Program Highlights

Brian Morsman: Majoring in Renewable Energy will help him solve problems of world's finite resources

Brian Morsman, a JBU senior from Kansas, smiles at the idea of three more years in college. "As it stands right now, I'll be graduating with both of my degrees in 2013," he says. Originally a pre-med major with an almost-completed degree in pre-professional biology, Brian realized in the fall of his junior year that his interest was not in medicine, but in renewable energy-and in the notion that how he was living had an impact on the environment.

In his free time, he found himself researching renewable energy and sustainability topics. When JBU implemented its new Renewable Energy program a short time later, Brian began praying and discussing the option with his wife, eventually deciding to pursue a Renewable Energy in Engineering degree.

Brian doesn't hesitate to discuss the program's appeal, citing a hands-on approach to instruction (such as learning how to make biodiesel in class), and the impressive knowledge and field experience of the professors. He also appreciates the biblical applications of what he is learning.

"There's an implicit mission aspect to Renewable Energy; using the JBU 'head-heart-hand' model, hand takes heart and head and puts it into action," Brian says. "We live in a world with a growing population but a finite amount of resources, and renewable energies are going to be one of the best ways to provide for people. I would love to be involved with closing the wasteful loop of throwaway culture, creating a holistic view of environment, people, and product."