Schulich's newest degree in high demand with transfer students

The newest degree program at the Schulich School of Engineering is surpassing expectations and energizing students, faculty and staff.

The Bachelor of Science in Energy Engineering was developed in partnership with SAIT Polytechnic and is designed to provide graduates of accredited technology diploma programs, such as those offered by SAIT, with a seamless transition to a university engineering degree program.

Industry need for graduates with technology and engineering science skills

“We had a tremendous demand for the program and we know it’s an intensive course of study; our goal is to help every student succeed,” says Anders Nygren, associate dean (academic and planning). “I’m proud that our energy engineering students have really stepped up to the challenge and are as successful as students in any of our other engineering programs.”

Completed over the course of two full calendar years at the University of Calgary, the new degree addresses the energy industry’s need for engineering graduates who bring a unique mix of technology and engineering science skills and knowledge to the workplace.

“It is a tough program but it is doable and I think all of us in the program really want to be here,” says Cory Cameron, an energy engineering student and mechanical engineering technology diploma graduate. “The school is very supportive and professors are excited about the classes and course material. I feel there is energy in energy engineering.”

Students have support with easy access to resources, spaces and advisers

The first class started in May 2015 and from the beginning, the focus has been on student success. During orientation, students were introduced to resources available on campus including the Wellness Centre, Active Living, Student Accessibility Services and the Engineering Student Centre. They also received a workshop on time management and an introduction to the Devon Academic Resource Centre (DARC), which offers study space, tutoring, one-on-one advising appointments, as well as seminars and workshops.

“Given the fast pace of spring and summer term courses, we needed to be proactive, acquainting students with advisers and other support staff, and encouraging them to reach out for help at the first sign of trouble,” says Kari Coleman, student advisor, DARC. “We know all of our students can succeed, and we’re here to help them do that.”

The DARC is integral to the success of many students and has offered seminars in study strategies, in addition to tutoring at hours chosen to provide students with easy access.

“We can count on the school, professors and each other to get through the program,” says Mike Waites, an energy engineering student and petroleum engineering technology diploma graduate. “We are giving up our weekends to study but it’s rewarding because if you put in the effort and have a great attitude, you’ll succeed.”

The energy engineering program accepts up to 50 students per year. There are currently 48 students enrolled in the first year of the degree program.