Students interested in learning about the technological, social, legal and public policy changes that occur as a society scales up its renewable energy commitment are encouraged to apply to CFAN 3532/5532, Germany: Leading the Renewables Revolution, a three credit course for undergraduate (CFAN 3532) or graduate students (CFAN 5532).
The course focuses on the renewable energy transition underway in Germany and in Minnesota. Sophomore, junior, senior and graduate students from all disciplines and University of Minnesota campuses are encouraged to apply, as diversity of perspectives enhances the program.
The application due date for this program is October 1, 2026. Expectations for the course:
- Strong interest in renewable energy transition
- Willingness to prepare before the trip and attend required Saturday workshops
- Ability to travel with a group
- Physical capacity to walk up to several miles a day
- Interest in active participation during the trip and in engagement in Minnesota's energy transition efforts upon return
The students who attend the course will become part of a growing, nonpartisan group of both Minnesota and German leaders committed to energy transition and its economic and environmental benefits for society.
The dates for this University of Minnesota 3-credit embedded spring 2027 course are January 5-17, 2027 for travel to Germany, along with additional sessions on:
- Sat, Nov 7, 2026 (all day, in person)
- Mon, Dec 21, 2026 (all day, online)
- Fri, Feb 5, 2027 (afternoon, online)
- Mon, March 29, 2027 (6–9:30 p.m.): celebration of the program with your family and Minnesota leaders in energy
A preparatory assignment will be due on Dec 28, 2026 but the majority of course time commitment and major assignments will all occur in January, while you are traveling, and upon your return.
There are scholarships available for this program through the
Learning Abroad Center. Undergraduate students with financial need at the UMN Twin Cities campus are eligible for the
Ecolab Scholarship for Learning Abroad through the Institute on the Environment. The application to the Ecolab Scholarship is embedded at the end of this form.
