Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation (MCLT)
Overview
Taking an inquiry-based learning approach, this interdisciplinary program follows a cohort-model and provides students a unique and valuable opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, and strategic mindset, through applied learning, to bridge traditional and emerging knowledge systems and drive cleantech innovation for a sustainable future.
Mission
To educate and cultivate transformative leaders, through applied learning, who bridge traditional and emerging knowledge systems and drive cleantech innovation for a sustainable future.
Vision
Building a collaborative community of eco-professionals who:
- Pioneer collaborative solutions for net zero transformation and beyond
- Unite diverse perspectives to catalyze transformative change
- Demonstrate leadership through sustainable action
- Build from local strengths to scalable globally impactful innovations
- Drive net-zero innovation by integrating diverse, interdisciplinary perspectives
Core Program Objectives
1
Accelerate Net Zero Transformation Through Cleantech Science and Innovations
Graduates will drive sustainable transformation by mastering core principles of environmental science, clean energy systems, and cleantech solutions. Moving from foundational concepts to practical applications, students develop essential technical knowledge to evaluate and advance net zero initiatives. This progression builds understanding of both scientific principles and their practical application, preparing graduates to assess clean technologies and guide implementation decisions.
Integrate Diverse Knowledge Systems, Perspectives and Values for Environmental Sustainability
Graduates will bridge scientific, social, and Indigenous knowledge to create comprehensive sustainability solutions. Students learn to synthesize diverse perspectives and approaches, moving beyond single-framework thinking to develop solutions that respect community values while advancing technical progress. This integration enables graduates to address environmental challenges through multiple lenses.
3
Master Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Implementation
Graduates will analyze and navigate regulatory landscapes through deep understanding of governance structures, economic tools, and implementation strategies. Students progress from policy foundations to evaluating effectiveness and applying frameworks in real-world contexts. This includes examining how governance systems engage with local community perspectives to advance sustainable solutions.
4
Drive Transformative Actions through Strategic Cleantech Leadership
Graduates will master the strategic and practical capabilities needed to advance cleantech innovations from concept to reality. Students develop expertise in project management, venture creation, and organizational leadership, learning to develop the strategic vision and practical capabilities needed to drive organizational transformation toward sustainability in stakeholder environments. This includes inspiring change through hopeful messaging, learning to identify opportunities, build coalitions, and lead change initiatives that advance environmental goals and becoming effective agents of change in the cleantech sector.
COURSE STRUCTURE
Graduate students will register in the 16-month interdisciplinary MCLT program under the Dean of Graduate Studies. The program requires students to take courses in the Fall, Winter, and Summer semesters continuously.
In addition to the “General Regulations for Graduate Programs,” the following regulations apply specifically to the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation degree.
Program Requirements:
Students enrolled in the MCLT program are required to complete a total of 36 credit hours (12 courses) including a capstone project. The components of the degree program include eleven core courses (33 credit hours), one elective course (3 credit hours), and Orientation to the Capstone Project (0 credit hours). Students have the opportunity to complete the MCLT program in sixteen months. Students must complete all required courses within three (3) years of being admitted to the program and meet graduation requirements within four (4) years of being admitted to the program.
The required courses for the MCLT are as follows:
- CLT 6101 Cleantech Fundamentals I
- CLT 6102 Cleantech Fundamentals II
- CLT 6201 Environmental Ethics & Social Responsibility
- CLT 6203 Indigenous Worldviews on Environmental Sustainability
- CLT 6205 Cleantech Governance, Regulation, Policy and Politics
- CLT 6207 Economics and Policy Analysis of Cleantech
- CLT 6301 Project Management for Cleantech Transformation
- CLT 6303 Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Cleantech Transformation
- CLT 6800 Leadership Skills for Cleantech Transformation
- CLT 7000 Orientation to Cleantech Capstone Project
- CLT 7001 Cleantech Capstone Project I
- CLT 7002 Cleantech Capstone Project II
In addition to completing all required courses, students must complete one of the following *elective courses:
- CLT 7210 Sustainable Communities and Policy
- CLT 7310 Energy Technologies for Sustainable Neighbourhoods
*Not all elective courses will be offered each year.
ADMISSIONS CRITERIA
The goal of the MCLT program is to attract candidates with an established commitment to sustainable solutions as well as personal and professional development. While no prior work experience is required, applicants with related work experience and the knowledge and competencies required to contribute to long-term environmentally sustainable transformations will be considered an asset.
The basic requirements and qualifications are as follows:
- Any bachelor’s degree of four years or a bachelor’s with honours, or equivalent professional degree, from an approved university
- Academic capability for graduate level studies, as evidenced by a strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or an average of 75% or higher in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years
- Satisfactory score in the video assessment.
- English Language Proficiency Requirement consistent with the minimum admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status at UPEI
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION
All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be submitted through the UPEI graduate application process. Please refer to the UPEI Academic Calendar for complete admissions information.
Application Checklist
- Graduate Studies Application Form
- All Official Transcripts (post-secondary)
- Meet English Language Proficiency Requirement (refer to English Requirements for Graduate Programs)
- Video (click for instructions)
- Application Fee
Application Deadline
Complete applications with all documentation will start to be reviewed on a rolling basis by the MCLT Admissions Review Committee. For this reason, early applications are highly recommended. There is a limited number of seats in each cohort and so admission to the program is competitive. All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and adjudicated only once.
FEES AND FUNDING
Tuition and Fees, 2024–2025*
Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation - $1,640 per 3 credit course
International students pay $841 per 3 credit course in addition to full-time student tuition
*Tuition and fees are subject to change. Fees do not include cost of living or textbooks.
For a complete breakdown of part-time or full-time study as a student in the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation, visit our Tuition and Fees page.
Scholarships and Awards
UPEI supports students and their educational goals. We administer millions of dollars in scholarships and awards to our undergraduate and graduate students every year. Depending on your faculty or program, and year of study, you may be eligible for available awards.
Search the complete list of scholarships for information and application forms.
CLEANTECH COURSES
This course examines fundamental concepts of climate change science, bringing students from different backgrounds onto the same page. Topics include ecosystems, biogeochemistry cycles, and greenhouse gases. The major environmental issues that need to be addressed to achieve net zero emissions will be discussed. Students will develop a solid understanding of the cleantech path to net zero and develop hopeful messaging around this.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course builds on Cleantech Fundamentals I by examining the path to net zero energy. Students will first gain a solid understanding of energy systems, major energy technologies underlying energy supply and consumption, their applications, and their integration with the electric grid. This course also introduces emerging clean energy technologies and policies impacting the development, deployment, and utilization of these technologies to address environmental issues. The role of big data, AI tech innovations, and other hot topics in the net zero energy path and energy security will be discussed.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: CLT 6101 - Cleantech Fundamentals I or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course explores key debates concerning: the moral significance of nature; basic moral theories; moral relativism, objectivism, and pragmatism; Indigenous perspectives on human-nature relations, ethical assessment of new technologies including impacts on human health and behavior, biodiversity, water conservation and climate change; the question of why humans have degraded their environments, including economic and political causes; the concepts of space, place, and ecological identity; ethical limitations of economic-driven decision-making and cost-benefit analysis; professional ethics and social responsibility; environmental justice, environmental racism, Reconciliation, and key debates in the ethics of climate change (individual, intergenerational, and international responsibilities; just transitions, geoengineering).
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This graduate-level course discusses Indigenous worldview and philosophy to respond to the impacts of climate change. It explores the integration of Indigenous Knowledges with Western Knowledges to advance unique approaches to island and global environmental sustainability in the context of climate change.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
An introduction to clean technology governance, regulation, policy and politics, the first half focuses on Canada, as students examine the role that various levels of government play in relation to existing constitutional, administrative and regulatory frameworks. The second half employs a comparative perspective exploring case studies from several jurisdictions’ settings, both developed and developing, looking at approaches of deploying cleantech projects. Students examine ideas, policy actors and institutions involved. We will address significant questions around efforts to support the transition towards net zero via the creation of a policy environment which lends itself to successful cleantech projects. Students will undertake a detailed analysis of a cleantech project, producing a well-researched policy product.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This interdisciplinary course merges economics and political science to analyze cleantech-related issues within the framework of public policy, defined as 'anything a government chooses to do or not to do.' A primary goal is to understand the factors influencing policy decisions, particularly institutions, context, and decision-making processes. The economic aspect of the course focuses on the tension between economic activities and environmental sustainability, exploring how economic practices lead to environmental degradation and what regulatory actions can balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Politically, the course examines the roles of different government structures in Canada in policy development, evaluating the effectiveness of policies like carbon pricing and subsidies. Students will develop skills to critically assess government policies in environmental economics, understanding the interplay between economic theories and political realities.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: CLT 6205 - Cleantech Governance, Regulation, Policy, and Politics or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course will introduce students to project management knowledge, tools, and techniques to effectively manage projects within the rapidly evolving landscape of sustainable and clean technologies. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to sustainable environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and practices using lectures, case studies, and facilitated discussion. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of project management principles while integrating ESG frameworks into project planning, stakeholder analysis, and engagement, execution, and evaluation by focusing on various project management concepts, guidelines, and practices for the leaders of sustainable and clean technology initiatives.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course looks at efforts of innovation and entrepreneurship in cleantech. These efforts are described and assessed in the context of innovation management and entrepreneurial ecosystems. The role of entrepreneurial thinking, innovative organizational culture, portfolio management, engagement of stakeholders, collaboration with partners, mitigation of technological risks, and interactions with investors are taught both in theory and using case studies relevant to cleantech. The course utilizes real-world learning techniques such as case studies, guest speakers, and project/venture plans.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course provides students with an overview of major leadership theories and opportunities to develop and practice their interpersonal skills in preparation for leadership in influential cleantech roles. Topics covered include leadership styles, followership and empowerment, change management and agency, influence and persuasion, effective communication, and conflict management. Students will reflect on their own leadership style and hone their leadership and interpersonal skills through interactive case discussions, role plays, and presentations. Key areas of skill development include self-awareness, critical thinking, adaptability, persuasion, conflict management, and communication.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
The orientation module is an engaging and informative overview designed to prepare students for their Capstone Project experience. It will provide insights from industry and community leaders in cleantech, guidance on how to best prepare for the Capstone Project courses and networking opportunities. The course grade will be on a pass/fail basis.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Students are expected to have completed all Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation program requirements to this point
HOURS OF CREDIT: 0
This course is the first of a two-part Capstone Project series where students will have the opportunity to begin their teamwork on a real-life project with a community or industry partner. Students will focus on the initial stages of the Capstone Project which include developing a project proposal, generating research questions, conducting a literature review, environmental scan, and needs assessment, reviewing research ethics guidelines, and developing the project’s research methodology. Supported by a series of workshops and seminars on topics like proposal writing, literature searching and citation, time management, and peer workshopping and feedback, emphasizing partnership development and engagement.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Students are expected to have completed all Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation program requirements to this point
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course is the second of a two-part Capstone Project series focusing on the development and completion of the team project which will culminate in a final report and presentation, with an analysis of findings and recommendations for the community or industry partner. In addition to the Capstone Project, students will individually write a leadership development portfolio reflecting on how course workshops and seminars have informed their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and identity as leaders. Supported by workshops and seminars focusing on teamwork skills, stakeholder engagement, community entry practices, and communication skills, while also providing a discussion forum for students to learn from and engage with leaders in cleantech.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: CLT 7001 - Capstone Project I
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
The course advances students’ understanding of the concept of sustainable development (SD) by introducing the history of the concept and different ways of measuring sustainability. The course touches upon the main factors that influence policy decisions and outcomes regarding SD (i.e., the role of power, economic interests, expertise, public opinion, resources, and technological innovation). Focusing on ‘community energy systems’ [CES] as a practical strategy for advancing sustainability. CES necessitates deep public involvement in development processes, as well as a fair and localized distribution of project outcomes. The CES development paradigm will be explored as a strategy for mitigating externalities associated with all energy sources, as well as a means to achieve distributive, procedural, recognition, and other forms of energy justice.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: Acceptance into the Master of Cleantech Leadership and Transformation Program or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of sustainable community planning and renewable energy integration. Students will delve into historical perspectives and contemporary challenges, analyzing urban sprawl and sustainable built environment forms, with an emphasis on clean energy and nature-based solutions. The curriculum covers the integration of diverse renewable sources, microgrids, and energy storage technologies, enhancing grid reliability and resiliency. Through a collaborative approach, students will learn to integrate renewable energy into existing Canadian buildings and neighborhoods. By combining planning, renewable energy, and healthy community principles, students will receive a holistic perspective on sustainable communities and energy systems.
PRE OR CO-REQUISITE: CLT 6102 - Cleantech Fundamentals II or permission of instructor
HOURS OF CREDIT: 3