago, jobs in the solar energy sector were found mostly in countries where political efforts had led to an early adoption of renewable energy, often through subsidies for businesses and private individuals to invest in renewable energy sources such as solar energy.
Today the cost of solar energy is lower than ever before: it has become competitive, even without subsidies, in many developed and still developing economies. While the cost of installing solar energy has decreased, the possibility to harness and store solar energy is constantly improving, ensuring excellent long-term job prospects for program graduates.
Many of our over 250 ESES alumni are active as engineers and managers in the global solar energy industry. After graduating, many go on to start their own solar businesses, while others go on to pursue a Ph.D. and become researchers and teachers at universities. The majority of our graduates go on to work in companies and organisations throughout the world. Potential future employers are:
- Solar equipment manufacturers,
- Engineering and consulting companies with a renewable energy focus,
- Energy utilities, and
- Government and non-government organisations
Videos
About this institute
Dalarna University
Dalarna University is a small, modern university located in the beautiful province of Dalarna in central Sweden. The provincial landscape offers wonderful opportunities for exploration in stunning natural surroundings. The university has two campuses in small towns Falun and Borlänge....
Why study at Dalarna University
A close-knit environment: Small class sizes ensure closeness in terms of contact with fellow students and teachers. Small towns mean close proximity from the campus to outdoor activities, cafés, shopping, and student housing.
Links to research and business: Take courses and programmes based on research gained through strong ties with regional business and industry.
Really over passed my expectations. It changed my life completely. Totally recommended