Empowering the World's Future in Sustainable
MSc in Sustainable Energy | Arthurton Bellot | Geothermal Energy
From the 1970s, Iceland began its journey in sustainable energy education, launching the Geothermal Training Programme with UNESCO's support. This spirit of forward-thinking has only grown stronger with time.
Introducing the Iceland School of Energy (ISE). We're more than just an academic hub; we're a modern institution with a bold vision for the clean energy landscape. Whether you're pursuing graduate studies or advancing your professional skills, ISE is where innovation meets education. We're on a mission to empower the world's future in sustainable energy.
ISE stands out due to its balanced approach, blending industry expertise with academic insights. With joint ownership from industry leaders and Reykjavik University, we offer a unique environment where practical industry and business knowledge complements academic research. This combination ensures that ISE remains a leading institution in sustainable energy education. Furthermore, each of our partners holds a position on the board of directors for the Iceland School of Energy, ensuring a collaborative and holistic approach to our vision and operations.
Meet Our Leadership and Partners
Director: Dr. Juliet Newson
Dr. Juliet Newson has been involved in many aspects of the geothermal industry, including geology, geothermal surface feature mapping, monitoring and modelling, reservoir and wellbore simulation, geological modelling and resource evaluation.
However, her strong belief that education is the key to progress both in a social and technological sense, has always led her to maintain strong links with academia. She has been involved in tertiary-level energy education in New Zealand, internationally through the International Geothermal Association, and most recently, Iceland.
In November 2016 Juliet took up the position of Director of the Iceland School of Energy, Reykjavik University, Iceland. Prior to this, since 2011 Juliet was a geothermal reservoir modeling engineer for Contact Energy Ltd, working in close co-operation with reservoir modeling researchers at the University of Auckland. From 2007 to 2011 she was the original co-organizer of the Postgraduate Certificate in Geothermal Energy Technology for the University of Auckland, New Zealand. She has managed and delivered many other geothermal courses, including the Short Courses for the International Geothermal Association (IGA) World Geothermal Congress 2015.
Juliet also held the office of President of the International Geothermal Association for the 2013 to 2016 Board term; and prior to that was Chair of the IGA Education Committee from 2010 to 2013.
Reykjavik Energy (OR)
Reykjavík Energy known in Icelandic as Orkuveita Reykjavíkur (OR), is a world-leading geothermal energy company. Over the past ten years, OR has pioneered the development of new geothermal power plants, leveraging its extensive experience in tapping geothermal resources for electricity and district heating.
With its subsidiaries - Veitur, ON Power, Reykjavik Fibre Network, and CarbFix, OR has grown to be Iceland's premier utility company, powering the capital region with electricity, water, and broadband.
OR's Partnership with Iceland School of Energy
OR provides our program with real-world expertise, ensuring our curriculum remains career-centric and current. Their professionals guide our students as thesis advisors and impart knowledge through specialized courses. Crucially, OR grants our students exclusive access to sites typically off-limits to the general public, offering them a unique perspective and hands-on experience. Beyond the classroom, many of our students collaborate with OR's R&D team during summer research jobs, further cementing the strong ties between academia and industry.
Board Member and Chairperson: Vala Hjörleifsdóttir, Head of Innovation and Strategic Planning
Iceland GeoSurvey (ÍSOR)
Founded in 2003, Iceland GeoSurvey (ÍSOR), is a cornerstone in providing scientific and technical acumen to the geothermal industry, both in Iceland and internationally. With a legacy spanning six decades, they've been at the forefront of geothermal and hydropower R&D. Their global consultancy covers the entire spectrum of geothermal exploration, development, and utilization, and they've been pivotal in training and educating the next generation of geothermal experts.
ÍSOR's Partnership with Iceland School of Energy
ÍSOR's expertise enriches our program in myriad ways. Not only do they serve as thesis advisors and offer summer research opportunities, but they also play a pivotal role in teaching specialized courses and assisting in fieldwork. As one of the main teaching partners for our geothermal pathway at ISE, their extensive knowledge in geothermal research is invaluable. Their global connections also provide our students with a window into the international geothermal industry. We're truly privileged and excited to have such a seasoned partner in the realm of geothermal energy.
Board Member: Bjarni Gautason, Director – Monitoring and Education
Reykjavik University
Reykjavik University (RU) is the proud home of the Iceland School of Energy, housed within its School of Technology. As Iceland's leading private university, RU provides a top-tier academic experience to its vibrant community of over 3,000 students. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching methodologies, and strong partnerships with Icelandic industries.
While the Iceland School of Energy finds its primary home in the School of Technology, its influence and collaborations are far-reaching. Our courses and initiatives bridge the School of Technology and the School of Social Sciences, working with various departments within RU. This cross-disciplinary work not only broadens the scope of learning but also cultivates a comprehensive and integrated educational atmosphere.
Board Members: Ágúst Valfells, Professor - Department of Engineering; Jón Þór Sturluson, Chair - Department of Business Administration
Courses and Programs
At the Iceland School of Energy, we believe in offering a diverse and flexible curriculum. Our courses, crafted by esteemed experts, open a world of possibilities for our students, allowing them to carve out their unique academic journey. We place a strong emphasis on fostering ties with industry professionals, ensuring our students benefit from both academic rigor and real-world insights.
Our graduate offerings span Sustainable Sustainable Energy Science, Sustainable Energy Engineering, Electric Power Engineering, and Electric Power Management. These programs are designed to prepare our students to become the next generation of energy innovators and leaders. Additionally, we're proud to introduce our double degree partnerships with Aalto University in Finland and INRS in Canada, enabling students to attain two graduate degrees simultaneously, all at a value-driven cost.
Accreditation
Housed in the Department of Engineering at Reykjavik University, the Iceland School of Energy proudly holds accreditation from the Association of Chartered Engineers in Iceland (VFÍ). For those with an engineering background, this paves the way to achieving engineering status in Iceland. Meanwhile, other academic backgrounds are recognized with a science title, with provisions available for those keen on fulfilling additional criteria to secure an engineering degree.
Admissions Information
For detailed information on tuition fees, living expenses, visa & immigration procedures, and housing, please visit our Admissions section.
Eager to Discover More About ISE?
Our academic advisors are here every week, ready to chat about everything ISE has to offer. Whether you've got a quick question or you're looking for an in-depth discussion, we're just a click away. And don't worry, we value your privacy and won't flood your inbox. We're genuinely interested in helping you discover if ISE is the right fit for your academic journey. So, don't hesitate – reach out and let's start the conversation.