University of Waterloo launches green energy program

January 23, 2014, Waterloo, Ont. – The University of
Waterloo’s Faculty of Engineering, Canada’s largest engineering school and a
leader in green energy research, will launch a graduate diploma in green energy
to provide professional development for working engineers through real-time
online learning.

The Green Energy Graduate Diploma is the first of its kind
to be offered in Canada. Waterloo’s extensive network of private sector
partners, utilities, government and the non-profit sector, collaborated on the
development of the program in partnership with the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable
Energy.

“This diploma provides working engineers with the skills and
knowledge to transform our energy future,” said Professor Jan Huissoon, chair
of the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering at Waterloo. “The
energy issues facing our society are pressing, and the Green Energy Graduate
Diploma equips industry leaders with the necessary background to tackle these
issues in cost-effective ways.”

Diploma courses will enhance technical knowledge and
training in green energy systems such as bioenergy, fuel cells, air pollution
and greenhouse gas management, solar and wind energy, and building energy
performance. A Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related area of study is
required and students must complete the program within two years.

“We face a global challenge in finding new ways to meet
energy needs while protecting the planet. Tackling this grand challenge
requires engineering and scientific advancement, but also core industry
engagement and programs that directly involve working engineers in areas such
as bioenergy and smart grids,” said Professor Jatin Nathwani, Ontario Research
Chair in Public Policy for Sustainable Energy Management at Waterloo.
“Waterloo’s green energy diploma does this, encouraging engineers and employers
to problem solve for sustainable energy solutions while confronting day to day
issues.”

Drawing on the expertise of more than 90 researchers, the
Green Energy Graduate Diploma will be delivered from a state-of-the-art
interactive instruction facility called Live-Link. This remote learning
environment, enabled through the use of smart boards and multi-point
interactive video conferencing, provides an immersive, real-time experience
where working students participate with the professor and classmates as if they
were in the same location.

Applications are currently being accepted for Fall 2014.
Inquiries regarding the program can be addressed to greendiploma@uwaterloo.ca.