Find Energy PhD Programs

The sustainable and renewable energy industries continue to grow worldwide, with private companies as well as government agencies making significant investments to shape the future of energy. For students pursuing a PhD in Energy, there are endless opportunities to position themselves as thought leaders and decision-makers in this rapidly evolving field.

Global investment in clean energy technology is set to hit nearly $1.7 trillion in 2023, with solar energy investments projected to top oil production for the first time in history. With new technology seeming to emerge every day, and a growing need for experienced, highly trained professionals to guide clean energy expansion around the world, there has never been a better time for students to earn their PhD in Energy. Learn more about doctorates in energy below, or skip ahead to our program listings.

What Is a PhD in Energy?

A PhD in Energy focuses on advanced research and expertise in the field of energy. It is designed to provide individuals with in-depth knowledge and skills to tackle complex energy-related challenges, ranging from sustainable energy systems to policy and regulations. While most programs award a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, there are also options such as a Juris Doctor (JD) specializing in energy law.

The purpose of energy PhD programs is multifaceted. One primary objective is to train students to become academic researchers and professors in the energy field. These programs equip students with the necessary research skills, critical thinking abilities, and theoretical knowledge to advance the understanding and application of energy-related concepts. Graduates of energy PhD programs often pursue careers in academia, conducting research, teaching, and mentoring future generations of energy professionals.

However, obtaining a PhD in Energy can also lead to various other pathways. Industries and organizations involved in energy production, distribution, and management value individuals with specialized knowledge and expertise in the field.

Graduates with a PhD in Energy can pursue careers in research and development, policy analysis, energy consulting, and leadership positions in both public and private sectors. They can contribute to the development of sustainable energy technologies, shape energy policies, and provide expert guidance in addressing energy-related challenges.

This guide focuses on energy-specific PhD programs, but PhDs in various engineering disciplines can be energy-focused. For example, many engineering PhDs (mechanical, chemical, and electrical, specifically) end up working in energy research, design, or consulting and taking academic positions related to energy. If you want additional options, expand your search to general engineering doctorates.

PhD vs. JD Energy Programs

The key difference between PhD and JD programs lies in their primary focus. While PhD programs concentrate on research, analysis, and the generation of new knowledge in energy-related fields, JD programs emphasize the legal aspects and implications of energy-related activities.

PhD programs equip graduates with the skills to contribute to academic research, industry innovation, and policy development, while JD programs produce legal experts who can navigate the complex legal landscape of the energy industry.

Energy PhD Programs

The Atlantic International University PhD in Oil, Gas, and Energy Engineering focuses on advanced research and innovation in engineering disciplines related to the oil, gas, and energy sectors. Graduates often pursue careers in the oil and gas industry, renewable energy companies, or academic institutions.

Michigan Tech University’s PhD in Environmental and Energy Policy delves into the policy aspects of energy, exploring sustainable practices, environmental regulations, and policy frameworks. Graduates may work in government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions, contributing to the development and implementation of energy policies.

The PhD in Energy Engineering at the University of North Dakota focuses on the exploration, development, and application of sustainable and efficient energy systems. Students in this program have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, collaborate with renowned faculty members, and contribute to the advancement of energy engineering knowledge. Students also have opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, access state-of-the-art energy facilities and laboratories, and gain practical experience through internships and research projects.

Energy JD Programs

JD programs with a specialization in energy law offer a unique perspective on the legal aspects of the energy sector. These programs combine legal studies with a specific focus on energy-related laws, regulations, and policies.

Harvard University’s Juris Doctor (Environmental and Energy Law area of interest) provides students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental law, energy regulations, and the legal frameworks governing energy production, distribution, and consumption. Graduates can work as energy lawyers, providing legal counsel to energy companies, government agencies, or advocacy organizations.

The University of Oklahoma offers a JD program with a specialization in Oil and Gas, Natural Resources, and Energy Law. Students gain a deep understanding of the legal frameworks, regulations, contracts, and transactions involved in the energy industry. They examine the complexities of oil and gas exploration, production, and distribution, as well as the legal challenges associated with renewable energy development and environmental concerns.

Graduates of JD programs can pursue opportunities in law firms specializing in energy law, energy companies, government agencies, regulatory bodies, and nonprofit organizations working in the energy sector.

What to Expect from an Energy PhD Program

Admissions

Admission into an energy PhD program can be competitive, as they attract highly qualified candidates with a strong academic background and research potential. The specific requirements may vary among institutions, but, generally, applicants are expected to hold a master’s degree in a related field. They are also required to submit their academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose outlining their research interests, and sometimes standardized test scores like the GRE.

For example, the Sustainable Energy PhD program at Arizona State University requires applicants to have a master’s degree in a related field, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and three letters of recommendation. Additionally, they must submit a personal statement, a current CV, and official transcripts.

Progression

Students in energy PhD programs usually start with coursework, building a foundation of knowledge in energy-related subjects. As they progress, they transition into more focused research work, culminating in the completion of a dissertation.

Many programs also offer internships and other opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios.

The duration of an energy PhD program can range from four to six years, depending on factors such as the research area, the individual’s progress, and the institution’s requirements.

Curriculum and Coursework

The coursework component of an energy PhD program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of energy concepts, theories, and research methodologies. The specific courses offered may vary depending on the program and the research focus. Typical coursework may cover subjects such as energy policy, renewable energy systems, energy economics, environmental impact assessment, and energy technology.

In Stanford University’s PhD in Energy Resources Engineering, students have the opportunity to study a variety of energy-related courses, including Geothermal Reservoir Engineering, Sustainable Energy Decisions, and Engineering and Sustainability Development. Stanford also offers a special course called Town Meeting, where students can hone their skills in delivering persuasive oral arguments, critical thinking, and leadership.

Iowa State University offers a PhD in Wind Energy Science, Engineering, and Policy which includes coursework in wind energy design and deployment. Iowa State is also unique in its program structure, incorporating “a 3–6 month industry internship, a 3-month international experience, and a 3-level curriculum to provide breadth, interdisciplinary research strength, and advanced training and depth in Wind Energy Science, Engineering, and Policy.”

At Penn State University, students can earn a PhD in Energy and Mineral Engineering with a specialization in Energy Systems Engineering—one of five options available to PhD students. During the program, students study courses including Applied Energy Policy; Solar Thermal Energy for Utilities and Industry; and Technologies for Sustainability Systems.

Dissertation

A central component of an energy PhD program, the dissertation is an original research project that contributes to existing knowledge in the field. Doctoral students work closely with a faculty advisor or a research committee to define their research topic, conduct in-depth investigations, analyze data, and present their findings. The dissertation is then defended before a committee of field experts. Students are also often required to publish their findings in peer-reviewed publications or present at industry conferences.

As a PhD candidate, you will spend most of your time on your dissertation, so your faculty advisor and dissertation topic should be related to the energy sector. Energy PhDs come from many fields – chemical engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, etc. – so having an energy-specific advisor and dissertation will make you more marketable to industry employers or academic institutions once you graduate.

At The University of Delaware, students earning a PhD in Energy and Environmental Policy are required to pass a qualifying exam and complete and defend their dissertation. Their work is reviewed by a committee of four faculty members who “must determine that the work represents a distinctive contribution to the field and meets standards of scholarship and research expected for the award of a PhD in the field.”

Tuition & Costs

Many PhD programs, including those in energy, often provide funding to admitted students. This funding typically covers tuition fees and may include a stipend for living expenses. In return, students may be required to work as teaching or research assistants or contribute to the academic community in other ways.

At Texas A&M University–Kingsville, students earning their PhD in Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering can apply for the Nuclear Engineering Doctoral Scholarship, a prestigious award that includes a monthly stipend and travel expenses for conferences.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Energy?

A PhD in Energy opens up various career opportunities in the energy field, whether in academia, industry, research, or policy.

One common pathway for graduates is to pursue careers as professors or researchers. They can contribute to the field by teaching, conducting research, and mentoring future energy professionals. Faculty positions in energy-related disciplines include energy engineering professors, and energy policy and economic professors. The former focus on teaching and research in areas such as renewable energy systems and advanced materials for energy conversion and storage, while the latter specialize in energy policy, regulations, and the socio-economic aspects of the energy industry.

For graduates who want to take on professional industry roles, there are many opportunities to contribute to research development, project management, consulting, and leadership positions in both public and private sectors.

Common roles in the energy industry include renewable energy research scientists, who work directly with companies or government agencies to develop and improve renewable energy technologies by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and furthering research and development initiatives.

Finally, a PhD in Energy also opens doors to research and policy roles focused on shaping energy systems and influencing policy decisions. For example, energy policy analysts study energy policies, evaluate their impact, and provide recommendations for policy development. They assess the feasibility and effectiveness of energy-related regulations and initiatives.

Whether pursuing faculty positions, working in the energy industry, conducting research, or influencing energy policies, graduates with a PhD in Energy play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable and efficient energy systems.