Energy and Environmental Science

  1. Office & Department Directory
  2. Environmental Science
  3. Pathways
  4. Energy and Environmental Science

Students pursuing the Energy pathway will be prepared for careers and graduate study at the
intersection of physical sciences, energy systems, and sustainability. Potential opportunities
include positions as Environmental Sensor Technicians, Field Technicians for energy or
environmental projects, and Laboratory Technicians with an energy or environmental focus.
Graduates may also serve as Energy Consultants or Renewable Energy Analysts, providing
expertise on sustainable energy systems, or as Environmental Compliance Specialists or
Assistants, ensuring organizations meet regulatory and sustainability standards. This pathway
emphasizes quantitative analysis, modeling, and applied research on energy and climate
challenges, equipping students with technical skills and interdisciplinary perspectives critical to advancing sustainable energy solutions.

  • Suggested courses for the two 200+ level lab courses: PHYS 242 Climate Systems, PHYS 317 Instrumentation Lab, and PHYS 318 Electronics Lab (0.5 units).
  • Suggested courses for the two 300+ level courses: PHYS 317 Instrumentation Lab (0.5 units), PHYS 318 Electronics Lab (0.5 units), and PHYS 333 Math Methods of Physics.
  • Suggested courses for the two 200+ level ESP (Environmental Science and Policy) courses: ENVS 309 Taming Trash, ENVS 336 Living Lab, ENVS 379 Renewable Energy Systems, ENVS 383 Energy Life Cycle Analysis.

Suggested STEM major advisors: Cristian Armendariz-Picon (Physics).

Suggested ESS major advisors: Sara Ashpole (ESS), Lori Clark (ESS), Aaron Iverson (ESS), David Murphy (ESS), Pete Pettengil (ESS),  Jon Rosales (ESS).