Zero Net Energy Certificate of Achievement

Program Description

The Zero Net Energy (ZNE) Certificate is designed to offer the students a broad overview into the energy conservation industry and includes cross-disciplinary courses in Energy Systems, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning, Architecture, Computer Information Systems, and Building Inspection Technology. Completion of the ZNE Certificate is especially beneficial for support staff currently working in the energy sector, such as an Energy Auditor, Energy Consultant, ZNE Technician, Green HVAC Technician, Facility Management, Construction Management and Solar Residential Technician.

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program.  Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway.  It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Division

Applied Technology, Transportation & Culinary Arts

Department

Electricity/Electronics

Career and Academic Pathway (CAP)

Manufacturing, Industry, Transportation

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Apply critical thinking skills to execute daily duties in their area of employment.

  2. Display the skills and aptitude necessary to pass (Industry Recognized Credentials) certification exams in their field.

  3. Exhibit effective written, oral communication and interpersonal skills.

Program Map

GE General Education
O Available Online
Program Requirement
P Program Prerequisites

1st Semester

11 units
CIT 101
Introduction to Computer Literacy
This course is an introduction to fundamental Information Technology / Information Systems concepts and Information Security. The course includes practical exercises with spreadsheet, database, and Internet applications.

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: CIT 010
    2. or
  2. Departmental Advisory: CIT 031
  • Transfers to CSU
    • ELEC 050
    Zero Net Energy Building Science
    Zero Net Energy (ZNE) Building Science includes an overview of many progressive measures that improve the energy performance of buildings. Studies focus on architectural design of building, construction methodology, green HVAC systems, renewable energy systems and the terminology used in the ZNE Industry. A survey of projects, policies and programs driving ZNE performance in residential and non-residential buildings will be studied.

    Course Details:

    TECALC 087
    Technical Calculations

    This course covers practical use and applications of technical calculations most commonly utilized in the trades and industry. Topics include electrical measurements, temperature, volume, weight, and positioning including the number line, working with dedicated formula, applied problems, geometric principles, graphs, right triangles, coordinate systems, and scientific and engineering notation. Concepts, techniques and applications of arithmetic and elementary algebra emphasizing applications to practical problems. Interactive and traditional problem solving methods. Class interactive group exercises applying mathematical techniques to various applications and real world problems. A course in mathematical problems is frequently used by students enrolled in the trades and industrial and engineering programs. Problems are drawn from the industrial field.

    Course Details:

    2nd Semester

    7-10 units
    ELEC 021
    Blueprint Reading for Building Energy Systems
    This course is a study of basic information for reading blueprints and construction drawings. It is designed for those who must assimilate information found in working drawings and specifications.

    Course Details:

    1. Departmental Advisory: TECALC 087
    INSPEC 017
    California State Energy Regulations for Residential Buildings
    This course is a study of the basic compliance requirements of the California Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards for residential buildings and the 2016 CA Green Building Standards Code. It includes prescriptive and performance methods such as alternative packages and computer models (formerly INPSEC 017D).

    Course Details:

    WKEXP 099
    General Work Experience
    Supervised training, in the form of on the job employment that will enhance the student's knowledge in the selected field of study. The student's major and job must match. For paid work, 75 hours = 1 unit; for volunteer work, 60 hours = 1 unit. Students may earn a total of 16 units toward graduation in Work Experience 098 courses. See department for specific guidelines. 

    Course Details: