Bachelor in Sustainable Engineering
A new generation of scientists and professionals for sustainable development.
A graduate of this program is eligible for a wide variety of positions in the private and public sectors in the fields of utilities, renewable energy, automation, sustainable construction and retrofitting sustainable development, and bio-environmental solutions.
This research-based education program stimulates the development of a critical mass of academic experts in a variety of fields that can address sustainability challenges, and can take into account the vulnerable and developmental needs of small island states from an internal perspective, as well as contextualize solutions and create new industries in small island states.
Sustainable development is needed for all countries
Sustainable development is on the global agenda, but especially small island states are vulnerable due to their small size and the many (largely external) challenges they face. Higher education needs to play a pivotal role in the implementation of sustainable development policies and the corresponding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For small island states, besides local governance strategies, local universities play a crucial role in the implementation of the SDGs due to their contextual embeddedness and their knowledge of that specific island state. This is what SISSTEM is about.
- Bio-environmental Sciences
- Information and Data Sciences
- Technology and Engineering
Academic program
The following gives an overview of the academic courses offered in the first year of the Bachelor’s degree program, including the total credits per course subject. In the Study Guide, a description is given of each course subject with its lecturer(s) and the prescribed or recommended literature.
For each academic year 60 credits (EC) should be obtained.
| Bachelor 1 Compulsory courses | Credits |
| Principles of sustainability and SDG’s | 6 ECs |
| Mathematics 1 | 6 ECs |
| General chemistry | 6 ECs |
| Basics of physics | 6 ECs |
| Geosciences | 6 ECs |
| Integrative project | 6 ECs |
| Applied biological sciences | 6 ECs |
| Introduction to informatics | 6 ECs |
| Mathematics 2 | 6 ECs |
| Physics: electromagnetics | 6 ECs |
| Total 60 ECs |
A detailed description of the study program’s course subjects can be found in the Study Guide or in the course catalog of OSIRIS.
General criteria
Admission to The Bachelor of Science program in Sustainable Engineering is permitted to the person who is in possession of a VWO/IB/AFY exact sciences track certificate.
For graduates of HAVO/CXC: admission after completion of AFY with the STEM elective line.
For more practical information about student life at UA, the facilities the university offers, and information about your registration or changes in your personal information, contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Our online registration opens from May 15th until July 15th. Click on the online registration link, which will be visible during the registration period. You will be directed to the application portal Osiris. If you’re a new student, create an account and submit your application. Once you have submitted your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation and instructions on how to submit any required hard-copy documents to the University.
The deadline for submission of your application is July 15. The University of Aruba reserves the right to deny any application submitted after the deadline.
Career opportunities
A graduate of the Bachelor of Science program in Sustainable Engineering is eligible for a wide variety of positions in the private and public sectors in the fields of utilities, renewable energy, automation, sustainable construction and retrofitting sustainable development, and bio-environmental solutions.
Further education
After obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Sustainable Engineering there is the possibility to continue with academic master programs in a wide range of STEM and sustainability studies, including the multidisciplinary SISSTEM master program at the University of Aruba.
Student Testimonial
“THIS PROGRAM HAS GIVEN ME HOPE FOR THE FUTURE, NOT ONLY FOR SMALL ISLAND STATES BUT ALSO FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR FUTURE ON THIS PLANET.”
My experience in the SISSTEM program has been a very positive one, I’ve found the classes very exciting, challenging, and eye-opening. Not only has the staff been amazing in accommodating for the covid struggles that we have all faced, but their passion for their jobs has been incredible to witness. This program has given me hope for the future, not only for small island states but also for the sustainable development of our future on this planet.
Celia Kusmus
SISSTEM Student
Tuition fees
| Student | Program | Study load | Total tuition |
| Local | Bachelor | Full-time | AWG. 2.000 (Excluding AWG. 500 admin fee) |
| International* | Bachelor | Full-time | 4 times the local tuition fee |
*International students are non-Dutch passport holders who have resided in Aruba for less than 5 years.
Important dates
Deadline first payment: September 1
Deadline second payment: January 5
Aruba
Aruba is the perfect place to broaden your skills and expand your horizons, no matter what profession you plan to pursue. With its stunning beaches, warm tropical climate, friendly people and vibrant culture, here you’ll find the perfect environment to thrive in.
The University of Aruba
At the University of Aruba, you will enjoy a modern and well equipped learning environment to help you make the most out of your studies. You'll be taught by highly experienced lecturers who will inspire you to reach your goals. As you develop your skills and insights future career prospects will only increase.
Your New Life
We offer lots of recreational activities for students to take part in. From water sports to guided nature hikes, there’s something for everyone. With plenty of sunny days, there’s also lots of time for fun in the sun.
University of Aruba
Phone: +297 526-2200
stem@ua.aw
J.E. Irausquinplein 4
Oranjestad, Aruba
*This is funded/co-funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.