Energy Systems Engineering

The ESE degree has many course work requirements in common with the Mechanical Engineering degree, particularly in the thermal, fluids, and energy conversion sciences. However, the ESE program emphasizes energy conversion aspects of Mechanical Engineering and requires course work from UW’s School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR), course work in environmental law, and two electives picked from a list of classes that focus attention on energy and the environment. The SENR courses will expose students to issues related to permitting such as preparation of environmental impact studies, and regulations such as the Endangered Species Act. In addition, there are four technical electives that allow the student to choose more detailed study in personal areas of interest, including for example, courses in environmental engineering, wind engineering, solar engineering, nuclear engineering and petroleum engineering.

The Energy System Engineering degree program obtained its initial accreditation with ABET in 2012 with retroactive application to prior graduates.

The educational objectives of the ESE program are the same as those listed for the ME program. Energy Systems Engineering degree candidates must meet the academic requirements of the college, obtain a grade of (C) or better in all Engineering Science and required mathematics courses, and must have an average GPA of 2.0 (C) in ESE and ME course work. An International Engineering Option similar to that in ME is also available. No graduate degree program in ESE is anticipated at this time, but ESE graduates are strong candidates to pursue graduate degrees in conventional engineering disciplines such as mechanical engineering.

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Educational Objectives

• Successfully practice the profession of engineering
• Demonstrate career growth (e.g. increasing complexity of job assignment, career promotions, professional registration, patents, publications, and completion of advanced degrees).

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Student Outcomes

1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics

2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors

3. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgements, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts

5. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives

6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgement to draw conclusions

7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.