Power Conversion and Control, Capstone Certificate
Program Overview
The Power Conversion and Control Capstone Certificate is an online program designed for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in power electronics, drives, and controls. It comprises 9 credits of coursework, including topics such as electric drive systems, power electronic circuits, and automatic controls. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in power engineering, including power electronics design, power system analysis, and electric vehicle propulsion systems.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Power Conversion and Control Capstone Certificate provides professionals with opportunities to sharpen their expertise in the areas of power electronics, drives, and controls. It is an online program that was developed to meet the requirements of more than 80 corporate sponsors of the Wisconsin Electric Machines and Power Electronics Consortium (WEMPEC). It serves as a stepping stone for individuals seeking admission to UW-Madison's online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering with a named option in Power Engineering.
Outline:
The Power Conversion and Control Capstone Certificate comprises 9 credits and can be completed within three consecutive terms. Students are expected to complete all courses with a minimum GPA of 2.00. Course offerings include:
- E C E 411 Introduction to Electric Drive Systems (3 credits)
- E C E 412 Power Electronic Circuits (3 credits)
- M E 446 Automatic Controls (3 credits)
- E C E 711 Dynamics and Control of AC Drives (3 credits)
- E C E 712 Solid State Power Conversion (3 credits)
Assessment:
The program follows a rigorous assessment system, requiring students to earn a minimum grade of C in each course. Courses taken on a pass/fail or audit basis will not be counted towards the Capstone Certificate requirements. All Capstone Certificate credits must be earned at UW-Madison, either on campus or through distance learning.
Teaching:
The program leverages a combination of teaching methods to deliver its curriculum, including lectures, assignments, discussions, and practical applications. The faculty comprises experienced professionals with deep expertise in the fields of power electronics, drives, and controls.
Careers:
Upon completion of the Power Conversion and Control Capstone Certificate, graduates are well-positioned for various career opportunities in the power engineering industry. They may work in areas such as:
- Power electronics design and development
- Power system analysis and control
- Electric vehicle propulsion systems
- Renewable energy systems
- Industrial automation and control
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
- A B.S. degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or the equivalent.
- A B.S. in electrical engineering is recommended. Students who do not have a B.S.E.E. need to have completed fundamental coursework in electrical engineering including circuit theory, fourier analysis, AC circuit analysis using complex impedances, transfer function analysis and evaluation including Bode plots, transformer equivalent circuits, piecewise continuous analysis of nonlinear circuits, and magnetic theory.
- A minimum undergraduate grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00 on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours (approximately two years of work) or a master’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. Applicants from an international institution must have a strong academic performance comparable to a 3.00 for an undergraduate or master’s degree. All GPAs are based on a 4.00 scale.
- Applicants whose native language is not English must provide scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The minimum acceptable score on the TOEFL is 580 on the written version, 243 on the computer version, or 92 on the Internet version.
- *Equivalency to an ABET-accredited program: Applicants who do not have bachelor’s degree from an ABET accredited program may also qualify for admission to the program. Such applicants must have a B.S. in science, technology, or a related field with sufficient coursework and professional experience to demonstrate proficiency in engineering practice.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose native language is not English must provide scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The minimum acceptable score on the TOEFL is 580 on the written version, 243 on the computer version, or 92 on the Internet version.
