Admitted to MSc Sustainable Energy Systems: Need a reality check on DTU vs KTH

[u/evan_ferguson77]

Hi everyone,

I have been admitted to the Master of Science in Sustainable Energy SYSTEMS at DTU and I am currently evaluating this opportunity against an offer from KTH in Stockholm.

I am looking for specific insights from current students or alumni to help me make an informed decision, particularly regarding the academic structure and the transition to the industry.

My Background:

I have completed my Bachelor’s degree in Energy Engineering at Politecnico di Milano (Italy). While I value my previous education, the approach was predominantly theoretical. Having already started an internship in the Photovoltaic and Battery Energy Storage (BESS) sector, I am now seeking a curriculum that prioritizes practical application and industry integration. My long-term career goal is to become an Energy Manager for large organizations.

I would appreciate your feedback on the following points:

- Practical Application: To what extent is the Sustainable Energy Systems program "hands-on"? Are there significant opportunities for laboratory work or projects conducted in collaboration with industrial partners?

- Curriculum Balance: My Bachelor’s degree was heavily focused on thermodynamics and industrial engineering. How manageable is the curriculum for students who do not have an extensive background in electrical engineering? Are there specific tracks focused on Energy Management and Building efficiency?

- Location and Logistics: Since the campus is located in Lyngby, I would like to understand the impact on daily life. Do Master’s students typically reside near the campus or commute from central Copenhagen? Does the distance affect the social integration and the "city experience"?

- Cultural Integration: As an Italian student, I am aware that social dynamics and professional relationships in Scandinavia differ from the Mediterranean model. How would you describe the international community at DTU and the ease of building a professional and social network?

- Industry Links: How effective is the university’s connection with the renewable energy industry regarding student jobs and Master’s thesis projects?

I’m really looking for an honest take on this. I want to make sure I don't just choose a "beautiful city" but also the best environment to grow as an engineer.

Looking forward to hearing your experiences.

Thanks a lot!

[u/BetAdministrative401]

Though I am not doing the same masters program as you but will also be attending my masters at DTU this August, I have first hand experience studying in Denmark during my semester exchange.

If anything, Denmark teaching style is applying concept rather than just pure theoretical which I believe is what you’re looking for. For instance during my semester exchange at Aalborg University, we have a project that leverages the courses we are taking so we can apply the knowledge from the courses to develop the project.

That said, I’ve heard that DTU have a lot of industries partnership though I’m not sure how true is that since I’ve not started my studies at DTU.

I hope this help!

[u/V4ldeLund]

I am not your profile, but I am studying at DTU (HCAI masters), and before that I was studying in Sweden (albeit in Lund, not KTH) :

1) it depends on the finances/preferences, I would say many of my friends are staying near campus, but I know those who travel from Copenhagen as well. Idk about city experience, I sometimes travel to Copenhagen, but mostly it is research,studies, work 

2) I think environment is pretty nice, I have found it quite easy to build connections and professional relationships with both Danes and internationals in Denmark, as long as you have skills

Also one thing you might want to consider is that Denmark has SU stipend (if you walk part time you get student grand), which is pretty substantial. I think Sweden doesn't allow CSN (their student grant) for non-swedish (in general case there are some exceptions)

[u/evan_ferguson77 → u/V4ldeLund]

Thank you so much for sharing your opinion!

Based on your experience, which of the two universities has a more hands-on approach?

Regarding the SU, is it difficult to find a job to get SU?

Thank you so much, any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[u/angelo272725]

Hey

I'm currently studying this master's and doing my thesis.

First of all, this master's is more about energy markets, energy modelling and mathematical modelling of energy. It is NOT about the engineering aspect of energy. However since dtu programs have a lot of flexibility you can make it be around engineering too, but just keep in mind that it is more programming/operations research/ and machine learning focused.

Yes, there are projects with industry partners but you should actively chase these projects, they will not be given in a golden plate to you. Also, right now the job market is not good for a student job I believe. You might have a hard time landing an energy related student job.

Regarding the curriculum, it is mostly group assignments, which are very hands on I would say. Also, I believe an electrical engineering background is not necessary at all, but you could still take an introductory electrical engineering course which is offered in autumn semester I think.

Regarding social life, there are many Italians and international people at DTU. Also, most people live in dorms close to the university during the first one or two years and then they search somewhere closer to the city.

That's all :)

[u/evan_ferguson77 → u/angelo272725]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It was very helpful :) Do you have any courses you'd recommend or not recommend based on your experience? I'd like to better understand what you mean by saying the course isn't really about engineering.

Thank you!