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Credits and costs
Stackable Credentials
Earn up to 3 certificates while earning your master’s degree.
Gain Business Skills to Be a Leader in the Green Economy
Execute and evaluate sustainability and renewable energy systems using baseline, techno-economic, life-cycle, energy efficiency, or cost-benefit analyses.
Evaluate sustainability decisions in the broader context of society's current and future interests.
Use the principles of energy science, including resource availability, energy management, and conversion technologies in your day-to-day work.
Make sound decisions in complex situations.
Understand the commercialization process relative to project and product development.
Online Renewable Energy and Sustainability Master’s Degree Courses and Tracks
Online Renewable Energy and Sustainability Master’s Degree Courses and Tracks
Explore the knowledge and skills needed to become an RESS expert with strong project development and leadership skills. In addition, the program can prepare you to skillfully apply engineering principles to the business of energy in a variety of commercial and industrial occupations.
After completing your 12 credits in core courses, you can make the most of your graduate program by tailoring your studies to include 12 credits in either the sustainability management and policy or the renewable energy systems track.
Areas specifically related to the following will be included:
- system thinking and analysis
- sustainability assessment
- energy economics
- energy system performance analysis
- project development
- business acumen
- policy analysis
- advanced critical thinking
Then, to meet your individual learning goals, you will select 6 additional credits from a broad list of electives. Finally, you will complete a 3-credit capstone experience in Management and Design of Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems or partake in a special topics research opportunity with a faculty member.
All courses must be completed with a grade of C or better and a grade-point average of 3.0 to be awarded the master's degree.
Core Courses (12 credits)
- 3credits
Examination of ethical issues relevant to research procedure, professional conduct, social and environmental impacts, and embedded values in research.
- 3credits
Theoretical background of sustainability issues and studies of sustainability systems.
- 3credits
Structure and function of energy markets; existing and emerging environmental regulations; decision-making by energy companies.
- 3credits
An overview of renewable energy technologies and energy system analysis.
Track Courses (12 credits)
Select 12 credits in either the Sustainability Management and Policy or Renewable Energy Systems track.
Sustainability Management and Policy Track (12 credits)
- 3credits
This course explores sustainability as a business opportunity for developing innovative products and services. It will focus on consumer needs related to sustainability, willingness to pay for these needs, and the innovative processes necessary to create sustainable solutions.
- 3credits
Provides in-depth exploration of energy policy development, implementation, and assessment at multiple governmental and corporate scales, with emphasis on energy markets.
- 3credits
Industry perspective on the resources, technologies, engineering approaches, and externalities involved in deploying renewable energy businesses profitably and sustainably.
- 3credits
This course examines strategies and applications of sustainable technologies in manufacturing, energy, water, transportation, food, and building systems.
Renewable Energy Systems Track (select 12 credits)
- 3credits
Theories and practices of solar electric systems, including component selection, performance simulation, grid interconnection, codes, and design documentation.
- 3credits
Economic analysis of solar energy projects, including project development process, energy policies, finance methods, and economic analysis tools.
- 3credits
An overview of the wind project development process and technical considerations for onshore and offshore applications.
- 3credits
Examine the chemistry of technologies of bio-based sources for power generation and transportation fuels.
- 3credits
Methods, economic criteria, and meteorological background for assessing the solar resource with respect to solar energy conversion technologies.
- 3credits
Technical and theoretical background for utility-scale solar energy conversion technologies to generate electric power.
- Prerequisite
EME 810
Elective Courses (select 6 credits)
Students may select two electives that focus on complementary disciplines such as Systems Engineering, Ecosystem Management, Community and Economic Development, Meteorology, and more. View the the most current list of elective courses, and contact the program office at [email protected] with any questions.
Capstone Experience (3 credits)
- 3credits
Real-world renewable energy systems projects using a systems analysis and case-study approach.
- Prerequisite
EME 504, EME 801, EME 802, and BIOET 533
- or:3credits
Participate in a special topics research opportunity with a faculty member.
- Prerequisite
EME 504, EME 801, EME 802, and BIOET 533
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.
Start or Advance Your Career
Start or Advance Your Career
This program can benefit you if you are already in the renewable energy and sustainability field and looking to advance in your current position or if you want to move into another segment of the rapidly evolving energy industry.
Job Titles Related to This Degree
The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:
- Energy and Sustainability Strategic Advisor
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Environmental Programs Specialist
- Renewable Energy Specialist
- Sustainability Analyst
- Sustainability Program Manager
Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree
Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Natural Sciences Managers
Conservation Scientists
Career Services to Set You Up for Success
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.
Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?
Costs and Financial Aid
Costs and Financial Aid
Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.
Costs and Financial Aid
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
| 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
| 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 |
Financial Aid and Military Benefits
Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Federal financial aid may only be used to pay for credits used to satisfy program requirements.
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:
- visit the Tuition Information site
- click the plus sign to expand the table
- select a semester from the World Campus row
Technical Requirements
Review the technical requirements for this program.
Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to Your Degree
Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to Your Degree
Earn graduate certificates while you work toward your degree. It’s a great way to quickly gain new skills and add valuable credentials to your résumé — without any additional course work, course fees, or application fees.
Finish the following three certificate requirements and the 3-credit capstone course, and you will have completed the requirements to earn your renewable energy and sustainability systems master’s degree. Please note that you must apply and be accepted to each program on an individual basis, but you will not be charged application fees for any program beyond the first.
Complete Both of These Certificates (18 credits)
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.
Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Energy DevelopmentThe online Graduate Certificate in Energy Transition Strategies can help you critically assess the technical principles of renewable energy systems and then evaluate and articulate their roles in local and global energy transition. This certificate is embedded within the renewable energy and sustainability systems master’s degree program.
Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Energy Transition StrategiesComplete One of These Certificates (12 credits)
Focus on electric-driven study as you prepare to lead development in the rapidly expanding solar energy sector. This online certificate program includes courses that offer a foundation in project development, system design and analysis, and process improvement.
Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Solar EnergyLearn to develop and improve manufacturing processes, corporate practices, and commercial products to promote long-term sustainability management with this online sustainability management and policy certificate program.
Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Management and PolicyComplete the Culminating Capstone or Research Paper (3 credits)
After the certificate requirements have been met, you just need to complete the 3-credit culminating capstone course or research paper to finish the master's degree. You will work closely with an adviser to create a relevant and meaningful project around your specific career goals.
Set Your Own Pace
Set Your Own Pace
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.
Our online courses typically follow a 12- to 15-week semester cycle, and there are three semesters per year (spring, summer, and fall). If you plan to take a heavy course load, you should expect your course work to be your primary focus and discuss your schedule with your academic adviser.
To Finish Your Degree in One to Two Years
- Take 3–4 courses each semester
To Finish Your Degree in Two to Three Years
- Take 2–3 courses each semester
To Finish Your Degree in Three to Four Years
- Take 1 course each semester
Timelines may vary based on course availability.
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
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.
How to Apply to Penn State
How to Apply to Penn State
Apply by July 20 to start August 25
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.
Fall Deadline
Apply by July 20 to start August 25Spring Deadline
Apply by December 10 to start January 12Summer Deadline
Apply by April 20, 2026, to start May 18, 2026
Steps to Apply
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
Penn State's online MPS-RESS program is suitable for individuals of diverse backgrounds and requires no prerequisite course work. However, for your admission to the program, it is preferred that you have a technical mindset and are interested in focusing on the implementation and interpretation of existing policies and regulations as they relate to renewable energy and sustainability.
Applications are submitted electronically and include a nonrefundable application fee. 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.
GRE and GMAT test scores are NOT required.
References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to each recommender requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.
Program-Specific Questions/Materials
Vita or Résumé — Upload your résumé to the online application.
Statement of Purpose — You should submit a personal statement not to exceed two single-spaced pages, which should describe your specific career goals and objectives, prior experience relevant to the decision to pursue an advanced degree, and other information that may be useful to the admissions committee.
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.
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 Sustainable 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, subject to restrictions outlined in GCAC-309 Transfer Credit.
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: "Degree 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. Complete the application.
Admissions Help
If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].
Contact Us
Contact Us
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, MPS-RESS Program Assistant
[email protected]
Phone: 814-867-5401
To see more detailed information about the renewable energy and sustainability systems portfolio, visit the RESS program website. You can also visit the Open Educational Resources website to preview some of the courses offered online by the Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering.
For general questions about Penn State World Campus, please contact:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]
Learn from the Best
Learn from the Best
The MPS in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems is offered by Penn State World Campus in partnership with the Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering. Our courses are taught by distinguished faculty who have special training and experience teaching in an online environment.
Faculty
Seth Blumsack
- DegreePh.D., Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University
- DegreeM.S., Economics, Carnegie Mellon University
- DegreeB.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
- DegreePh.D. Candidate, Electrical Engineering, University of North Carolina-Charlotte
- DegreeM.S., Architectural Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- DegreeB.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.
Jennifer Clemons
- DegreeEd.D., Educational Leadership, University of Delaware
- DegreeM.S., Energy and Geo-Environmental Engineering, Penn State
- DegreeB.S., Chemical Engineering, Penn State
Dr. Jennifer Clemons is an associate teaching professor in the ESP and RESS programs. Previously, she was an instructor at the community college level for 15 years, focusing on solar (PV) design and energy efficiency. Dr. Clemons has led study abroad courses to Denmark, Switzerland, and Japan. She was a CO-PI on the NSF National Energy Center (createenergy.org) and author of the 6th edition of Energy: Its Use and the Environment (2024), published by Cengage. She was awarded the 2024 Clean Energy Education & Empowerment (C3E) award sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy for her leadership in education.
Mark Fedkin
- DegreePh.D., Geo-Environmental Engineering, Penn State
- DegreeM.S., Geo-Environmental Engineering, Penn State
- DegreeB.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
- DegreePh.D., Energy and Mineral Engineering, Penn State
- DegreeB.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
DegreeB.S., Marketing, Penn StateAndy 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
- DegreeMPS, Renewable Energy Systems and Sustainability, Penn State
- DegreeM.A., Economics, Penn State
- DegreeB.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
- DegreeM.S., Geography, Penn State
- DegreeB.A., Environmental Studies and Geography, University of Pittsburgh
Brandi Robinson is an associate teaching professor and director of advising for the Penn State Energy and Sustainability Policy program. She also serves as an instructor for the renewable energy and sustainability systems master's program. She brings expertise in policy formation and analysis relative to carbon markets to her teaching, as well as local-scale greenhouse gas inventorying and mitigation strategy development.
Eugene Morgan
- DegreePh.D., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University
- DegreeM.S., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University
- DegreeB.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
- DegreePh.D., Science and Technology Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- DegreeM.S., Science and Technology Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- DegreeB.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
- DegreePh.D., Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
- DegreeM.S., Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
- DegreeB.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.
