In future, renewable hydropower will remain the most important source of electricity production in Norway. Norway has developed competence at the highest international level within environmentally-friendly development and operation of hydropower plants. Old plants will be upgraded and made more efficient, and in years ahead investments will be made in the development of minor power plants.

The degree programme, MSc in Hydropower Development, known as the HPD programme, is a two-year long international Master’s programme in hydropower planning.

The first year consists of a series of 6 foundational courses and a larger group project where the students apply knowledge from the other courses by conducting a pre-study of the development alternatives in a Norwegian water system. This involves learning how to combine techniques, environment and economy to secure success.

The final year consists of four compulsory advanced courses in the autumn, while the entire spring semester is dedicated to the master’s thesis. Our lecturers have international experience and are recruited from NTNU and the international hydropower environment.

Regarding the master’s thesis, there are numerous options, and most students choose their topic within areas where NTNU offers special qualifications such as:

• planning of a concrete project
• hydrology
• hydraulics
• sediment transport
• engineering geology
• plant engineering

It is also possible to write the thesis in connection with projects abroad.

More about the programme:

• Programme structure and courses
• Career possibilities upon completion
• Study environment, teaching staff and learning activities
• Admissions requirements and practical information
• Useful links (Industry, media, partners, etc.)