What do marine engineering and vehicle engineering have in common? How can cooperation between Croatian and Hungarian universities open up new opportunities for students and researchers? These were among the key topics discussed during a professional visit by a delegation from the University of Rijeka's Faculty of Engineering to the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Debrecen.
Exploring the Faculty's Research Laboratories
A highlight of the visit was a tour of the Faculty's engineering laboratories. The Croatian guests explored the mechanical engineering and mechatronics laboratories and visited the Faculty's new Vehicle Engineering Research Laboratory.
The visit provided an excellent opportunity for representatives of both institutions to exchange teaching and research experiences, learn more about Debrecen's practice-oriented approach to engineering education and identify potential areas for future cooperation.
One Semester, Six Courses, 30 Credits – Discover Rijeka!
The visit also brought exciting news for students. Representatives of the University of Rijeka introduced their Marine Vessels semester-long specialization to an audience of nearly 100 second-year vehicle engineering students, both Hungarian and international.
Taught entirely in English, the programme introduces students to ship design, ship structures, hydromechanics and marine engineering systems. With six courses totaling 30 ECTS credits, it combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience through laboratory sessions and design projects.
Under the current plans, students from the University of Debrecen will be able to take part in the programme from the spring semester of 2028.
Beyond the academic opportunities, the presentation also offered a glimpse of life in Rijeka and the surrounding Kvarner region. Through the award-winning short film Make Your Own Movie, the visitors highlighted what makes the area an attractive destination for studying, working, and everyday life.
Building Connections, Creating Opportunities
The delegation's visit was about much more than introducing a new study programme. It marked another step towards strengthening cooperation between the two faculties and could pave the way for future joint educational initiatives, research projects and international student mobility opportunities.
One of the most promising aspects of this partnership is the opportunity it creates for engineering students to step beyond their usual fields of study, explore new technologies and develop their skills in an international environment.
The meeting in Debrecen therefore served not only to reinforce existing academic ties but also to lay the groundwork for new opportunities in the years ahead.
Cs.K.