Engineering BSc-
What will you learn?
Students have different areas of interest and future plans, so different study paths will likely appeal to them. The Faculty of Engineering accommodates those students who wish for flexible and individualized study options.
Programme tailored to your interests
The Engineering with Elective Choices programme differs from other programmes because it has fewer mandatory courses, with about half of the elective studies. With the guidance of an advisor, the student creates an individualized study plan that must meet the requirements for engineering fundamentals and specialized courses. This allows the student to tailor their studies to several areas of interest rather than specializing in one field of engineering. Students who choose this program graduate with a BSc in Engineering and an MSc in Engineering.
A clear vision and greater flexibility
The Engineering with Elective Choices program may suit those who have a clear vision of what they want from the beginning or those who want to create a unique specialization. Students who choose this path must write a brief, clear statement outlining what they want to gain from the program and submit it along with their application.
The first year is the same
In the first year, students in all programs take mandatory courses for the first year of engineering, but as they progress in their studies, they can choose course chains that align with their interests. It is, therefore, possible to start an engineering programme in any track but switch to Engineering with Elective Choices after the first year.
Students can apply for the Engineering with Elective Choices program at the end of the first year.
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 track. Specialised courses within the programme contribute to greater specialization. They depend on the student´s interests. Students create an individualized study plan based on their interests in consultation with a supervisor. The study plan must meet the requirements for engineering fundamentals and specialised courses.
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 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.
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.
Career
Modern learning provides opportunities
The breadth of engineering studies provides diverse career opportunities in modern society. Graduates possess a strong academic foundation along with exceptional training in problem-solving, designing solutions, and implementing them in practice. They are thus well equipped to contribute positively to society and embrace the technologies that the future will bring.
Engineers significantly impact society, often for the better, but the consequences of technological advancement and industrialization can be unpredictable and negative. Engineering students learn to use quantitative methods to assess problems and determine which solutions will most likely succeed. Students are educated about sustainable development and the need to consider the consequences of decisions. Instruction in project management and innovation further assists engineers in bringing their ideas into action in the business world.
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 degree (BSc) program, students are introduced to the fundamental principles of engineering. To gain specialisation and professional qualifications as an engineer, students must complete a two-year master's degree (MSc) after finishing the BSc program.
The engineering program, including both the BSc and MSc, is a five-year course (totaling 300 ECTS credits) that meets the requirements for the accredited title of "Engineer.
BSc studies - 180 ECTS - 3 years
Students create an individualised study plan in consultation with their advisor, based on their interests. The study plan must meet the requirements for engineering fundamentals and specialised courses. The following table provides the foundation for the study plan, showing the mandatory courses. Examples of study plans supporting various areas of interest.
Elective courses in the BSc programme are engineering courses from other engineering programmes, or courses from other departments at the University of Reykjavik, such as the Department of Computer Science or the Business School, as detailed in the course catalogue.
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, 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 in the same place.