Masters in sustainable energy is a degree program which educates students about modern concepts such as, alternative forms of producing energy like, hydro and solar. It gives them advanced knowledge regarding energy conservation and alternative fuel cells, etc.
What Is Sustainable Energy?
Sustainable energy is a way to use energy to fulfill the needs of the current generation without compromising on the needs of the future generations. It includes all renewable sources of energy including biomass, hydroelectricity, wind, tidal, wave and solar energies.
What Can You Do with a Masters in Sustainable Energy?
It is a multidisciplinary field which includes engineers, scientists, educators, social activists and business professionals. These specialists use different ways to promote their firms keeping in view the natural environment and sustainability factor. These are some of the career options pursued by people who have a degree in sustainable energy:
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Conservation Scientists
Conservation scientists manage the quality of forests, parks, national parks and rivers. These scientists work in teams and make sure that all their activities align with the government regulations and habitat protection. They also deal with restoration efforts including burning and planting new trees.
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Annual Median Salary, 2019: $62,660
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Annual Mean Salary, 2019: $67,040
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Job Growth, 2018-2028: 3%
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State with the Highest Salary, 2019: District of Columbia - $93,670
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State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019: Texas - 2,050
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Environmental Scientists and Specialists
These professionals usually work in project management, research and advisory roles. They work with different companies to make sure that the firm is following environmental laws. They also take education and policy advancement initiatives.
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Annual Median Salary, 2019: $71,360
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Annual Mean Salary, 2019: $77,940
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Job Growth, 2018-2028: 8%
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State with the Highest Salary, 2019: District of Columbia - $112,540
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State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019: California - 14,380
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Urban and Regional Planners
Urban and Regional Planners devise different plans to revitalize certain areas. Their plans revolve around creating communities, accommodating population growth and reenergizing the facilities available in towns, countries, cities and metropolitan areas. They work with different scientists, community members and politicians to implement their plans.
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Annual Median Salary, 2019: $74,350
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Annual Mean Salary, 2019: $77,750
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Job Growth, 2018-2028: 11%
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State with the Highest Salary, 2019: District of Columbia - $109,370
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State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019: California - 7,980
Note: These figures have been obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from a Masters in Sustainable Energy Program?
This program includes research from various departments of engineering like chemical, nuclear and systems and chemical energy. Students pursuing sustainable energy are also educated about solar energy, environmental risks, alternative fuel cells and energy conservation. Nuclear engineering, wind energy engineering and energy system management are some of the courses offered during this program.
How to Choose a Sustainable Energy Program?
Take a look at the following things when choosing a program in sustainable energy:
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Choose an accredited program
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Consider the total cost of the program
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Consider the number of years/credit hours required to complete the program
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Location of the school
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See if there are any scholarships available
Masters in Sustainable Energy Admissions Requirement
Students who want to enroll in a master’s program should have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They are required to have an understanding of some basic concepts like heat transfer and thermodynamics, etc. Universities have their own requirements for admission so it is always advisable to check with them before applying.