Clean energy systems, PhD
Do you have a passion for clean energy? Are you interested in engineering solutions for the global energy economy that is rapidly transitioning to a low-carbon and no-carbon future? Gain fundamental clean energy knowledge and problem-solving skills while participating in transformative research.
The Doctor of Philosophy in clean energy systems is a research-driven program designed to develop the next generation of leaders and innovators in the rapidly evolving clean energy systems sector around the world. In particular, the program will focus majorly on the performance and reliability of technologies across key sectors of the clean energy economy in conversion and storage for various applications.
Students engage in advanced studies that combine engineering, environmental science and policy to create systems that reduce carbon footprints, enhance energy efficiency and promote global sustainability.
With access to state-of-the-art laboratories, industry partnerships and expert faculty, students may complete coursework on the Polytechnic campus in:
- Solar photovoltaics
- Hydrogen
- Energy storage technologies
- Power electronics
- Connected and automated vehicles
This doctoral degree program in The Polytechnic School provides students advanced laboratory experience and applied knowledge through high-quality research and coursework focused on clean energy systems.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants must meet the following admissions requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in clean energy systems, engineering, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00=A) in their first bachelor’s degree program, or in the last 60 hours of a student’s first bachelor’s degree program.
- Minimum of 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00=A) in a minimum of nine semester hours of graduate work from a U.S. institution; or a cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00=A) from an applicable conferred master’s degree program in a regionally accredited college or university, if applicable.
- An online Graduate Admissions application.
- Official transcripts from undergraduate and graduate programs. Applicants may upload legible unofficial transcripts as part of the online application; if admitted official transcripts are then required.
- Three (3) letters of recommendation
- Submit a current resume or CV and statement of research interests as part of the online admissions application
- International applicants must also meet the English proficiency requirements, as defined by Graduate Admissions. Please be sure to review the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE score requirements, as your application will not be processed without valid proof of English proficiency.
Additional application information
- In the written statement, the applicant must include an introduction, share goals, and explain why they decided to pursue graduate education.
- Letters of recommendation should come from professors, managers, supervisors or professional associates.
- GRE is not a mandatory requirement.
Degree Requirements
The doctoral degree in clean energy systems requires the following:
- A minimum of 84 credit hours.
- A written comprehensive exam.
- An oral comprehensive exam.
- A prospectus and a dissertation.
Students with a completed graduate degree in a related field may receive up to 30 credits of blanket coursework to apply towards the doctoral degree requirements. See the CES PhD Graduate Student Handbook linked on the left-hand side for more information.
STEM-designated
STEM designation makes students within the program at ASU eligible for STEM specific Scholarships, OPT extension for International Students, and expanded GI benefits for Student Veterans.