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What Are the Different Types of Renewable Energy Degree Programs?

Geri Terzo
Geri Terzo

Renewable energy, which may also be referred to as clean technology or alternative power, is part of an industry that attracts some of the most educated professionals in the world. Individuals can attempt to earn an education across various segments of the industry as there are many different renewable energy degree programs. Some of those courses of study focus on the technology of the operations while others can be geared toward finances. Students can learn how to run machinery, manage an alternative power facility, or determine how to finance a new development, for instance.

The pace at which regions adopt alternative energy is often dictated, at least in part, but public policy. Individuals can pursue renewable energy degree programs that are dedicated to the state of public policy. Students can achieve this type of training on an undergraduate or graduate level, and will likely learn the way that laws, federal and local government budgets, as well as regional economic conditions impact the adoption of clean energy initiatives.

A wind farm.
A wind farm.

Alternative energy is a vast field and it generally benefits students to understand the particular industry segment or niche that he or she prefers to pursue a career early. This is likely to help individuals receive the most appropriate training for the workforce when the time comes. For instance, students can pursue renewable energy degree programs that are dedicated to the technology that makes alternative power operate. Further, individuals can attempt to uncover course work that focuses on a given niche of this sector, such as solar or wind power generation, for instance.

Renewable energy students can select coursework that specializes in solar power, if desired.
Renewable energy students can select coursework that specializes in solar power, if desired.

Operating large equipment is a significant part of working in the alternative power space. Individuals can pursue renewable energy degree programs that instruct students how to build, operate, and maintain the appropriate machinery. Often, it is those workers with specialized training who are most suited to run wind farms or install solar panels and as a result completing an education in operations could be quite beneficial.

There are sometimes government incentive programs to help renewable power projects begin. Also, clean technology developments often require a degree of equity and debt financing, including investments from institutions and loans. As a result, the industry often demands highly specialized financial expertise. Individuals can follow renewable energy degree programs for accounting or financial management specifically for this sector. This knowledge can be used to support the financing aspect of these projects, which are often quite expensive and require economic creativity.

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    • A wind farm.
      A wind farm.
    • Renewable energy students can select coursework that specializes in solar power, if desired.
      By: Aania
      Renewable energy students can select coursework that specializes in solar power, if desired.