Online Degree Programs in Alternative Energy

There are alternative energy-related degree programs available online at the bachelor's and master's degree levels. Programs focus on renewable energy sources, leadership in sustainable energy, and the environmental and economical impact of the sustainable, alternative energy industry.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Renewable Energy

An online bachelor's degree in renewable energy is available to students who want to incorporate sustainable business and lifestyle practices into a wide variety of fields. Graduates of this program are equipped with a wide range of cross-disciplinary skills that include mathematics, science, engineering, research, business, teamwork and communication. Degree programs in renewable energy are still new, and consequently, rarely available to be completed entirely online.

Program Information and Requirements

Online bachelor's degree programs in renewable energy are generally 120 credit hours in length and can be completed in four years. Though it is possible to find this program available entirely online, it is more common to find individual online courses in renewable and sustainable energy offered through an on-campus degree program. Students can select online courses to be completed individually, or in an online group setting, where peers and professors communicate through discussion boards.
Students must have access to a computer with a high-speed Internet connection. Some courses contain streaming video that requires a computer to have audio and video capabilities. A printer is necessary for students to create copies of their study material.

List of Online Bachelor of Renewable Energy Courses

Fundamentals in Renewable Energy Course

This course introduces students to the practices and external influences involved in sustainable energy. Concepts in this course include solar energy, hydrogen power, wind power, fuel-cells, biofuels, hydroelectricity and wave power. Students also study the economic, environmental, social and political parameters that influence renewable energy practices.

Weatherization and Energy Efficiency Course

Students in this course explore the fundamentals of weatherization for structures and the techniques used to maximize energy in buildings. Students learn to monitor a building's energy usage and improve its energy efficiency.

Green Building Course

A course in green building introduces students to the fundamental concepts of sustainable building materials, design and construction. Students study practices used for both institutional and residential buildings. This course also recognizes green building concepts from a LEED certification perspective.

Career Information for Graduates

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fastest-growing sector of the electric power industry is renewable energy (www.bls.gov). Although no exact number is estimated, this same source anticipates the employment rate of the renewable energy field to increase in coming years. This BLS also cites the mean annual wage for electrical engineers at $86,250 as of May 2009.

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Online Alternative Energy Master's Degree Programs

Online master's degree programs related to alternative energy include a Master of Business Administration in Global Energy Management, Master of Business Administration in Managing for Sustainability and Master of Science in Global Energy Management. These programs are all similar in that they focus on the use of conventional energy sources and the future use of alternative, sustainable energy.
Students learn how these new power sources are developed, financed and regulated. The program provides students with advanced training in current and future sustainability concepts, as well as developing marketing plans and policies for the implementation of these concepts. Students must have an undergraduate degree in business or related degree prior to enrolling in these programs.

Program Information and Requirements

These master's degree programs are available entirely online, as well as in a hybrid format. Some programs require the student to meet on campus a few days a month to discuss current problems the alternative energy industry is facing. Classes are often administered using a software platform called eCollege. Students use this platform to communicate with teachers, take tests, watch videos and submit papers. Textbooks and other physical material required can be obtained on campus or mailed to the student.

List of Online Alternative Energy Master's Degree Program Courses

Renewable Energy Course

This course covers the various technologies that are used to power automobiles, generate electricity and provide heat. Topics include solar energy, biofuels, geothermal systems and wind power. Students learn how to assess each alternative energy source's economic and environmental impact and risk.

Sustainability Course

The course on sustainability examines the social, political, business and economic impact of sustaining alternative energy. The course focuses on the core impact that the development of these alternative, sustainable energy sources have had on society. Students also gain an understanding of the facts and prospective problems that these energy sources are facing.

Sustainable Modes of Transportation Course

Transportation systems are analyzed in this course, and students gain an understanding of how to improve the current systems. Environmental policies and the controlling of emissions and water pollution are all examined. Students study the different alternative fuel sources in order to determine the economical and environmental impact.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates have a variety of career options that allow them to apply their knowledge of sustainable energy into practice and use their leadership skills. For example, students can gain upper-level employment as a business manager with a company pursuing sustainable alternative fuel sources. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, operations and business managers held 1,733,100 jobs in the country (www.bls.gov). The average annual wage of a manager in the related field of technical consulting was $130,390 in May of 2008. In addition to private business, employment can also be gained through the government where graduates can make slightly less per year.

Continuing Education Information

Students can continue their education and pursue a Ph.D. in Energy Resources Engineering, which may not be available online. This degree offers graduates an opportunity to teach at the university level or perform research.