On This Page:
For those seeking a career in a fast-growing, lucrative industry, renewable and sustainable energy offers some of the most exciting job opportunities in the country. There has never been a better time for students to earn an associate degree in energy, as both private enterprises and government agencies are investing heavily in clean energy, leading to more jobs, higher pay, and greater opportunities than ever before.
The US Department of Agriculture recently announced an $11 billion investment in bringing affordable clean energy to rural communities across America, a historic move that promises to finance “large-scale solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, hydropower projects and energy storage in support of renewable energy systems.”
With an associate degree in energy, graduates will be equipped with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in a rapidly growing field, allowing them to enter a number of exciting careers. Jump ahead to our degree listings if you’re ready to browse program options.
Takeaways
- Associate degrees in energy focus on practical, hands-on training for students who are interested in working as energy technicians.
- On a full-time plan of study, you’ll be able to finish an energy associate degree in 1.5 years to 2 years. Check our listings to find a program in a community college or trade school near you.
- AAS graduates often find work in the fields of energy installation & maintenance, energy sales, energy management & sustainable building design, and energy auditing.
What Is an Associate Degree in Energy?
While associate degrees in energy vary from school to school, each program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various energy sources—wind, solar, water, and biomass. Students also gain hands-on experience in the practical skills required for their chosen career path, including opportunities to work with energy systems, conduct energy audits, and analyze energy data.
Coursework is geared toward students who plan to immediately enter a career field; studies combine in-class training with project-based skill development. Because of the growing demand for skilled energy technicians, associate degree programs prepare students for positions in various sectors such as renewable energy installation and maintenance, energy management, and energy auditing.
Most programs can be completed between 18 months and two years, with graduates either entering entry-level careers or furthering their education with a four-year bachelor’s degree program in the field of their choice.
Types of Associate Degree Programs in Energy
There are over 100 programs across the country offering associate degrees in energy fields. While each school boasts a unique set of coursework and training opportunities, degree tracks are often broken down into four broad energy fields: renewable energy and sustainable energy (sometimes used interchangeably), energy management, and energy engineering.
Renewable Energy Associate Degree
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Wind Turbine Technology at Delta College focuses specifically on the technical aspects of wind energy, strongly emphasizing the operation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. The program aims to develop competent technicians who can contribute effectively to the wind energy industry.
Coursework covers a variety of topics such as wind turbine systems, electrical and mechanical components, safety procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and wind energy regulations.
Because Delta College is designed to prepare career-ready graduates, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a fully operational wind turbine, where they gain practical experience in tasks such as maintenance, troubleshooting, and component replacement.
Sustainable Energy Associate Degree
The AAS in Sustainable Energy Systems at Rock Valley College is a two-year program designed to equip students with the skills needed to contribute to the development, implementation, and maintenance of sustainable energy systems.
Students study the fundamentals of solar energy, wind power, bioenergy, geothermal energy, and other emerging sustainable energy technologies. They also have opportunities to conduct fieldwork like energy system installation and maintenance.
At Sinclair Community College students can earn an Associate of Technical Studies (ATS) in Sustainability and Energy Management Technology. This two-year program combines classroom theory and hands-on training to provide graduates with career-ready skills in the sustainable energy industry.
Coursework covers topics like sustainability, energy management principles, green building design, and energy auditing. Sinclair Community College also prepares students to earn highly sought-after industry certifications including the LEED Green Associate.
Energy Management Associate Degree
Lansing Community College offers an AAS in HVAC/R Energy Management Engineering Technology, a two-year program that specifically prepares students to leverage renewable and sustainable energy principles in the HVAC/R industry.
Coursework addresses the study of energy management and efficiency, green building technologies, and controls and automation, with heavy emphasis on skills training and career preparation. Program graduates are prepared to immediately enter career fields including HVAC/R system installation and maintenance.
At De Anza College, students can earn an AS in Energy Management and Building Science. This two-year program prepares graduates to enter the rapidly growing field of energy management and sustainable building practices, with coursework covering sustainable building design, renewable energy systems, and building energy auditing.
Students also learn how to assess energy consumption, develop energy management plans, and implement energy-saving strategies in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Energy Engineering Associate Degree
The AS in Engineering Technology–Renewable Energy Program at the College of the Florida Keys combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training to prepare students for careers in renewable energy systems design, installation, and maintenance.
The program places a strong emphasis on renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy systems. Students learn about the principles, components, and operations of these systems, as well as their integration into existing infrastructures. Given the school’s location, College of the Florida Keys offers special courses and hands-on training in ocean power technologies.
Students also develop critical skills in sustainability and energy efficiency, learning how to optimize system performance, reduce energy consumption, and drive long-term environmental sustainability.
At Community College of Rhode Island, students can earn an AS in Engineering Systems Technology with an Energy Utility Concentration. This specialized program provides students with the foundational skills needed for entry-level positions in the energy utility sector.
Students receive extensive hands-on training in the generation, distribution, and management of energy. Specific skills training includes studies of power systems, energy distribution networks, instrumentation, control systems, and troubleshooting techniques. Students also learn about emerging trends and innovations in renewable energy.
What to Expect from an Energy Associate Degree Program
An associate degree in energy is primarily designed to lead to one of two outcomes:
Enter a career field: Many jobs in the renewable and sustainable energy sectors require only certification or an associate degree, making these degree programs a strong investment for people looking to fast-track their careers. Graduates typically enter positions such as solar or wind installers, renewable energy technicians, or maintenance specialists.
Transfer to a four-year university: For graduates who wish to further and deepen their understanding of renewable and sustainable energy, credits from an associate degree program are transferable to jumpstart a bachelor’s degree. Graduates with a BS degree in energy often experience higher earning potential.
Although coursework varies from program to program, students can expect to study several core areas during their two-year degree track. Most energy degree programs include an overview of different energy sources, energy generation, distribution systems, and their environmental impact, as well as the study of energy conservation techniques, energy-efficient technologies, and strategies for reducing energy consumption.
Depending on their area of specialization, students may also study renewable energy sources, the basics of electrical components and systems related to energy generation, and energy policies and regulations.
While energy degree programs focus on energy technology, storage, and delivery, as well as the economics and financial considerations of renewable and sustainable energy, coursework also incorporates general math, science, and communication. Overall, these programs are designed to prepare a well-rounded graduate to proceed immediately to their career of choice or continued education, all within two years.
What Can You Do with an Associate Degree in Energy?
As indicated by the massive investments by both private corporations and public agencies, the world is shifting toward renewable and sustainable energy sources at an unprecedented pace. With an associate degree in energy, graduates are well positioned for incredible job opportunities and career growth.
Technician positions in particular are projected to grow at an extraordinary rate. While all job sectors are expected to increase 3.7% by 2029, solar photovoltaic installers are expected to increase by over 50%, and wind turbine service technicians by an astounding 60%.
It is an industry that remains in high demand, and the salary statistics suggest graduates will enjoy a strong initial salary. The median salary for solar PV installers is more than $45K and wind turbine service technicians earn nearly $60K annually.
Other fast-growing energy sector positions include energy auditors, energy sales representatives, project coordinators, and energy data analysts.
Overall, the field of renewable and sustainable energy has never been more exciting—and never before has the industry had a greater need for talented, trained professionals. For students considering an associate degree in energy, pursuing a degree will enhance their job prospects, position them for growth within an emerging industry, and greatly improve their career outlook.
All Energy Associate Degree Programs
86Schools Found
Arizona
Coconino Community College
Department of Skilled Trades
Flagstaff, Arizona
GateWay Community College
Arts and Sciences
Phoenix, Arizona
Northland Pioneer College
Department of Energy & Industrial Technology
Holbrook, Arizona
California
Cabrillo College
Department of Construction and Energy Management
Aptos, California
College of the Desert
School of Applied Sciences and Business
Palm Desert, California
De Anza College
Department of Environmental Studies
Cupertino, California
Diablo Valley College
Department of Science and Health
Pleasant Hill, California
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
Department of Construction, Maintenance, and Utilities
Los Angeles, California
Rio Hondo College
Department of Industrial, Environmental, and Transportation Technology
Whittier, California
Santa Monica College
Department of Earth Science
Santa Monica, California
Colorado
Lamar Community College
Department of Renewable Energy Technologies
Lamar, Colorado
Connecticut
Tunxis Community College
Department of Technology Studies
Farmington, Connecticut
Delaware
Delaware Technical Community College
Department of Energy and Engineering
Dover, Delaware
Florida
Florida Keys Community College
Department of Engineering Technology and Renewable Energy
Key West, Florida
Gulf Coast State College
Department of Business, Industry, Technology, Manufacturing
Panama City, Florida
Idaho
College of Southern Idaho
Department of Trade and Industry
Twin Falls, Idaho
Idaho State University
Energy Systems Technology & Education Center
Pocatello, Idaho
Illinois
Danville Area Community College
Division of Technology & Information Systems
Danville, Illinois
Kankakee Community College
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Kankakee, Illinois
Lake Land College
Department of Manufacturing
Mattoon, Illinois
Triton College
Department of Business and Technology
River Grove, Illinois
Indiana
Ivy Tech Community College
Department of Energy Technology
Indianapolis, Indiana
Iowa
Des Moines Area Community College
Center for Advanced Manufacturing
Ankeny, Iowa
Eastern Iowa Community College District
Department of Industry and Trades
Davenport, Iowa
Indian Hills Community College
Department of Advanced Technologies
Ottumwa, Iowa
Iowa Lakes Community College
Department of Sustainable Energy Resources & Technologies
Estherville, Iowa
Kansas
Cloud County Community College
Renewable Energy Department
Concordia, Kansas
Colby Community College
ColbyConnect
Colby, Kansas
Kentucky
Gateway Community and Technical College
Department of Energy Technologies
Florence, Kentucky
Maryland
Hagerstown Community College
Division of Technology & Computer Studies
Hagerstown, Maryland
Massachusetts
Bristol Community College
Department of Engineering Technology
Fall River, Massachusetts
Middlesex Community College
Department of Liberal Arts
Bedford, Massachusetts
Michigan
Alpena Community College
Workforce Development
Alpena, Michigan
Delta College
Division of Business and Technology
University Center, Michigan
Jackson Community College
Department of Energy Systems
Jackson, Michigan
Lansing Community College
Department of Utility & Energy Systems
Lansing, Michigan
Macomb Community College
Department of Applied Technology
Warren, Michigan
Muskegon Community College
Department of Applied Technology
Muskegon, Michigan
Wayne County Community College District
School of Continuing Education
Detroit, Michigan
Minnesota
Century College
Department of Solar Energy
White Bear Lake, Minnesota
Dakota County Technical College
Construction & Manufacturing
Rosemount, Minnesota
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Energy Department
Fergus Falls, Minnesota
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Energy & Manufacturing
Granite Falls, Minnesota
South Central College
Department of Advanced Manufacturing
North Mankato, Minnesota
St. Cloud Technical and Community College
Department of Energy Technology
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Missouri
Crowder College
Missouri Alternative and Renewable Energy Technology Center
Neosho, Missouri
State Technical College of Missouri
Department of Energy Technology
Linn, Missouri
Montana
Great Falls College Montana State University
Department of General Studies
Great Falls, Montana
Nebraska
Central Community College
Department of Skilled and Technical Sciences
Grand Island, Nebraska
Northeast Community College
Department of Applied Technology
Norfolk, Nebraska
Southeast Community College Area
Department of Energy Generation Operations
Lincoln, Nebraska
Nevada
Truckee Meadows Community College
Division of Technical Sciences
Reno, Nevada
New Jersey
Raritan Valley Community College
Career Training Division
Branchburg, New Jersey
Salem Community College
Carneys Point, New Jersey
New Mexico
Navajo Technical College
School of Applied Technology
Crownpoint, New Mexico
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo
Department of Career & Technology
Alamogordo, New Mexico
New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
Department of Environmental and Energy Technologies
Las Cruces, New Mexico
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Department of Engineering Technology & Surveying Engineering
Las Cruces, New Mexico
San Juan College
School of Energy
Farmington, New Mexico
Santa Fe Community College
School of Trades, Advanced Technologies and Sustainability
Santa Fe, New Mexico
New York
Clinton Community College
Department of Technology
Plattsburgh, New York
CUNY LaGuardia Community College
Department of Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science
Long Island City, New York
Hudson Valley Community College
Department of Applied Technologies
Troy, New York
Morrisville State College
Department of Renewable Energy
Morrisville, New York
SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
Department of Electrical/Energy
Delhi, New York
SUNY Westchester Community College
Department of Engineering
Valhalla, New York
North Dakota
Bismarck State College
National Energy Center of Excellence
Bismarck, North Dakota
Ohio
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
Department of Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology
Cincinnati, Ohio
Marion Technical College
Department of Engineering
Marion, Ohio
Sinclair Community College
Department of Energy Management Technology
Dayton, Ohio
Oregon
Clackamas Community College
Department of Industrial Technology
Oregon City, Oregon
Columbia Gorge Community College
Technology and Trades
The Dalles, Oregon
Portland Community College
Department of Electronic Engineering Technology
Portland, Oregon
Rhode Island
Community College of Rhode Island
Physics & Engineering Department
Warwick, Rhode Island
New England Institute of Technology
Electrical Technology Department
East Greenwich, Rhode Island
Texas
Austin Community College District
Engineering Technology Department
Austin, Texas
El Paso Community College
Advanced Technology Center
El Paso, Texas
Texas State Technical College-System
Department of Construction & Maintenance
Waco, Texas
Utah
Salt Lake Community College
Department of Workforce Training and Education
Salt Lake City, Utah
Washington
Bellingham Technical College
Department of Engineering Technology
Bellingham, Washington
Shoreline Community College
Department of Clean Energy Technology
Shoreline, Washington
Wisconsin
Fox Valley Technical College
Department of Engineering Technologies
Appleton, Wisconsin
Lakeshore Technical College
Department of Energy
Cleveland, Wisconsin
Mid-State Technical College
Department of Architecture and Construction
Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Departments of Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources; Energy; Architecture & Construction
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Western Technical College
Department of Architecture & Construction
La Crosse, Wisconsin