NC State to Offer Online Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Development

Students and working professionals can now learn about the technical, financial and political aspects of the clean energy market while also earning academic credits.

Beginning this fall, the NC State College of Natural Resources will offer a Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Assessment and Development.

The 12-credit hour online program consists of four courses that are designed to give individuals a comprehensive understanding of solar, wind and other renewables, from the basic economic principles of the clean energy market to best practices for operations and maintenance of solar farms and other infrastructure.

The program is open to individuals who have a bachelor’s degree and are interested in working in the renewable energy sector, according to program coordinator Lyra Rakusin, a lecturer in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources. 

Rakusin said the online format of the certificate program is especially useful for college graduates and industry professionals who want to broaden their knowledge of renewables but are currently unable to commit to a master’s program. 

Those who are thinking of completing a master’s program but are not yet enrolled as a student may enroll in the program and, if qualified, may transfer course credits to a Master’s in Environmental Assessment degree, according to Rakusin. Participating students can proceed at their own pace and may register for a maximum of six credit hours per semester. 

Individuals should be prepared to submit a personal statement, a resume identifying educational preparation and work experiences and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework. The application deadline for the fall session is August 16. 

For more information, visit go.ncsu.edu/red or contact program coordinator Lyra Rakusin at 919-624-3061 or ldrakusi@ncsu.edu.