An introduction to MSc: Renewable Energy and the Built Environment
MSc REBE January 2015
Dr. Arthur Butler
Centre for Alternative Technology
REBEA brief history of teaching and training at CATWhat is the course trying to achieve?How do we do it?Who does it?
2
CATCAT first opened to the public in 1975Has always worked in the wider environmental and
social spheresPrincipally CAT has been about practical action
Specialities are Low energy and sustainable buildingsApplication of renewable energy systemsWater and sewage treatment
3
MSc REBE ProgrammeTheoretical and practical study in RE systems, the
built environment and wider environmental context
Skills sought after in professional practice
Validated for full MSc status by the University of East London (UEL)
Accredited by the Energy Institute (can be used as evidence towards CEng professional status)
First cohort enrolled Sep 2007
4
REBE-reasons to studyAdvance individual careersAdd a theoretical background to an existing practical
skills setAdd a practical background to a theoretical biasSkill up students to be able to work in the renewable
energy and building services industriesUndertake useful research which is applicable to the
needs of the industry and society.Some lectures from external academic & industry
specialists-develop good network from immersive learning
Visit examples of building techniques and renewables onsite & in local area
6
REBEUses a systems approachIs presented as a mixture of lectures, practicals
seminars and tutorials.
Two forms of module:Combined topic modules blend study of 2 related
topics using traditional lecture based learning with smaller practicals to reinforce the theoretical results.
Single topic modules add extra depth or for some an additional practical base:- building, monitoring and analysing systems
7
Module OutputsCombined topic moduleEssay, report, presentationSingle topic moduleGroup presentation, individual report
DissertationDuring the first 3 modules the student agrees a dissertation subject with the REBE academic staff.After completing the 4 modules required the student undertakes their own research producing a dissertation over a 6 month supervised dissertation module
10
The staffLibrary services etc via UEL
Student support officer provides day to day support on non academic issues
Head of quality and supportHeads of education
Programme leadersTutors & lecturers
External lecturers
11
The academic staff on REBEStaff have a variety of backgrounds and specialisms including:EngineeringRenewable energy consultancyTeaching qualifications/experienceBuilding physics/energy efficiencyPhysicsPractical renewable energy design/specification/maintenance experiencePhD level research
12
MSc REBE: Key StrengthsBroad range of students in age and backgrounds
(need degree level scientific and mathematical skills)
Staff include consultants and specialists
Leading professionals from industry to lecture and lead practical activities in specialist areas
Existing students praise the standard and combination of theoretical and practical activities
Unique learning environment
Detailed feedback and support
Novel and cutting edge dissertation research14
ReferencesDepartment of Energy and Climate Change (2012) Renewables Investment and Jobs Announced 1st April
2011 – 17th Jan 2012 Available at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/meeting-energy-demand/renewable-energy/3994-renewables-investment-and-jobs-announced-1-april-t.pdf (Accessed: 17th March 2012).
16