Sustainable energy for resilient futures

The future of energy is in renewable resources like wind, solar, tidal, geothermal, and hydroelectric power.

When you study for a Master of Renewable Energy, you’ll develop a theoretical knowledge of renewable energy systems and then put that knowledge into practice.

Take part in practical projects to develop renewable energy systems for communities in New Zealand and overseas.

Who can study for this qualification

To enrol, you need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject with at least a B+ average.

What you’ll learn

Within the Master of Renewable Energy (MRE), you’ll choose from two learning pathways—one focused on engineering, the other on analysis.

Renewable energy systems engineering

This pathway focuses on the technical aspects of the industry.

Learn to design, analyse, create, and commission a range of renewable energy systems. You won’t be building new technologies—but you’ll learn how to make an energy system work most efficiently for the community that it powers.

If you’re interested in the hands-on aspects of renewable energy systems and already have an engineering background, this pathway is a good fit for you.

Renewable energy systems analysis

On the analytical pathway, you’ll study the economics of energy systems and learn about energy markets and regulation. Develop techniques for modelling and analysing the sustainability of energy systems.

You don’t need a technical background to specialise in Renewable Energy Systems Analysis. If you’re interested in working as an analyst or in a policy role to help support the development of renewable energy systems, this pathway is a good fit for you.

How you’ll study

There are two parts to the MRE.

Part one

Develop your knowledge of the theory of renewable energy through coursework while you focus your study on the pathway of your choice: engineering or analysis.

Part two

Complete an industry-based research project that puts your knowledge of the theory into practice. Work with one of our industry partners or a community in New Zealand or overseas.

You’ll work with other specialists to establish an understanding of that community—like how much energy it needs and what resources are available—and then build a system that can help it grow and develop.

Part-time study

You can study for an MRE part time and complete your study over six trimesters—usually around 2 years.
Your study load will be around 20–23 hours each week, so make sure that you take this into account if you’re working.

Degree support and advice

We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.

If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.

If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.

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At a glance

Duration
1 year
Location
Kelburn campus, Wellington · Flexible
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
180
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework and research project · Daytime

Domestic fees

$17,507.00
for the full programme (2027 estimate)
Plus an estimated NZ$1,630 Student Services fee per year.

Estimated international fees

See fees in your local currency:
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.

Important dates

2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for domestic students

  • Requirements for students who completed university in:

If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.

To be accepted into this qualification, you need:

1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MRE degree shall have:

(i) Completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a B+ average grade or better in the relevant coursework, in engineering or science, or at the discretion of the Head of School, another relevant subject; and

(ii) Been accepted by the Head of School or nominee as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.

(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived or varied by the Associate Dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience that provides an equivalent level of preparation.

Qualification requirements

Excerpt from the requirements for the MRE

2. (a) Except as provided in section 4 of this statute, the course of study for the MRE shall consist of:

Part 1: Research methods for RE systems (Theory) (RESE 451), Research methods for RE systems (project) (RESE 452); two of (Power Systems Analysis (RESE 411), Advanced Development of Renewable Energy Systems (RESE 412), Energy Economic Analyses (RESE 421), Sustainability Modelling Techniques (RESE 422)); two further 400- or 500-level CCSP/RESE courses; 30 further approved points from 400- or 500-level AIML/CCSP/DATA/EEEN/ENSC/ENVI/ESCI/GPHS/RESE

Part 2: Research Project (RESE 589).

(b) With the approval of the Head of School, a candidate who has completed a relevant bachelor’s degree with honours or an equivalent qualification may be exempted up to 60 points from Part 1. 3. A candidate for the MRE shall normally be enrolled for at least three trimesters and shall complete the degree within four years of first enrolling in it. The Associate Dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.

Future careers

The MRE opens the door to a range of roles in the private and public sectors.

More career information

Find out more about careers in renewable energy.

The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.

Scholarships

You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.

We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for renewable energy

  • Closing: 15 November, 2026

    The Scholarship exists to attract and support cellists of outstanding ability and potential to study cello performance at NZSM, and to engage each recipient with the life, artistry, and legacy of Greta Ostova.

  • Worth: $15,000 which may be split among recipients, depending on need and subject to available funds Closing: 15 November, 2026

    Applicants will be current violin, viola or violoncello students, enrolled in the NZSM. A particular of the scholarship is to fund postgraduate study, travel, accommodation and other expenses incurred in the pursuit of such study, both within and outside New Zealand. The scholarship is available to both domestic and international students.

  • Worth: $10,000 (subject to available funds) Closing: 15 November, 2026

    The Brian Murray Fox Scholarship in History offers an opportunity to students who are intending to undertake their second, third or Honours year of their degree at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in the year following application.

Scholarships for international students

We're currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.

Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

Other scholarships

We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for renewable energy

  • Closing: 15 November, 2026

    The Scholarship exists to attract and support cellists of outstanding ability and potential to study cello performance at NZSM, and to engage each recipient with the life, artistry, and legacy of Greta Ostova.

  • Worth: $15,000 which may be split among recipients, depending on need and subject to available funds Closing: 15 November, 2026

    Applicants will be current violin, viola or violoncello students, enrolled in the NZSM. A particular of the scholarship is to fund postgraduate study, travel, accommodation and other expenses incurred in the pursuit of such study, both within and outside New Zealand. The scholarship is available to both domestic and international students.

  • Worth: $15000 Closing: 15 November, 2026

    This scholarship is available to students intending to do research at postgraduate level at the New Zealand School of Music – Te Kōkī in the field of Music Education. Master’s or Doctoral research is preferred, though Honours level research and projects may be considered. Research or projects which may lead to qualification or enhanced professional practice of the applicant may...

Join our postgraduate community

The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Postgraduate Students’ Association

MAI ki Pōneke

MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.

Find out more about MAI ki Pōneke

The Master of Renewable Energy

Further research or study

If you see yourself pursuing a career as an academic or specialist consultant, you may consider studying towards a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). This is the highest academic qualification offered by the University, and it involves original and sustained research under supervision.

Academic staff research areas

Alan Brent

Professor of Sustainable Energy Systems

No contact found for daniel.burmeister@vuw.ac.nz. Please check the email address and try again.

Ramesh Rayudu

Deputy Head of School, Learning & Teaching

Get help to manage your finances

We can help you:

  • budget your money
  • manage your student loan or allowance
  • work out your accommodation payment schedule.

If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.

You may be eligible for government or community support, too.

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Apply for a New Zealand study visa

You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.

You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.

Discover your career pathway with Tahatū