Evolution of a New Engineering Degree Program: the Bachelors of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering

In Fall 2008, the Oregon Institute of Technology began offering a new engineering degree program, the Bachelors of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering (BSREE). However, the winding road that led to the BSREE began much early, in 2003, with a proposal for a Bachelors of Science in Renewable Energy Systems (BRES). Analysis of the educational market place and observed growth in career options across the renewable energy fields revealed significant opportunities for graduates with a solid energy engineering education. This presentation discusses these and other motivating factors that convinced the Oregon Institute of Technology to change track and begin offering the BSREE degree.