About The Program

The Master of Science in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering programme is a blend of energy systems engineering comprising renewable and sustainable energy systems, component manufacturing, and business and project management. The energy systems engineering and manufacturing focus on engineering design of energy systems development, including energy generation power plants, substations, and transmission lines, and local production and manufacturing of energy systems technologies. The business and project management aspects are intended to prepare students for managerial roles in project work and in self-employment environment.

Course Structure

Level	Course Title	Course Code	Credit Hours
Level 6 Semester 11	Solar Energy Engineering	ESSE 6101	12
	Wind Energy Engineering	ESSE 6102	12
	Local Solutions for Energy Access	ESSE 6103	16
	Energy Storage	ESSE 6104	12
	Nuclear Technology	ESSE 6105	12
Level 6 Semester 12	Mini grids: Planning and Design	ESSE 6201	16
	Renewable Energy Systems Integration	ESSE 6202	16
	Hydro Power Engineering	ESSE 6203	12
	Bioenergy	ESSE 6204	12
	Appliances for off-grid Communities	ESSE 6205	16
Level 7 Semester 13 Choose one course from the optional module Develop a Research Proposal	Advanced Project Management	ESSE 6301	10
	Smart Grids	ESSE 6302	10
	Petroleum Technology/Engineering	ESSE 6303	10
	Geothermal Engineering (Optional)	ESSE 6304	10
	Advanced Solar Power (Optional)	ESSE 6305	10
	Advanced Bioenergy (Optional)	ESSE 6306	10
	Thermal Power Systems Engineering(Optional)	ESSE 6307	10
	Green Transport Technology (Optional)	ESSE 6308	10
	Advanced Hydropower (Optional)	ESSE 6309	10
Level 7 Semester 13 & 14	Research Project	ESSE 6401	70

Entry requirements

Candidates to the programme must have a minimum of bachelor’s degree in engineering or related science, technology or maths disciplines.

Why choose this programme?

The MSc in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering at Mzuzu University is a flagship programme — the first of its kind in Malawi — building on the university’s pioneering legacy in renewable energy education.

Our curriculum uniquely integrates both renewable and sustainable energy engineering, providing advanced training across a broad spectrum of technologies including solar PV, wind, bioenergy, hydropower, energy storage, geothermal, nuclear and smart grid systems.

The programme is delivered by a highly qualified team of academics and industry experts with both local and international experience, ensuring a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights. Our faculty’s deep engagement with the national energy sector further strengthens the relevance of the training.

Students will benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, including participation in the Mzuzu University’s 20 MW solar power project; offering real-world experience in grid-connected renewable energy systems.

Additionally, the programme offers strong industry linkages, opportunities for fieldwork and applied research, and pathways into careers addressing Malawi’s and the region’s pressing energy and sustainability challenges.

Whether your goal is to lead in the renewable energy sector, influence policy, drive innovation, or create entrepreneurial solutions, this MSc equips you with the critical skills and knowledge to make an impact.

Application Procedure

Eligible applicants for this master’s program should submit their application packages which must include the following:

A letter of application providing motivation for the application;
Updated curriculum vitae;
Two letters from academic referees; iv) Copies of academic certificates;
Copies of academic transcripts; and
Bank deposit slip for the admission application fee.

All applicants should pay a non-refundable admission application fee of MK30,000.00 for Malawian applicants and US$60 for international applicants. The application fee should be deposited directly into the following bank account:

Name of the Bank : NBS Bank
Account Name :        Mzuzu University Admission Account
Account Number:      21430908
Branch:                        Mzuzu Branch
Swift code (for international transfers): NBSTMWMW

Completed application should be sent to:

MSc Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering 2025/2026 Admissions
University Registrar
Mzuzu University
Private Bag 201
Luwinga
Mzuzu 2
Malawi

NB: For international applicants, applications by email to admissions@mzuni.ac.mw will be accepted.

Fees and Funding

For Malawian Students: MK3,000,000.00 per year (K6,000,000.00 full program fees)
Other nationals: U$3,333.00 per year (U$6,666.00 for program fees)

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering program are well-positioned for diverse career paths in both the public and private sectors, as well as international organizations. Typical roles include:

Renewable Energy Engineer
Energy Systems Analyst
Energy Policy Advisor
Project Manager for clean energy projects
Sustainability Consultant
Mini-grid and off-grid systems designer
Energy Entrepreneur (solar businesses, energy audit services, clean cooking solutions, etc.)

Our alumni are already making an impact in key organizations such as the Ministry of Energy, MERA, EGENCO, ESCOM, NGOs, and private sector energy companies. In addition, graduates are increasingly contributing to regional and global initiatives in climate resilience, sustainable development, and energy transition through employment with multilateral agencies, development partners, and international consulting firms.

The program also prepares graduates for further academic and research careers, enabling them to pursue doctoral studies or contribute to innovation in emerging fields such as smart grids, green hydrogen, energy efficiency and carbon markets.