Power Generation Technology
The fully-accredited Power Generation Technology program is one of BSC's renowned energy programs. It provides students with a strong education in the responsibilities of plant operators, the necessary mechanical and chemical technology, and the work and safety environment necessary for this shift-oriented position.
LIMITED ENROLLMENT ON CAMPUS ONLY
Delivery method: On campus, online
Program begins: On campus (Fall, Spring - 4th semester may require online courses when beginning in a spring semester); online (every three to five weeks)
Overview
type:
Format:
On-campus / Online
Generate career opportunities in power plant technology
The Power Generation Technology program at BSC prepares students for employment in power generating facilities including fossil fuel plants, gas turbine facilities, combined cycle facilities, and other plants that generate steam or electricity. Graduates may also be employed at water treatment facilities, wind farms, power technology facilities, co-generation power plants and many other types of manufacturing facilities.
This program provides students an understanding of the equipment and the principle of operation involved. Graduates will know the responsibilities of plant operators, the necessary mechanical and chemical technology and the work and safety environment in this shift-oriented position.
Students learn the technical and safety aspects of plant operations, the responsibilities of plant operators, and the mechanical and chemical technology needed for working in related industrial operations.
Enroll today in the country's most reputable power generation program
The US Department of Energy has designated Bismarck State College (BSC) as the National Power Plant Operations, Technology, and Education Center. This designation recognizes BSC as the premier national center of education and training for operators and technicians in the energy industry.
A limited number of students will be enrolled in both August and January for courses on campus. Courses offered online begin every 3-5 weeks and are not limited to the number of students choosing to enroll.
This program has minimum entrance requirements. Details can be found here.
Be in demand
Power generation operators control, operate, and maintain machinery used to generate electric power.
Average wages for power plant operators in North Dakota are $82,9501.
Recent BSC Power Generation Technology graduates report 97% placement rates, with earnings up to $44/hour2.
Earn a degree quickly
The AAS can be completed in four semesters and consists of 52 credit hours of specialized courses and 15 credit hours of general education courses.
Students seeking the certificate complete 52 credit hours of specialized courses in four semesters, with four credit hours of general education.
There is an option for an accelerated degree path allowing students to complete a certificate or degree in less than two years. Courses may also be taken individually for professional development.
Prospective students should be prepared for the physical demands of the work of entry-level technician positions when considering this program which can include working a rotating shift and passing a physical exam, which may include: lifting 50+ pounds, climbing ladders, working in confined spaces or at heights. When applying for jobs applicants may also be required to pass a drug screen and an eye exam, including the ability to distinguish between colors accurately.
This program is offered online or on-campus.
NOTE: Online students in this program are required to complete 80 hours of job shadowing as part of the ENRT 220 - Practical Applications course. The course should be completed in the final semester of the program. This requirement provides graduates with hands-on field competencies needed for working at an energy site. The Practical Applications instructor will work with students at the start of the ENRT 220 course to find a viable job shadow location. Students currently employed at an energy-related company often satisfy this requirement at their place of employment.
PWRP Program Flyer
Additional Program Costs
Please see the Tuition & Fees page for information on credit hour tuition and mandatory fees.
PWRP textbook costs are estimated at $300 per semester. There are 4 semesters in this program.
For more information contact:
bsc.energy@bismarckstate.edu
701-224-5651 • 800-852-5685
1Job Service North Dakota Labor Market Information Center
2Bismarck State College First Destination Reports