The graduate-level Energy Geoscience Certificate provides an opportunity for working professionals to upgrade their skills and for recent graduates to broaden their geoscience background. This 15-credit, fully online program caters to bachelor’s degree holders seeking professional advancement without the commitment of a full master’s degree. In this geoscience program, you’ll gain specialized knowledge and skills vital for success in your career in diverse fields within the energy sector.
Program Overview
Advance your career in Energy Geoscience.
The Energy Geoscience Certificate will provide you with essential concepts and technical skills in alternative energy, geological carbon sequestration, hydrogen storage, geothermal energy resources, critical minerals, related economic and ESG factors, and management principles. Before online geology courses begin, the program kicks off with an in-person field experience throughout Colorado and Utah. Coursework is delivered in an asynchronous format during the fall and spring academic semesters. Structured with working professionals in mind, the program can be completed in one year.
Supplement your degree
The Graduate Certificate in Energy Geoscience offers essential knowledge and technical skills in various traditional and alternative energy sources.
Program Requirements
At Western, course rotations are crafted to encompass a variety of subject fields for a comprehensive education and versatile degree. For required courses and degree plans, visit the official University Catalog. Below is a general overview of courses at Western Colorado University related to this area of study.
Program Requirements
15 credits are required, including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GEOL 600 | Introduction to Energy Resources | 1 |
| GEOL 605 | Energy Systems Geoscience | 3 |
| GEOL 610 | Geology of Carbon and Hydrogen Storage | 3 |
| GEOL 615 | Geothermal Resources | 3 |
| GEOL 620 | Energy Minerals | 3 |
| GEOL 695 | Seminar in Energy Economics | 1 |
| GEOL 696 | Seminar in ESG | 1 |
| Total Credits | 15 | |
Careers
Take the first steps toward your academic and personal growth.
Fostering your intellectual development is the primary focus of every academic program at Western. Our professors and Office of Career Services will help you identify your strengths, hone your skills, define your goals, and prepare for a fulfilling and enriched life after graduation.
Program Benefits
Expand your skillset and elevate your career.
Affordability
This geoscientist certification offers specialized coursework to help you advance your career at a fraction of the cost of a master’s degree.
Flexibility
Our online geoscience courses allow you to complete the program while meeting your personal and professional obligations.
Timeliness
The energy sector is rapidly evolving. Learn how you can advance your career in alternative energy with an Energy Geoscience Certificate.
Practical Learning
The Energy Geoscience certificate begins with an in-person experience where you’ll gain hands-on practice conducting field work.
Additional Resources
Department Information
Energy Geoscience
Campus Location
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231
