Testimonials

Badsha Haque

''With the help of this programme I wish to start a career in energy transition to mitigate the effects of climate change.''

My perception of energy systems is that it is just not about power plants and electricity, it is a culmination of various economic, technical, social and political considerations. The Master’s programme Energy Science encompasses all these subjects for an all-round understanding. The courses include studying energy conversion technologies, analyzing and modelling energy systems, as well as understanding the role of energy in the context of sustainability and climate change.

There is great flexibility in research topics and internships which enables me to choose freely from the vast energy sector. Making a transition from a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering was a no-brainer with the quality of teaching materials and availability of the teachers.

Transition to clean energy remains to be a big yet one of the most necessary challenges for humanity, and with the help of this programme I wish to start a career in energy transition to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Portretfoto van Joyce Swanenberg
Alumna Joyce Swanenberg

''With the knowledge and experience you gain you can always contribute to current debates and you are prepared for future jobs.''

During my Bachelor's (in Liberal Arts and Sciences) I was interested in almost all facets of Environmental Sciences (energy, water, policy, etc.). I then chose Energy Science for my Master’s programme, since I wanted to contribute to the transition towards renewable energy. I majored in Environmental Sciences during my Bachelor and I followed all the obligatory courses necessary for the Master’s programme in Energy Science, so I didn’t have too much difficulty getting in.

I like the fact that the study is up to date. With the knowledge and experience you gain you can always contribute to current debates and you are prepared for future jobs. Also, the Master’s programme gives you lots of freedom in your second year to make your own programme. I did my thesis at Deltares, focusing on optimising water transmission systems, and performed my internship at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, focusing on a future-proof design of renewable energy regulation.

Alumnus Mehul Khandelwal

“Utrecht University offers a broad and unique approach to my field.”

I always wanted to go to Europe to study renewable energy. Even though I got admitted into three other universities, I chose Energy Science at Utrecht University as it offers a broad and unique approach to my field. They taught me to combine technical side  with a socio-economic perspective, which is something I’m very interested in. I’m now able to see the bigger picture as I’m not as preoccupied with the technical side of the energy transition. The unique approach of Utrecht University to energy sciences helps me to stand out, which I value a lot.”

The professors at Utrecht are very approachable and eager to help you, which creates a relaxed atmosphere at our faculty. The courses itself are very practical. It took a while to get used to, but now I love it. Instead of being purely theoretical, you also learn how to apply the theory in practice.

My thesis is a good example. I calculated the carbon footprint of substituting oil based components with biological components in asphalt, which is a new innovation. Throughout the program, I learned to function as a real consultant.

My studies helped me develop as a person as well. Through group assignments I learned how to communicate and work together. This way, I’m better prepared for my career outside the university. Overall, the most important thing they teach you, is how to be independent. During the time I spent here, I have become more analytical and resourceful.

Alumna Oreane Edelenbosch

"An overview of important issues in the field and the basic knowledge of how to address them."

The Energy Science Master's programme covers a broad field of topics related to energy, starting with courses which address energy production technologies, system modelling, sustainability concerns and energy economics. This gives an overview of important issues in the field and the basic knowledge of how to address them. From there as a student you get the opportunity to choose in which direction you would like to specialise. In my case I choose to dive deeper in solar cell technology, following first a few courses at the University of Utrecht, and continuing my thesis at the Imperial college London on Luminescent Solar Concentrators. Currently I am working at the PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency on global energy demand development in the context of climate change.

Alumni interviews

Portretfoto Oskar Meijerink
Alumnus Oskar Meijerink

"Energy Science taught me how to be the link between technology and business within my company."

Floor van der Hilst
Assistant Professor Floor van der Hilst (image: Ed van Rijswijk)

"By doing interdisciplinary scientific research on renewable energy we enable informed decision making by governments, industry and consumers on how to move towards a more sustainable society."