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 Century College will be closed for the Holiday weekend. Normal activities will resume Tuesday, January 21st at 7am.  

Enter for a chance to win one 3-credit course!

Sign up for the Launch Your Education session on January 21 to complete all your steps for Spring Semester Sessions II and III enrollment in one day and be entered in for a chance to win a free 3-credit course!

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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.

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 on the environment and promote social responsibility
  • Participate on a team of technicians who design, install, and verify 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!

Cost & Financial Aid

  • Tuition Cost Per Credit

    Century College can be extremely affordable through financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

    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.

    Century College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Our programs qualify for federal financial aid including Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and others.

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Ready to get started?Apply today

Testimonials

Testimonial_Patrick_Kane_Solar
Solar student - Patrick Kane

"Our program at Century has equipped me with the knowledge and understanding to be immediately successful in a rapidly growing field." 

Alan_Wernke
Solar Alum - Alan Wernke

"Century College put me on the energy industry fast track with solar knowledge. By taking night classes, I could join a local Solar installer, and move from intern to a business development executive with in 1 year. Today I am a valuable member on the team, helping to build a clean energy economy here in MN."

Testimonial_Kristina_Smith_program
Solar Alum - Kristina Smith

"I wanted a great education at an affordable price, and the option of having classes available at all times of day, so that I could schedule and take them around family and employment commitments."

Learn more >

Planning for Your Program

Transfer

Solar and Renewable Energy

Potential Job Titles

Solar and Renewable Energy
  • Solar/Photovoltaic Installer
  • Solar Assessor
  • Installation Supervisor
  • Industrial Technician

Salary Data

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

Solar Assessor*
Average Wage: $15.00-$25.00/hour; $175.00-$250.00/site

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

Information gathered pertains to seven county metro area - careerwise.minnstate.edu

Resource Links

MN Energy CareersMinnesota Renewable Energy Society (MRES)