Logistics and FAQs

Do I have to attend this course in person or is there an online option?

This is an in-person course only at this time. If you’re interested in potential future online options, please contact ProfEd@seas.harvard.edu. If you’re interested in future iterations, please fill out the waitlist form.

Will I receive a certificate for taking this course?

Learners who attend the entire course will receive a participation certificate from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

When will I receive my participation certificate?

Learners who attend the entire course will receive a hard-copy participation certificate at the closing ceremony on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Will I receive a grade for this course?

No, this program is a non-degree professional education course. The course is not credit-bearing.

My company/organization needs specific documentation from me in order to pay for or reimburse for this course. Can you help me?

Learners who attend the entire course will receive a hard-copy certificate of participation from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences as evidence of their attendance. For additional documentation needs, please contact us at ProfEd@seas.harvard.edu.

Where on Harvard’s campus will the program take place?

The course will be held on Harvard’s Allston Campus. Learners who purchase a seat in the course will receive a welcome email with more details about the course, including specific location(s).

Is parking included?

Parking will not be arranged for, or included in, this course. Fee-based parking is available via these options:

Daily parking permits on a first-come basis in the Harvard lots located at 114 Western Avenue, 2 Hague Street, and in the smaller lot at Travis Street. Daily permits must be purchased in advance via the Harvard Online Parking Permit System (HOPPS). Daily permits must be printed out in advance for display inside your vehicle. 

Hourly parking at the Harvard lot located at 2 Hague Street is available on a first-come basis via the ZipBy app

City-controlled street metered parking is not recommended due to strict time enforcements. 

For travel around campus and between Cambridge and Allston, follow this link for campus transportation options to the SEC.

Is lodging included?

Lodging is not included in the course, so participants will need to make their own lodging arrangements that suit their needs through their booking agent of choice. Nearby suggested hotels include the following:

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Boston-Cambridge

Hotel Studio Allston

Hampton Inn & Suites Watertown-Boston

Are there discounts, scholarships, fellowships, or financial aid available for the course?

No, there are no discounts offered for this course. The price is $1850 for everyone. 

What is the refund policy if I need to cancel my registration?

All cancellations must be made in writing. To cancel your registration and request a refund, please contact ProfEd@seas.harvard.edu.

Who should take this course? 

This course is designed for power engineers, operational engineers, professionals from AI and power companies, leadership teams, and anyone interested in the interaction between artificial intelligence and power systems. The course is ideally suited for professionals in the electric grid or AI industries who seek to understand the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and sustainable computing, and how these innovations will shape their work. A basic background in linear algebra and power systems is expected, though the course provides a comprehensive introduction to AI and machine learning tailored for power engineering applications, with an emphasis on sustainable computing practices.

Some sample job titles of individuals who would be interested in this content include:

Product Manager for Smart Energy Solutions

Power Systems Engineer

Smart Grid Analyst

Energy Systems Analyst

Grid Modernization Specialist

Data Scientist (in the Energy Sector)

AI Engineer (in Renewable Energy)

Renewable Energy Systems Developer

Sustainability Consultant for Energy

Electrical Engineering Manager

Operations Manager in a Utility Company

Data Center Energy Efficiency Consultant

Machine Learning Engineer (in Power Sector)

Energy Market Analyst

Cyber-Physical Systems Engineer

Are international participants welcome in the course?

Yes, international participants cleared for entry into the United States are encouraged to register for the course. Please contact ProfEd@seas.harvard.edu for support on visa request letters. Please note all course components will be delivered in English language only.

What are the prerequisites for this course?

A basic background in linear algebra, power systems, and distributed systems is expected. The course provides a comprehensive introduction to AI and machine learning systems, with an emphasis on sustainable computing practices.

Do I need to bring my own computer to the course? 

Learners are required to bring a laptop or other portable personal computing device with charging equipment. Learners will be undertaking hands-on exercises during the course. Free wireless internet will be available in the classroom and in the building. Instructions on how to access the wireless network will be provided on the first day of the course.

What meals are included during the course?

A continental breakfast will be available upon arrival on Wednesday morning. Lunch will be provided, along with light snacks during an afternoon break. Dinner will not be provided.

I have special dietary considerations. Can you help me?

Learners seeking accommodations can disclose their needs during the registration process or by contacting ProfEd@seas.harvard.edu. 

What is the dress code for the course?

We recommend business-casual attire, with layers for temperature control.

I need special accommodations. Can you help me?

Harvard University welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. Learners seeking special accommodations can disclose their needs during the registration process or by contacting ProfEd@seas.harvard.edu. Requests for American Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance, if possible. Please note that the University will make every effort to secure services, but that services are subject to availability.