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?

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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

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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

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(Department of Energy and Climate Change, 2012) 5

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

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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

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REBE2014/2015Study the core

module & choose 3 others

(>1 Single Topic Module)

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REBE Typical programme

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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

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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

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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

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Final Destinations

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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

Questions?

MSc REBE January 2015

15Centre for Alternative Technology

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).

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