Solar Energy Engineering is a subfield of renewable energy engineering, which falls under the broader category of electrical and mechanical engineering. This major also has interdisciplinary elements, as it combines principles from physics, materials science, and environmental science to create efficient and sustainable solar energy systems.

In this major, students will study the core areas of solar energy conversion, photovoltaic systems, solar thermal systems, and energy storage. They may also explore potential areas of specialization, such as solar cell design, solar power plant engineering, or off-grid solar systems. Students will learn how to design, analyze, and optimize solar energy systems to provide clean and renewable energy for various applications.

Graduates in Solar Energy Engineering can pursue a range of careers within and outside the field. Within the field, they may work as solar engineers, solar project managers, or renewable energy consultants. Outside the field, their skills in problem-solving, innovation, and sustainability can lead to careers in environmental policy, energy management, or even entrepreneurship in the renewable energy sector.

What sets Solar Energy Engineering apart from other majors is its focus on one of the most abundant and sustainable energy sources: the sun. This major specifically targets the development of technologies and systems that harness solar energy, making it an exciting and impactful field of study. While Solar Energy Engineering is typically studied at the undergraduate level in both the US and the UK, some universities may offer it as a specialization within a broader engineering program.

Students majoring in Solar Energy Engineering will develop marketable, transferable, and in-demand skills that are valuable in various future careers. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, project management, and communication. Additionally, students will gain expertise in specialized software and tools used in solar energy system design and analysis, making them highly sought-after professionals in the renewable energy sector.