Natural resource science is a comprehensive term that comprises interdisciplinary applied science studies in three main fields of specialisation: biotechnology, fisheriy science, environmental and energy science. A three year basic programme of study is offered yielding 180 ECTS and a two year master´s degree programme of 120 ECTS.
Basic Study
Basic studies in natural resource science consist of a three year programme amounting to a total of 180 or 60 ECTS units annually. The programme concludes with a B.Sc. degree examination in one of the following disciplines: biotechnology, fisheries science or environmental and energy sciences. Characteristic of the study is an interdisciplinary approach where studies and research join forces in applied science and technology studies concurrently with emphasis on economics, management and marketing. Education of this kind constitutes the premise for good natural resource management and planning and it promotes sustainable utilisation of resources and the creation of valuables. The academic year is divided into two semesters, each of which concludes with an examination. In the final year the student prepares 12 ECTS units final assignment, alongside 48 ECTS units gained in courses. Students are encouraged to make use of student exchange agreements (e.g. Erasmus, Nordplus and North2North) and do parts of their studies at recognised universities abroad.
The aim of B.Sc. studies is to prepare students for work in industry and graduate studies in an international and demanding environment. The studies are extensive and provide a sound basic education in natural sciences and disciplines relating to the exploitation of natural resources, management of natural resources, marketing and business subjects. This enables students to become familiar with interesting fields of study and opens up many opportunities on conclusion of study, e.g. in graduate studies at the department for the M.Sc. degree in natural resource sciences with emphasis on environmental and energy sciences, biology and biotechnology, fishery science and natural resource management and natural resource economics.
Graduate Studies
A graduate study programme for the M.Sc. degree examination in natural resource sciences is offered. It is a two year programme, amounting to 120 ECTS, international and research related master´s degree studies, where 60 – 90 ECTS constitute the master´s degree project and 30-60 ECTS represent courses.
The student takes the requisite courses in part at the School of Business and Science and partly at other universities in Iceland and abroad, as determined by the master´s degree committee in each instance. Primary emphasis is placed on the master´s degree project and the acquisition by students of scientific methodology. Further information is to be found in the Course Catalogue for Master´s Degree Studies.
