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Certificate

Power Systems Engineering

About the Power Systems Engineering Program

Power engineering, also called power systems engineering, is the study in engineering that deals with the generation, transmission, distribution and utilization of electric power and the electrical equipment connected to such systems including generators, motors and transformers. Traditionally, power engineers are responsible for maintaining a network of components which convert different forms of energy into electricity and for managing any of the three main subsystems of power engineering: generation, transmission and distribution. Power engineers' duties also include assuring all components are functioning properly and that they meet safety regulations in addition to communication and data gathering functions.

In recent times, the use of renewable sources of energy has provided new impetus to the fields with the design and development of renewable, energy efficient power grids and utility systems. Engineers must research and implement ways to integrate renewable power technology and are often involved in public works projects, and employed on federal projects that involve the integration of large power grids.

This certificate will teach the building blocks of the power system, its control and management. Designed for those with minimal experience with electric power, participants will be able to speak the language and perform substantial tasks within the electric grid and power system network. Any engineering degree, preferably BSEE, is required for entrance. Other relevant coursework will be evaluated separately at the application point.

Additional Reading:

Online
15 months
$4,370
Excludes textbooks and materials

Conditions for Admission

A BSEE or an equivalent engineering degree and experience will be required to enter this program of specialization. UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies programs are designed to best serve college-prepared working professionals. Although programs are open to all adult learners, where program capacity is limited, applicants with this profile will receive preference for admission.

Power Systems Engineering

Classroom type:
Live Online
In-Person
Online
Hybrid
Download Course List

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

FAQs

To enroll into a class, click on the class link in the matrix and that will take you to that class page. There you can find the start date for that course, and you can click on “Add to Cart” which will lead you to complete the registration/payment process.
Students who choose to take one course per quarter for 5 consecutive quarters can complete the program in 15 months. You have up to five years to complete all requirements for the certificate.
Yes, this program can be completed completly online.
If you have taken a course from an accredited university covering the learning objectives of a program course, you may be able to transfer your previous coursework to Extension. If you have not taken a course elsewhere, but already have the skills covered in a course, you may be able to substitute an alternate Extension course in its place. Please contact the program representative via email at unexengr@ucsd.edu or (858) 534-9152 for more information.
Yes, the program is open to non-California residents, including non-US residents. The tuition is the same for all students. If you have questions about how enrolling in courses may or may not affect your visa status, please contact our International Department at ipinfo@ucsd.edu or (858) 534-6784.
You will find a downloadable program flyer and program FAQs under "Related Documents" on the right side of the top of this page. If you need further information, please contact the program representative at 858-534-9152 or unexengr@ucsd.edu.

Advisory Board

Hassan Ghoudjebaklou, Ph.D., P.E.

Principal Engineer, Transmission Planning
SDG&E

Ivana Kedzic, MSE

Sr. EMS Programmer/Analyst - Grid Operations
SDG&E

Jan Kleissl

Professor - Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering

Dan Pickcel

Director of Certification
North American Board - Certified Energy Practitioners NABCEP

Thomas Tansy

Chairman
SunSpec Alliance

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