Certificate and Minor Track I students - Program Office,
132 Scrugham Engineering/Mines
(775) 784-6925
Minor Track II students, contact your departmental advisor
The interdisciplinary minor program in renewable energy is open to all students. This minor has two tracks. Students may elect either track but for most students majoring in engineering, track one will be most suitable as it will further enhance their degree to include a specialization in alternative energy. For most students majoring in areas other than engineering, track two will be most suitable. Regardless of the track chosen, the program is designed to ensure that students are exposed to the technical, economic, and social issues relevant to renewable energy.
Track I is designed for students in engineering who seek additional specialization in the interdisciplinary studies of alternative energy sources, improved generation technologies, energy policy and the economics of various energy sources. Students in chemical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science and mechanical engineering will find that this minor complements their major discipline and provides them with the background needed to address many issues associated with renewable energy. Students in environmental engineering, computer science and engineering, chemistry, and physics may also find this track useful. Students in engineering and computer science and engineering must consult with their advisor to ensure that the maximum number of credits will count toward their degree.
Track II is designed primarily for students in disciplines other than engineering. These students will receive training in the basic technical aspects of renewable energy as well as learning about energy policy and the economics of various energy sources. Students in any major may pursue this track. This track may be particularly appropriate for students interested in science, environmental studies, political science, and business. It may also be appropriate for those who are technically oriented with a focus on geothermal energy.
The objective of the interdisciplinary minor is to provide students with technical skills, economic and political background, and analysis and design skills that will help them to better apply the knowledge gained in their major to the nationally important issues of alternative and renewable energy. Students will be exposed to a broad range of technical and social/political disciplines necessary to understand the sources of renewable energy, technical and economic decisions involved in using alternative energy sources, and the policy and regulatory issues that influence adoption of alternative energy resources.
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