Texas Tech University recently approved a new master's degree program to better serve professionals in the ever-changing energy industry. The new degree, a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in energy, is housed in the Graduate School and will incorporate courses from the university's Jerry S. Rawls College of Business, Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering, School of Law and National Wind Institute.
The program will provide insight into the technical elements of energy production and into the economic, societal and governance issues facing the energy industry. It is designed for early- to mid-career industry and public professionals, as well as energy entrepreneurs who want to hone and enhance the skills they have learned on the job, though recent graduates with little-to-no work experience are considered during the application process. The degree will incorporate courses in business, law, wind energy and engineering.
"This is a degree for people who are employed in the energy industry and looking to improve their education," said Jack Nowlin, dean of the law school and a W. Frank Newton Professor of Law. "It will be an intense program, but highly beneficial for those who complete it. Energy has been a focus in many industries, and we're proud that Texas Tech can merge them together in this new interdisciplinary program."
The new degree is a hybrid program in which the majority of coursework is taken online. However, there also will be some mandatory in-person weekend sessions for hands-on training. The program will require 30-36 credit hours and is intended to be completed in 18 months.
"This new program will capitalize on the strengths of Texas Tech and advance the skills and knowledge of the energy workforce that are essential to meeting the growing demands for energy," said Mark Sheridan, dean of the Graduate School.
Plans are to enroll the first class in January 2020.