Master's Program in Solar Energetics

HEAD OF “TECHNOLOGY OF EDUCATION” OFFICE
Monika Badeva
Phone: +359 (0) 889 73 9612
Email: monika.badeva@epubg.eu

HEAD OF PROGRAM
Prof. Plamen Gramatikov
Program Description
The specialty of “Solar Energetics” falls under the professional direction 5.4. Energetics according to the Governmental classifier for higher education and professional directions. The description of the master’s degree course outlines the professional functions of specialists, the general requirements for their preparation and skills, as well as their potential professional realization.
The primary objective of the “Solar Energetics” program is to produce skilled professionals capable of harnessing innovations in modern solar energetics technologies and implementing the concept of sustainable development for scientific research and practical business purposes. Graduates will be adept at creating projects and devices to efficiently utilize solar energy, employing advanced technologies. The course emphasizes practical skill acquisition through project work and the master’s thesis, which will focus on practical and applied themes.
Successful graduates will be prepared to:
- Apply engineering solutions to challenging aspects in the field of Solar Energy Sources, utilizing appropriate methods of modeling, simulation, and optimization for various Solar Energy Systems.
- Analyze and evaluate solar and conventional energy source projects from the perspectives of energy, economy, and construction, and conduct research in this field.
- Work effectively in teams to solve interdisciplinary and international problems within specific political and economic contexts.
- Apply theoretical knowledge and practical experience to solve real-world problems.
- Formulate goals, strategies, and action plans, as well as develop programs and projects.
- Contribute to the development of company, regional, and national energy strategies.
- Establish valuable contacts with partners in Bulgaria and abroad.
- Effectively plan and manage their own careers.
- Independently access a variety of scientific and practical information sources.
Requirement for Specialist Preparation in Solar Energetics:
Candidates must undergo thorough training in the design, construction, and operation of systems that harness heat, electricity, and chemical energy from solar radiation, as well as energy storage, conversion, and efficient use. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, and while it is not mandatory for candidates to have graduated in the specialty of Green Energetics (bachelor’s degree) from the European Polytechnical University in Pernik, they must possess a bachelor’s degree in an engineering field. For those students who have not completed the Green Energetics program at EPU (Pernik), additional courses will be required in the first two semesters (to be determined by the Master program leader based on the student’s engineering profile). These courses, totaling 8-10, will provide a foundational preparation in the field of solar and renewable energy sources.
Specialized preparation in “Solar Energetics” will encompass significant knowledge in various engineering subjects, including solar heating and cooling installations, photovoltaic systems, heat and electricity accumulation systems, sun tracking systems, solar automation, combined photovoltaic/thermal panels, solar field monitoring systems, concentrator photovoltaic panels, and dryer systems. The curriculum will also delve into methods and means of mathematical modeling for solar energy yield systems, fostering a comprehensive understanding of solar energetics and innovative management approaches.
Skills and professional competence in Solar Energetics:
Graduates in the specialty of Solar Energetics will possess comprehensive knowledge in contemporary management and economic theories, energy management specifics, European policies and standards, national and European patent law, and defense of intellectual property. They will also be skilled in formulating and implementing strategies, energy business plans, programs, and projects.
Graduates will be equipped to:
- Work effectively in teams to solve interdisciplinary and international problems within specific political and economic contexts.
- Apply theoretical knowledge and practical experience to solve real-world problems.
- Apply engineering solutions to challenging aspects in the area of Solar Energy Sources, using appropriate methods of modeling, simulation, and optimization for different Renewable Energy Sources.
- Analyze and evaluate solar and conventional energy source projects from the perspectives of energy, economy, and construction and conduct research in this area.
- Plan and manage their own careers effectively.
- Independently access a variety of scientific and practical information sources.
- Formulate goals, strategies, and action plans, as well as develop programs and projects.
- Contribute to the development of company, regional, and national energy strategies.
- Establish valuable contacts with partners in Bulgaria and abroad.
Graduates of the master’s program in “Solar Energetics” are highly sought-after experts in a well-paid sector. They may pursue careers as professionals in various fields of energetics, particularly within the sphere of Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Efficiency, including roles such as:
- Designers and constructors of electrical energy systems.
- Designers and constructors of solar thermal energy or combined PV/T systems.
- Scientists and lecturers.
- Representatives in state and municipal administrations and non-governmental organizations.
- Private entrepreneurs.
Course organization and assessment system:
The course of studies places a special emphasis on project development and implementation. Projects will involve collaboration with leading representatives from the economy, industry, crafts, administration, and government. This approach enables students to gain practical experience and skills from the early stages of their studies.
Moreover, students are encouraged to participate in international student exchange programs, offering research and lecturing opportunities. The European Polytechnical University maintains effective partnerships with other universities in Europe and the US to facilitate such exchanges.
