Science & Technology Programs
Renewable Energy Technology
- Certificate program
- The program is delivered on a part-time basis, fully online, over a 3-year period for a total of 30 credits
- Program Fees
- Apply for Admission: Forms and Information
Note: VIU also offers a Green Building and Renewable Energy Technician diploma.
The Program
The Renewable Energy Technology Certificate Program focuses on renewable energy and the various technologies of renewable energy. The program is delivered fully online. Graduates of this program will have an understanding of the implications of our use of non-renewable energy and options for the production and use of renewable energy. The ultimate goal of this program is to deliver training which leads to the promotion, adaptation and growth of renewable energy technology deployment across Canada. The program achieves this goal by raising awareness and understanding of renewable energy options, and by providing fundamental training in the planning and implementation of these technologies. The program includes an introduction to solar, wind, geo-exchange, biomass, and micro-hydro energy options, as well as energy conservation measures which offer viable options for western and eastern Canada. The curriculum encompasses both theoretical and practical aspects of these topics. Courses are offered on a part-time basis, and students must complete the program within a 3-year period.
Career Opportunities
The program and courses are relevant to a broad audience, including community members, homeowners, professionals involved in all aspects of the energy and construction industries, trades workers, contractors, engineers, architects, business people, planners, as well as industry, institutional and governmental decision-makers.
Admission Requirements
- General admission requirements apply.
- Principles of Math 11 (or equivalent), with a minimum “C” grade.
- English 12 (or equivalent), with a minimum “C” grade.
- Physics 11 is recommended.
Notes on Admission
- Applicants who do not meet the admission requirements can contact the Program Chair for permission to apply.
- As this program is delivered fully online, students must have Internet access and meet computer system requirements.
Start Date and Application Deadline
Applications for admission are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Grading Policy
Grades for individual courses are given in the manner described under the Grading Policy of this calendar.
Graduation Requirements
The Renewable Energy Technology Certificate will be awarded on successful completion of all coursework with a minimum grade of 65% in each course.
Program Outline
Course Name |
Credits |
|---|---|
RNEW 101 - (Energy and the Environment) |
3 |
RNEW 102 - (Solar Thermal and Solar Electric Systems) |
3 |
RNEW 103 - (Small-Scale Wind Energy Systems) |
3 |
RNEW 104 - (Geo-Exchange Heating and Cooling Systems) |
3 |
RNEW 105 - (Micro-Hydro Electricity Production) |
3 |
RNEW 106 - (Small-Scale Biomass Energy Systems) |
3 |
RNEW 107 - (Building and Renovating For Engergy Conservation) |
3 |
RNEW 122 - (Practical Aspects of Solar Energy Systems) |
1.5 |
RNEW 123 - (Practical Aspects of Wind Systems) |
1.5 |
RNEW 124 - (Practical Aspects of Geo-Exchange Energy Systems) |
1.5 |
RNEW 125 - (Practical Aspects of Micro-Hydro Systems) |
1.5 |
RNEW 126 - (Practical Aspects of Small-Scale Biomass Systems) |
1.5 |
RNEW 127 - (Practical Aspects of Energy Conservation) |
1.5 |
Semester Credits |
30 |
Updated December 21, 2009