Software -Engineering Bsc
What will I learn?
Taught in Icelandic. Proficiency in Icelandic is a requirement.
There is a strong demand for graduates with technical expertise, particularly in information technology and high-tech industries. Software engineers are employed across many sectors of the economy, working in areas such as management, innovation, and the design and development of complex systems.
This programme provides students with a solid foundation in engineering methods and their application to the design and construction of software systems.
The bachelor’s and master’s programmes in the Department of Computer Science have been awarded the European quality certification by ASIIN/EQANIE, the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education. This recognition highlights our commitment to high standards in informatics education and ensures that our programmes are aligned with best practices across Europe.
It is a great privilege to study at HR in a top-notch environment and under the guidance of world-class teachers who possess immense knowledge and experience.
Hildur Davíðsdóttir
Software Engineering Student
Teaching methods
The programme combines lectures with hands-on projects. Teaching follows a 12+3 format: 12 weeks of courses with assessment at the end, followed by one intensive three-week course where students apply their knowledge in practice through project work, teamwork, and collaboration with industry. Students take part in both lectures and exercise classes, supported by teaching assistants.
Language of instruction
While the programme is primarily taught in Icelandic, some courses are delivered in English. Applications from abroad are not accepted. Non-Icelandic speakers already living in Iceland may apply but should be aware that not all courses are available in English and this may present challenges.
Final projects linked to industry
BSc students complete their final projects in groups, under the guidance of faculty. The project spans 15 weeks in the final semester and is often developed in collaboration with leading companies and institutions in Iceland. This gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges and gain valuable industry experience.
Exchange programme
Students may apply to spend part of their studies abroad at one of RU’s partner universities. To be eligible, BSc students must have a GPA of 7.0 or higher and have completed at least 60 credits before going on exchange. The International Exchange Office provides further information about available opportunities.
Internship opportunities
Students can also apply for an internship at the prestigious Fraunhofer Research Institute in Maryland, USA. The internship counts towards credits and usually lasts six months. Fraunhofer conducts intensive research in close collaboration with a wide range of institutions, and students are invited to take part in this work. The internship is a paid position, giving students both academic and professional experience.
- Fraunhofer USA Center for Experimental Software Engineering
- Härte- und Oberflächtechnik GmbH & Co in Germany
- Students may also apply for 6 ECTS units’ internships at various companies within the field
Career
Graduates of the programme gain strong skills in collaboration, disciplined work practices, and the use of modern methods in software engineering. Alongside academic knowledge and technical expertise, students develop the professional competence needed to take the next step towards their career goals.
Professional qualifications
To obtain professional recognition and the right to use the legally protected title of engineer, graduates must complete both a three-year BSc and a two-year MSc in engineering, as required by Ministry of Industry and Innovation. These requirements include a specific number of credits in science and in engineering subjects. Students are encouraged to seek further guidance from the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Engineering.
Please note: the MSc programme in Software Engineering was discontinued in 2024 and no longer accepts new students.
Ertu með spurningar um námið?
Structure
Structure
To graduate with a BSc in Software Engineering, students must complete 180 ECTS, of which 156 ECTS are compulsory courses. Each course is worth 6 ECTS, except for the final project, which carries 12 ECTS.
Full-time study is 30 ECTS per semester, usually divided into four 12-week courses followed by one intensive three-week course.
Below you will find the recommended route through the compulsory courses, along with points where electives can be chosen. This route is designed to ensure smooth progress through the programme and that prerequisite requirements are met.
Students who wish to adjust their study plan can seek advice from the department’s project managers. Please note that the course arrangement is subject to change.
Three-week courses
Facilities
Everything in one place
At Reykjavik University, all teaching and operations take place under one roof. Emphasis is placed on ensuring that everyone has easy access to the services within the building.
Further information: Campus | Háskólinn í Reykjavík
Living in Iceland
Many things must be considered before arriving in Iceland and during the first few weeks of your stay. Find everything you need about living, studying, and thriving in Iceland here:
New knowledge
RU is at the forefront of artificial intelligence research worldwide. Students who collaborate on projects and perform research with researchers from the Artificial Intelligence Center HR, CADIA, have access to the centre's facilities for experiments and unique development in the Black Hole, a multimedia experimental area. Some devices can be used to communicate between people and computers, including virtual reality devices (Oculus Rift and HTC Vive), giant screens (3m x 2m), computer vision (Kinect), directional microphones, computer-controlled LED lighting, speaker systems, and sound mixers, to name a few. The room can be reserved for project work or experiments.
Why the Department of Computer Science at RU?
- RU has excellent facilities for practical and theoretical studies.
- Students receive support in their studies from teachers as well as academic and career counsellors, library staff and department offices.
- Undergraduate studies with international quality certification.
- The program includes targeted project work with real courses that serve as practical preparation for the workplace.
- BSc electives, including 6 ECTS internships.
- Students receive knowledge in science and training in methodology and work methods that will be useful for the future.
- RU has everything under one roof, modern facilities and good accessibility.
- Students can apply to rent a room or apartment in RU's University Gardens, which are at the foot of Öskjuhlíð.