About the Power Systems Engineering Program
What Is Power Systems Engineering?
Power engineering also called power systems engineering is the branch of electrical engineering concerned with the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electric power. It encompasses the full ecosystem of electrical equipment: generators, motors, transformers, switching systems, and the interconnected networks that deliver electricity to homes, businesses, and industry.
In recent years, the global push toward cleaner energy has given the field renewed urgency. Engineers must research and implement ways to integrate renewable power technology — solar, wind, and energy storage — into existing infrastructure, often through large-scale public works and federal projects designed to modernize and decarbonize the electric grid.
The Role of a Power Systems Engineer
Power engineers are responsible for maintaining a complex network of components that convert different forms of energy into usable electricity. Their work spans all three main subsystems: generation, transmission, and distribution.
Beyond technical operation, power engineers must ensure all components meet safety regulations, perform reliably under load, and interface with data gathering and monitoring systems. As energy grids evolve, engineers are increasingly involved in designing smart grid solutions, microgrids, and distributed energy resource (DER) systems that make the network more resilient and sustainable.
The Renewable Energy Imperative
The integration of solar, wind, and battery storage into national power grids is one of the most consequential engineering challenges of our time. Power systems engineers are at the forefront — designing energy-efficient grids, evaluating utility systems, and deploying technologies that reduce carbon emissions while maintaining grid reliability.
Program Overview
The Power Systems Engineering Certificate program provides a structured pathway to understanding the technical foundations of electric power systems and modern grid technologies. Required courses begin with fundamental topics in power systems engineering, then advance to cover complex areas including energy storage and systems analysis. Elective courses allow you to specialize in areas most relevant to your career goals.
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Fundamentals of Electric Power Systems
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Power Generation and Transmission Systems
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Power Distribution Engineering
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Power System Protection and Safety
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Energy Storage Technologies
Students may specialize in emerging areas such as:
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Renewable Energy Systems
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Distributed Energy Resources
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Power System Simulation
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Smart Grid Technologies
Program Details
- Award
Professional Certificate
- Duration
Approximately 1 Year 1 course per quarter · 5 consecutive quarters | Up to 5 years to complete
- Courses
5 Total (4 Required + 1 Elective)
- Provider
UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies
- Benefits
Instruction from industry experts and practicing engineers
Flexible course schedules for working professionals
Practical curriculum aligned with modern power grid technologies
Who Should Enroll?
This program is designed for engineers with minimal prior experience in electric power who are interested in breaking into or transitioning into the field. You will learn the language of the electric grid and develop the skills to perform substantial tasks within a power system network.
Any engineering degree — preferably a B.S. in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) — is required for admission. Other relevant engineering knowledge and professional experience will be evaluated individually at the application stage.
Career Opportunities in Power Engineering
Graduates are prepared for roles across utilities, energy companies, federal agencies, and engineering consultancies. The field is experiencing strong growth driven by grid modernization, renewable deployment, and infrastructure investment.
Power Systems Engineering
Required Courses
All four (4) required. Total of twelve (12) units required.
Elective Courses
Select one (1) course. Three (3) units required.
Other Courses of Interest
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FAQs
Students accepted into this program will take the two courses alongside Scripps Institution of Oceanography(SIO) graduate students in the Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) program in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (MBC). The program will be completed over the established 9-week summer period (June 26- August 28, 2026), by taking the two required classes SIO-295S and SIO-295LS.
To begin your application, click on the "Apply Now" button on the certificate page. If you do not already have an Application Portal and a My Extension student account, you will be prompted to create one for each to complete your application. Once submitted, your application cannot be changed. You can track the progress of your application at My Extension.
Register at: Apply Now
Select the Program of Interest: Interdisciplinary Marine Conservation
Term: Summer 2026
Applications are open until April 30th, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as our available slots may fill. The application includes an application fee of $50 that can be paid with a major credit card. A deposit of $1,000 is required upon accepting the offer of admission. The remaining balance of US $18,995 is due by the start of the program. Payment plans are available.
Advisory Board
Hassan Ghoudjebaklou, Ph.D., P.E.
Ivana Kedzic, MSE
Jan Kleissl
Dan Pickcel
Thomas Tansy
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