Idaho State University

What you'll study

This programme combines applied engineering fundamentals with practical laboratory and field experience to develop competence in energy conversion, distribution and controls. The curriculum covers electrical power fundamentals, power systems and distribution, renewable energy technologies (solar, wind and biomass), combustion and fuel systems, HVAC and building energy systems, instrumentation and control, and energy management and efficiency.

• Core technical topics: electrical circuits, power electronics, motors and drives, generators, and protection and metering for power systems.
• Energy conversion and fuels: principles of combustion, fossil and biofuels, boiler and turbine fundamentals, and emissions control.
• Renewables and distributed generation: photovoltaics, wind energy fundamentals, energy storage basics and integration of distributed energy resources into the grid.
• Controls and instrumentation: sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA basics, process control and automation used in energy plants and industrial settings.
• Building systems and HVAC: heating and cooling systems, thermal loads, refrigeration cycles and energy-efficient building design.
• Energy management and sustainability: auditing, lifecycle assessment, demand-side management and strategies for improving system efficiency.
• Practical experience: laboratory courses, hands-on workshops, industry projects and opportunities for internships or cooperative experiences with local utilities and energy companies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Preparation in mathematics (algebra, trigonometry or pre-calculus) and a physical science (physics or chemistry) is strongly recommended. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, completion of prerequisite courses, and any relevant technical experience or coursework from vocational programmes.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Prospective students with prior college or technical-college coursework may be eligible for advanced standing or transfer credit following review of their transcripts.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and technologist roles across the energy sector. Typical job titles include energy systems technician, power plant operator, renewable energy technician, controls technician, HVAC service engineer, instrumentation technician and energy auditor. Alumni find work with utilities, independent power producers, renewable energy installers, industrial facilities, engineering firms and government energy programmes.

The degree also provides a pathway to further study, including technical bachelor-to-master programmes or professional certification in areas such as electrical maintenance, HVAC, control systems or renewable energy technologies.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a practical, career-oriented Energy Systems Technologies degree delivered in a setting with strong regional ties to utilities and energy employers. The programme emphasises hands-on learning in dedicated labs and with industry-standard equipment, giving students experience that is valued by employers.

Students benefit from faculty with applied technical expertise, opportunities for internships and industry projects, and campus support services including academic advising, career services and connections to regional employers. The university’s location provides access to a range of energy contexts — from conventional generation to emerging renewable installations — allowing students to gain broad, real-world exposure during their studies.