Energy Systems Engineering

The ESE curriculum includes advanced mathematics and applied engineering courses along with coursework that addresses the engineering design and implementation of conventional, alternative, and renewable energy systems. 

The ESE program requires the completion of three cooperative (Co-op) learning experiences in industry that are scheduled for the students' junior and senior years. The ESE Co-op program provides the students with opportunities to learn the practical application of their studies in real-world industrial settings, establish professional contacts, and develop future employment options.

Curriculum

Academic Requirements

To be considered for admission to Massachusetts Maritime Academy, candidates must be capable of college-level study and meet the minimum requirements below:

• 4 years of English
• 4 years of Mathematics: Including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Precalc/Trigonometry, and Calculus by senior year of high school. At least one course must be completed during senior year. *
• 3 years of Science: At least three of these courses must include labs. Technology/Engineering courses must be designated as science courses (taken for science credit) by the high school. Courses in Chemistry and Physics are strongly recommended.
• 2 years of Social Science: Including one course in United States History
• 2 years of Foreign Language: Two sequential, one-year courses in either a classical or modern language 
  • A foreign language waiver may be given to students attending a vocational technical high school or those who have received a waiver from their high school.
• 2 Elective Courses
• Calculus for Energy Systems Engineering
• Applicants to Energy Systems Engineering are required to take calculus in their senior year of high school to best prepare for our demanding ESEN curriculum.

How to prepare for this major:

• Four years of college prep math. Calculus is required by senior year. 
• 3-4 years of lab science, including Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
• An overall GPA of 3.4 or above.
• Final grade of B or better in all math, science, engineering related courses.

The Energy Systems Engineering program prepares graduates for careers in sustainable production, conversion, delivery, and use of energy. Energy systems engineers are responsible for the safe, economical, compliant and sustainable design and implementation of various energy technologies. MMA Energy Systems Engineers can be found in every energy business sector and in every level of management throughout industry across the globe. Renewable energy firms are always seeking our graduates.

Possible career paths for an Energy Systems Engineering major include:

• Renewable Energy Technology
• Sustainable Building Design and Implementation
• Power Generation and Distribution
• Automation and Control Technology

The goal of the ESE program is to produce a competent and conscientious systems engineer who will be prepared to take on a responsible role in sustainable production, conversion, delivery, and use of energy.

At the end of the ESE Program, graduates will possess:

• An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
• An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
• An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
• An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
• An ability to function effectively in a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
• An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
• An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Over 40% of the ESE curriculum requires hands-on learning experiences, including 14 labs, 3 internships, plus an optional international Experiential Learning course. The lab courses include not just mechanical, electronics, CAD & computer engineering labs, but also include auxiliary & electrical machines, welding & machining, power systems, and instrumentation & controls labs.  Other elective labs include diesel, turbines, boilers, and refrigeration labs.  These extensive hands-on training experiences make our graduates more job-ready at graduation, resulting in higher recruitment percentages

Graduates of the program will:

• Pursue careers serving the engineering and business interests of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the United States, and the International Community.
• Undertake careers in the rapidly growing conventional alternative and renewable energy industries, including but not limited to positions in project design, planning, procurement, installation, testing, operations and control systems management.
• Attain professional standing and engage in lifelong learning through pursuit of higher education, job training, licenses, and certifications in energy systems engineering and all related disciplines.
• Understand their professional and ethical responsibilities and will have the ability to effectively communicate and perform in diverse environments as contributing members of our highly technical society.