Dimensions of the Energy Studies Minor
Energy – its sources, transformations, and uses – is fundamental to society, and the challenges it poses in the 21st century are complex. Making the world’s energy systems more economically and environmentally sustainable requires understanding traditional and emerging energy sources, conversion, and uses in all energy sectors, including but not limited to buildings, transportation, and manufacturing. Each part of the energy system interacts with others, sometimes in surprising ways; the “energy system” dimension of the Minor curriculum addresses both the components and the relationships among them.
The Energy Studies Minor for undergraduates is an Institute-wide program that complements the deep expertise obtained in any major with a broad understanding of the interlinked realms of science, technology, and social sciences as they relate to energy and associated environmental challenges. These three domains form the “perspectives” dimension of the Minor curriculum.
Opportunities to study energy abound from the moment a student steps foot at MIT. Hands-on experiences for freshmen, intensive class and lab work, undergraduate research and student group activity comprise the “mens et manus” (mind and hand) dimension of the Energy Studies Minor.
Together, these three dimensions guide the content as well as the teaching and learning approaches of the Minor.
