Mechanical -Engineering BSc
What will you learn?
Taught in Icelandic. Proficiency in Icelandic is a requirement.
To solve modern problems, combining deep technical knowledge with creative thinking is necessary. The expertise of mechanical engineers is applied in a wide range of areas, including the development of robots and the design of power plants.
The mechanical engineering programme integrates a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and information technology with engineering topics. These topics include, for example, machine design and lifetime analysis, structural analysis, control systems and automation, fluid dynamics, and energy processes. Mechanical engineers work in many areas of our environment, such as in thermal, hydropower, or wind energy plants, all types of vehicles, and in manufacturing processes and industry.
Students in mechanical engineering at RU are given numerous opportunities to solve real-world problems, from the idea stage to design and construction, while gaining a strong and broad academic background. They are encouraged to participate in design projects and/or design courses and explore the benefits of internships to experience real and pressing practical problems. They are also encouraged to take part in the various research projects led by the university staff in mechanical engineering or related fields.
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.
Teaching methods
Fundamental courses
In all the 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 mechanical engineering include:
- Statics and Mechanics of Materials
- Circuit Analysis
- Classical Dynamics
- Measurement Systems
- Thermodynamics
- Machine Elements
- Fluid Dynamics
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- 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.
In RU, engineering students have countless opportunities to solve real-world problems and learn about the entire design process, from concept, design, and construction to functionality.
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.
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.
Any questions?
What´s next?
Mechanical engineers are involved in a wide variety of tasks in our environment. For example, this includes machine design, energy process design, manufacturing process design, and project management. Mechanical engineers work on the design of vehicles of all types, contribute to the design of advanced electronic devices, participate in the development of medical equipment, and are involved in designing structures and power plants.
The broad scope of the field provides diverse career opportunities in modern society. For instance, mechanical engineers are also highly sought after as specialists in the operation and management of companies.
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.
Structure
In the three-year Bachelor's program (BSc), students are introduced to the foundational subjects in mechanical engineering. To gain specialization and professional qualifications as an engineer, students must complete a two-year Master's program (MSc) after finishing the BSc. The engineering program, BSc and MSc, is a 5-year study path (totalling 300 ECTS credits) that meets the requirements for the 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.
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.
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).
- Opportunity for internships.
- Students gain knowledge in the natural sciences and training in methodologies and practices that will be useful in the future.
- 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.