The course will introduce students to the photovoltaic system design. It will begin by providing a basic understanding of the properties of sunlight, review the relevant semiconductor concepts and provide an in-depth understanding of the principles governing conventional solar cell operation. Focus will then be placed on the intricacies of solar cell design exploring such aspects as module fabrication, standalone and grid-connected system requirements, and photovoltaic material specific issues. The remainder of the course will be devoted to requirements, design and economics of specific purpose photovoltaic applications.