What does the renewable energy curriculum for this Master’s programme cover?
The UAX Online Master’s in Renewable Energy is designed to train you as a professional with technical expertise in the main renewable energy sources and the ability to manage real-world projects in the sector. Its curriculum combines a solid technical foundation with specialised modules on each renewable technology and a practical focus through work placements and the Master’s Thesis.
The programme comprises 72 ECTS credits divided into:
- First term: 42 ECTS (5 compulsory modules + 3 supplementary technical training modules)
- Second semester: 30 ECTS (3 compulsory modules + work placements + Master’s Thesis)
This structure enables you to first acquire the technical foundations and knowledge of each technology, and then integrate this into project management and real-world professional practice.
What modules are covered in the first term?
The first term comprises 42 ECTS credits and combines two types of modules: compulsory modules, which explore each specific renewable technology , and technically-based supplementary modules, which are essential for understanding the physical behaviour of energy systems.
Compulsory modules in the first term (6 ECTS each)
Biomass and Biofuels
Biomass is one of the most versatile renewable sources in the energy system. In this module, you will study the available biomass resources, energy conversion processes, combustion, gasification, anaerobic digestion, and the applications of biofuels in both electricity generation and the transport sector.
Current context of energy and energy sustainability
Before delving into each technology, it is essential to understand the context in which the sector operates. This module provides you with a broad overview: the national and European energy mix, the regulatory framework, decarbonisation commitments and the market mechanisms governing energy in Spain. This is an essential starting point: according to data from Red Eléctrica de España (REE), renewable energies accounted for 56.8 per cent of the total national electricity mix in 2024, a figure that continues to rise.
Photovoltaic energy
Photovoltaics is currently the fastest-growing renewable technology in Spain, with an 18.9 per cent increase in generation during 2024, according to REE. This module covers the operation of solar panels, the design of installations (residential, industrial and large-scale plants), investment schemes and grid integration.
Hydropower
Hydropower is the quintessential dispatchable renewable energy source: its storage capacity makes it a strategic resource for balancing the variability of other sources. You will learn the fundamentals of hydropower development, the types of turbines and power stations, and the analysis of water resources.
Solar thermal and thermoelectric energy
Beyond the photovoltaic use of solar energy, this module covers solar energy capture for the production of heat and electricity through concentrated solar power (CSP). You will study solar collectors, domestic hot water systems, solar air conditioning and concentrated solar power plants – a technology in which Spain is a world leader.
Complementary modules in the first term (4 ECTS each)
These three modules form the basis of the cross-disciplinary technical knowledge you need to understand the physical behaviour of energy systems:
| Course | Key content |
| Fluid mechanics | Behaviour of fluids in pipes, channels and turbomachinery. Essential for hydraulics and wind power. |
| Electrical Technology | Circuits, electrical machines, converters and grid connection. The foundation for any power generation system. |
| Thermodynamics and heat transfer | Thermodynamic cycles, thermal energy transfer. Essential for solar thermal, biomass and geothermal energy. |
What are the modules for the second term?
The second term, worth 30 ECTS credits, is the time to round off your understanding of renewable technologies, apply all your knowledge to managing real-world projects and make the leap into professional practice.
Wind Energy (Compulsory, 6 ECTS)
Wind energy was the second-largest source of electricity generation in Spain in 2024. This module covers everything from the fundamentals of wind energy, wind measurement and analysis, to the design of wind turbines, the planning of onshore and offshore wind farms, and their integration into the electricity grid.
Emerging Renewable Energies and Storage (Compulsory, 6 ECTS)
This is one of the most strategic modules in the curriculum. It addresses renewable technologies currently in the development phase or undergoing rapid expansion: geothermal energy, marine energy, green hydrogen, and storage solutions—batteries, pumped storage and hydrogen as an energy carrier. Storage is currently the major challenge of the energy transition and one of the fields with the greatest career prospects.
Renewable Energy Project Management and Development (Compulsory, 6 ECTS)
Understanding the technologies is necessary, but not sufficient. This module prepares you to lead projects from the initial development phase through to commissioning: feasibility analysis, administrative procedures, financing, permit management and team coordination. It is the module that transforms technical knowledge into real professional value.
Work Placement (Compulsory, 6 ECTS)
External work placements immerse you in the sector in a real-world context, allowing you to apply what you have learnt in companies within the renewable energy sector: developers, consultancies, engineering firms or operation and maintenance companies. It is one of the most highly valued parts of the programme due to its direct impact on employability.
Master’s Thesis (Compulsory, 6 ECTS)
The Master’s Thesis is the final project of the Master’s programme: an applied research study, a technical-economic analysis or a proposal for a real-world project that demonstrates your ability to work independently and rigorously. It is your calling card to the job market.
How many ECTS credits are there in the Master’s in Renewable Energy?
The UAX Online Master’s in Renewable Energy comprises a total of 72 ECTS credits: 42 ECTS in the first semester and 30 ECTS in the second, including the external work placement and the Master’s Thesis.
As an official university master’s degree, it is accredited in accordance with the framework of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), which guarantees its academic and professional recognition in Spain and across the European Union.
What professional roles does this programme prepare students for?
The curriculum of the Master’s in Renewable Energy trains technical professionals with skills in both design and analysis as well as project management. The most common roles taken up by graduates are:
- Renewable energy project engineer: design, planning and implementation of photovoltaic, wind or hybrid installations.
- O&M (Operation and Maintenance) Technician: supervision and optimisation of the performance of renewable energy assets.
- Energy consultant : advising companies and institutions on energy efficiency and the energy transition.
- Project developer: processing and managing projects from prospecting through to financial close.
- Energy Market Analyst: monitoring the regulatory framework, prices and investment opportunities.
What is the online methodology of the UAX Master’s in Renewable Energy like?
The 100% online format of this Master’s programme reflects a reality: many professionals who wish to specialise in renewables are already in work and need flexibility. The methodology of UAX, a university with over 30 years’ experience, allows students to balance their studies with their professional commitments without compromising on the quality of their education.
Key features of the programme include:
- Live and pre-recorded virtual classes, accessible at any time.
- A Virtual Campus available 24/7, with learning materials, forums and communication tools.
- Academic advisers from day one to support you throughout your studies.
- Online or face-to-face exams, at your choice, in each examination session.
- Access to the Madrid campus for administrative matters and to make use of the facilities.
Summary
The curriculum for the UAX Online Master’s Degree in Renewable Energy covers, in a structured and progressive manner, all the key technologies in the sector: solar photovoltaic, solar thermal and thermoelectric, wind, hydro, biomass and emerging technologies such as green hydrogen and energy storage. Over the course of 72 ECTS credits spread across two four-month terms, you will combine the essential technical foundations – fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and electrical technology – with specialised knowledge of each renewable energy source and training in project management. This culminates in work placements with companies in the sector and a Master’s Thesis that demonstrates your level of specialisation. In a context where Spain already generates more than 56 per cent of its electricity from renewables and the sector accounts for over 126,000 jobs, this programme positions you as one of the most sought-after professionals in the energy market.
Frequently asked questions about the Master’s in Renewable Energy
Is an engineering degree required to enrol on the Master’s in Renewable Energy? The Master’s programme is aimed at university graduates with a technical or scientific background: engineering, physics, chemistry, architecture or environmental sciences, amongst others. You can check the specific entry requirements directly with the UAX admissions team.
Is the UAX Master’s in Renewable Energy an officially recognised degree? Yes. It is an Official University Master’s degree, accredited within the framework of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), with full academic recognition in Spain and across the EU.
How long does the Master’s in Renewable Energy last? The programme lasts one academic year, structured over two four-month terms, totalling 72 ECTS credits.
Are work placements compulsory? Yes. Work placements form part of the Master’s official curriculum, comprising 6 compulsory ECTS credits, which ensures that real-world professional experience is integrated into your training.
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