Program Overview
The Sustainable Engineering minor at Villanova University equips engineering undergraduates with knowledge and skills to address sustainability challenges. Through core courses, humanities/policy electives, and technology electives, students develop an understanding of sustainability, life-cycle analysis, circular design, and the role of engineering in sustainable solutions. The minor prepares students for careers in fields such as environmental consulting, renewable energy, and green building design.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Sustainable Engineering minor at Villanova University is designed for engineering undergraduates to equip them with the knowledge and skills to address complex sustainability challenges in the 21st century.
Program Learning Objectives:
- Understand humanity's impact on Earth and the nexus of human and environmental processes in the Anthropocene.
- Define holistically the scope of sustainability through the lens of conceptual frameworks including the triple bottom line and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Approach complex problems in the intersection of engineering and sustainable development through the application of whole-systems thinking through a life-cycle lens and with consideration of the interconnected STEEP (social, technological, economic, environmental, and political) dimensions of sustainability challenges.
- Apply, on a conceptual level, life-cycle analysis as a tool to evaluate the environmental impacts of engineered products, services, and the built environment.
- Apply circular design principles to identify opportunities to rethink engineered products, services, and infrastructure and the systems surrounding them in advancing a transition from a linear to a circular economy.
- Articulate the role of the engineering profession and one’s chosen engineering discipline in contributing to sustainable solutions as part of interdisciplinary teams.
Outline:
The Sustainable Engineering minor at Villanova University comprises 18 credits (6 3-hour courses) across the following categories:
- Core Requirements:
- SUSE 2110: Sus Eng: Risks & Opportunities
- SUSE 2111: Sus Eng: LCA & Circular Econ
- Humanities and/or Policy Electives:
- Courses from departments such as English, Ethics, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Theology, and Geography
- Technology Electives:
- Courses from departments such as Biology, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Meteorology
Assessment:
The assessment methods for the Sustainable Engineering minor may vary depending on the specific courses taken. However, they may include:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Presentations
- Projects
Careers:
The Sustainable Engineering minor at Villanova University prepares students for careers in fields such as:
- Environmental consulting
- Energy efficiency
- Renewable energy
- Sustainability assessment
- Green building design
- Corporate social responsibility
Villanova College Summary
Overview:
Villanova University is a private Augustinian Catholic university located in Pennsylvania. It is known for its personalized learning environment, where teachers and students collaborate in scholarly inquiry. The university emphasizes intellectual inspiration, moral grounding, and global perspectives, aiming to cultivate world changers who ignite positive change.
Services Offered:
Villanova offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Bachelor's:
Over 60 programs in liberal arts, business, engineering, nursing, and sciences.Master's:
Over 40 programs across various disciplines, including 5-year bachelor's/master's programs.Doctoral:
Distinctive programs in engineering, nursing, philosophy, and theology.Law:
JD and joint degrees offered in coordination with other schools and departments.Online:
Degree and certificate programs offered online, in-person, or hybrid depending on individual learning needs.Certificate:
A variety of undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate certificates, as well as non-credit professional programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Villanova provides a closely connected academic community with renowned faculty, rich resources, and a supportive learning environment. Students have access to exceptional opportunities for academic experiences, including hands-on research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and experiential learning.
The university also boasts a strong athletic tradition, with student-athletes excelling both academically and athletically. Villanova Athletics fosters a sense of community and pride within the "Nova Nation."
Key Reasons to Study There:
Personalized Learning:
Villanova emphasizes a close-knit community where teachers and students work together.Academic Excellence:
The university offers a wide range of programs with renowned faculty and resources.Global Perspective:
Villanova encourages students to develop a global mindset and engage in international experiences.Strong Athletics:
The university has a rich athletic tradition with a focus on academic and athletic success.Supportive Environment:
Villanova provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students to thrive.Academic Programs:
Villanova offers a diverse range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Liberal Arts:
A strong foundation in humanities, social sciences, and the arts.Business:
Programs in areas like finance, marketing, and management.Engineering:
Programs in fields like chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.Nursing:
Programs leading to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees.Sciences:
Programs in biology, chemistry, physics, and other scientific disciplines.Other:
- Villanova University is located on a 260-acre campus, 12 miles west of Philadelphia.
- The campus is conveniently located near major cities like Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C.
- The university has a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement.
- Villanova has a high undergraduate placement rate of 98.9%.
- The university has a 98% NCAA graduation success rate.
- Villanova has been recognized by Forbes as a top college that dominates academically and athletically.
