General information
The Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Sustainable Energy Systems program offered by the Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science ensures graduates possess a deep familiarity with the technologies associated with energy systems and various technological options, as well as the skills to continually assess new energy technologies and changes to energy systems. Graduates will also possess business and communication skills that will help them put their technical knowledge to use. Graduates will be well versed in the strengths and limitations of various energy supply options, which depend on local and regional conditions. Graduates will also develop a thorough understanding of regulatory and political aspects of energy supply.
BTech graduates will emerge ready for long careers in the continually changing energy field, whether in energy-focused technical, policy or project management positions. They are expected to work in fields such as energy auditing, wind energy, solar energy, smart (and micro) grids, building management and government. Experiential learning opportunities will further prepare students for these positions. Further, BTech graduates will be well placed to pursue graduate studies in engineering, science or the social sciences.
The BTech in Sustainable Energy Systems program offers students the choice between two specializations:
- Technologies
- Programs and Policies
The Technologies specialization is for students who are interested in focusing their degree on energy technologies. While students still learn about the economic and social aspects of energy systems, they take more technology-specific courses, broadening their technical expertise. This specialization is expected to appeal to students who are more interested in working directly with energy technologies, or in careers where the ability to assess many different energy technologies is a particular asset.
The Programs and Policies specialization is for students who are interested in taking an even broader approach to understanding and working with energy systems. While students still learn about multiple energy technologies, in detail, they also take more courses focused on the business, social and political elements of energy systems. This specialization is expected to appeal to students who are more interested in working in a business or policy-making environment.
An energy system can be defined as the technologies, infrastructure and behaviours that connect the flows of materials and energy (fuels and electricity) from natural resources to meet societal wants and needs. Graduates of the BTech program will have the combination of detailed technical knowledge, broad perspective and strong analytical skills to allow them to make a difference in how society supplies and uses energy.
Admission requirements
Admission is competitive. The specific average or standing required for admission varies from year to year. Students are selected by taking into consideration a wide range of criteria including school marks, distribution of subjects taken, and performance in subjects relevant to the academic program. Possession of the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Preference will be given to applicants with the best qualifications.
Current Ontario secondary school students must complete the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with six 4U or 4M credits including English (ENG4U) with a minimum average of 60 per cent, Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), and Physics (SPH4U). In addition, a combined minimum 70 per cent average in math and science courses is required, with no grade below 60 per cent. All other applicants should refer to admissions for the requirements for their specific category of admission.
Work placement/internship opportunities
Optional work placement opportunities will be available. A 12- to 16-month optional Internship program is also available for students completing the third year of the program. Students must have a minimum CGPA of 2.3 to be eligible.
Other experiential learning opportunities, including field trips to local energy suppliers and participation in the City of Oshawa Teaching City initiative, may also be available.
Program details and degree requirements
To be eligible for an honours Bachelor of Technology degree in Sustainable Energy Systems, students must successfully complete 120 credit hours, including all courses outlined in the following program map.
Although reasonable efforts will be made to adhere to the following program map, course requirements and term offerings may change. The most up-to-date list of course offerings will be available on the faculty website at nuclear.uoit.ca.
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