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The program is designed with the working adult student in mind. The lessons, projects, and writings are set up to integrate with life and be immediately applicable to everyday work situations.

Sarah Menkin
Technical Editor

Industry Highlights

  • Employment in management, scientific, and technical consulting services industry to grow by 83% through 2018 (BLS, 2008)
  • The renewable energy industry has grown steadily, adding jobs at more than twice the national rate (Pew Charitable Trusts, 2009)
  • Solar and wind-power companies, environmental engineering firms, and others in green industries expanded their workforce by 9.1% through 2007 (Pew Charitable Trusts, 2009)

Energy and Sustainability Policy (Bachelor of Arts)

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Energy and Sustainability Policy can prepare you for success in energy careers related to foreign and domestic policy analysis, legislative or regulatory affairs, sales engineering and post-sales account management, permitting and compliance, purchasing, and public relations in energy-related government agencies and nongovernmental organizations, public utilities, regulatory bodies, energy trade organizations, and businesses. You can gain the knowledge and skills you need to gather, analyze, synthesize, and communicate diverse information about emerging global trends in energy policy, technologies, and economics.

Why an Energy and Sustainability Degree Online at Penn State

Innovative Course Work — This degree was designed by an advisory board of energy industry experts and Penn State faculty. Enhance your research and communication skills and foreign language and international competencies with our instructor-led online classes and internship and/or field experiences.

The energy and sustainability policy curriculum was designed to help you achieve five overarching educational objectives:

  • energy industry knowledge
  • a sustainability ethic
  • analytical skills
  • communication skills
  • global perspective

Who Should Apply

If you have already earned an associate degree or completed the first two years of a bachelor's degree, this degree-completion program is designed for you. However, if you have fewer than 60 credits, please contact us.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

The online energy and sustainability policy degree program can prepare you for a challenging and rewarding career in energy-related government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, public utilities, regulatory bodies, energy trade organizations, and energy businesses. You can also pursue advanced study leading to careers in education, law, or business administration.

Some of the many occupations in which energy and sustainability policy graduates may work include:

  • sustainability specialist
  • legislative or regulatory affairs coordinator
  • foreign or domestic policy analyst
  • permitting and compliance specialist
  • public relations representative

Online Education at Penn State

Penn State has a history of 100+ years of distance education and more than a decade of experience in online learning. We strive to create an online learning environment that brings you as close to the face-to-face experience as possible. Learn more about the Penn State World Campus.