Energy Field School

Accelerate the Future: 3-Week Intensive Journey into Energy

Join us for a cutting-edge, three-week deep dive into the world of sustainable technology. This immersive program will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the driving forces behind the growing demand for sustainable energy, and the key factors that impact our ability to meet this demand.

Our expert faculty will guide you through a dynamic blend of lecture-style learning and on-site visits, giving you an up-close and personal look at real-world applications of sustainable energy systems. This unique learning experience will provide you with a deeper appreciation for the potential and practicality of these cutting-edge technologies.

Overview

At the Iceland School of Energy, our Summer Field School offers a cutting-edge overview of global energy issues, using Iceland as a case study. During the course, you will delve into the following topics, among others:

• The intricacies of energy use, including its defining characteristics
• An in-depth look at the geophysical processes vital to sustainable development
• The connection between growth, sustainability, and the availability and distribution of energy resources
• The pressing environmental concerns that drive technological and economic advancement

The Iceland School of Energy's Summer Field School has been created with a focus on preparing students for success in our Master's programs in sustainable energy. It is a required part of both MSc programs, but it is also open to anyone interested in exploring the field of sustainable energy technology. With the opportunity to learn from top experts in the industry, this Summer Field School is the perfect way to gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainable energy and make a positive impact on our future.

Structure

Topics

The course combines engaging lectures with hands-on site visits, providing a comprehensive learning experience. Course topics are subject to change, but the following themes are typically covered:

• Introduction to energy terminology and concepts

• Overview of various energy resources

• Fundamentals of energy conversion

• The practical application of energy usage

• Introduction to geothermal energy

• Expansion of the energy value chain

• Energy usage in daily life and communities

• The role of policy and strategy in energy production

• The future of renewables and energy storage

• Energy in a global context

• The impact of energy on sustainability and the environment

• Electrical power generation processes

• An exploration of Iceland's unique energy history.

Site Visits

The summer school provides a unique opportunity to experience sustainable energy systems in action through interactive on-site visits. Our itinerary is designed to showcase some of the most innovative and impactful examples of sustainable energy in action, including:

• Hellisheidi geothermal power plant
• Landmannalaugar
• Hengill volcanic area
• Þjórsá hydro power complex
• Reykjavik district heating system
• Gvendarbrunnar, Reykjavik water works
• Volcanic fissure
• Sólheimajokull Glacier

The field trips can vary from year to year depending on the student group, but typically will include visits to geothermal and hydro-power plants, district heating stations, and places of geological and environmental interest.

>> More about site visits to power plants and areas of environmental and Geo-scientific interest 

Reading material: Various articles and reports. A reading list is provided at the start of the course.

Assessment: Essay, class participation, and trip diary.

Credit: The program is worth 6 ECTS or equivalent to 3 US credits.   

Cost

The cost of the summer school program is 4,800 USD, which includes all necessary costs associated with field trips, teaching, and events.

Please note that this cost does not include accommodations during your stay in Iceland. However, one night of accommodation will be provided as part of a field trip. It is suggested that students budget 200,000 ISK for accommodation and living expenses while participating in the program.

For our MSc students enrolled in the Iceland School of Energy program, the summer school program is included in the tuition fees. These students will be automatically registered for the program, making it easier and more convenient for them to take advantage of this opportunity.

Admission

Prerequisites:

The summer school is open to all applicants whom are at least entering their final year of undergraduate education. Graduate students and professionals with completed degrees are also welcome to apply. Participation in the summer school is considered a core course for the MSc in Sustainable Energy and MSc in Sustainable Energy Engineering worth 6 ECTS.

Dates

• Application opens: February 1st
• Application closes: April 21st 

Items included in the application

• Applicant information
• Education information
• Motivation statement: A 100-word statement of motivation is required, outlining your reasons for participating in the Energy Field School.
  
• Experience statements: Three short entries regarding your experiences in education, work, and community. Current students may lack work experience and this can be stated in the work section. 

Items to be emailed after completion of the application in PDF format:

• Official university transcripts
• CV or résumé

• Reference letter: Please select a suitable referee who can offer an informed assessment of your academic or professional skills and suitability for the program. The reference should be sent directly via email from the referee's email address to ise@ru.is

Contact

Have a question about the program?

You can reach out to us any day by simply sending us an email at ise@ru.is.

Photo	Name	Title	Contact	Description
	Jacob Kaminski	Program Administrator	ise@ru.is	Prospective students may reach out for questions regarding any of our graduate programmes.
	Verity L. Sharp	International Admissions Officer	admissions@ru.is	Contact for general questions regarding the application process, visa-related issues and inquires.