Energy Field School
Accelerate the Future: 2-Week Journey into Geothermal
Join us in Iceland—the land of fire and ice—for a unique opportunity to explore geothermal energy firsthand. The Iceland School of Energy's Field School is an immersive two-week experience designed for geoscientists, engineers, recent graduates, and professionals interested in sustainable energy. Whether you're an undergraduate, recent graduate, or industry professional, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to geothermal systems. It also serves as the starting point for the Master's program at ISE, connecting theory with real-world practice in an unparalleled setting.
Learning Experience
The Energy Field School combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences. It starts with an introduction day and team-building activities, helping participants connect and adjust to life in Reykjavik. Students are assigned to diverse teams to ensure a mix of expertise and perspectives, and these teams work together throughout the program, applying geothermal concepts to their own regions or countries.
Week One focuses on Iceland's geology and geothermal systems, covering geochemistry, geophysics, geothermal biology, and volcanology. Classroom activities are paired with field exercises and visits to geothermal features and facilities. Participants use field notebooks to document their findings and develop skills in fieldwork.
Week Two emphasizes the connection of geothermal energy to sustainability, addressing economic, social, environmental, and technical aspects. Students learn about applications such as electricity generation, district heating, agriculture, wellness, and carbon sequestration projects like Carbfix.
The program concludes with group presentations and final reports on how geothermal energy concepts apply to students' home regions and countries.
Program Structure
- Daily Schedule: Activities run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with evenings for assignments or leisure. Some days extend longer for field trips.
- Learning and Assessment: Combines lectures, field trips, assignments, journaling, and group presentations, ensuring a balanced and engaging experience.
- Excursions: Includes multiple half and full-day field trips, plus a one- to two-day overnight excursion in shared accommodations.
- Housing & Meals: We have secured a limited number of private rooms available, first-come, first-served. Lunch provided daily, with all meals covered during excursions. Students can also secure their own private accommodation.
- Credit: Earn 6 ECTS (equivalent to 3 US credits) upon completion.
Field Trips
The Energy Field School provides a unique opportunity to experience sustainable energy systems in action through site visits. These trips offer firsthand exposure to some of Iceland's most innovative and impactful sustainable energy examples:
- Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant & Carbfix: Tour a leading geothermal plant and learn about CO2 sequestration.
- Hengill Volcanic Area: Discover geothermal activity close to Reykjavik.
- Nesjavellir Geothermal Power Plant: Learn how geothermal energy heats an entire city.
- Fagradalsfjall Volcano: Witness recent volcanic activity and its impact.
- Reykjavik District Heating System: Gain insights into the city's innovative geothermal heating.
- Icelandic Highlands: Experience the highlands and soak in remote hot springs.
Visits vary yearly, aiming to include diverse and new locations. Additionally, we emphasize visits beyond geothermal, giving students insights into various energy activities in Iceland. These field trips offer a close-up view of sustainable energy practices, geological wonders, and Iceland's natural landscapes. Due to Iceland's unpredictable weather, site visits may vary, but we always adapt to make the most of every opportunity.
More about site visits to power plants and areas of environmental and Geo-scientific interest
Fees & Accommodation
| Registration Type | Program Fee | Confirmation Fee (Included as part of Program Fee) |
|---|---|---|
| Students | 475,000 ISK (Approx. 3,500 USD) | 70,000 ISK (Approx. 500 USD) |
| Non-students | 525,000 ISK (Approx. 3,870 USD) | 80,000 ISK (Approx. 600 USD) |
The program fee covers all field trips, teaching, and events. Please note that accommodation during your stay in Iceland is not included in this fee. An overnight excursion, however, is included.
Optional Accommodation
| Type | Dates | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Twin Room - Hostel | Check-in: July 26 Check-out: August 9 | 250,000 ISK | Located at Student Hostel. Includes a private twin room with access to a shared kitchen space. |
This accommodation option provides a comfortable stay in a private twin room with access to shared kitchen facilities. The accommodation cost is not included in the program fee and must be budgeted separately.
Students may also arrange their own accommodation if preferred. Those enrolling in the Master's degree at Reykjavik University have the option to obtain housing through Reykjavik University Student Apartments.
Apply Now
Prerequisites:
We welcome undergraduates entering their final year of studies, graduate students, and professionals from various backgrounds.
Key Dates
- Application Open: October 1, 2024
- Deadline: March 30, 2025
Application Components
When you apply, please be prepared to provide the following information:
- CV/Resume: Summarize your education, work experience, and skills.
- University Transcripts: Digital or hard copy.
- Photocopy of Passport: A clear color copy.
- Motivation Letter: Approximately 300 words explaining why you wish to attend the Energy Field School.
- English Proficiency Certificate (if applicable)
Application Process
To apply for the Energy Field School, follow these steps:
- University Application Site: Applications are managed through the university's online application portal.
- Create an Account: Register and create an account on the application site.
- Department Selection: Apply under the Department of Engineering, Summer School section. (Note: Applicants from outside of the EU/EEA should select that they are within the EU/EEA to proceed with the application.
Meet the Director
Organizer: Dr. Juliet Newson, Director of the Iceland School of Energy
Dr. Juliet Newson is a leading figure in the geothermal industry, with extensive experience in geology, monitoring, modeling, and resource assessment. She has been a passionate advocate for energy education, contributing to programs in New Zealand and internationally, including the International Geothermal Association (IGA).
Since joining the Iceland School of Energy in 2016 as Director, Juliet has spearheaded numerous initiatives, drawing on her experience as a geothermal reservoir modeling engineer and her role in organizing educational events, like the IGA World Geothermal Congress. As a former President of the IGA (2013-2016), she remains dedicated to advancing sustainable energy education.
Contact Us
For any questions or further details about the program, email us at ise@ru.is, and we'll respond