Engineering
Energy Systems Engineering
Prepares you to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of energy generation, storage, conversion, and distribution systems. Covers conventional and alternative/renewable energy systems, electrical power systems, and electrical system design.
Inside the major
Programs within this field
Colleges may offer this field under 3 more specific program names. The program you choose affects the courses you take.
- Energy Systems Engineering, General
- Prepares you to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of energy generation, storage, conversion, and distribution systems. Covers conventional and alternative/renewable energy systems, electrical power systems, and electrical system design.
- Power Plant Engineering
- Prepares you to plan electrical systems and modify existing electrical systems that generate and use large amounts of electricity required for distribution networks that are economical, safe, and functional. Covers alternative/renewable energy systems; calculus; circuit analysis; electrical power systems and industry practices; electrical system design; microprocessor architecture; motor control systems; power electronics operation, planning and protection; programmable logic controllers; and project management.
- Energy Systems Engineering, Other
- Energy systems engineering not listed above.
Also called Sustainable/Renewable Energy Engineering
Where it can lead
Careers this field can lead to
Explore related careers, starting with the closest connections and the occupations hiring the most people.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Median pay
- $171,270
- Hiring change through 2035
- 5.5%
- Job openings a year
- 14,900
To get hiredBachelor's degree
Explore this career Growing with the economyEngineers, All Other
- Median pay
- $122,930
- Hiring change through 2035
- 3.7%
- Job openings a year
- 8,800
To get hiredBachelor's degree
Explore this career GrowingEngineering Teachers, Postsecondary
- Median pay
- $109,270
- Hiring change through 2035
- 7.8%
- Job openings a year
- 3,900
To get hiredDoctoral or professional degree
Explore this careerAll work is projected to grow 3.5% between 2025 and 2035; read every hiring-change figure against it.
Working style
How and where the work happens
Related careers can feel very different from one another. Compare the specific occupations to understand the work each one involves.
Few of the careers connected to this field are measured as substantially in-person or active work. Compare the specific occupations to see how much time each one involves with people, equipment, and movement.
College options
Where to study it
Ordered by how many degrees each college awards in this field. Sort by any numbered column.
| College | Degrees a year | Admit rate | Average annual cost after aid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Maritime Academy MA | 22 | 95% | $16,000 |
| Oregon Institute of Technology OR | 19 | 92% | $14,000 |
| Indiana University-Indianapolis IN | 12 | 81% | $11,000 |
| University of Wyoming WY | 7 | 97% | $10,000 |