Energy Engineering

“This is a modern degree for a modern world that urgently needs higher quality design, more ethical engineering decisions and stronger environmental leadership.” Vera O’Riordan (2015-2019)

part of your fundamental engineering education, you will develop mathematical and problem-solving abilities and apply these to open-ended and challenging energy systems design problems, both as an individual and as part of a team.

“The BE Energy Engineering degree has equipped me with the broad range of technical expertise required for my role, namely electrical, mechanical and civil engineering knowledge.” Alan Donovan (2009-2013)

On completion of the degree course, you will have excellent IT skills, effective communication skills and will be prepared for a working environment where there is a strong emphasis on problem-solving. You will also have the 1^st BE Energy programme in Ireland that was fully accredited by the professional body Engineers Ireland.

Non-EU applicants are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. In addition, where such applicants are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language.

To verify if you meet the minimum academic and language requirements visit our qualification comparison page and refer to our International Office page for more information.

“When I was choosing my CAO preferences it was clear Energy would be a hot topic for my generation. This has held true with the security of job opportunities.” Sean Hayes (2008-2012)

Many graduates progress directly to the Energy Engineering profession, working in renewable energy engineering with e.g. Airtricity, Eirgrid, Bord Gais, ESB and ESBI. A significant number of graduates also work in energy management and intelligent efficiency in energy consultancy firms and the pharmaceutical sector. Other graduates make use of the valuable acquired skills to embark on careers outside of engineering, in areas including software design and development, management consulting, accountancy and industrial management.

“The wide spectrum of jobs that Energy Engineering graduates can carry out is something that I find particularly appealing. The only downfall is choosing your favourite!” Colm Gallagher (2011-2015)

Postgraduate degrees, including MEngSc (e.g. in Electrical Engineering; Mechanical Engineering;) and PhD, can be pursued by research in any one of a number of UCC’s active research groups. UCC hosts the world-leading MaREI Centre, a research and innovation hub focussing on the energy and marine sectors www.marei.ie. Areas of particular strength include marine renewable energy, biogas, energy systems modelling, wind, power electronics, renewable power systems, intelligent energy use in buildings and industry.

Since 2013, engineering graduates with a BE require an additional one-year Masters-level qualification (or equivalent) as well as relevant professional experience to be eligible to apply for Chartered membership of Engineers Ireland. The integrated ME facilitates this.