New and Sustainable Photovoltaics

The MSc in New and Sustainable Photovoltaics at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the global challenges of renewable energy deployment and sustainable development. This innovative program combines fundamental concepts in physics, materials science, engineering, and environmental science to explore the latest advancements in photovoltaic technologies, with an emphasis on emerging materials, device architectures, and fabrication methods that enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including the fundamental principles of solar energy conversion, the development of next-generation solar cells, and strategies for integrating photovoltaic systems into sustainable infrastructure. Moreover, the program emphasizes the importance of lifecycle analysis, economic considerations, and policy frameworks that promote the widespread adoption of clean energy solutions. Through a balanced mix of theoretical coursework, laboratory work, and research projects, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for innovation in the field of renewable energy. The programme also facilitates collaboration with leading research institutions and industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge research and commercial applications. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in academia, research, energy industry, and governmental agencies focused on advancing renewable energy technologies. The MSc in New and Sustainable Photovoltaics underscores Oxford's commitment to fostering sustainable development and contributing to a low-carbon future by training the next generation of scientists and engineers dedicated to transforming the energy landscape through innovative photovoltaic solutions.

This DPhil is a research-based four-year course. You will be supervised throughout the entire duration of the programme and join the research group of your supervisor. There will usually be opportunity to attend conferences or conduct experiments in other institutions inside or outside the UK.

During the first year you will be required to attend a comprehensive instruction course about all the mainstream PV technologies and underlying science.

You will be assigned to a research group: work on your original research project will start immediately and continue for the duration of your DPhil. You will attend eight residential taught courses in PV during the first year. The course will run from October to March and be delivered in two-week blocks hosted by each of the participating universities. This involves a mixture of lectures, group exercises, master classes and industrial lectures/visits. You will therefore get the benefit of the different facilities, expertise and approaches of the leading PV groups in the UK.

After the first term of the second year, you are expected to submit a report on your research and to defend it in an interview with the Graduate Studies Panel and a specialist reader. The Panel will determine whether you can transfer status from Probationer Research Student to DPhil Student.

In the following years you will concentrate on your research work.

Towards the end of the second year you will present a poster to the Department of Physics sub-department of condensed matter physics. Discussion of your research project with panel members at the poster session will contribute to your decision whether to confirm your status as DPhil student.

At the end of the third year you are expected to give a talk to the sub-department and to answer questions following the presentation.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in physics, chemistry, materials science or engineering. The degree must be at the level of MPhys, MSc, MSci or equivalent. Bachelor's degrees with a minimum of four years standard duration also satisfy the entry requirements. 

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.0 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

In exceptional cases professional or research experience might be accepted as a substitute for a master's degree. 

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:Up to 500 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The University of Oxford offers an array of financing options for students enrolled in the New and Sustainable Photovoltaics program, designed to support both domestic and international applicants. Funding opportunities include a combination of university scholarships, government-funded loans, external grants, and bursaries. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the Osney John and Anna Rowntree Trust Scholarships, which provide financial aid specifically targeted at sustainable energy studies. Additionally, the Felix Scholarships and the Rhodes Scholarships may be applicable for qualified candidates, offering full or partial tuition fee waivers along with a living stipend.

The university also collaborates with various governmental agencies to provide loan programs tailored for postgraduate students, such as the UK government’s Postgraduate Loan scheme, which can cover part of tuition fees and living expenses. International students are often eligible for specialized external grants available through their home country, or through research funding bodies focused on renewable energy development. The university’s own Graduate Funding database is an invaluable resource for identifying scholarships, awards, and other financial aid options suited to the field of photovoltaics and sustainable energy.

Students are advised to check eligibility criteria and application deadlines well in advance to maximize their chances of securing funding. Many of these schemes require a separate application process, including detailed academic records, financial need statements, and sometimes interview panels. For those pursuing research-intensive components of the program, research assistantships and teaching assistantships may also be available, providing both financial support and valuable academic experience.

Furthermore, Oxford’s partnership with industry leaders in renewable energy occasionally facilitates internships or sponsored research projects that include stipends or tuition support. The university also encourages students to seek external sponsorships from environmental organizations, energy companies, and philanthropic foundations committed to advancing sustainable technologies.

In summary, students interested in enrolling in the New and Sustainable Photovoltaics program at the University of Oxford will find a comprehensive range of financial support options designed to make their studies more accessible and affordable. Carefully researching and applying for these opportunities can significantly mitigate the financial burden of postgraduate studies, allowing scholars to focus more fully on their research and professional development within the field of renewable energy and photovoltaics.

The MSc in New and Sustainable Photovoltaics at the University of Oxford is an advanced academic programme designed to equip students with specialised knowledge and skills in the field of photovoltaic technology and renewable energy. This interdisciplinary course combines principles of physics, engineering, and environmental science to provide a comprehensive understanding of the development, manufacturing, and deployment of sustainable photovoltaic systems. The programme aims to address the critical global need for renewable energy solutions by focusing on innovative solar cell technologies, efficiency improvements, and the integration of photovoltaics into energy systems.

Students enrolled in this programme have the opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in photovoltaic materials, including silicon, perovskites, organic solar cells, and other emerging technologies. Emphasis is placed on research and development as well as the practical aspects of photovoltaic system design, installation, and operation. The curriculum includes modules on solar energy conversion, materials science, nanotechnology, and environmental impact assessments, ensuring graduates have a well-rounded perspective on both technical and sustainability challenges.

The course benefits from Oxford’s strong links with industry, research institutions, and government agencies, providing students with real-world projects, internships, and networking opportunities. This helps to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, preparing graduates for careers in research, industry, or policy-making within the renewable energy sector. The programme also encourages critical thinking, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, which are essential skills for advancing sustainable energy technologies.

The MSc is typically offered on a full-time basis over one year, although part-time options may also be available. Candidates are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree in physics, engineering, or a related field. The programme involves coursework, examinations, and a research project or dissertation, culminating in a comprehensive thesis that demonstrates a student’s mastery of the subject matter.

Graduates of the MSc in New and Sustainable Photovoltaics often pursue careers in solar energy companies, research laboratories, governmental agencies, or start their own ventures in clean energy. The programme’s focus on innovation and sustainable development aligns closely with global efforts to combat climate change and transition towards greener energy sources.

Overall, this degree offers a unique blend of cutting-edge scientific knowledge, practical skills, and sustainability principles, making it an excellent choice for individuals dedicated to advancing renewable energy technologies and creating a sustainable future.