Clean-technology courses earn accreditation

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Two RIT courses have recently earned Continuing Education Provider Accreditation, according to the credentialing service Interstate Renewable Energy Council Inc. The courses—Wind Power Systems and Solar Photovoltaics—are both offered through RIT’s College of Applied Science and Technology and will continue to be offered to undergraduate students this fall.

“We pursued this credential as part of a regional educational partnership focused on clean and renewable energy programs and a New York State Energy Research and Development Authority grant led by Associate Provost Jim Myers,” says Kitren VanStrander, director of corporate education and training at RIT, who spearheaded the course-accreditation effort.

The Solar Photovoltaics and Wind Power Systems courses are designed to help students study sustainable electric power alternatives, in addition to installation and policy issues.

“This is an indication of the high caliber of the clean-energy courses being delivered at RIT by outstanding faculty including Larry Vilasmil and Clark Hochgraf,” says Myers, associate provost of international education and global programs.

The accreditation process lasted 12 months and included a 136-page application. The courses will be accredited for five years, after which time the courses can apply for accreditation renewal.

The Interstate Renewable Energy Council Inc. is a nonprofit organization accelerating the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency. As part of its mission, the IREC develops quality and competency standards, accreditation and certification programs for clean-energy educators, and training programs.