In a world increasingly aware of the climate crisis, studying renewable energy in a country like Spain has become an academic option with excellent future prospects. This sector is not only key to the energy transition, but also offers numerous job opportunities in a constantly expanding market.
If you, as a student, are considering what career to pursue and are interested in sustainability, in this post we provide information and our perspective on why studying renewable energy may be your best choice.
Why study renewable energy today?
The role of renewable energies in the fight against climate change
Renewable energy sources, such as sunlight, wind, and biomass, are essential for reducing CO₂ emissions.
And you might ask (just like we did) why do we need to reduce them? It's quite simple: this gas traps heat in the atmosphere and accelerates climate change, which could lead to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and risks to health, biodiversity, and global security.
Therefore, if you decide to pursue this degree, it would allow you to play an active role in the solution to global warming.
Green energy: a booming sector with a future
The clean energy sector is growing year after year, and Spain is one of the leading European countries in wind and solar power generation, which translates into a high demand for qualified professionals.
Global commitment and energy transition
In our view, studying renewable energy is not only a commitment to your professional future, but also an ethical commitment to the planet. The EU has set ambitious climate-neutral goals, and you can be part of the change.
What is studied in a renewable energy degree?
Main subjects and contents of the curriculum
A degree in renewable energy combines theory and practice. Key subjects include:
- Solar and photovoltaic energy
- Wind and mini-wind energy
- Thermodynamics
- Environmental management
- Energy legislation
- Automation and control of facilities
Technical knowledge vs. environmental vision
In addition to technical training, you'll learn about sustainability, environmental impact, and energy efficiency, allowing you to work on projects with a holistic approach.
Differences between studying renewable energy and other engineering fields
Unlike other more general engineering programs, this program specializes in sustainable energy systems from the first year, allowing you to focus from the start on a high-impact area.
Best universities to study renewable energy in Spain
Featured public universities
Some of the top-rated universities for studying this degree are:
- Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM)
- University of Jaen
- University of Zaragoza
- University of La Laguna
💡 If you are an international student, please remember that to study this degree at a Spanish university you will most likely need to take the PCE exams. If you would like more information about this or if you would like us to help you prepare, click here.
Options at private universities
There are also options from private universities such as the European University or the Catholic University of Ávila, with programs focused on sustainability and practical training.
What to consider when choosing a university center?
From our point of view, you should keep the following in mind:
- The main thing, choose well the city where you want to reside. Next, find the nearest university that offers this degree. We recommend this because sometimes the most important thing isn't the university itself, but rather what surrounds it (close family, cost of the city, tuition fees, leisure time, friends, etc.). You also need to consider your well-being.
- Choose between private and public universities. If you want to know the differences between both types of universities, you can read our post to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each option. We'll tell you in advance that regardless of where you study, the degree has the same value.
- Other aspects to take into account when you have already "controlled" everything above, are for example the university rankings If there are several in your city, collaboration agreements with companies in the sector where you could do your internship, international recognition of your degree (Europe), etc.
Career opportunities in the renewable energy sector
Most in-demand jobs: solar engineer, wind engineer, environmental technician
If you finally decide to study this university degree, you could work as:
- Solar installation designer
- Energy efficiency specialist
- Technician in wind farms
- Energy auditor
- Sustainability Consultant
Companies and organizations where to work
Where you might work is also important. You could work at companies like Iberdrola, Acciona, Endesa, Siemens Gamesa, or Vestas. You've probably heard of them. You could also work for public organizations or environmental NGOs.
Green labor market trends in Spain
With the support of the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC), the renewable energy sector will generate tens of thousands of new jobs in the coming years.
Admission requirements and recommendations for future students
Cut-off marks and access routes
The cut-off score varies depending on the university, but it is usually between 8 and 10. Spanish students access from Baccalaureate (Science branch) or through related FP (such as Technician in Renewable Energies), while foreign students, as we mentioned above, access from the PCE.
The profile of the ideal student
Still wondering whether this career is right for you? We have two options:
Do you meet the following requirements?
- Interest in science and the environment
- Ability to solve technical problems
- Initiative and critical thinking
- Commitment to Sustainability
Take our free career test!: Click here to take the career test
Tips to prepare before starting the degree
If you finally decide to opt for this career, to get yourself in the mood, you might want to take the following steps:
- Strengthen your knowledge of mathematics and physics
- Get familiar with basic energy concepts
- Participate in workshops or introductory courses
- Follow the latest news from the energy sector
Alternatives to the degree: Vocational Training and Master's degrees in renewable energies
Vocational Training in Renewable Energy
Advanced Vocational Training courses, such as "Energy Efficiency and Solar Thermal Energy," are an excellent practical alternative with rapid job placement for those who do not wish to pursue a university degree.
Specialized master's and postgraduate degrees
There are numerous official master's degrees in renewable energy that you can pursue after a degree in engineering or environmental science. Some allow you to specialize in offshore wind energy, green hydrogen, or smart grids.
Comparison: FP, degree or master?
- FP: faster access to the labor market
- Grade: more complete and versatile training
- Master: specialization and improvement of professional profile
Living and studying renewable energy in Spain as an international student
As we mentioned at the beginning, being an international student is not an impediment to studying this university degree in Spain. All you have to do is prepare and that's it, just like a national student.
Even so, we've provided you with some positive aspects below, from our perspective, of what deciding to come to Spain to study this university degree could mean for you.
Advantages of studying in Spain
- Favorable climate for renewables (sun and wind)
- Language, good academic level and reasonable cost of living
- Welcoming culture and active student life
- Possibility of working in other countries of the European Union.
Scholarships and grants available
There are grants available from the Ministry of Education, Erasmus+ programs, and scholarships for Latin American students, such as those offered by the Carolina Foundation or AUIP. If you'd like more information, check out this post.
Cities with the greatest academic and job offerings
Madrid, Zaragoza, Valencia, and Las Palmas are some of the cities that stand out for their combination of university education and a clean energy business ecosystem.
Conclusion: Is studying renewable energy the right option for you?
Studying renewable energy in Spain is a decision that combines social commitment, technological innovation, and great employment opportunities. If you're looking for a career with real impact, this could be the one for you.
Steps to get started today ✅
- Research colleges and compare curricula
- Improve your profile with online introductory courses
- Contact academic advisors or students in the sector
- Request information or begin the admission process. If you are a foreigner, contact us and we explain the steps you must follow.
