Program Overview

Next-Generation Power and Energy Systems Subplan, Professional Master's Program

The Next-Generation Power and Energy Systems (NGPES) subplan in the Professional Master's Program offers a 30-credit hour MS degree that can be completed online, with the majority of classes having an online section option. This program is designed to prepare engineers and decision makers for the next generation of power and energy systems, with a focus on renewable energy sources, power electronic interfaces, and advances in communication, control, and optimization.

Program Description

The NGPES subplan helps engineers and decision makers prepare for the next generation of power and energy systems, with deep foundational knowledge, modern technical skillsets, and the ability to effectively participate in multidisciplinary teams to solve new challenges. Adjoint professors from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) teach subplan courses with CU faculty to bring practical industry knowledge to classroom discussions.

Program Requirements

• Complete all five core NGPES courses:
  • ECEN 5407 Renewable Energy and the Future Power Grid
  • ECEN 5797 Introduction to Power Electronics
  • ECEN 5417 Power Systems Analysis
  • ECEN 5437 Distribution System Analysis
  • ECEN 5427 Power Systems Operations and Planning
• Five open 5000-level electives, either NGPES elective, other ECEE, or other technical coursework in College of Engineering and Applied Science departments (must be approved by academic advisor)
  • Students may take one nontechnical elective, if approved by academic advisor

Elective Courses

• AREN 5570 Building Electrical Systems Design 1
• ENVM 5005 The Business of Renewable and Sustainable Energy
• ECEN 5447 Power Systems Dynamics with Renewable Energy
• ECEN 5457 Energy Systems Optimization
• ECEN 5467 Data Analytics and Data-Driven Decision Making for Modern Power and Energy Systems
• ECEN 5517 Power Electronics and Photovoltaic Power Systems Laboratory
• ECEN 5007 Special Topics: Protection of power systems with renewable & distributed energy resources
• ECEN 5007 Special Topics: Electrified Transportation Systems
• ECEN 5007 Special Topics: High Voltage AC & DC Transmission

Program Outcomes

Students graduate with a Master of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering, Subplan: Next Generation Power & Energy Systems. The program can be completed in-person or online.

Testimonials

• "The subplan gave valuable insight into renewable development from experts active in the field. The courses provided me the knowledge to advance into new roles in a rapidly changing industry." ~Charlie Gerten, Senior Engineer, Eirgrid
• "Next Generation Power and Energy Systems brings students to the cutting edge of the energy transition. Coursework are based on recent innovation at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory encouraging students to reimagine power systems for a more versatile, decarbonized and interconnected energy future." ~Frank Bergh, Senior Engineer, NRECA International

Departments and Programs

The College of Engineering and Applied Science offers various departments and programs, including:

• Ann and H.J. Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences
• Chemical & Biological Engineering
• Civil, Environmental & Architectural Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering
• Paul M. Rady Mechanical Engineering
• Applied Mathematics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Creative Technology & Design
• Data Science
• Engineering Education
• Engineering Management
• Engineering Physics
• Environmental Engineering
• Integrated Design Engineering
• Materials Science & Engineering
• Robotics

Affiliates and Partners

The College of Engineering and Applied Science has various affiliates and partners, including:

• ATLAS Institute
• Campos Student Center
• Center for Technology Workforce Innovation
• Colorado Mesa University
• Colorado Space Grant Consortium
• Engineering Career Hub
• Engineering Honors
• Engineering Leadership
• Entrepreneurship
• Herbst Program for Engineering, Ethics & Society
• Idea Forge
• Integrated Teaching and Learning
• Mortenson Center for Global Engineering
• Western Colorado University