| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-08-01 | - |
| 2024-02-01 | - |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Energy Policy Certificate program at Bellingham provides students with a comprehensive understanding of energy-related policies, laws, and economics. Through coursework and real-world case studies, students develop analytical and problem-solving skills to address the challenges of transitioning to a sustainable energy future. The program prepares graduates for careers in energy policy, analysis, and planning, with opportunities in government, non-profits, and the clean energy sector.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Energy Policy Certificate
- Location: Bellingham
- Total Credits: 16
- Program Type: Certificate
- Application Deadlines:
- Fall - August 1
- Spring - February 1
- Winter - October 1
Goals:
- Provide students with knowledge and understanding of economic, legal, and public policy issues associated with energy-related policies, programs, and incentives.
- Equip students with the necessary skills to analyze and develop effective energy policies.
- Address the increasing demand for a trained energy workforce in Washington's emerging clean energy economy.
Target Audience:
- Students pursuing graduate studies or careers in energy policy, analysis, and planning.
- Professionals working in the energy sector who want to enhance their policy expertise.
- Individuals interested in contributing to a sustainable energy future.
Outline:
- Program Duration: 1 academic year (3 quarters)
- Course Schedule:
- Fall Quarter: ENVS 500 - Energy, Policy and Sustainability (4 credits)
- Winter Quarter: ENVS 530 - Energy Law and Regulation (4 credits)
- Spring Quarter: ENVS 560 - Energy Policy Analysis (4 credits) and ENVS 590 - Energy Economics (4 credits)
- Individual Module Descriptions:
- ENVS 500 - Energy, Policy and Sustainability: Provides an overview of energy systems, energy policy, and sustainability. Explores the historical development of energy policy, the current energy landscape, and the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning to a sustainable energy future.
- ENVS 530 - Energy Law and Regulation: Examines the legal and regulatory framework governing energy production, transportation, and consumption. Analyzes the role of federal, state, and local governments in regulating the energy sector.
- ENVS 560 - Energy Policy Analysis: Introduces students to the tools and techniques used to analyze energy policies. Covers topics such as cost-benefit analysis, risk assessment, and life-cycle analysis.
- ENVS 590 - Energy Economics: Explores the economic principles that govern energy markets and the impact of energy policy on economic development.
Assessment:
- Assessment Methods:
- Coursework assignments (e.g., essays, presentations, case studies)
- Final exam for each course
- Assessment Criteria:
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Knowledge of energy policy issues
- Ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations
- Effective communication and writing skills
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods:
- Interactive lectures
- Case studies
- Group projects
- Guest speakers from the energy industry
- Faculty:
- Faculty members with expertise in energy policy, law, economics, and environmental science
- Unique Approaches:
- Focus on real-world case studies and problem-solving
- Opportunities to interact with energy professionals
- Emphasis on developing critical thinking and analytical skills
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- Energy policy analyst
- Energy consultant
- Environmental scientist
- Sustainability manager
- Government policy advisor
- Career Opportunities:
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Energy companies
- Consulting firms
- Research institutions
- Career Outcomes:
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the growing clean energy sector.
- The certificate program provides students with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the transition to a sustainable energy future.
Other:
- The program is delivered online, which allows for flexibility and accessibility for students.
- Students can combine the certificate program with an MA or MS degree program to enhance their career opportunities.
- The program is open to both current graduate students and new applicants.
Western Washington University
Overview:
Western Washington University (WWU) is a public university located in Bellingham, Washington. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. WWU is known for its commitment to student success, fostering a vibrant campus community, and promoting research and innovation.
Services Offered:
WWU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Admissions and Aid:
First-year, transfer, graduate, and international admissions, tuition and cost information, financial aid, and scholarships.Academics:
Majors and programs, academic advising, colleges, libraries, institutes and centers, summer session, research opportunities, global engagement, professional and continuing education, and the university catalog.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Housing and dining, athletics, clubs, organizations, and events, accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion resources, counseling, health, and wellness services, career services, international student and scholar services, and a resource directory.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at WWU can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, providing opportunities for students to connect with others, explore their interests, and develop leadership skills. The campus is located in Bellingham, a charming city with a beautiful natural setting, offering access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
WWU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including highly regarded programs in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, and the arts.Beautiful Campus and Location:
The university is situated in a picturesque setting, with easy access to the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.Vibrant Campus Community:
WWU fosters a welcoming and inclusive campus community, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and support.Research Opportunities:
The university provides opportunities for students to engage in research, both within and outside the classroom.Academic Programs:
WWU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Art, Communication, English, History, Music, Philosophy, Theatre, and more.Social Sciences:
Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and more.Sciences:
Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, and more.Education:
Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.Business:
Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, and more.Health Sciences:
Nursing, Health Sciences, and more.Entry Requirements:
The program has different requirements for current graduate students and new applicants.
Current graduate students adding the certificate to their in-progress master's degree:
- ApplyWeb
- No application fee.
New applicants:
- ApplyWeb
- Pay a $100 application fee.
- Upload unofficial transcripts from each institution attended.
- Submit a statement of purpose outlining:
- Prior exposure to energy systems, energy policy, or policy analysis (via employment or coursework).
- Expectations or aspirations for the future in this field.
- Meet the program's admission deadline:
- Fall: August 1
- Spring: February 1
- Winter: October 1
Admission preferences:
However, it is delivered online, so applicants should have a high level of English proficiency to fully benefit from the program.
