The Master of Science (Applied) is the new name for the former Master of Applied Science degree.
Students intending to begin study in 2027 should apply for the Master of Science (Applied).
Programme requirements may have changed for some subjects.
Study the Master of Science (Applied) (MSc(Applied)) in Sustainable Energy
Study sustainable energy alongside leading Otago researchers
At Otago, you learn in a research environment focused on practical energy challenges and future-focused innovation. Teaching is led by researchers working on designing low carbon systems, highly renewable electricity systems, energy efficient buildings, heat exchanger technology, and waste to energy systems.
You will access specialist facilities including climate chambers, advanced energy modelling software, and sophisticated laboratory equipment that support in-depth investigation and applied problem solving.
Ready to apply?
If this is the qualification for you, get started with your application today.
Programme details
Regulations for the Degree of Master of Science (Applied) (MSc (Applied))
Admission to the Programme
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).
- Every applicant must have been awarded a bachelor's degree with an average grade of at least B in the relevant 300-level papers or have alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).
Subjects of Study
The degree may be awarded in any of the subjects for the degree of Master of Science (Applied) listed in Science Schedule D. With the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences), the degree may be awarded in a subject not listed in Science Schedule D.
Structure of the Programme
- The programme of study:
- shall consist of approved papers at 400-level or higher worth at least 180 points, selected from the papers specified in Science Schedule D for the Master of Science (Applied) subject concerned, and must include at least 40 points from SCNC 501, SCNC 503, SCNC 597, SCNC 598, or approved 500 level papers.
- shall normally include papers from more than one subject and at least one of the approved 400-level papers that shall be amongst the first papers taken in the programme of study.
- may, with the approval of the Head of Department or Course Director concerned, include papers substituted worth up to 60 points from 400- and 500-level papers other than those specified in the subject requirements.
- A candidate who has completed the requirements for the Postgraduate Certificate or the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science shall be exempted from those papers in the programme for the degree which have previously been passed for the certificate or diploma.
- The programme of study:
Duration of the Programme
The programme shall normally be completed within 18 months and not less than one year (12 months) by full-time candidates, or by part-time candidates over more than 18 months.
Examination
- Every report for SCNC 597 or SCNC 598, shall be assessed by at least two examiners and be subject to the overview of the external assessor for the supervising department.
- The candidate's supervisor for any of SCNC 597 or SCNC 598 shall not be an examiner but may make a report on the work of the candidate to the Course Director concerned
Level of Award of the Degree
The degree may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Note: The due date for applications for first enrolment in the programme is 10 December. Late applications will be considered.
Explore more in Sustainable Energy
Learn where this subject can take you and discover the full range of study options, from undergraduate programmes to postgraduate pathways.
Study Sustainable Energy at Otago
Career opportunities
Postgraduate study in Sustainable Energy can lead to pathways across industry, government, and research, including:
- Renewable energy consulting – analysing technologies and advising on practical engineering solutions
- Energy policy – advising government and organisations on effective sustainable energy policy
- Carbon and sustainability management – leading energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and sustainability initiatives
- Energy systems research – investigating sustainable technologies and systems in academia or industry
Build sustainable energy expertise valued across industry and government
Driven by climate change and energy security issues, the world is transitioning to a more sustainable, renewable-focused energy system. This programme builds the advanced knowledge and problem-solving skills to contribute to that transition, developed through applied projects connected to industry and environmental challenges. You'll work in sectors where this expertise is growing in demand, including carbon reduction, renewable energy technologies, sustainability, policy, consulting and research.
Whether you want to influence energy policy, improve energy systems, or support carbon reduction initiatives, you will graduate ready to apply your expertise in practical and meaningful ways. As governments and industries scale up their response to energy demands, your expertise will only become more valuable, positioning you at the forefront of a growing field.
