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Biofuels Science Certificate FAQs
OVERVIEW
The following frequently asked questions can be useful to
gain general information about the Biofuels Science
Certificate. These FAQs are not policy, and is subject to
change with no prior notification at any time.
APPLICATION PROCESS QUESTIONS
Do I need to apply to the University prior to enrolling in
a course?
No, you do not have to apply to the University to take
courses in the Biofuels Science Certificate. It is adult
continuing education, lifelong learning.
Are there any prerequisites to the program?
Applicants need a minimum of a “C” grade in college level
Biology, Math, Chemistry (and Organic Chemistry if applying
to the Analytical Chemistry track).
How do I apply to the certificate?
You may apply for the certificate at
http://extension.ucsd.edu/programs/index.cfm?vAction=certD
etail&vCertificateID=188&vStudyAreaID=4 . There is a
yellow button that says “apply now”.
What is the deadline to apply to the Biofuels Science
Certificate?
A cohort of students typically begins the Biofuels Science
Certificate in Fall or Winter Quarter. Students should apply
for the certificate between May-August, but we review
applications and accept students into the certificate year
round.
Can I take classes concurrent to the application
process?
Yes, students can apply to the certificate and/or wait to be
accepted into the certificate while concurrently taking
classes. Enrolling in classes does not guarantee acceptance
into the program or receipt of emails directed to applicants
and/or current students.
Can I take classes before being accepted into the
program?
Yes, but enrolling in classes does not guarantee acceptance
into the program. Additionally, if the certificate requirements
change before you accepted into the certificate you would
have to adhere to the requirements at the time of your
enrollment into the certificate.
What are my chances of being accepted into the
program?
Students need a minimum of a C grade in college level
Biology, Math, Chemistry (and Organic Chemistry if applying
to the Analytical Chemistry track). Other criteria are taken
into consideration such as other academic interest, previous
work related and community service oriented activities. The
number of applicants in a cohort is also taken into
consideration.
How long will it be until I know I was accepted into the
certificate?
We aim to inform students of their application status within 46 weeks.
What happens if I am not accepted into the program?
Students may apply for the program again. It is
recommended that there were some other updates to
students’ academic or related experience that may influence
acceptance into the program. Students who were initially
rejected into the certificate and have demonstrated success
(“A” and “B” Grades) in biofuels classes at Extension were
retroactively accepted into the certificate. Enrolling in classes
does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
COURSE AND CERTIFICATE QUESTIONS
How many courses are required for the Biofuels Science
Certificate?
Students are required to take the following required courses
(3 courses):
•
Introduction to Biofuels (online)
o
Successful completion in both the “Our
Energy Future” MOOC (proof of
“Statement of Accomplishment”
required) and “Introduction to Biofuels”
Extension credit course (passing grade
of “C-“ or better) are required.
•
Biomass Production (online)
•
Biomass Production Lab (on campus)
Students may select 1 track to complete the Biofuels
Science Certificate.
•
Molecular Biology (2 classes)
•
Aquatic Microbiology (2 classes)
•
Analytical Chemistry (2 classes)
What order should I take my classes?
Summer/Fall Quarter
•
Introduction to Biofuels (online)
o
Successful completion of “Our Energy
Future” MOOC (proof of “Statement of
Accomplishment” required for this
course)
Winter
•
Biomass Production (online)
Spring
•
Select a lecture in one of the following tracks:
Molecular Biology, Aquatic Microbiology, or
Analytical Chemistry (online)
July
•
Biomass Production Lab (UCSD Campus)
•
Corresponding tracked Molecular Biology, Aquatic
Microbiology, or Analytical Chemistry (UCSD
Campus)
*Current course offerings can be found on certificate page.
Do I have to take both the Introduction to Biofuels
Course and Our Energy Future MOOC?
Introduction to Biofuels is the “for credit option” for the
massive open online course (MOOC) , titled “Our Energy
Future”, offered through Coursera. Successful completion of
the MOOC and this course earns you UC San Diego
Extension credit that can be applied to two certificate
programs: "Biofuels Processes" and "Biofuels Science". For
additional information and registration details go to
http://extension.ucsd.edu/studyarea/index.cfm?vAction=singl
eCourse&vCourse=BIOL-40261&vStudyAreaID=4
How long does it take to complete the certificate?
Students can complete this certificate in 1 year. You
technically have up to 5 years to complete your certificate
once you apply, however, we do not recommend you take
that long as this field could change significantly in that time
span.
Can the Biofuels Science Certificate be completed
entirely online?
No. Although some courses in the program are taught
online, there is an intense lab component that needs to be
completed during the month of July on campus. The Biofuels
Processes Certificate, is offered completely online at
http://extension.ucsd.edu/programs/index.cfm?vAction=certD
etail&vCertificateID=189&vStudyAreaID=4
When can I start taking classes?
You may start taking classes in Fall, Winter, or Spring
Quarter. You may begin taking classes concurrent to the
application process and concurrent to waiting to be accepted
into the program. It is ideal for students to take both the “Our
Energy Future” MOOC (proof of “Statement of
Accomplishment required) and “Introduction to Biofuels”
Extension credit course (passing grade of “C-“ or better) at
the onset of the certificate.
Is it possible for me to take a certificate course without
taking any of the other courses in the biofuel programs?
Yes. Students may take any online course as a standalone
classes and without signing up for the certificate. Please
enroll online on the course page. If you were interested in
taking a summer lab, you would need to take the
corresponding spring lecture before taking the lab. Students
that want to take a lab without taking any preparatory
classes may contact [email protected] for approval.
How do I enroll for a class?
You may enroll in a class by clicking on the class you want
to take in the course matrix at
http://extension.ucsd.edu/programs/index.cfm?vAction=certD
etail&vCertificateID=188&vStudyAreaID=4 . You just need
to “Add to Cart”. You will be prompted to create a student
profile. Then you can pay for your class. Remember your
user name and password. You will need it the next time you
enroll in a class. DO NOT create a new profile the next time
you enroll in classes.
What is the last day to enroll in biofuel classes?
Early enrollment is recommended and can be beneficial
because we sometimes send our students emails about
upcoming networking events or updates. Students should
enroll at least 2 weeks before a class starts and as early as
1 or 2 months before a class starts. Theoretically, a student
can enroll during the first week. Second week enrollments
may need special approval.
Can I take the online classes outside of San Diego?
Yes, you may take online classes anywhere in the world as
long as you have a computer and internet.
How do I get access to the Online Class/Blackboard?
Once you enroll online, you should receive instructions to log
into blackboard by email. Make sure to check your Spam
folders if you can’t find your email. This class becomes
active on blackboard on the first day of class, as long as
you’ve enrolled in the class at least 2 business days before
the first day. If you enroll after the first day of class it may
take about 2 business days to gain access to blackboard.
How long are classes?
Online courses are about 6-10 weeks each quarter. Students
may enjoy the flexibility of accessing lectures, course
materials and course discussion, online 24 hours a day/7
days a week. Students should adhere to course syllabus and
instructor announcements for all course deadlines.
How many hours can I expect to have to spend
studying?
Each student has their own learning style so this may vary
based on the student. For the online courses, generally
students will spend 5-10 hours per week for each course.
I noticed that some of the courses in the Biofuels
Science Certificate courses overlap with the Biofuels
Processes Certificate. Can those courses count
towards more than one certificate?
Yes, the Introduction to Biofuels and Biomass Production
Lectures can count towards both certificate requirements.
Please note though that all courses must be completed
within five years in order for it to counts towards either or
both certificates.
What are the backgrounds of the instructors?
Generally the instructors are faculty on campus, graduate
students in our faculty’s labs, or working professionals in the
industry. Generally, instructors have at least a master’s level
education in their field, with many having a Ph.D.
If I have questions, what is the average time for
a professor to reply to my question?
The professors should respond within 24 to 48 hours. Unless
it is a holiday or weekend, then it is at their discretion.
Do I have to take the courses for a letter grade to earn
the certificate?
No, you can select to take the course for a letter grade or the
pass/fail option. Any courses taken as “Not for Credit” will
not count towards the certificate.
How will I be notified of my final grade?
Once the course is completed the instructor has 10 working
days to turn in the grades to Student Services. Once the
grades have been submitted, you can view and print your
grades by logging into myextension.ucsd.edu.
Can I get a copy of my receipt for my records?
Yes, please login to myextension.ucsd.edu and you can print
one there. If you need assistance logging into this site,
please contact Student Services 858-534-9999.
If I am interested in applications for algae other than
biofuels, should I take this certificate?
Yes. The information and techniques in this program can be
applied to producing algal biomass for a wide range of final
products beyond biofuels, including protein therapeutics,
human nutritionals, animal feed, bio-chemicals and many
other high value bio-products.
What types of networking and career advancement
opportunities are there?
Students are encouraged to network with peers in their
online courses and labs throughout the year. There is a mix
of undergraduate and graduate students, professionals,
industry, community members and faculty that students will
be able to interact with in courses and through an annual
Speed Networking event. This event is organized exclusively
for students and alumni to connect with local industry for
access to career advice and job opportunities.
BLACKBOARD (online learning tool)
Can I get more information about Blackboard?
Please go to the Blackboard page to get a general view on
the format of the online courses
http://ucsdextension.blackboard.com.
Once I have enrolled, how long does it usually take to
have access to the online course?
If you have enrolled at least 2 days before the course
begins, generally you will have access starting on the first
day of class. You should receive an email from student
services with instructions on how to log in to the course. If
you have enrolled after the start date of the course, you will
not have access to the course for about 24-48 hours.
Are online courses scheduled on certain days and
times? Would the student have the flexibility to
complete the test by a certain day?
The lessons are prerecorded so you can listen to them any
time of the day or night and from anywhere in the world.
However, you will have weekly assignments and quizzes
that are due on specific dates.
Are the online courses synchronous or asynchronous?
They are asynchronous. Students may access online
material 24hours/day/7days/week. The lectures are
prerecorded and updated prior to each quarter. Blackboard
is inclusive of weekly lectures, syllabus outlining course
assignments and deadline discussion boards and
homework/groupwork/exams/projects/finals etc. The
instructor is accessible during the quarter the classes are
live. They facilitate the class, have office hours, and are
available via email and blackboard.
BOOKS
Would I be able to order the required text books before
the class begins?
If there is a required text it will show up on course website.
You may go to the “Click to Show Details” section for
additional information. Not all courses in this certificate have
a textbook.
COST
When do I pay for classes?
Students pay online for each course s/he enrolls in, at the
time s/he enrolls. It is recommended to enroll at least two
weeks before each class. Earlier enrollments are always
recommended.
What expenditures should I expect to have to complete
this certificate?
Students pay for classes quarterly at enrollment. Below are
some estimates to consider when budgeting for this
certificate.
Introduction to Biofuels
•
Our Energy Future MOOC
Biomass Production
Biomass Production Lab
Track Lecture
Tracked Lab
Biofuels Science Certificate (5 classes)
$295
$0
$795
$1200
$795
$1800
$4885
Certificate Registration
Textbooks/Materials
Campus Summer Housing (not req’d)
UCSD Summer Parking
$60
$245
$2,000
$65
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
Is there are financial aid for the Biofuels Program?
Financial Aid Information can be found on the Extension Site
at
http://extension.ucsd.edu/student/index.cfm?vAction=financi
al
Financial Aid Information specific to the Biofuels Program
can also found at the right hand side on the Biofuels
Program page:
http://extension.ucsd.edu/programs/customprogram/biofuels.
cfm
Are there any Veteran's Benefits?
Please refer to financial aid site for more information
including contact information.
http://extension.ucsd.edu/student/index.cfm?vAction=financi
al
Are there any financial benefits for me if I am
unemployed?
Please go to the San Diego Workforce Partnership website
http://workforce.org/training/individual-training-accounts-ita .
Eligibility is limited to unemployed/underemployed San
Diegans only
Are there any discounts UC Alumni?
UC System Alumni may contact Student Services at 858534-9999 to inquire about Alumni Discounts. Alumni may
enjoy a discount of 10% up to $50 each quarter.
Are there any financial aid options available to UCSD
students?
Students may also apply for a LAUNCH scholarship.
Accepted students may qualify for full tuition coverage by
LAUNCH. Please contact the LAUNCH office for more
information http://extension.ucsd.edu/launch/index.cfm
Do I have to take both the Biomass Production Lab and
Tracked Lab in one summer?
No. You may take as one or all the labs in the summer.
Students need to take any corresponding prerequisite
lectures prior to taking labs (or get approval if they do not
plan to take prerequisite lectures)
HOUSING
Is there On-Campus Housing?
On-Campus Housing is optional for Biofuels students.
Housing generally begins a day before labs and ends a day
after the last lab class. In 2014 housing was $1911.60 for a
double and included parking, linen, and 3 meals a day.
General housing information can be referenced at
http://conferences.ucsd.edu/servicecenter_revelle.asp
Housing is not required and is subject to change annually
based on UCSD Conference Services rates. Students can
also independently explore housing options in the San Diego
area if they desire.
Is it possible to take other labs in other tracks?
Yes, students may enroll in as few as 1 lab in summer and
up to as many as 4 labs. It may not be recommended in one
summer because of the intensity of the labs. Students have
previously taken more than 1 Biofuels Track. Students that
complete a preparatory lecture for an additional track may
take the summer lab with no additional approval needed.
Students that want to take a lab without having taken the
preparatory lecture need to get an approval.
Is there Off-Campus Housing?
Students may independently explore off-campus housing in
the surrounding neighborhoods of UCSD. For reference
UCSD is located at 9500 Gilman Dr. La Jolla, CA 92093
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Is there an additional fee for non-California residents or
international students?
No, the fees are the same for all students
If I am international student is there anything I need to
be aware about?
International students don’t have any different applications
processes or fees at this point.
Students should be able to read, communicate, and learn in
English.
All international students must contact the Immigration
Advisor, Olga Piro, at [email protected] concurrent to
completing the Biofuels Science Application process. Direct
questions about OPT or anything to do with your legal status
in the U.S. to Ms. Piro as well.
SUMMER LABS
How long are labs?
Labs are usually 4 weeks during the month of July. Labs are
only offered during the summer. Students need to take the
corresponding prep online lectures to prepare for the
summer labs. Special exceptions may be made for students
who do not plan to take the Biofuels Science Certificate but
want to take labs. Contact [email protected] for further
more details.
Is it possible to take the Biomass Production Lab and a
Tracked Lab at the same time or is the time commitment
too intense that it is not practical?
On average, students allot 5-10 hours of study time per
class. Generally, most students will enroll in the Biomass
Production Lab and 1 tracked lab in one summer. We
typically schedule labs so that they do not overlap during the
month of July. Students have the flexibility to select which
classes they take and which track(s) they want to pursue.
Classes should be completed within 5 years, to be counted
towards a certificate.
Is it possible for me to take a lab without taking any of
the other courses in the biofuel programs?
If you were interested in taking a summer lab, you would
need to take the corresponding spring lecture before taking
the lab. Students that want to take a lab without taking any
preparatory classes may contact [email protected] for
approval.
I can’t take my lab this summer. Can I take it another
quarter?
Yes, you can take your lab in the following summer. Summer
Labs are only scheduled during an intense four weeks in
July. This is designed to accommodate students both in the
region and out of the region and working professionals.
I can only take 1 of the labs this summer. What class
should I enroll in this spring?
Since Summer Labs occur only during the summer,
preparatory lectures are scheduled in the Winter and Spring
directly preceding the labs. If you can only take one Winter
or Spring lecture, it is recommended that you take the
corresponding Lab during summer. For example, if you take
the Analytical Chem Lecture in spring, it would be ideal to
take Analytical Chem lab in summer.
Can I take Biomass Production and a Tracked Lecture in
Spring but not take labs in summer immediately
following the quarter I take classes?
Yes, you have 5 years to complete classes in the certificate.
Why are lab Section IDs are not posted online?
Section IDs are emailed directly to Biofuels Science
students, applicants, and spring lecture enrollees around
April. If you are not in this group of students, you may
contact [email protected] for additional information.
What lab materials are provided in lab?
Lab coats, goggles, lab manuals and lab notebooks will be
supplied in class.
If I am interested in processing biofuels, but not
specifically in algae should I take this certificate?
The laboratory skills may not translate directly to other
biofuels. You are learning techniques involved in the
production of second or third (nomenclature changes
depending who you talk to) generation algae biofuels.
However, the background and current status of the biofuels
field in general is something you would definitely learn.
UCSD STUDENTS
I took Introduction to Biofuels at UCSD. Do I have to
retake it at Extension?
No, you do not need to take this course again at UCSD
Extension. A student may submit an unofficial transcript for a
waiver of this same course at UCSD Extension. Please circle
or highlight the course with the passing grade and email
[email protected] to request a waiver.
I took Chem/Biochem of Biofuels at UCSD. Do I have to
retake it at Extension?
No, you do not need to take this course again at UCSD
Extension. A student may submit an unofficial transcript for a
waiver of this same course at UCSD Extension. Please circle
or highlight the course with the passing grade and email
[email protected] to request a waiver.
Can I waive out of both the Introduction to Biofuels &
Chem/Biochem of Biofuels classes I took at UCSD?
No, you may only waive out of a total of 1 class for the
Biofuels Science Certificate.
Are there any financial aid options available to UCSD
students?
Students may also apply for a LAUNCH scholarship.
Accepted students may qualify for full tuition coverage by
LAUNCH. Please contact the LAUNCH office for more
information http://extension.ucsd.edu/launch/index.cfm
THINGS TO DO IN SAN DIEGO
Calendar of Events
http://www.sandiego.org/events.aspx
Things to do in San Diego http://www.sandiego.org/what-todo.aspx
Things to do in the Greater San Diego Area
http://www.sandiego.org/discover.aspx
TRANSPORTATION
On Campus Transportation
Shuttle bus
http://blink.ucsd.edu/facilities/transportation/shuttles/
Off Campus Transportation
Airport http://www.san.org/
Buses http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/BusRoutes.aspx
Cabs http://sandiegotaxicab.com/
Car Rental Agencies
http://www.san.org/sdia/transportation/car_rental.aspx
Trains http://www.sandiego.org/plan-yourtrip/transportation/trains-trolley.aspx
Trolley http://www.sdmts.com/trolley/trolley.asp
CERTIFICATE COMPLETION
How long will it take to get my certificate once I have
completed all the required courses?
It is the student’s responsibility to inform Student Services
when they believe they have completed all the certificate
requirements. When you have paid your registration fee and
completed all your certificate requirements, you will need to
notify Student Services by:
• Calling Certificate Processing (858) 534-9999
• Or Submitting the Online Intent to Complete
Certificate Program form
http://extension.ucsd.edu/Student/index.cfm?vActi
on=intentToComplete
Once you have formally notified student services, your
certificate will be mailed to you within 2 weeks.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Angeline V. Yang
Program Manager
UC San Diego Extension
P| (858) 534-9351
F| (858) 534-9359
extension.ucsd.edu
Wendy Stegman
Research Program Manager
California Center for Algae Biotechnology (Cal-CAB) &
Food and Fuel for the 21st Century (FF21)
La Jolla, CA 92093-0368
P| (858) 534-9022
F| (858) 534-6202
http://ff21.ucsd.edu
http://algae.ucsd.edu