A Model Curriculum for Power Engineering

Attempting to develop large numbers of power engineers who are able to address both creatively and cost-effectively the challenges posed by today's power industry within the present academic constraints of 4 years and 120-128 credit hours is an overwhelming and quite possibly disheartening task. Trying to restructure the academic system substantially is equally as daunting. Yet, academia must find a way to produce substantial numbers of engineers properly trained and qualified to replace the growing number of experienced engineers leaving the power industry primarily due to the aging and subsequent retirement of the Baby Boom generation. This paper addresses the topic of power engineering education reform by assessing specifically what industry needs from academia, then proposing an academic model which meets the industry needs while being compatible with the evolving academic framework now in place. The resulting robust curriculum model, currently in the implementation stage at the University of South Florida, is being embraced by students, industry recruiters, and hiring managers. Early indications show strong signs of success. It is expected that this power engineering curriculum model will serve as the archetype for other academic institutions to follow.