The first (and major) part of the course focuses on conventional (e.g., oil, gas, and coal) and renewable (e.g., bio-fuels, wind, and solar) energy finance, using tools from corporate finance. In this course, students will study financial statement analysis, valuation and capital budgeting, and risk management. Students will also analyze case problems and learn to apply theories to “real world” practice, which goes beyond energy to general environmental problems, such as in carbon as well as natural capital management.

The second part of the course briefly introduces the use of quantitative methods in environmental analysis. Students will learn how to apply basic principles of natural science to a variety of globally important environmental problems. The methods taught in this course have proven useful not only for aspiring environmental scientists and engineers, but also for those working in public policy, environmental law, ecological economics, international development, business, and journalism.