Mechatronic -Engineering BSc
What do I learn?
Automatic devices and robots are technologies used in industry and manufacturing. Also, we use various types of equipment daily, such as cars, household appliances, prosthetics, assistive devices, and toys. In mechatronic engineering, students combine topics from electrical engineering and mechanical engineering, learning to design complex technological equipment.
In the BSc programme in mechatronic engineering, a theoretical foundation is laid, which is then built upon to create broad knowledge of control systems, programming, and software development. Students are given countless opportunities to solve real-world problems and learn about the design process, which spans the concept, design, and construction to functionality. The topics are diverse but aim to train students in developing software, electronic and computer equipment, and hardware.
Five-year programme
Engineering is a five-year programme, totalling 300 ECTS credits. Students obtain an accredited professional title in Iceland as engineers upon completing the BSc and MSc degrees.
How do I learn?
In all engineering programmes, the first semesters of study are dedicated to foundational courses that benefit engineers throughout their careers. Upon completing these courses, students will have a strong understanding of:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Programming
- Project management
- Sustainability
Specialised courses
The programme becomes increasingly tailored to each specific track after the first year. Specialised courses within the programme further develop the area of expertise. Specialised courses in mechatronic engineering include:
- Analog Circuit Analysis
- Classical Dynamics
- Circuit Design
- Mechatronics
- Machine Elements
- Electrical Machines
- Feedback Control Systems
Engineering X
In the sixth semester of the BSc programme, all engineering students complete an extensive final project. In this course, students work on projects in groups, taking them from concept to final product. The topics are either tailored to individual programmes or interdisciplinary projects. This course provides excellent preparation for professional life.
Focus on sustainability
Sustainability and environmental issues are becoming increasingly important in our world. In the engineering programme, this is addressed through three mandatory courses. In the first semester, all engineering students take a course on energy efficiency, and the course Introduction to Engineering focuses on sustainability and the environment. In the fifth semester, there is a dedicated course on sustainability. Additionally, environmental issues are integrated into the topics of other courses throughout the programme.
Electives
Students can choose courses based on their areas of interest, such as internships, courses from other engineering tracks, or courses from other departments at RU.
12+3 system
Each semester is divided into two parts. Four courses are taught over 12 weeks, followed by exams. After the exams, a three-week course follows, where the course material is applied practically through project work, group work, and/or collaboration with companies.
Internship
Students can apply for a 6 ECTS internship in the final year of their BSc studies. The process simulates a job search, where students submit a CV and cover letter, and companies select candidates for interviews.
The internship aims to strengthen the connection between students from the Department of Engineering at RU and industry, enhance students' insight and understanding of the challenges in their field, and prepare them for employment after graduation by solving real-world problems in a professional setting.
Exchange studies
Students can apply for exchange programmes at international universities. BSc students must have an average grade of 7 or higher and have completed 60 credits before participating in the exchange programme. The International Office provides further information.
Club activities
Students can participate in various engineering-related activities, such as joining the university's Formula team (RU Racing) or the robotics club, or taking part in innovation or management competitions.
At RU, engineering students have countless opportunities to solve real-world problems and learn the design process from concept, design, and construction to functionality.
Any questions?
What´s next?
The specialisation of students in control technology, industrial automation, and electronics makes them highly desirable professionals. The programme benefits those who want to work with electrical and electronically controlled hardware, design mechanical components, and develop software systems. The strength of mechatronic engineers lies in integrating components (hardware) and information technology (software).
After three years of undergraduate study for a BSc degree, students continue with a two-year MSc programme to obtain full professional qualifications as engineers. Mechatronic engineering provides a solid foundation for postgraduate studies in various engineering disciplines, such as mechatronic engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. Choosing a BSc engineering programme does not limit the possibility of pursuing a master’s level engineering degree.
Career
Mechatronic engineers possess knowledge in control technology, industrial automation, and electronics. Their expertise is designing, analysing, operating, and maintaining robots and intelligent machines.
They develop automatic devices and robots, essential modern industry and manufacturing tools. This technology is also used in various types of equipment, such as cars, household appliances, prosthetics, assistive devices, toys, and much more.
Excellent preparation
A BSc and MSc degree in engineering from RU provides students with excellent preparation to take the next step towards their future goals, whether it be further education, starting a business, or pursuing a domestic or international career.
Upon graduation, students are expected to be capable of teamwork and have developed good, disciplined work habits that align with the best and most up-to-date methods, alongside solid theoretical knowledge and expertise in their field.
Accredited title
The engineering programme comprises a 3-year (180 credits) undergraduate degree and a 2-year (120 credits) MSc programme. To obtain professional qualifications and the right to use the accredited title of engineer, students must complete the MSc degree per the Ministry of Industry and Innovation requirements.
Structure
In the three-year undergraduate programme for a BSc degree, students are introduced to the fundamental disciplines in mechatronic engineering. To gain specialisation and professional qualifications as an engineer, students must complete a two-year MSc programme after finishing the BSc degree.
The Engineering BSc (180 ECTS) and MSc (120 ECTS) credits make up a 5-year study path (a total of 300 ECTS credits) that meets the requirements for the accredited title of engineer.
Three-week courses
Facilities
Students in mechatronic engineering have access to a workshop, an energy technology lab, and an electronics lab. In addition, they have access to a chemistry lab and, in some cases, facilities in the basement of the university building for larger projects.
Machine Shop
Most students graduating with an engineering degree from RU have been introduced to machining in some form, such as working with a lathe and milling machine to implement their ideas and designs. The machine shop has three lathes, two milling machines, a CNC lathe and milling machine, welding equipment, a laser cutter, and other traditional tools. Students can access the machine shop to tackle interesting and real-world engineering challenges.
Introductory courses in machining are offered, covering safety issues and teaching students the proper handling techniques.
Energy Technology Laboratory
Students in courses such as thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and related subjects attend the practical part of their studies in this lab and conduct experiments related to those topics. The energy technology lab provides excellent facilities for research projects and final theses for undergraduate and master’s students in engineering and technology. The RU Racing team has its headquarters in the lab.
Electronics Laboratory
The lab is used for projects and experiments in electronics, electrical engineering, power, control systems, and automation. The lab also provides space for students working on larger projects or final theses at the undergraduate or master’s level. It is equipped with a wide range of tools and instruments, such as oscilloscopes, microcomputers, ADC converters, industrial robots, and more. There is an extensive collection of components for circuit work and excellent facilities for assembling circuits.
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:
Why study Engineering at RU?
- Teaching is conducted over 12 weeks, followed by a three-week practical module.
- Targeted project work with real-world issues.
- Replicating the business world: students complete the extensive Engineering X course.
- Excellent facilities for both practical and theoretical study.
- Good support for students from academic and career counsellors, library staff, department offices, and lecturers.
- All study programmes are available as a continuous five-year path (BSc & MSc).
- Students gain knowledge in the natural sciences and training in methodologies and practices that will be useful in the future.
- Opportunity for internships.
- Students can apply to rent a room or apartment in the RU Háskólagarðar, located at the base of Öskjuhlíð.
- All studies under one roof.