Energy education at MIT

MIT is fundamentally a center of learning. Catalyzing student knowledge and enthusiasm to solve technologically, socially and politically challenging problems is a scientifically central component of the Energy Initiative. Education is closely integrated with MIT's energy research and "walk the talk" activities. This section of the website helps guide you to the energy education initiatives most useful to you at MIT and will highlight new programs as they develop.

Cross-disciplinary learning

Energy education at MIT is thoroughly cross-disciplinary, addresses both fundamental and applied knowledge and includes offerings from the undergraduate first year through advanced graduate study. More than 70 subjects offered across all five schools have a substantive connection to energy issues. A wide range of topics are covered, from subjects with a deep science and technology focus, to those emphasizing economics and policy, to those with hands-on, lab-based, and project-based components. In many cases, environmental concerns and impacts associated with energy supply and consumption are discussed as well. New energy subjects are being developed each semester, and our database will provide you with an up-to-date view of these.

Beyond the classroom

Opportunities for extending energy education beyond the laboratory and classroom are plentiful. Research opportunities abound for both undergraduate and graduate students: MIT's distinctive Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) provides options that can be tailored to student interest, and the large number of faculty engaged in energy-related research continues to grow. Student interest in energy has expanded dramatically in recent years, spawning a rich array of student-driven projects, groups and coordinated activities. And interest is keen among Institute faculty, staff and students in working with communities near and far to respond to the growing excitement among primary and secondary school students about energy issues and opportunities in their everyday lives and world.

Upcoming initiatives

Whether you want to focus your studies on energy, learn more about this complex and fascinating topic, or find interesting people to work with in this area, check back to this site frequently for updates. MIT's Energy Education Task Force is taking the lead on enhancing learning opportunities for MIT students and for communities beyond MIT.