Mechatronic -Engineering MSc
What do I learn?
The Master's programme in Mechatronic Engineering is a continuation of the BSc degree in Mechatronic Engineering.
To enter an MSc programme in a particular engineering field, a Bachelor's degree (BSc) in the same field is expected. If students have a BSc degree in another engineering field, they may need to take additional courses from the undergraduate level. In such cases, the student is expected to complete these courses during their first year of the Master's programme.
Automation and robotics are technologies used in industry and manufacturing, as well as in various devices we use daily, such as vehicles, household appliances, prosthetics, assistive devices, and toys. In the Mechatronic Engineering programme, students combine topics from electrical engineering and mechanical engineering and learn the design of complex technical equipment.
Engineering is a five-year programme in total. After completing both the BSc and MSc degrees, students gain a professional title as chartered engineers (verkfræðingur) in Iceland.
How do I learn?
In the Master's programme, students acquire specialised knowledge and practical technical expertise. Students create a personalised study plan in consultation with their supervisor, tailored to their areas of interest. The programme is research-oriented, and students can use it for significant specialisation in a chosen field.
MSc Thesis
Elective courses deepen students' understanding and prepare them for their research topics. The Master's thesis is worth 30 ECTS credits and is completed during the final semester. It is possible to apply to work on a 60-credit Master's thesis, in which case the student would take fewer elective courses.
Internship
Internships aim to enhance student's knowledge in their field of study and prepare them for employment after graduation. The Department of Engineering ensures that students who undertake internships work on challenging, interesting projects that align with their areas of interest. Internships have proven beneficial for students, and numerous final theses have been developed due to internships.
Master's students can apply for an internship during the spring semester. The internship can be up to 12 ECTS
Compulsory Courses
Data Mining and Machine Learning
One of the two compulsory courses required for all Master's students in engineering, regardless of their specialization, is Data Mining and Machine Learning. Topics covered include neural networks, decision trees, and pattern recognition. The Department of Engineering at RU believes that expertise in this field is essential for today's engineers and, particularly, future engineers.
Research Methodology
Society needs individuals who can think critically, analyse complex situations, and communicate their findings effectively. This may involve various tasks, including searching for and evaluating the value of scientific literature and other documents. Research methodology prepares students to tackle information gathering, analysis, and reporting required for all other courses.
Exchange Programme
Studying at a university in another country is an adventure, it can broaden horizons, and even help students confirm what they want to focus on in their careers after graduation. MSc students can apply for exchange programmes for one or two semesters, and the international office provides further information on where exchange opportunities are available.
Teaching assistance
Teaching assistant positions are advertised, and MSc or third-year BSc students can apply. This may involve teaching in tutorial sessions, reviewing exercises, grading homework, or assisting with lab exercises. Students who have demonstrated good academic performance and are interested in gaining experience as teaching assistants are encouraged to apply. For further information, please get in touch with the Department of Engineering office at vfd@ru.is.
What´s next?
The specialisation of students in control systems, industrial automation, and electronics makes them highly desirable professionals. The programme is ideal for those who wish to work with electrical and electronic-controlled hardware, design mechanical components, and develop software systems. The strength of mechatronic engineers lies in integrating hardware (mechanical components) and information technology (software).
Certification
The engineering programme comprises a 3-year (180 ECTS) undergraduate degree and a 2-year (120 ECTS) MSc degree. To obtain professional qualifications and the right to use the accredited title of engineer (verkfræðingur) in Iceland, one must complete the MSc degree by the Ministry of Industries and Innovation requirements.
Structure
In the graduate programme, students acquire specialised knowledge and practical technical expertise. The programme is research-oriented, and students can choose to use it for significant specialisation.
An individualised study plan is developed in collaboration with an advisor.
Students are given the opportunity to specialise in their areas of interest through elective courses.
In the MSc in Mechatronics Engineering, students must choose three restricted elective courses (see list below). A list of suggested elective courses is below. In addition, students may choose elective courses in engineering or related disciplines and from other departments in agreement with a supervisor and that align with the Department of Engineering master's programme requirements.
Any questions?
Facilities
The teaching takes place at the RU University building in Nauthólsvík. The building includes facilities for practical instruction, research, group work rooms, a canteen, study and career counselling, and other student services.
Students in mechatronic engineering have access to a machine shop, an energy technology lab, and an electronics technology lab. Additionally, 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 perform the practical portion of their studies in this lab, conducting experiments related to these topics.
The Energy Technology Lab offers excellent facilities for research projects and final theses for undergraduate and graduate students in engineering and technology fields. The RU Racing team, representing RU, is also based in this lab.
Electronics Laboratory
The lab focuses on projects and experiments in electronics, electrical engineering, power systems, control systems, and automation. It also serves as a workspace for students working on larger projects or theses in undergraduate and graduate programs.
The lab has various tools and instruments, including oscilloscopes, microcontrollers, ADC converters, industrial robots, and more. Additionally, there is a vast collection of circuit work components and excellent facilities for assembling circuits.
Services
The university building provides easy access to academic and career counselling, the international office, and technical support. The library offers excellent and diverse workspaces. The library provides access to books and academic journals, and information specialists are available during open hours to offer advice and assistance with research work.
RU facilities include the Háskólabúðin (convenience store), a cafe, a World Class training facility, and the Málið canteen.
Why choose a Master's in Engineering at RU?
- Accessible teaching staff.
- Strong ties to industry.
- Master's theses are often carried out in collaboration with companies, and funding is sometimes available.
- A strong internship programme offers up to 12 ECTS credits.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in exchange programmes.
- According to the Times Higher Education list, Reykjavik University is ranked among the best smaller universities in the world.
- Reykjavik University is operated under one roof.