Energy and Sustainability (Graduate Certificate)
Program Overview
The Energy and Sustainability certificate program prepares graduates to lead the transition to sustainable energy. It offers a transdisciplinary perspective, combining technical, economic, social, and policy dimensions of energy systems. Graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainable energy technologies, policies, and markets, equipping them for careers in academia, industry, or government.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Objective:
Prepare graduates to become leaders in guiding the societal transition to sustainable energy.
Description:
The Energy and Sustainability certificate program is designed for students from diverse educational backgrounds who are in graduate-level energy-related fields. It offers a transdisciplinary perspective that combines technical, economic, social, and policy dimensions of energy systems. Graduates gain a basic understanding of sustainable energy technology and systems, including social aspects like markets and policies. They learn to analyze energy generation, consumption, and costs, and how these metrics can be used in policy discussions.
Outline
Required Core (6 credit hours):
- SOS 572 | Sustainable Energy Transitions (3)
- SOS 574 | Data Analytics for Sustainable Energy (3)
Electives (9 credit hours):
- Technical Fundamentals of Energy Systems (3)
- Policy and Governance of Energy Systems (3)
- Restricted Elective (3)
Program Structure:
The program is designed to be flexible and allow students to tailor their learning to their specific interests. Students can choose from a variety of electives to focus on specific areas of energy sustainability.
Course Schedule:
Courses are offered in a variety of formats, including online, hybrid, and in-person. The program can be completed in as little as one year.
Modules:
- Technical Fundamentals of Energy Systems: This module covers the fundamentals of energy systems, including renewable energy technologies, energy storage, and energy efficiency.
- Policy and Governance of Energy Systems: This module examines the policies and regulations that govern energy systems, including energy markets, environmental regulations, and international climate agreements.
- Restricted Elective: Students can choose from a variety of electives to focus on specific areas of interest, such as energy finance, energy justice, or energy and climate change.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
- Coursework
- Exams
- Projects
- Presentations
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of key concepts
- Ability to apply knowledge to real-world problems
- Critical thinking and analysis skills
- Communication skills
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Group projects
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of faculty with expertise in energy systems, sustainability, and related fields.
Unique Approaches:
The program uses a transdisciplinary approach that integrates technical, economic, social, and policy dimensions of energy systems. This allows students to gain a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable energy.
Careers
Career Paths:
- Policy analyst
- Project manager
- Regulatory affairs specialist
- Renewable energy engineer
- Strategy consultant
Career Opportunities:
Graduates are competitive for employment opportunities in academia, industry, or government.
Other
- The program is offered by the School of Sustainability in the College of Global Futures.
- Students can study abroad to gain global experience.
- The program is open to students with a bachelor's or master's degree in any field.
