Course code: TEK-8512

Numerical Modeling and Simulation

Apply between November 1 and January 6
Campus Tromsø and Narvik
Semester / Year Spring 2027
Level Doktorgrad
Credits 10

About the course

Master powerful numerical discretization techniques such as FEM, FVM, and FDM to simulate structures, fluids, and heat transfer. Learn to utilize simulation software such as ANSYS and MATLAB.

Admission requirements

  • This course is aimed at PhD candidates from engineering and technology disciplines, but is also open to postdoc fellows if seats are available.
  • PhD candidates from UiT and other universities may be admitted to the course. PhD candidates who are not registered at UiT must upload a document from their university stating that they are registered as PhD candidates.

If there are 5 applicants or fewer, the course responsible will evaluate whether the course will take place.

In addition to the general admission requirements for the PhD program at UiT, the following prior knowledge is recommended:

  • Applied mathematics, physics, numerical methods, and partial differential equations.

Objectives of the course

Upon successful completion of the course, the following learning outcomes are expected to be achieved:

Knowledge:

  • Advanced knowledge of the fundamental principles of numerical modeling and simulation, including governing equations for structures, fluid flow, and heat transfer.
  • Understanding and comparing the main numerical discretization techniques (FEM, FVM, and FDM) and justify the choice of method for a given engineering problem.
  • Specialized understanding of stability, convergence, and error estimation in numerical analysis, enabling critical evaluation of simulation results.
  • Knowledge of numerical modeling in relation to experimental and analytical methods for validation purposes.

Skills:

  • Can independently discretize and solve partial differential equations (PDEs) for structural, thermal, and fluid systems using FEM, FVM, and FDM.
  • can implement and modify simulation workflows in software such as ANSYS® and MATLAB®, including mesh generation, boundary condition setup, and post-processing.
  • Can critically assess numerical accuracy, computational efficiency, and resource requirements of different simulation approaches.
  • Can communicate and defend the modeling approach, results, and interpretation in an oral examination setting.

Competence:

  • Can evaluate and apply numerical modeling as a research tool for solving open-ended, multidisciplinary engineering problems.
  • Can identify the limitations and uncertainties of numerical simulations and integrate this understanding into research design and publication.
  • Demonstrates the ability to use numerical simulation to generate new knowledge and contribute to the scientific community within engineering science.

Teaching methods

Learning types: Acquisition (20%), Practice (20%), Discussion (10%), Investigation (20%), Production (20%), and Collaboration (10%)

Activities: Lectures and workshops

Language of instruction and examination

English

Schedule

The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.

It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.

Examination

Exams
Oral exam Duration: 30 Minutes Grade:
Passed / Not Passed
Coursework requirements

To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements

Individual Reports Grade:
Approved – not approved

Everything you need to know about before, during, and after the exam; registration, absence, appeals, and diplomas: UiT Exams homepage

More info about the coursework requirements

To be eligible for the final examination, the student must submit three individual reports (coursework).

More info about the oral exam

Individual

Re-sit examination

There will not be a resit exam for this course.

Previous years and semesters

Kontakt oss

Responsible unit: Institutt for automasjon og prosessteknologi