Solar and Renewable Energy

A solar student is standing in front of a large solar panel installation with wind turbines in the distance.

Delivery: A mix of daytime and online courses.
Start: Fall, Spring, or Summer; Full- or Part-Time.


About the Program

We believe in doing our part in protecting the planet from the effects of climate change. We launch fulfilling careers for those who want to make an impact, and we equip you with leading-edge knowledge and skills to be successful and make a difference in the solar and renewable energy industries.

Earn $76,710 a year in 5 years!

Complete a certificate in Solar and Renewable Energy and start working immediately as an Apprentice Electrician at a solar installation company. After 4 years of employment, you will qualify to take the Journeyman’s Exam and become a licensed electrician.

Electricians in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area earns $76,710 a year on average, with some earning as much as $94,238 a year.

Source: careerwise.minnstate.edu

The time is NOW for a career in Solar Energy!

  • The price of solar energy is now less expensive than nearly all other technologies, including coal and natural gas.
  • Legislation is in place to ensure the move from a fossil fuel energy economy to one of renewable energy.
  • We presently are only generating 1% of our electricity from solar energy. That leaves room for decades of great careers in the industry.

Solar Assessor Certificate

We are offering a 16-credit, fully online Solar Assessor certificate, which will enable you to become a Solar Energy Assessor or Installer. It is possible to complete this certificate in one semester or approximately 4 months. The certificate is available in both the Fall and Spring semesters. Here are just a few of the major topics that the certificate covers:

  • Solar modules and solar equipment
  • Software and apps
  • OSHA 10 safety card and NEC code requirements
  • Solar system design
  • Drone applications in the industry
  • Energy storage and monitoring systems

Students enrolled in Century College’s solar program will:

  • Implement clean energy technologies that make a difference in the environment and promote social responsibility
  • Participate on a team of technicians who design, install, and verify the performance of solar systems
  • Belong to a green and sustainable industry that uses modern engineering tools and techniques to power the world

Interested in a career in Solar and Renewable Energy? Schedule a program tour!


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Cost & Financial Aid

As a two-year public community and technical college, Century College receives funding from the State of Minnesota, keeping tuition rates significantly lower than private colleges and universities. With affordable tuition rates and financial aid and scholarship opportunities, our students avoid student loan debt.

Financial Aid

Century College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and our programs qualify for financial aid including grants, loans, and college work-study. Eligibility for financial aid is determined annually based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Century College’s Federal School Code is 010546.

Scholarship Opportunities

Each year, the Century College Foundation awards more than $300,000 in scholarships to Century College students involved in several areas of study. Students are encouraged to create an account and apply for scholarships online.

Tuition Cost per Credit Comparison: Century College $206.41, University of MN - TC $555.13, Private Colleges & Universities $1,416.

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Solar Energy Testimonials

Transfer

Solar and Renewable Energy student installing a solar panel

Potential Job Titles

Faculty supporting students with the installation of Solar Panels on the roof on East Campus.
  • Solar/Photovoltaic Installer
  • Solar Assessor
  • Installation Supervisor
  • Industrial Technician

Salary Data

Solar/Photovoltaic Installer*
Average Wage: $15.00-$25.00/hour

Installation Supervisor
Average Wage: $18.22/hour
Top Earners: $23.36/hour

Electrician**
Average Wage: $36.88/hour

Solar Assessor*
Average Wage: $15.00-$25.00/hour

Industrial Technician
Average Wage: $22.62/hour

* This is a new and emerging career field. Job title and salary data is difficult to estimate at this time. Please refer to the following websites for current information:
Minnesota Energy Careers | Minnesota Green Careers | Minnesota Renewable Energy Society

** After passing the Journeyman’s Exam and becoming a licensed electrician.
Information gathered pertains to the seven-county metro area - careerwise.minnstate.edu


Related Programs

Engineering


Resource Links

MN Energy Careers
Minnesota Renewable Energy Society (MRES)

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