Renewable energy education for sustainable development

Rising international concern about global warming and the rapid development of the renewable energy industry over recent years has led to a need for m ultidisciplinary programs in energy studies. We have developed a postgradua te program in energy studies which is based on the principles of ecological ly sustainable development. This program combines work in energy technology with energy policy, energy economics and environmental and social issues. The program is offered on campus at Murdoch University and by external stud y, via the internet, throughout Australia and overseas. It has attracted co nsiderable interest from students seeking to find new opportunities within the renewable energy industry. This paper outlines the philosophy of the en ergy studies program, its implementation and outcomes. (C) 2000 Elsevier Sc ience Ltd. All rights reserved.