Solar Energy Courses - A New Kid on the Block!

Any Google search on the subject will tell you that an increasing number of colleges, community colleges, universities and technical/trade schools are adding green degree opportunities and solar energy courses to their curriculums. Up until now there hasn't been a great deal of interest in this field but with the sagging economy and high unemployment in the construction industry people are looking for recession proof jobs and green is in.

The combinations of economically driven shifts in our economy and a world that continues to shrink and, at the same time, overuse most of its natural resources, and sky rocketing oil and gas prices has brought about a big change. Greenhouse gases, conservation and other environmental issues have surged to the forefront. Venture capital and government agencies have begun shoveling money into the field in search of ways to develop alternative energy, while at the same time older, more established industries, where new graduates used to seek employment, are no longer there. That's where solar energy courses come in.

For colleges and universities to develop these solar energy courses take time. At this time the demand for qualified graduates with green degrees far out strips the number of people who currently work in the field. Many schools, understanding the need are working very hard to develop comprehensive programs. Now green degree curriculums are cropping up all over the country. Students graduating with degrees in solar energy or any other green area are finding it much easier to obtain employment than those who chose other career paths and the pay is usually much higher as well. Jumping on the green ship now, during the beginning of this large socio-economic change, will set you up on the ground floor of a brand new industry.

If you have already obtained a college degree there are many certificate programs available at all levels. It is easy to specialize and use your base degree (like electrical engineering or mathematics) for the particular aspect of solar energy you wish to follow.

It may be difficult still to find a local school that offers solar energy courses but if you have no problem relocating it won't be difficult finding the right school. Ask at the local schools if they have the program you need and if not when it will be up and running. Just because their website doesn't mention green degrees doesn't mean that they don't have these programs or at least be getting one ready.

A certificate in solar energy will open many doors in the construction industry and, since the demand for qualified people is so high the salaries are also extremely high, even for those just leaving a training program. The courses, at least the basic ones, do not take years to complete, some requiring only weeks, and when added to other skills that you have in the construction industry can lead to an excellent job. If you are interested in going farther in the field, more advanced courses are available. Take the time to do some research on solar energy courses and find the career that you have always wanted.

James Copper is a writer for http://www.newcareerskills.co.uk where you can find information on solar, electrical and plumbing courses