Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Photovoltaics and Solar Energy)

Program Overview

This globally recognized undergraduate degree in Photovoltaics and Solar Engineering combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through 60 days of industrial training. Students gain a solid foundation in mathematics, natural sciences, and computing, while specializing in areas such as technology development, manufacturing, and system design. The program features innovative teaching techniques and allows students to select a complementary strand in Year 2, preparing them for careers in the rapidly growing renewable energy sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This undergraduate degree is globally recognized and accredited by Engineers Australia. Part of your study involves applying your skills through 60 days of approved industrial training in Australia or overseas. Your industrial training will give you a taste of a real-world professional engineering setting and the hands-on experience to become career-ready.

Outline:

This degree is a four-year degree, which can be studied part time or full time. You’ll gain a solid background in mathematics, natural sciences, and computing that’ll prepare you to learn knowledge and skills in Photovoltaics and Solar Engineering. We place a strong emphasis on gaining hands-on experience of working with solar energy devices, modules, and systems. You’ll study the following areas:

• Technology development
• Manufacturing
• Quality control
• Reliability
• Cell interconnection and encapsulation
• Policy development
• Life-cycle analysis
• System design
Innovative teaching techniques have been developed to enhance the learning environment including the 'Virtual Production Line' and 'Virtual World Solar Car Challenge'. A unique feature of this degree is that in Year 2, you can select a strand to complement your education in Photovoltaics and Solar Energy.

Careers:

Photovoltaic engineers can be involved in developing and refining cell production methods, installing and maintaining systems, and further integrating photovoltaics into everyday life. Graduates from our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are at the forefront of this transition to a renewable energy future. Opportunities are found in many fields. These include:

• Refining cell production technology
• Researching and developing multi-junction cells
• Concentrated solar power
• Multi-axis tracking
• Thin film technologies
• Grid-connection and integration
• Utility scale developments
• Independent system design
• Building integrated photovoltaics
Our graduates are equipped to work in large engineering companies or small start-up companies.