Establish a Student Chapter
SPE has student chapters around the world that provide an operating framework for society activities at a university level. Each student chapter is sponsored by a local, professional section and has the support of their university department.
Petitions for new student chapters are reviewed three times a year: 15 February, June, and October. Please refer to the Student Chapter Resource Center to learn more about operating a student chapter and eligibility requirements listed below.
Eligibility
- Only SPE student members may complete and submit the petition form. Petitions submitted by professional members will not be considered.
- A two, or more, year degree program related to the energy industry. Programs should be equivalent to a bachelor’s or a postgraduate degree.
- Each degree program must be well-established – meaning it must have graduated at least one class of students. It cannot be a new program with no graduates.
- A minimum of 25 paid student members who are not graduating within 12 months of the establishment date.
- Five core officers listed on the petition who are enrolled in a qualifying degree program and not graduating within 12 months of the date of establishment. Core officers are president, vice president, membership chair, secretary, and treasurer.
- New student chapters must agree with standard operating regulations as provided by SPE. If alternative versions are preferred, these should be submitted to SPE for approval in advance.
- Professional SPE member on university faculty who is willing to serve as the student chapter faculty advisor. Your faculty advisor must be employed at your university. The faculty advisor provides a communications link between the student chapter, the university, and the sponsoring SPE section. They also serve as a guide for the students in developing and implementing goals, objectives, and programs. As members of the student chapter will change from year-to-year, the faculty advisor is the continuous link between the student chapter and the section.
- Support from local professional section of SPE. The selected sponsoring section must be meeting maintenance requirements as of the petition cycle deadline. Otherwise, they are not eligible to serve as the sponsor, and an alternative sponsor will be required.
It is estimated to take at least two weeks to complete the petition process. It is likely you will save a draft several times while you communicate with others to collect the information. SPE staff also appreciate your patience, as it takes time to review your petition, pull a roster of students, and communicate with the sponsoring section and Faculty Advisor. If you miss a deadline, you may re-apply for the next one.
Before beginning the petition forms, take the following steps:
- Begin conversations with the local section and request support. Be sure to share degree program details and how they are related to the energy industry.
- Secure a university faculty member who will serve as faculty advisor.
- Put together a list of qualifying officers (their SPE member numbers) and ensure all officers have an up-to-date Member Profile.
Petitions open again approximately six weeks prior to each deadline. Approval notifications will be sent within 45 days of the deadline. Until then, students may not operate under the SPE name or logo.
If your university meets all eligibility requirements, begin a new petition here.
Questions?
Email chapters@spe.org.