The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in collaboration with other Rice University departments offers undergraduate students the opportunity to select a Minor in Energy and Water Sustainability (EWSU).
Download our 2020-21 Minor in EWSU flyer [PDF] for an overview of courses, focus areas, electives and ways to get involved at Rice University.
About the Minor
Solving the global environmental challenges is one of the most critical issues facing 21st century engineers. Developing solutions for these challenges requires an alternative approach to the traditional way of conducting engineering: a holistic and sustainable approach based on systems thinking, incorporating the environmental, economic, and social spheres to proposed engineering solutions.
The Energy and Water Sustainability (EWSU) minor allows undergraduate students to deepen their knowledge of sustainability, and the science and policy issues associated with the design of sustainable energy and water strategies.
Students completing this minor will be better prepared to understand and address the challenge of meeting basic human needs today and in the future in a socially responsible manner while preserving natural systems.
Requirements
For a detailed description of the Minor in Energy and Water Sustainability outcomes, requirements, policies, and opportunities, visit General Announcements.
Students pursuing the EWSU minor must complete a minimum of 7 courses (at least 19 credit hours), including a design practicum. There are three required courses and three electives from three different areas of specialization: Energy, Water, and Sustainability. No more than two electives can be from any one of the three specialization areas, and no more than two of these electives can be used also to fulfill major requirements.
Advising Tools
Rice students are encouraged to reach out to their degree advisors when they have questions throughout the year and must follow the degree requirements outlined in the General Announcements for either matriculation or graduating year.
To get started with declaring your major or for advising support, please make an appointment to meet with the EWSU adviser below. Bring a transcript copy to the visit, along with your declaration form.
Certifying Advisor
For declaring your minor, verification of degree plans or submission of specialty-specific advisor-approved course substitutions, submit a petition to Jorge Loyo, EWSU Minor Advisor, through Degree Works.
Contact Us
Have questions or need guidance regarding the EWSU program?
Jorge Loyo
EWSU Minor Advisor
713-348-8116
jorge.loyo@rice.edu