Energy -Engineering BSc
What will you learn?
Taught in Icelandic. Proficiency in Icelandic is a requirement.
Energy production is an extremely important fundamental activity in society. Our daily lives depend on having clean, affordable, and reliable energy available.
The focus of energy engineers is the conversion of energy from one form to another in ways that benefit us. For example, this includes how the wind's kinetic energy is converted into electricity in a wind turbine, how electrical energy can be optimally used to produce silicon wafers, or how to best manage geothermal energy production to ensure the sustainable operation of the resource. Energy engineering is concerned with how individual components of an energy system are constructed, what requirements must be met for them, and, importantly, how they work together as a whole in the most efficient and cost-effective way.
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.
International studies in Iceland
Several international students are enrolled in postgraduate studies in sustainable energy engineering and energy science at the University of Reykjavik, which is taught in collaboration with the Iceland School of Energy. Students in the BSc programme's final year and master's programme have the opportunity to meet and work with students and professors from various countries with diverse perspectives and experiences. Therefore, students who graduate in electrical power engineering from RU have a broader international network than is typical in Iceland.
Teaching methods
Fundamental courses
In all engineering programmes, the first semesters of study are dedicated to fundamental 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
After the first year, the programme becomes increasingly tailored to each specific track. Specialised courses within the programme further develop the area of expertise.
Specialised courses in energy engineering include:
- Static and Mechanics of Materials
- Circuit Analysis
- Classical Dynamics
- Measurement Systems
- Fluid Dynamics
- Thermodynamics
- Chemistry
- Electrical Machines
- Materials Science
- Heat Transfer
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 in a practical context 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 universities abroad. BSc students must have an average grade of 7 or higher and complete 60 credits before participating in the exchange programme. The International Office provides further information.
At RU, engineering students have countless opportunities to solve real-world problems and learn the design process from concept, design, and construction to functionality.
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.
Career
The focus of energy engineers is, for example, to find better energy sources and to utilize existing energy more efficiently.
A student who specialises in energy engineering can work on various projects with companies in the fields of geothermal energy or electrical power systems in Iceland, such as Reykjavik Energy, Landsnet, Landsvirkjun, Orkubúi Vestfjarða, and RARIK, or with the many companies involved in the design, installation, or maintenance of geothermal power plants and the electrical power system.
Energy engineers are also in high demand by large electricity consumers, such as aluminium smelters. They also take on a variety of technical and managerial roles within companies that tackle complex projects ranging from robotics and IT services to communications and information technology.
Engineers from RU
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.
Any questions?
Structure
In the three-year undergraduate programme for a BSc degree, students are introduced to the fundamental disciplines in energy 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 and MSc, is a 5-year study path (total of 300 credits) that meets the requirements for the legally protected title of engineer.
Three-week courses
Facilities
Students in mechanical 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.
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, a vast collection of circuit work components and excellent circuit assembly facilities exist.
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 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 are under one roof.