Master's in Energy Systems Engineering overview
Lehigh's 10-month, project-based master's degree program in Energy Systems Engineering (ESE) provides a broad foundation in research and development activities related to power generation, transmission, and distribution, and the resulting environmental impact. The electric grid is expected to be the centerpiece of a clean energy future, and this program primes new engineering graduates for leadership positions in fields related to energy and power. Lehigh's ESE program prepares the next generation of technical innovators to face the challenges of modern energy systems and utility infrastructure. The program offers a rigorous, project-based curriculum with an analytical and multidisciplinary focus. It is designed to develop world-class leaders in energy, providing students with the knowledge and skills to lead the way in meeting energy reliability and resilience challenges in a climate-changing world.
Master's in Energy Systems Engineering highlights
Classroom instruction is augmented and validated with real-world examples and experiences provided by industry partners. A semester-long industry capstone project replaces a traditional thesis, enabling students to solve real-world problems in the energy sector.
Energy Systems Engineering salary and career outlook
Graduates from the ESE program earn a marketable skill set that enables them to design, plan, manage, and lead the most complex energy systems processes, teams, and systems. The degree prepares graduates for rewarding career opportunities with highly competitive salaries in many areas of energy, where they can improve quality, streamline processes, and increase efficiency in the constantly changing energy industry.
Energy Systems Engineering program format
The program is a Master of Engineering in Energy Systems Engineering, consisting of 30 credits (10 courses). The curriculum is systems-based and has an analytical, multidisciplinary, and project-based learning approach. The program can be completed on-campus or online, and on a part-time or full-time basis. It also offers a Certificate in Energy Systems Engineering, which is fully integrated with and transferable to the master's program.
Energy Systems Engineering collaborations
The ESE program features significant industry engagement. Students work with partnering institutions to complete a semester-long capstone project. Collaborators include:
- PPL Corporation
- Electric Power Research Institute
- Consolidated Edison
- PECO
- The Stone House Group
- U.S. Navy
- PJM Interconnection
- DERNetSoft
- U.S. Department of Energy
- National Grid
- Sustainable Energy Fund
Energy Systems Engineering external funding
The program collaborates with many public and private organizations, which may provide funding opportunities for research and projects. Partial merti-based and alumni tuition scholarships are available.
Master's in Energy Systems Engineering admissions requirements
To be considered for admission to the master's program, candidates must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) degree in a related field. A complete application must include:
- A candidate's personal statement detailing motivation for graduate study, relevant background, and research experience.
- The candidate's resume summarizing background relevant to graduate study.
- Complete transcripts from each college and university attended. Unofficial copies may be uploaded initially, but official transcripts are required upon accepting an offer of admission.
- At least two (2) letters of recommendation from qualified individuals. Preference is given to letters from research advisors and professors, but letters from technical/industrial employers are also accepted.
- For international students whose first language is not English who have not studied in the US or countries where English is an official and widely spoken language, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Cambridge English Qualification test scores are required.
- A non-refundable application fee of $50.
- GRE test scores are not required.