Powertrain Electrification

Online | 9 credits | 3 Semesters | $1300 per credit
Application deadlines are: August 15 – Fall | January 15 – Spring

Electrification of vehicle powertrains has become the main technology path to enhance fuel economy and reduce greenhouse admissions. The Powertrain Electrification Capstone Certificate empowers engineers to lead the charge in this rapidly evolving field. Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking to specialize or an industry newcomer eager to learn, this fully online certificate program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. Explore cutting-edge topics, collaborate with industry experts, and shape the future of clean, efficient mobility. Join us on the electrification journey!

If you are interested in professional development opportunities you can learn more here.

Academics

Apply Your Learning Immediately on the Job
In the Powertrain Electrification Capstone Certificate program, we understand that to be a successful engineering leader, you must be able to integrate and apply knowledge from different areas. Our research-oriented faculty incorporate topics from electronics and mechanical engineering into real-world assignments and group projects.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Powertrain Electrification Capstone program will prepare you to:

  • Develop control systems for electrified powertrains.
  • Comprehend and be able to analyze working principles of all components in electrified powertrain systems.
  • Describe how cells are connected to make modules and packs for power and energy applications.
  • Develop systems thinking at the vehicle level and drive cycle analysis, by recognizing energy flows and losses in a vehicle, identify the main contributors for them, and quantifying losses and impact of specific technologies on fuel economy.

Requirements
You will earn a Capstone Certificate upon completion of 9 graduate credits required by the University of Wisconsin. This is a three-semester program.

Required Courses
(Choose 9 credits)

Approach to Online Learning
UW’s online Power Electrification Capstone program is designed for working professionals. The learning environment is flexible—allowing you to make the best use of your time, without interruption to work, family or other commitments.

Experience a Rich Learning Environment
Learning in our program does not all happen in front of a computer. You will get the chance to provide insight in discussions, interact with expert speakers, and use a variety of computer applications.

As a student, you will also have access to the UW-Madison academic libraries, which offer you 10 percent of the world’s library resources. Our students often highlight how regular check-in times, access to the Engine Research Center, and networking opportunities with fellow students, faculty and staff in the engine industry, enrich their experience in our program.

A Supportive, Collaborative Environment
You will progress through the program with the same small group of students, and will constantly interact with them via online tools like web conferencing, online discussion forums, email, and conference calls. Students and alumni often note the cohort approach is essential for staying engaged and on track for completing the program.

In addition, faculty and staff understand the challenges you face as a working professional and distance learner, and proactively monitor your progress. A full-time program advisor stands ready as your advocate in helping you with any issues that may influence your degree progress.

Faculty & Staff

Admission Requirements

Application Overview
The admissions process has been designed to conduct a holistic review of your likelihood of success in the program. Decisions are based on your academic and professional background.

To start the process, please read the admission requirements to determine your eligibility. If you have questions about your eligibility, please request an eligibility review by emailing Student Services. This email should include a copy of your current resume and informal transcripts.

Applications are accepted for admission during the fall term. Applications are reviewed in the order received until the July 15 deadline for fall admissions and the November 1 deadline for spring admission. Admission is competitive and selective. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to submit application materials prior to the deadline.

Admission requirements for the Powertrain Electrification Capstone Certificate program are listed below.
Exceptions to standard admission requirements are considered by the admissions committee on an individual basis.

  • B.S. degree in mechanical engineering from an ABET-approved program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or the equivalent. International applicants must have a degree comparable to an approved U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • A minimum undergraduate grade-point average (GPA) of 2.75 on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours (approximately two years of work). Applicants from an international institution must have a strong academic performance comparable to a 2.75 for an undergraduate degree. All GPAs are based on a 4.00 scale. We use your institution’s grading scale; do not convert your grades to a 4.00 scale.
  • Applicants whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements (https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/#english-proficiency).
  • GRE is not required. Applicants who have taken the test are encouraged to submit their scores.

For more specific admissions information, interested applicants should email our team at gradadmissions@interpro.wisc.edu.

Apply Early!

Applications are accepted for admission to all three terms (fall, spring, summer).

Applications are reviewed in the order received until the May 1 deadline for summer admissions, July 1 deadline for fall admissions, and November 1 for spring admissions.

*Equivalency to an ABET accredited program: Applicants who do not hold a bachelor’s degree from an ABET accredited program may also qualify for admission to the program. Students are encouraged to contact the program director for more information.

All applicants are advised to determine whether this program meets requirements for licensure in the state where they live. See the National Society of Professional Engineers website for contact information for state licensing boards

Begin the application process.

Tuition Costs
$1,300 per credit, payable at the beginning of each semester.

Total Tuition
Total tuition for this program is $11,700*.

* This total does not include textbooks, or course software. Software required for courses is typically available in educational versions at substantial discounts.

Federal Loans
Students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible to receive some level of funding through the Federal Direct loan program. These loans are available to qualified graduate students who are taking at least four credits during the fall and spring semesters, and two credits during summer. Private loans are also available. Learn more about financial aid.

Employer Support
Many students receive some financial support from their employers. Often, students find it beneficial to sit down with their employer and discuss how this program applies to their current and future responsibilities. Other key points to discuss include how participation will not interrupt your work schedule.

Heather Smith
Interim Program Director

Email Heather

Karene Cary
Graduate Advisor

Karene Cary

Email Karene

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