Aspiring electricians seeking formal education often complete a certificate or associate's degree program. General course topics include math, science, wiring, basic electricity, safety measures and the National Electric Code.
10 Schools with Electrician Programs
Here are colleges that provide training for aspiring electricians:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition and Fees (2015-16) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Dade College | Miami, FL | 4-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate | $2,834 in-state, $9,661 out-of-state |
| Houston Community College | Houston, TX | 2-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate | $1,632 in-district, $3,360 in-state, $3,756 out-of-state |
| Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | 4-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate | $13,560 in-state, $36,360 out-of-state |
| College of Southern Nevada | Las Vegas, NV | 4-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate, Associate's Degree | $2,805 in-state, $9,450 out-of-state |
| American River College | Sacramento, CA | 2-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate, Associate's Degree | $1,104 in-state, $7,440 out-of-state |
| Tidewater Community College | Norfolk, VA | 2-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate, Associate's Degree | $5,171 in-state, $11,009 out-of-state |
| Palomar College | San Marcos, CA | 2-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate, Associate's Degree | $1,338 in-state, $7,078 out-of-state |
| El Paso Community College | El Paso, TX | 2-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate | $2,368 in-state, $4,042 out-of-state |
| Waukesha County Technical College | Pewaukee, WI | 2-year, Public | Undergraduate Certificate | $4,250 in-state, $6,078 out-of-state |
School Selection Criteria
Consider the following when looking for electrician schools:
- Students who are interested in long-term, real-world training experiences should look for programs that include apprenticeship opportunities.
- Prospective students should check for programs that offer coursework in their chosen specialty, such as marine electrician, construction electrician, service electrician or research electrician.
- A few schools offer associate's degrees, while others only offer certificates. Select the program best suited to your career goals.
- Some electrician certificates may take less than a year to complete. Consider whether time frame or content covered is more important when choosing your program.
Undergraduate Certificate Programs
There are several different certificate options that are relevant undergraduate certificate options. General certificate programs for aspiring electricians consist of a short series of courses that provide a basic overview of the field, providing students with the foundational knowledge and practical training needed to get an entry-level job in the field.
There are also specialized certificates available for electricians. Some focus on specific aspects of the field, such as programmable controllers, process control instrumentation or mechatronics. Others prepare students for particular jobs, such as marine electrician or data cabling installer.
Another option is an apprenticeship program. While the previously described certificates last anywhere from a few months to two years, those that include an apprenticeship last for 4-5 years. In these programs, aspiring electricians are paid to train under the supervision of an experienced journeyman. Apprentices also take supplemental classes at the school that offers the program.
Associate's Degree Program
Associate's-level programs typically confer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and provide a comprehensive introduction to the industry. In addition to lecture-based classes in the theoretical concepts underpinning the electricity industry, students also take lab courses, in which they get hands-on experience. General education requirements are also included. In total, associate's degree programs take two years to complete.
Electrical training programs are available at schools across the country. If you're interested in becoming an electrician, take a look at the programs and courses available at schools in your area.
