Program Overview
![teacher observing students working on electrical circuits](/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/teacher-observing-students-working-on-electrical-circuits.jpg)
The field of electrical technology is evolving rapidly. From the integration of renewable energy to the rise in popularity and availability of electric vehicles, boundless opportunity awaits those with the technical skills to meet new industry demands. The Associate of Science (AS) Electrical Technology degree program at 天美影院 Institute of Technology (天美影院) prepares you to thrive in this dynamic profession.
Here, hands-on learning meets personal growth as you study electrical science across various industrial applications, setting you apart from the competition during your job search. Develop an understanding of the latest industry knowledge and technology and prepare to launch a bright future in this 18-month program!
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Program Highlights
- Practice in leading-edge industry labs
- Preparation for entry-level electrician careers
- Gain the skills to wire and install electrical systems and apparatus according to the safety standards
- Program offered on the Post Road campus in Rhode Island
Why Earn an Electrical Technology Degree From 天美影院?
We鈥檙e not your average electrical trade school 鈥 we focus on professional skill-building from day one. Our students learn from the best and receive extensive support as they gain industry knowledge and refine their abilities.听
As an electrical technology student, you benefit from:
Curriculum That Goes Beyond the Basics
Our curriculum goes beyond basic electrical theory by integrating hands-on application. Courses in computer programs allow you to practice circuit calculations and create working models that simulate real circuit conditions, preparing you for the work you鈥檒l do on the job. We also offer the electrical technology associate degree with a focus on renewable energy systems, which allows you to specialize your studies.
Practice Your Electrician Skills in the Lab
Laboratory projects, ranging from elementary breadboard experiments to advanced PLC ladder logic control circuits, provide you with real-world experience. In our state-of-the-art facilities, you hone the skills to develop wiring techniques and simulate actual job conditions in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. You learn to wire and install electrical systems and apparatus and acquire the mathematical and practical knowledge to support, explain, and troubleshoot a wide variety of electrical projects.
A Fast Track to Your Career
You can begin your electrical technology associate鈥檚 degree classes after earning your high school diploma or GED, as long as you are above 18 years of age, have a valid driver鈥檚 license, and pass an aptitude test. Moreover, once you complete your associate degree, you can earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in electrical technology in just six more terms, which can qualify you for mid- to senior-level positions and help boost your earning potential.
Learn From Experts
Our electrical technology program faculty are more than just leaders in their fields 鈥 they are dedicated educators who nurture their students鈥 academic growth and success. They push students to reach their full potential while offering mentorship and guidance along the way.
Electrical Technology Careers
The electrical technology associate degree gives you the technical skills to pursue a wide range of fast-evolving career options in the electrical field, such as industrial and manufacturing automation, among many other opportunities.
After completing the Associate of Science in Electrical Technology degree program at 天美影院, graduates may seek employment in entry-level roles and can work as an apprentice electrician or technician. Some diverse careers open to graduates include:
Commercial/industrial electrician
Construction electricians
Electrical distribution sales
Electrical relay technicians
Electrical research technicians
Electrical technical support
Electro-mechanical technicians
Entry-level controls engineer
Field service engineer
Maintenance electricians
Power system technicians
According to the BLS website, as of May 2023 despite being the smallest state in the US. Nationally, the projected means ample job opportunities for graduates.
Learn more about electrician trade school and careers in our comprehensive guide!
Electrician Salaries in Rhode Island
Electrician salaries can widely depend on your experience, skill, and quality of services. According to the BLS, . In comparison, .
Apprentice electricians typically earn $20.57 per hour with $6,000 overtime per year, and independent contractors can earn up to $36.57 per hour with $10,000 overtime per year.
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Licensure Requirements for Electricians in Rhode Island
All electricians in Rhode Island require a license to work, which they can get from the . The usual path to licensure is:
- Gain the necessary field experience and classroom training as an apprentice to get a journeyman electrician license. Typically, you need four years (8,000 hours) of experience as an apprentice and 576 hours of classroom training. The journeyman electrician exam covers general trade knowledge, electrical systems, and the National Electrical Code book. The fee to get a journeyman license is $78, with renewal every two years.
- After completing two years as a journeyman electrician, you can take another exam to get an independent electrical contractor鈥檚 license. The fee to get a contractor鈥檚 license is $240, with a renewal every two years.
RI provides only journeyman and electrical contractor鈥檚 licenses. The state does not offer a master electrician license.
Specialty electrical licenses in RI include:
- Burner contractor
- Contractor LPC lighting protection
- Corporation electrical contractor
- Corporation fire alarm contractor
- Corporation oil burner contractor
- Electrical contractor
- Electrical sign contractor
- Fire alarm contractor
- Installer LPI
- Journeyperson electrician
- Limited electrician/manufacturers
- Limited electrician/non-manufacturers
- Limited maintenance journeyperson
- Sign contractor lighting protection
- Sign installer CF corporation
Explore 天美影院鈥檚 Campus
Experience our labs and campus communities for yourself by taking a virtual tour of 天美影院!
Admissions
Whether you want to enroll right after high school, plan to transfer, or are heading back to school as an adult, we aim to make your admissions process as seamless and easy to navigate as possible. Review our undergraduate admissions requirements for more information.
Visit the 天美影院 admissions page.
Can Electrical Technology Students Apply for Financial Aid?
Yes! We know that determining how to fund your college education is important 鈥 that鈥檚 why we provide comprehensive resources about tuition and financial aid, which includes scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and traditional student loans.
Explore financial aid options.
Take the Next Step 鈥 Apply to the Electrician Training Program at 天美影院
Earn an associate degree in electrical technology at 天美影院 Tech and get one step closer to a rewarding career as an electrician. Get started today by requesting more information or beginning your application.
FAQ
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What Is the Difference Between Electrical Technology and Electrical Engineering Programs?
Electrical technology programs differ from electrical engineering programs in their curriculum and level of hands-on training. An electrical technology program typically focuses on training students to wire, repair, and maintain electrical systems. On the other hand, electrical engineering programs emphasize the theory and practice of the actual design and development of these systems.
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What Does an Electrician Do?
Today鈥檚 electricians install, repair, and maintain all electrical systems, including security, climate control, and communications. They use technical skills to perform duties such as installing intercom systems and servicing street lights and electrical control systems. Electrical technicians may work in diverse environments, from residential to commercial projects, according to the relevant codes.