SCHOOL DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT:

 

SCHOOL / CHAPTER NAME: University of Calgary / AKCSE U of C Chapter

DEPARTMENT: Energy and Environment Engineering Specialization

 

Description of the said department: (Ex: areas of studies, possible future career path, # of students in the department)

The Energy and Environment Engineering (ENEE) specialization is an interdisciplinary program that allows engineering students to learn about alternative energy and environmental impacts. Students can enroll in the specialization to obtain additional knowledge regarding topics related to sustainability, renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro, geothermal), and environmental protection. Possible future career paths for this department include working in the industry (government regulation, city transportation, water treatment, etc.) or pursuing research (master’s and doctoral degrees). Currently, approximately fifty-five students get accepted into the specialization each year.

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Process of getting into the said department: (Ex: Is there any necessary special application process? How to choose the said department)

The specialization is for students in Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Geomatics or Mechanical engineering starting from their 2nd year. Students can apply for the specialization near the end of their first year in an online application. In that application, they will be allowed to choose the ENEE specialization among various optional specializations.

 

How to get into the said department: (Ex: GPA? Volunteer work? Is this a department students get to go in right after high school? Or after 1st year of university?)

Students will get accepted into this department if they successfully complete their first year common core program, and pass the application process. The ENEE specialization requires a competitive GPA, along with a personal statement for students who do not pass the cut-off GPA. Volunteer work is not required, but it will strengthen the personal statement.

 

Why do people choose this department? (Ex: Career, ability to do multiple academic categories)

The ENEE specialization allows students to learn about topics not normally taught in traditional engineering courses such as renewable energy or interdisciplinary subjects. Students will also be interested in the ENEE specialization if they are passionate about helping the environment. This specialization also widens career options, and will be beneficial in the near future, as topics relating to energy and environment are becoming increasingly important.

 

(IF NEW) When did the said department become an official department? Any interesting stories behind the creation of the said department?

The ENEE specialization is the first of its kind in Canada, and it was established in 2007 but has gone through a lot more growth and development in the last few years. This department helped the University of Calgary, Schulich School of Engineering obtain the top ranking relating to among Canadian engineering schools for sustainable energy and research. There’s also a very active student society called EEESA (energy environment engineering students’ association) and they host a lot of different activities from networking events to technical talks, to international conference opportunities, fundraising, and industry tours.

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Where is the department located? (Ex: campus, building name, location,)

The Engineering Building is located at the University of Calgary Main Campus, Schulich School of Engineering, Engineering Block, 2500 University Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4. Dr. Achari, the Director for the Centre for Environmental Energy Research and Education (CEERE), has his office in Engineering Block F, 280.

 

Please write 3 pros and 3 cons about the department.

+All engineering is become more environmental

+Student body is very active and social

+Widens career options

-New, only 10 years old

-Alberta is still somewhat slow in renewables

-Must be more creative to find jobs

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Finally, take this time to add any extra information about your department: (Ex: Professors, funding, new building? Less competition? Anything)

The Energy and Environment Engineering specialization allows students to delve into topics important to the future of the industry and society. The Professors for the courses are all passionate about the planet, and that energy comes out when teaching the material. As the environment becomes more of a concern, and fossil fuels become phased out, knowledge in alternative energy and pollution control will be incredibly valuable to employers.

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**Special Thanks to Geer Ma for sharing information regarding his department**

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For more information: 

Contact Name: Geer Ma

Contact Email: ge.ma@ucalgary.ca

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Last Update: 2018