AS the world’s supply of fossil fuels dwindles, the world of science is working on a way to provide the electricity and fuel we need. With no short-term solution to the energy crisis, a career in renewable energy would seem to be a good long-term option. Opportunities for specilaists in renewable energy are growing, and there is expected to be an increased demand for engineers with this knowledge in the future. And of course, the work you can do with a renewable energy degree could change the world.
Course types
When it comes to Bachelor degrees around this subject, you will find that the content of courses differ greatly. Generaly speaking, you looking at two types of course: those that focus on practical engineering will give a Bachelors of Engineering (BEng), and those that focus on the more general theory and application, which will give you a Bachelors of Science (BSc.) You may be able to do a practical element on either course, but it is important to pick a course to match your interests. Here are some examples of the two types.
BSc Physics with Renewable Energy Science, University of Dundee, Scotland
This degree teaches methodologies of physics and how this underpins renewable energy. You learn about technologies such as hydroelectricity, solar power, biomass, wind energy and tidal turbines, and their application in real life. Modules cover aspects such as mathematics, programming and computer modelling. The course last four years full-time and there is the option of continuing to a Masters in the fifth year. Costs range between £1,458.27 a year for EEA students or £10,137.84 for Non-EEA students. Some scholarships are available for international students.
BSc Renewable Energy, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, England
This course boasts backing from a number of industry professionals, including npower Renewables and Wardell Armstrong International. Modules include Fluid Mechanics, Energy Management and Geothermal Energy. It teaches with a practical and vocational emphasis by offering a wide range of field trips. This course helps students to prepare for work after graduation by giving the option to complete a placement in the summer between the second and third year. The students has to arrange this, but the university will offer assistance in finding a placement. Lasting three years, EEA students pay £9000 per year, and international students pay £18,000 per year.
BEng in Mechanical Engineering with Solar and Wind Power Engineering, BBW University of Applied Science, Germany
This course is only offered in German, but some lectures are held in English. As Germany is the highest employer of renewable energy workers in Europe, it is the perfect place to study a renewable energy degree. This course gives an overview of business aspects at the beginning, allowing you to become more focused on the specific types of engineering later. As well as the engineering aspects, modules also give an overview of interdisiplinary skills, such as communication and law, to help graduates in the world of business. This course lasts three years for full-time students and there are two entry points on April 1st or October 1st. The course costs €15120 and can be paid in 36 instalments if you are doing it full-time (or 48 instalments for part-time students.) There is the possibilty of sponsorship from some German companies for some students.
BEng Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology, Glyndŵr University, Wales
This course aims to create graduates who are ready for the future of the renewable energy industry. An impressive 90% of graduates from this course are in work or further study within six months of graduating. Lectures, case studies and field visits are all used to teach the course. Previous visits have been to the Sustainable Building Envelope Centre and Biomass plants. Modules include Electrical Science, Thermal Energy Systems and Modern Methods of Construction. The course is three years full-time and there are options for part-time study. Welsh university costs vary widely depending on your country of origin, so check fees with the university. Glyndŵr University also offers a number of grant and scholarship options for home, EU and international students. You can find out more about Glyndŵr University and its courses here.
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