As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and energy security, the demand for sustainable energy solutions has never been more pressing. In response to the growing demand, universities around the world are developing innovative programs in sustainable energy studies. To help you make informed decisions, we have compiled a list of the top universities for sustainable energy studies, based on the 2025 QS World University rankings.
TOP 10 UNIVERSITIES FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY STUDIES
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Ranked #1 globally, MIT excels in sustainable energy studies with a strong focus on Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Sustainable Development. With an annual fee of $53,450, MIT offers an impressive ROI of 94.1% and a 95% placement rate. Notable programs include the MIT Energy Initiative and Sustainable Energy Systems.
Stanford University
Stanford University ranks #2, offering comprehensive Sustainable Energy Engineering, Energy Policy, and Environmental Science programs. Annual fees are $52,857, with an ROI of 93.5% and 94% placement rates. The Precourt Institute for Energy and Stanford Energy and Environment Program are notable research centers.
University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge ranks #3, with strengths in Energy and Environment, Sustainable Development, and Renewable Energy Systems. Annual fees are approximately $34,000(£26,448), and the university offers an ROI of 92.2% and a 93% placement rate. Cambridge Energy and the Centre for Sustainable Development are renowned research centers.
University of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley ranks #4, offering interdisciplinary Energy and Resources, Environmental Science, Policy, and Management programs. In-state fees are $28,445, while out-of-state fees are $40,351. The ROI is 91.5% with a 92% placement rate. Berkeley Energy and Resources Collaborative and Energy and Environmental Sciences are notable programs.
University of Oxford
The University of Oxford ranks #5. Its focus is on energy studies, Environmental change and Management, and Sustainable Development. Annual fees are approximately $35,000 (£26,770). The school offers an ROI of 90.8% and a 91% placement rate. Oxford Energy and the Environmental Change Institute are prominent research centers.
Harvard University
Harvard University ranks #6, offering comprehensive Energy and Environment, Sustainability, and Environmental Management programs. Annual fees are $53,496, with an ROI of 90.2% and a 90% placement rate. The Harvard Environmental Economics Program and Center for Environment are notable research centers.
National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore ranks #7, with strengths in Sustainable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Environmental Science. Annual fees are approximately $21,000 (SGD 28,741), offering an ROI of 89.5% and an 89% placement rate. NUS Energy Studies Institute and Sustainable Development and Environment are notable programs.
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne ranks #8, offering interdisciplinary Energy and Environment, Sustainable Development, and Renewable Energy Systems programs. Annual fees are approximately $31,000 (AUD 45,009), with an ROI of 88.8% and an 88% placement rate. Melbourne Energy Institute and Sustainability and Environment are notable research centers.
Technical University of Denmark
The Technical University of Denmark ranks #9, focusing on Sustainable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Wind Energy. Annual fees are approximately $5,000 (DKK 33,000), and the university offers an ROI of 88.2% and an 87% placement rate. DTU Energy and Sustainable Energy Systems are notable programs.
University of Tokyo
The University of Tokyo ranks #10, offering comprehensive Energy and Environment, Sustainable Development, and Renewable Energy Systems programs. Annual fees are approximately $5,000 (JPY 535,800), with an ROI of 87.5% and an 86% placement rate. Tokyo University Energy and Environmental Science and Technology are notable research centers.
CONCLUSION
As we conclude our exploration of the top universities for sustainable energy studies in 2025, it's clear that the future energy is in the hands of innovative thinkers, skilled engineers, and passionate sustainability advocates. The institutions highlighted in this article are paving the way for a new generation of leaders who will drive the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Starting your preparation today, seeking guidance from experts at every stage. Hello Study Global abroad specialists are available to you. We will assist and coach you through every step of the process, from getting ready to admission examinations to applying to colleges. You will feel confident navigating this process with our help.
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