MSc in Photovoltaics

Key Facts

• You will learn about the vital role of photovoltaic materials, manufacture and system design in the domestic, commercial and consumer markets. In your Research Project you will undertake a programme of experiments designed to develop the skills you want to learn in exploration of an area of personal interest and enthusiasm.
• The winning formula… the Centre for Solar Energy Research (CSER) has a world-class reputation and has successfully carried out technology transfer activities by collaborating with industry on research projects for many years. On this course you will learn the trade secrets behind photovoltaic technologies - dealing with issues such as device stability, interdiffusion of impurities, electrical and optical measurements (spectral response, current-voltage (I-V), IQE and EQE), siting, inverter matching and overcoming compatibility issues with multi component systems.

Course Content

The course comprises 6 x 20 credit modules of taught content and a 60 credit Research Project:

Modules

• Fundamentals of Photovoltaics
• Processes at Interfaces
• Advanced Photovoltaics
• Advanced Materials Science
• Research Methods

The lectures and workshops are designed to train you in understanding photovoltaic materials themselves, and the way they interact with each other, and with solvents and surfaces. You will:

• Master the fundamental properties of photovoltaic (PV) materials in relation to conversion of solar irradiation to electricity, the fundamental limits to conversion efficiency of single junction, the relationship between the PV device and the constituent material and effect of electrical defects in practical PV devices
• Study emerging and state-of-the-art concepts, techniques and technologies within photovoltaics and cover, technical, environmental and energy issues in the relation to improved efficiency, performance and reliability

• Use particle sizing, spectroscopy and electrical techniques to measure PV materials and devices

• Discover other aspects of cell design - exploring a whole range of  practical challenges faced with designing large modules, encapsulation, current collection and light management (LDS, Anti-reflection, Concentrators, Up & Down Conversion)
• Learn about manufacturing techniques for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Generation PV technologies, regulations and standards (ISO9001, IEE, QC and QA)
• Measure the optical and electrical response of PV devices and see how this can be interpreted to yield information on device performance and stability

Your Research Project

The course culminates in a Research Project which may be undertaken partly or wholly in your workplace, or by means of a placement in a local manufacturing company. This gives you the opportunity to undertake a piece of novel research and allows you to put into practice the knowledge and skills gained in the taught elements of the course whilst giving the flexibility to investigate areas of interest in more depth.

A module in Research Methods provides training in all aspects of undertaking research, from project management, through data analysis and statistics to communicating your results and writing your dissertation to ensure you are well equipped to undertake your project.

Due to the individual nature of the research projects, no two projects are the same.

Career Opportunities

A Masters degree in Photovoltaics from Glyndŵr University gives you the skills employers are looking for. You'll be ready to step confidently into a world of industry or research with a wealth of information and skills to offer.

The course provides excellent career opportunities across a wide range of industrial sectors. Graduates can expect to obtain a research and development position in areas related to photovoltaics, chemicals, engineering, opto-electronics, characterisation and coatings.

The course also provides a direct route to doctoral study, for those wishing to undertake further research training or pursue an academic career.

Entry Requirements & Applying

This new course will commence in September 2013, subject to validation*.

The entry requirements are a 2:1 or above in a related undergraduate science based degree (Chemistry, Physics, engineering or Materials Science) or suitable industrial experience.

Course Duration

Full time = 1 year
Part time = 3 years