by Lillian Balance
New Double Dawgs program offers students a path toward leadership positions in various fields
Engineering majors with an interest in energy policy and technology have an opportunity to pursue a unique Double Dawgs pathway offered through the University of Georgia College of Engineering and the School of Public and International Affairs.
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME)/Master of International Policy (MIP) Double Dawgs program provides students with a unique path toward leadership positions in the energy industry or in government or research positions.
鈥淥ur new, interdisciplinary master鈥檚 program provides students with a first-of-its-kind merger of STEM education that emphasizes coursework on the production and use of energy for power generation, such as from nuclear power, and transportation energy, including combustion, and thermodynamics courses, with policy-focused work within SPIA such as data analytics and research methods in the international policy domain,鈥� said associate professor Brandon Rotavera. 鈥淭his effort distinguishes the University of Georgia in the energy policy domain, as our program will produce engineering students steeped in technical training with an expanded skill set that will enable them to contribute to solutions for pressing problems facing our country.鈥�
鈥淭he MIP offers engineering majors a direct path to careers across the national security enterprise,鈥� said director Joshua Massey. Each year MIP graduates join a variety of U.S. government agencies such as the Departments of State, Commerce, Energy and Defense, as well as the intelligence community. Other graduates elect to enter private industry with consulting firms, government contractors, think tanks and nonprofits.
Understanding the science behind the policy
The heart of the program lies in its interdisciplinary approach, which combines the technical rigor of mechanical engineering with a comprehensive understanding of international policy focused on issues of energy security, human security, nonproliferation and strategic trade. This integration allows students to bridge the gap between scientific theory and policy-making, equipping them with the tools to address complex policy challenges.
鈥淭he Double Dawgs pathway is designed to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient, but also adept at navigating the regulatory and policy landscapes that influence energy technology and deployment and inform energy policy decisions that impact our national security,鈥� said David Gattie, associate professor in the College of Engineering and Senior Fellow with UGA鈥檚 Center for International Trade & Security. 鈥淥ur graduates will be prepared to lead in the development and implementation of robust energy solutions in a geopolitically complex 21st century.鈥�
A pathway to leadership in the energy field
Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to take on leadership roles in a variety of settings. Whether working to develop new energy technologies, advising on policy and regulatory matters, or leading initiatives within governmental and nongovernmental organizations, Double Dawgs alumni will have the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills needed to drive progress in the ever-changing energy landscape.
The program鈥檚 select cohort and forward-thinking approach leads to the cultivation of important relationships. In addition to the core curriculum, students will have access to seminars, workshops and guest lectures from experts in the field, as well as opportunities for internships and assistantships.
The Double Dawgs program is now accepting applications for the upcoming academic year. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the University of Georgia鈥檚 website for more information on eligibility criteria, application deadlines and program requirements.
To learn more about the BSME/MIP Double Dawgs Program, find more information here, visit the program鈥檚 webpage or contact one of the program faculty members:
Joshua Massey, School of Public and International Affairs
Brandon Rotavera, College of Engineering and Department of Chemistry
David Gattie, College of Engineering
