What will you in the Our Energy Future Course
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Understand the fundamentals of energy production and consumption in the 21st century
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Analyze the connection between energy systems, environmental impact, and food production
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Explore physical and biological energy sources including fossil fuels, solar, wind, nuclear, and biofuels
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Evaluate sustainable energy solutions and their role in addressing climate change
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Assess the social, political, and economic implications of energy decisions
Program Overview
Module 1: General Course Materials
Duration: ~1 hour
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Introduction to course structure and objectives
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Overview of resources and instructor information
Module 2: Introduction to Energy
Duration: ~3 hours
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Basics of energy consumption and production
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Petroleum usage and global energy trends
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Relationship between energy use and food systems
Module 3: Physical Energy Sources
Duration: ~4 hours
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Overview of wind, solar, and nuclear energy
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Introduction to electric vehicles and energy storage
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Exploration of smart grid systems
Module 4: Introduction to Biological Energy Sources
Duration: ~36 minutes
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Introduction to plant and algae-based energy
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Comparison of biological vs. physical energy sources
Module 5: Plant Biofuel
Duration: ~2 hours
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Study of corn ethanol, jatropha, and cellulosic ethanol
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Technologies and limitations of plant-based fuels
Module 6: Algae Biofuel
Duration: ~2 hours
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Examination of algae types used in fuel production
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Technologies used in algae cultivation and fuel processing
Module 7: Biofuel Production and Downstream Processing
Duration: ~1 hour
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Overview of production techniques and refining methods
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Current barriers to large-scale deployment
Module 8: Social Issues, Economics, and Politics
Duration: ~1 hour
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Global perspectives on energy policy
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Economic and societal impacts of energy systems
Module 9: Climate Change
Duration: ~1 hour
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Role of energy consumption in climate change
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Importance of transitioning to sustainable sources
Module 10: Final Assessment
Duration: ~1 hour
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Final exam to assess understanding of all modules
Get certificate
Job Outlook
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Environmental Scientists: Gain critical understanding of sustainable energy solutions
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Policy Makers: Learn the long-term implications of global energy strategies
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Engineers: Apply knowledge to energy infrastructure and innovation
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Educators: Integrate energy systems and sustainability into curriculum
Explore More Learning Paths
Gain a deeper understanding of energy systems and sustainable technologies with these carefully selected programs designed to help you explore renewable energy, physics, and practical applications in engineering and policy.
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Solar Energy for Engineers, Architects, and Code Inspectors Specialization Course – Master solar energy applications in engineering, design, and regulatory compliance.
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What Is Operations Management? – Understand how efficient energy systems and management practices contribute to sustainable operations and innovation.
