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Graduate Certificate inSustainable Energy Development

Summary Courses Careers Costs and Aid

This 9-credit online certificate in sustainable energy development can prepare you with the confidence and expertise to lead the transition toward more sustainable energy systems, grounded in ethical principles, sustainability practices, and stakeholder engagement.

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Apply by April 20 to start May 19

9 Credits$1,027 per credit

Stackable Credentials

This program is embedded within the Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems.

Gain Critical Skills to Help Meet Global Climate Targets

  • Differentiate the sustainability profiles of different energy types, considering environmental impacts, efficiency, and long-term viability.

  • Conduct nuanced ethical analysis to weigh the pros and cons of energy development pathways.

  • Identify stakeholders in energy projects and recognize roles and interests of, and impacts on, communities, governments, investors, and the environment.

  • Respond to current market situations and existing rules while recognizing future energy trends and market opportunities on national and international levels.

Sustainable energy is at the core of addressing climate change, reducing carbon footprints, providing energy storage and access, and promoting energy security for all. Courses in this graduate certificate are designed to help students like you influence the future of energy through sustainable practices and projects.

These career-focused courses, available online through Penn State World Campus, are designed to deliver a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem of energy development, giving you the depth of knowledge and expertise to drive clean energy solutions.

  • 3
    credits

    Examination of ethical issues relevant to research procedure, professional conduct, social and environmental impacts, and embedded values in research.

  • 3
    credits

    Industry perspective on the resources, technologies, engineering approaches, and externalities involved in satisfying worldwide energy demand profitably and sustainably.

    • Prerequisite

      EGEE 102 and EGEE 120 and ECON 104

  • 3
    credits

    Structure and function of energy markets; existing and emerging environmental regulations; decision-making by energy companies.

*EME 444 prerequisites will be waived for students in the certificate or RESS master's program. Students should registrar for the course by contacting the registrar directly at [email protected].

Students are required to successfully complete each of the three required 3-credit courses with a grade of B- or better.

Using Stackable Certificate Credits toward a Master’s Degree

As part of the stackable pathway, the courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems program.

Courses may also apply to other degree programs. Students should contact their adviser to discuss transfer credit policies and application fees and details.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

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As countries strive to meet global climate targets, the demand for professionals who understand the complexities of sustainable energy has never been higher.

You can use the knowledge gained from this online program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue sustainability careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

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From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?

Apply by April 20 to start May 19. How to Apply 

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.
How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

2025–26 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2025, spring 2026, and summer 2026 semesters.
How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,037 per credit
12 or more$12,448 per semester

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Military Benefits

Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Additional Cost of Attendance Details

To view the detailed list of cost of attendance elements:

Technical Requirements

Review the technical requirements for this program.

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This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential or as a step on your journey toward a Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master’s degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s):

Learn to leverage technical expertise and project development skills to successfully implement renewable energy systems and sustainable business policies through the courses offered in this online degree program.

Learn more

Up to 15 credits earned in any of these certificate programs may be transferred to the master's degree in renewable energy and sustainability systems, subject to restrictions outlined in GCAC-309 Transfer Credit.

Finish Your Certificate in a Year or Less

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Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

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Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

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Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

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Apply by April 20 to start May 19

Application Instructions

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

  • Summer Deadline

    Apply by April 20 to start May 19

  • Fall Deadline

    Apply by July 20 to start August 25

  • Spring Deadline

    Apply by December 10, 2025, to start January 12, 2026

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. If you are a Penn State alum, you do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Fox Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    Test Scores — GRE and GMAT test scores are NOT required.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Associated programs in the renewable energy and sustainability systems stack:

    Certificates

    • Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Energy Development
    • Graduate Certificate in Energy Transition Strategies
    • Graduate Certificate in Solar Energy
    • Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Management and Policy

    Degree

    • Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems

    If you begin with a certificate and are interested in pursuing the Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems, work with your adviser while completing your first certificate to determine which program to apply to next.

    Up to 15 credits earned in any of these certificate programs may be transferred to the master's degree in renewable energy and sustainability systems, subject to restrictions outlined in GCAC-309 Transfer Credit.

  5. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

  6. 6. Complete the application.

    Penn State Fox Graduate School Application

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

Our Student Services and program specialists are available now to help you with your application and to answer any questions you have about our graduate programs in renewable energy and sustainability systems (RESS). Please contact us with anything you wish to discuss.

Noelle Capparelle 
RESS Program Assistant
Phone: 814-867-5401
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus, please contact:

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Energy Development is developed by Penn State's Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering and delivered through Penn State World Campus. Our courses are taught by distinguished faculty and industry practitioners who have special training and experience teaching in an online environment.

Faculty

  • Seth Blumsack

    • Ph.D., Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University
    • M.S., Economics, Carnegie Mellon University
    • B.A., Math and Economics, Reed College

    Dr. Seth Blumsack's research focuses on policy-driven issues and technological change faced by the electricity and natural gas industries. He studies regulation, network reliability and resilience, and technological change in the power grid and natural gas supply systems.

  • Mohamed Amer Chaaban

    • Ph.D. Candidate, Electrical Engineering, University of North Carolina-Charlotte
    • M.S., Architectural Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
    • B.S., Electrical Engineering, Damascus University

    Mohamed Amer Chaaban is an adjunct instructor for the RESS graduate online program at Penn State. He is the author and instructor of AE 868. He worked for AEP and RGS Energy, one of the nation's top solar power companies, as a solar design engineer. During his work, he designed thousands of residential and dozens of large commercial solar systems combined with more than 20 megawatts in capacity. He is an advocate of sustainability and of making solar affordable for all humans in the world.

  • Mark Fedkin

    • Ph.D., Geo-Environmental Engineering, Penn State
    • M.S., Geo-Environmental Engineering, Penn State
    • B.S., Geology, Moscow State University (Russia)

    Dr. Mark Fedkin is an assistant teaching professor and a lead faculty member in the renewable energy and sustainability systems graduate online program. He has worked for more than ten years for the Earth and Mineral Sciences Energy Institute, where he led experimental research on electrochemical energy systems and processes, including fuel cells, hydrogen technologies, electrophoresis, and corrosion in extreme environments. During his career as an experimentalist, Dr. Fedkin developed a number of methods and technologies for monitoring and sensing the environmental parameters in both simulated and natural settings.

  • Derek M. Hall

    • Ph.D., Energy and Mineral Engineering, Penn State
    • B.S., Energy Engineering, Penn State

    Dr. Derek M. Hall's research focuses on electrochemical energy conversion and aqueous electrochemistry. He studies electrochemical reactions in aqueous environments using electrochemical techniques, materials characterization methods, and computational modeling.

  • Andy James

    B.S., Marketing, Penn State

    Andy James is course author and instructor of Sustainability-Driven Innovation. In addition to his role at Penn State, he is vice president, corporate strategy at New Pig. He has more than 10 patents pending for his work in understanding and resolving environmental risks from industrial spills. Prior experience includes his time as senior manager at Olson Zaltman, where he provided consumer behavior research and brand strategy consulting to brands including Audi, T. Rowe Price, and MillerCoors.

  • Mark D. Kleinginna

    • MPS, Renewable Energy Systems and Sustainability, Penn State
    • M.A., Economics, Penn State
    • B.S., Economics, Penn State

    Mark D. Kleinginna is interested in the entire continental energy topology, including research and expert testimony in rate making, electricity transmission, renewable energy systems, decarbonization of the built environment, and thermal energy networks.

  • Brandi Robinson

    • M.S., Geography, Penn State
    • B.A., Environmental Studies and Geography, University of Pittsburgh

    Brandi Robinson is an associate teaching professor in the John and Willie Leone Family Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering, where she is the lead faculty for the energy and sustainability policy program and teaches in the renewable energy and sustainability systems program. Brandi is the director of Online Education for the department, as well. She serves as co-director for Penn State’s Local Climate Action Program, which many ESP and RESS students participate in, and she is also active in local climate work. She chairs the Technical Advisory Group for the implementation of the region’s climate action and adaptation plan. Brandi also serves on the Faculty Senate, where she is working to integrate sustainability throughout more undergraduate curricula.

  • Eugene Morgan

    • Ph.D., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University
    • M.S., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University
    • B.S., Earth Sciences, UC Santa Cruz

    Eugene Morgan is an associate teaching professor in the Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering at Penn State. He also serves as the associate head of Undergraduate Education, as well as the program chair for the energy engineering major. His research interests include risk management for geologic carbon storage (CO2 sequestration) with particular focus on geophysical monitoring systems.

  • Erich Schienke

    • Ph.D., Science and Technology Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • M.S., Science and Technology Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • B.A., Technology Studies, Hampshire College

    Dr. Erich Schienke's research and teaching interests are in the areas of energy policy, renewable energy systems design and implementation, ethical dimensions of renewable energy and sustainability systems, sustainability indicators, ESG, and workforce requirements needed to meet the demands of the rapidly growing renewable energy industry. He has published in multiple peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes, which have received more than 250 citations across a range of topics, including climate risk management, ethics and sustainability, and ecological governance.

  • Susan W. Stewart

    • Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
    • M.S., Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
    • B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Penn State

    Dr. Susan W. Stewart is an associate teaching professor of aerospace engineering and leads the Graduate Certificate in Wind Energy program. She has developed and taught multiple online renewable energy courses as well as led several winning teams of students in the annual Collegiate Wind Competition. Dr. Stewart also directs an outreach program involving wind energy applications for K–12 students. Her teaching and research encompass renewable energy technology, resource assessment, project development, design standards, and project finance.

the Sustainability Experience Center at Penn State’s University Park campus
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Deike Building on the University Park campus.
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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?

Apply by April 20 to start May 19. How to Apply 

Explore Other Academic Programs

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