Graduate Certificate in Wind Energy
There is a growing need for professionals with an advanced education that considers the wind turbine as a system, including the influence of wind resource and external factors that impact wind energy project development.
Courses in the online, 9-credit wind energy graduate certificate can help you prepare to lead wind energy development projects by addressing such topics as:
- the interconnected design elements of a modern horizontal axis wind turbine and how its design relates to site specific implementation
- aerodynamic theory and computational methods used for the design of state-of-the-art wind turbines
- the use of design and analysis software common across the industry
- optimization of a wind project site from performance, logistics, financial, and environmental perspectives
Why a Certificate in Wind Energy at Penn State?
The Graduate Certificate in Wind Energy provides you with a highly relevant wind energy curriculum taught by leading wind energy faculty. A graduate certificate in wind energy can help you add an important credential to your résumé — as you acquire a skill set valued across the wind energy industry.
In addition, you get the convenience and flexibility of completing your coursework at times and places that fit into your life and current schedule. The certificate can be completed in one year, beginning in any semester (fall semester, beginning in August; spring semester, beginning in January; or summer semester, beginning in May).
Who Should Apply?
The graduate certificate in wind energy is ideal for you if you are looking to get involved in or lead advances in the wind energy industry. Whether you are a current or aspiring practitioner in the field, the certificate program can provide you with the opportunity to improve your skills and further your career. Students will come into the certificate program with various undergraduate degrees; however, applicants are expected to have taken college-level courses in fluid mechanics, statics, and dynamics for entry into this graduate certificate.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Professionals with experience in wind energy systems are needed to ensure the cost-effective development of wind energy projects in increasingly challenging environments. Companies will look for individuals with a broad understanding of the wind project development process, as well as technical depth in turbine siting and technology.
Because of the balanced perspective of technical, logistical, and project development aspects of wind energy in this certificate, you could be qualified for such positions as:
- wind energy project manager
- wind research analyst
- process engineer – wind energy
- senior wind developer
- director of environmental permitting
More information:
- Susan Stewart
Lead, Graduate Certificate in Wind Energy
sjw147@psu.edu
814-863-0138
