The Energy and Sustainable Technology program prepares students for employment in the emerging industry of sustainable energy technologies. Training in both theoretical and practical skills enables students to develop career paths in the fields of Geothermal, Wind, Solar, and Sustainable Energy. Directed, experiential practice in all areas of energy technology maintenance and repair is provided given under simulated on-the-job conditions.
Government labor statistics and industry leaders project sustained growth of jobs in this industry for many years to come due to expanding technologies and an aging work force. Job growth is so strong that a shortage exists for qualified, knowledgeable people.
Program options include certificate programs and an associate in science degree program.
Depending on the program and the number of units taken each semester, completing a certificate program can take as little as one to two semesters and completing the associate of science degree program can take about two years.
The program cost is $46 per unit for California residents, not including books, fees, and supplies. Units vary by course, but the average is three units per course. Unit fees for the 16-unit certificate would be $736 ranging up to the 60-unit associate degree, which would be $2,760. Most students also qualify for some form of financial aid.
Students who complete this program can work as wind, solar, geothermal contractors;
renewable energy contractors; sustainable ecosystems contractors; or engineering consultants for environmental agencies.
Richard Hock joined the Cypress College staff as a full-time instructor in 2004. Prior to that, Mr. Hock taught the night division program Basic Commercial Refrigeration and Refrigeration Electrical Controls at Cypress College since 1996.
You will find this career to be both rewarding and challenging. I have been in this industry since I was a child, my dad was an HVAC contractor, therefore, I was in the AC/R industry.
Program Mapper: View course options for these programs.
Solar Energy Certificate = 16 units (1 semester)
Wind Energy Certificate = 16 units (1 semester)
Geothermal Energy Certificate = 16 units (1 semester)
Sustainable Energy Certificate = 22 units (2 semesters)
Energy and Sustainable Technologies Associate in Science Degree, 60 units (2 years)
There are no additional requirements to enroll in this program; however, some courses may have prerequisites that can be viewed in the Cypress College Catalog and the Schedule of Classes.
