Science, Technology and Society - Energy and Environment
The Science, Technology and Society: Energy and Environment Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between energy systems, environmental processes, and societal development. The curriculum integrates environmental engineering, sustainability studies, energy policy, technology assessment, and research methodology, enabling students to analyze energy production and consumption, evaluate environmental impacts, and design sustainable solutions. Students engage in fieldwork, laboratory research, and applied projects, developing analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills essential for addressing contemporary energy and environmental challenges.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, collaborative research, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in environmental science, engineering, and policy. The program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary analysis, and applied research, preparing graduates to evaluate energy systems, develop sustainable strategies, and influence environmental policy and technology decisions. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, applied problem-solving, and policy insight, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in environmental management, sustainable energy, policy, or engineering.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Science, Technology and Society - Energy and Environment
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Environmental Engineering
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Energy and Environment
- Introduction to Environmental Engineering and Sustainability
- Energy Systems and Society
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
- Environmental Science and Policy
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Sustainable Systems
- Renewable Energy Technologies
- Environmental Impact Assessment
- Resource Management and Sustainability
- Electives: Climate Policy, Water Resources, or Energy Economics
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Energy Policy and Environmental Regulation
- Applied Research Projects in Environmental Engineering
- Technology Assessment and Sustainable Solutions
- Electives: Energy Systems Modeling, Environmental Design, or Ecological Studies
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Applied Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Energy and Environmental Challenges
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Environmental Organizations or Energy Firms
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Energy and Environment program are prepared for careers in sustainable energy management, environmental consulting, policy and planning, research and development, and nonprofit environmental organizations. Alumni may work as environmental engineers, sustainability analysts, policy advisors, or pursue graduate studies in environmental engineering, energy policy, or sustainable development. The program equips graduates to assess environmental systems, design sustainable energy solutions, and contribute to evidence-based policy initiatives. With strong analytical, technical, and research skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments addressing energy and environmental challenges.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of energy systems, environmental engineering, sustainability, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical environmental and energy applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and evidence-based decision-making, preparing graduates to evaluate energy and environmental systems, develop sustainable strategies, and contribute meaningfully to policy and engineering solutions. For students passionate about sustainable energy, environmental stewardship, and applied problem-solving, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
