Key Facts

Entry requirements

Minimum Grade Higher C3 in two subjects and Passes in four other subjects at Higher or Ordinary Level in the Leaving Certificate including: Irish, English, Mathematics, a laboratory science subject (i.e. Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint), Agricultural Science) or Technology and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes.

Additional requirements

Minimum Grade C3 in the Higher Level Leaving Certificate paper in Mathematics or alternatively obtain a pass in the Special Engineering Entrance Examination in Mathematics (held in the University).

For A-Levels: A minimum of Grade C in Mathematics is required.

Duration: 4 years
Average Intake: 20
Entry Points (2011): 390
A Level Grades (2011): AAB
Next Start Date: September 2012

Course Overview

Energy Systems Engineering is a multidisciplinary programme, covering fundamental engineering knowledge and skills in such areas as energy conversion, electrical power systems and energy management (like buildings, transport, industry, etc.), along with modules on energy sources, energy policy, economics and associated environmental issues. The programme will provide students with the skills to develop into professional engineers who have a broad view of energy systems, with optional modules providing technical focus for different sectors of the industry.

The early years of the programme will cover the fundamental sciences and mathematics along with introductory modules on energy systems and sources. Advanced modules in engineering design, analysis and information technology will support multidisciplinary energy systems design projects. Elective modules will enable students to specialise in particular energy sectors that include buildings, transportation, renewable and conventional power generation and electrical power systems.

Students will engage in multidisciplinary energy systems design projects containing many aspects of engineering analysis and design that include Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Informatics, Professional Skills, Economics and Policy. Students will gain specialist knowledge in particular energy sectors that include buildings, transportation, renewable and conventional power generation, electrical power systems, energy informatics and policy.

Students will undertake a five-month (April - August) work placement after their third year of study, either off- or on-campus. This Professional Experience Programme gives students an opportunity to work on projects relevant to their course of study and significantly improves their chances of obtaining employment after graduation.

Course Outline

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4

Timetables

Career Opportunities

Energy Systems Engineering prepares students for a variety of career opportunities:

• Design of sustainable and advanced energy technology
• Operation of power generation systems
• Development of energy-efficient products and processes
• Manufacturing
• Construction of power plants and renewable energy systems
• Design and operation of smart energy management systems
• Consultancy
• Design of efficient and sustainable buildings
• Power distribution
• Transport
• Environmental protection
• Research

Further Education

Students can go on to earn PhD and MEngSc degrees, through research work, with an optional minor taught element in the case of the MEngSc. Students can specialise in one of the department's various areas of research, working with a high degree of independence.

Find Out More

Civil Engineering

T: 353 (0)91 492170
F: 353 (0)91 494507
E: Brid Flaherty

Industry Quotes

“We have always found the calibre of graduates from NUI Galway to be of the highest standard – well prepared, bright, enthusiastic, motivated and eager to prove their ability in their new environment. NUI Galway graduates add value for us, with their high level of competence in a range of skills suitable for work in several civil engineering fields, including Environment, Flooding, Roads, Structures and Water.”

Sean Gannon, Chairman of the Board, Ryan Hanley Consulting Engineers

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BEng (Energy Systems) Brochure

Course Brochure