Geothermal Energy and Applications

Program Overview

This 15-credit online short course, starting June 3, 2024, provides a comprehensive foundation in geothermal energy, covering science, technology, and business aspects. It aims to equip participants with the skills to exploit geothermal energy for decarbonization, evaluate market opportunities, and contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals. The course is delivered over 10 weeks, with assessment through a written assignment.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This is a 15-credit short course at SCQF level 11, delivered online, part-time, over 10 weeks, starting on June 3, 2024.

• Objectives: This program aims to equip participants with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of geothermal energy, covering science, technology, and business aspects.
It also aims to equip participants with the technical and business skills to exploit geothermal energy for decarbonising heating and cooling applications; to evaluate opportunities in the rapidly expanding geothermal energy market; and to meet UN Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 11.

Outline:

• Content: The course covers the fundamentals, prospects, operations, and advanced technologies used in the generation of electricity from geothermal energy resources.
It also explores the scientific, technological, environmental, and social components of geothermal energy, including drilling techniques, geothermal pumps, Enhanced and Advanced Geothermal Systems, and economic evaluation of geothermal systems. The program delves into the technical and non-technical barriers to geothermal energy development.
• Structure: The course is delivered over 10 weeks, with 7 weeks dedicated to teaching and 2 weeks for assessment and submission.
• Schedule: The course is delivered online using the University's virtual learning environment, Moodle.
• Individual Modules: The course is structured as a single module, with the entire content focusing on geothermal energy and applications.

Assessment:

• Methods: The course is assessed through a written assignment, including an essay.

Teaching:

• Methods: Teaching is delivered online via a mix of recorded presentations, PowerPoint slides, recordings, lecture notes, and guest lectures.
Participants are expected to engage in online forum discussions.
• Faculty: The module has been developed by a team of academic and professional staff with extensive expertise in energy transitions.
The team comprises tutors from Aberdeen Business School and the Energy Transition Institute.

Other:

• Upskilling: RGU offers a range of online upskilling short courses tailored to meet the evolving needs of businesses and individuals in Scotland.
If you are domiciled in Scotland, you will be eligible for a fee-waiver place, meaning you can upskill for free.
• Study Skills Support: The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in academic writing, study skills, maths and statistics, English language, and information technology support.
• Library Support: The Library offers support for the course, including books, eBooks, and journals.
They also offer online reading lists, workshops, and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing.
• Online Learning & Support: All online learning students benefit from using the University's collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle.
Students have 24/7 online access to learning materials and resources, and the ability to interact with classmates and tutors for discussion and support.
• Disclaimer: Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes.
The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Fee-waiver places
Course participants must be domiciled in Scotland to be eligible for a fee-waiver place.
• All other applicants
Applicants who are not eligible for a fee-waiver place can pay to study the course - £350 entire course