Renewable Energy Engineering course gains prestigious industry accreditation

Southampton Solent University’s BEng (Hons) Renewable Energy Engineering course has been accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) for the first time, marking a significant milestone for the University and its engineering provision.

The accreditation recognises the quality of the course and the skills and knowledge students develop to meet the demands of the engineering profession. Students who joined the course from the 2020/21 academic year onwards have also been awarded accredited degree status retrospectively, ensuring recent graduates benefit from the recognition.

IET accreditation provides students with a number of advantages throughout their studies and careers. It forms part of the eligibility criteria for a range of prestigious scholarships and prizes, including the IET Future Talent Awards, which are supported through charitable funding and donations from leading engineering and technology organisations.

The accreditation also enhances graduate employability by aligning the course with the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence and Commitment (UK-SPEC), helping graduates demonstrate they have developed the skills, knowledge and professional foundations needed for careers in engineering and future professional registration.

The announcement comes alongside the successful reaccreditation of Solent’s Electronic and Mechanical Engineering programme, reflecting the strength and continued development of the University’s engineering portfolio.

Designed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing society, the Renewable Energy Engineering course equips students with the scientific and technical expertise needed to support the transition to more sustainable energy systems. Through a combination of classroom learning and specialist laboratory work, students develop a strong grounding in engineering theory, renewable power generation, environmental impact and energy efficiency.

The first year of study is shared with Solent’s wider engineering degrees, providing students with core skills in mathematics, mechanics, electrical engineering, manufacturing, computer-aided design (CAD), engineering design processes and professional practice. In later years, students explore renewable energy technologies, energy distribution and efficient engineering systems, alongside specialist study of lightweight structures used in renewable energy and vehicle technologies.

Students also benefit from access to the University’s state-of-the-art SMART Centre, which opened in January 2026 and provides advanced facilities to support hands-on learning, innovation and industry-relevant skills development.

Dr Nils Bausch, Course Lead for Renewable Energy Engineering at Southampton Solent University, said:

"We are delighted to receive IET accreditation for our Renewable Energy Engineering course. This recognition reflects the quality of our curriculum, the expertise of our academic team and our commitment to preparing students for careers that will help shape a more sustainable future."

The accreditation further strengthens Southampton Solent University’s commitment to delivering industry-focused education and producing highly skilled graduates ready to contribute to the future of engineering and sustainable energy.