A growing number of 2-year and 4-year schools across the country offer certificate and undergraduate degree programs for individuals wishing to become engineers, technicians, data analysts or managers in the field of renewable energy.
Schools with Renewable Energy Technology
These institutions offer programs in renewable energy technology.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Michigan College | Traverse City, MI | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $7,604 In-state Undergraduate; $9,611 Out-of-state Undergraduate |
| Heartland Community College | Normal, IL | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $8,850 In-state Undergraduate; $13,110 Out-of-state Undergraduate |
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | 4-year, Private | Certificate, Master's | $51,711 Undergraduate; $24,144 Graduate |
| Oregon Institute of Technology | Klamath Falls, OR | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's | $10,118 In-state Undergraduate; $14,562 In-state Graduate |
| SUNY - Canton | Canton, NY | 4-year, Public | Training program | $8,875** |
| Illinois State University - Normal | Normal, IL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $14,516 In-state Undergraduate; $26,040 Out-of-state Undergraduate |
| Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | 4-year, Public | Master's | $7,961 In-state Graduate; $21,393 Out-of-state Graduate |
| Lane Community College | Eugene, OR | 2-year, Public | Associate's | $4,812 In-state Undergraduate; $10,428 Out-of-state Undergraduate |
Sources: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES); **School Websites(2019-2020)
School Selection Criteria
There are several factors to consider when choosing a renewable energy technology school.
- Some programs have emphases in certain energy sources, like solar, wind, hydro, ocean-thermal, geothermal, etc.
- Certificates prepare students for entry-level positions while an associate's or bachelor's would quality graduates for higher-level positions.
- Look for faculty with experience in renewable energy technologies.
- Access to equipment such as solar labs and wind turbines may prepare students for fieldwork and eventual employment.
Renewable Energy Certificate
A renewable energy certificate prepares students for higher education courses or assists in getting them an entry-level position. A certificate program typically consists of about 12-15 credit hours.
Associate of Applied Science in Renewable Energy
An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) introduces students to classes that incorporate computer and electronic technology.
Bachelor of Science in Renewable Energy
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) is for students who want a more advanced education and preparation for a renewable energy technology career.
Renewable energy programs are offered at the certificate, associate's degree, bachelor's degree and master's degree levels; when choosing a program the first thing to consider is which degree level you plan to pursue. Reviewing the program course options can help determine which schools offer programs that are best suited to your interests.
