Course overview
This two-year Solar Panel Engineering program provides a specialized technical foundation in renewable energy systems, focusing on the design, installation, and maintenance of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. The first year combines advanced engineering theory with hands-on technical labs, while the second year immerses students in a professional industrial placement within the renewable energy sector.
Entry requirements
- High School Certificate or equivalent with passes in Mathematics and Physics.
- Physical fitness appropriate for field work and outdoor installations.
- Basic understanding of electrical principles is preferred.
Year 1 — Academic study
Full-time, campus-based study across two semesters in Glasgow.
Semester 1
SOL101
Introduction to Solar Panel Engineering
Fundamental concepts of solar energy, photonics, and renewable systems.
SOL102
Electrical Principles for Solar PV
DC/AC circuits, voltage regulation, and electrical safety in solar arrays.
SOL103
Health, Safety, and Environment in Renewables
Workplace safety standards, fall protection for roof installations, and environmental regulations.
SOL104
Solar Cell Materials and Manufacturing
Analysis of silicon and thin-film technologies used in PV modules.
SOL105
Technical Drawing and CAD for Solar Systems
Creating site layouts and electrical schematics using industry-standard software.
SOL106
Mathematics for Energy Engineering
Calculations for load estimation, efficiency ratios, and power output.
Semester 2
SOL111
Advanced Solar System Design
Sizing arrays, inverter selection, and battery storage integration for off-grid and grid-tied systems.
SOL112
Project Management for Clean Energy
Planning, procurement, and scheduling for large-scale solar installations.
SOL113
Sustainability and Green Policy
Understanding global energy trends, carbon footprints, and governmental incentives.
SOL114
Installation and Maintenance Workshop
Hands-on training in mounting hardware, wiring, and system troubleshooting.
SOL115
Renewable Energy Economics
Financial modeling, return on investment (ROI) analysis, and energy market dynamics.
SOL116
Smart Grid and Emerging Technologies
Integration of IoT in solar monitoring and future trends in energy storage.
Industrial Placement Year
The second year consists of a mandatory 12-month supervised industrial placement with a partner renewable energy firm or solar engineering contractor. Students work as junior solar technicians or design assistants. Assessment is based on a professional portfolio, site supervisor feedback, and a final technical report on a real-world installation project.
Career progression
Work opportunities
- Solar PV Design Engineer
- Renewable Energy Project Coordinator
- Solar Installation Supervisor
- Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Specialist
Academic pathways
- Advanced standing toward a Bachelor of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering.
- Progression to a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Electrical Power Systems.
- Specialized certifications in NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners).
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