The Ultimate Guide to Electrician Trade Schools

Every professional electrician was once a student. Electrician trade schools train the next generation of electricians. These programs offer a means for students to acquire the skills needed to thrive in the field.

Take a look at this guide that explains what electrician trade schools entail, how to become an electrician, the length of the programs, and related costs. You’ll also find a high-level overview of some of the best electrician trade schools in the country below.

What is electrician trade school?

Electrician trade schools are niche institutions known for training programs that set future electricians up for success. These programs provide an outlet for hands-on training and technical education. There’s no one-sizes-fits-all path, however. Students can complete a short certificate program, pursue an associate degree, or even go on to earn a bachelor’s degree to become an electrician.

How to Become an Electrician: 4 Steps:

Electricians complete formal coursework and round out their education with practical experience. You can become an electrical contractor by taking the following steps:

Complete High School or a GED

A high school diploma or GED will be the standard pre-requisite to enter most electrician programs. A background in math, science, and critical thinking will help you succeed in trade school.

Choose Between Trade School and an Apprenticeship

In general, you can expect to attend a trade school or complete an apprenticeship to be qualified to enter the field.

Electrician trade schools teach the basics of electrical theory, wiring techniques, and safety parameters. These programs can range from a few months to a year in length. Apprenticeships marry on-the-job training with classroom lectures. Apprentices are monitored by a licensed electrician or master electrician while performing work. Apprenticeships will require between three and five years of commitment.

Apply to Programs

Brush up on electrician programs in your community and rank them by preference. Take into account the school’s reputation, coursework, cost, and location.

Complete the Required Coursework and On-the-Job Training

Regardless of whether your path involves trade school or an apprenticeship program, you should expect to take classes and complete on-the-job training. You’ll grow your knowledge base in areas like electrical theory, wiring methods, and safety regulations.

It’s smart to review the programs through an informed lens. Confirm that programs are accredited by reputable organizations like the Council on Occupational Education (COE).

To ensure a quality experience, your education should incorporate hands-on training. If possible, talk to program graduates and apprentices and get their feedback on the experience.

When it’s time to prepare for the licensing exam, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success. Review your notes and course materials to refresh your memory. Practice exams can help test your knowledge and give you confidence. You might also benefit from forming a study group with your peers.

How long is a trade school for electricians?

The length of electrician training programs can vary according to their specifics. For instance, certificates can often be completed in a few months, making them ideal for those who want to fast-track their entrance into the field. These programs drill the basics required to perform tasks on the job. Plus, many certificate programs incorporate hands-on training. This facet helps students take away practical experience they can apply to their first job in the field.

Associate degree programs usually require two years of school. More in-depth than certificate programs, they tend to cover a broader range of topics and prepare students for the demands of the job. This degree program often touches on electrical theory, blueprint reading, electrical code, and safety practices, all of which make for a well-rounded education. It’s common for associate degree programs to integrate internships and cooperative education experiences. Both empower students to apply their textbook knowledge to real-world scenarios while forging professional connections.

A bachelor’s degree program, which provides a deeper dive into the trades, can take up to four years. Graduates can anticipate higher-paying positions and more opportunities for advancement. Undergraduate programs typically reflect coursework within domains such as electrical engineering, project management, and business. As a result, graduates will have a greater breadth and depth of knowledge when entering the job market.

The best programs adapt to the changing times. For example, some colleges offer classes that address hot topics such as renewable energy and smart grid technology. This puts graduates in the best position when they enter the job market because they’re up to speed on current trends and customer expectations.

Electrician School Costs

The costs of electrician trade schools hinge on factors like location, program length, and institution type. You can expect to pay between $1,000 to $12,000 for a certificate, according to Indeed. This investment can be smart for those looking to enter the workforce quickly. These programs equip students with the fundamentals like basic electrical theory, safety practices, and hands-on training. Many students who are eager to start earning a paycheck right away appreciate certificates because of their expedited nature. Plus, it can be a win for the local community in light of the shortage of electricians.

Associate degrees are more of an investment, costing about $3,000 per year, per the Independent Electrical Contractors of Cincinnati. However, the cost can make sense for many graduates. The more in-depth training may lead to better job prospects and a fatter paycheck. Students can expect to learn about topics such as electrical systems design, advanced circuitry, and code compliance. Furthermore, many associate degree programs encourage internships or cooperative education experiences. Both opportunities can make graduates more marketable after graduation.

A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering comes at a higher cost. You can expect to pay anywhere from $29,000 to $83,000, per U.S. News & World Report’s estimates. The price tag is dictated by state residency and institution type. Generally speaking, those who complete a bachelor’s degree often do better financially than their peers without them. This can justify the higher cost and time commitment.

Students will learn about such technical concepts as advanced electrical engineering principles while also exploring the business side of things. When they enter the workforce, graduates are often ready to take on lucrative management roles in high-tech fields such as renewable energy technology or electrical systems design. Also, many undergraduate programs at higher educational institutions are aligned with research and development efforts. Students have a chance to work on innovative projects that affect the trajectory of the electrical industry.

11 Best Electrician Trade Schools in the US

You might be wondering where you can get the best value for your educational dollar. Below are some high-quality electrician trade schools you might consider, featured in no particular order.

Michigan State University

This Michigan school offers a bachelor of science in electrical engineering. The focus is on electrical engineering theory, design, and application. Students can pursue research projects and gain hands-on experience.

Paris Junior College

This Texas school’s associate of applied science degree in electrical technology brings concepts like electrical systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting to life. Like Michigan State, students have the chance to round out their classroom experience with hands-on learning in a state-of-the-art lab.

Irvine Valley College

This California school’s associate of applied science degree in electrical technology introduces students to electrical theory, wiring methods, and safety regulations. Their practical training prepares students for their first jobs in the field.

James Rumsey Technical Institute

Located in Pennsylvania, James Rumsey offers a one-year Electrical Technology certificate program. You can expect to learn basic electrical theory, wiring methods, and troubleshooting best practices.

CET-Soledad

Also in California, this school’s two-year associate’s program touches on electrical theory, wiring methods, and safety regulations. Students benefit from hands-on electrician training that helps them enter the workforce seamlessly after graduation.

Withlacoochee Technical College

This Florida school’s associate degree in electrical technology educates students on electrical theory, wiring methods, and safety regulations.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College

This school is known for its defined programs that prepare students for quick employment in the field after graduation. Students leave with a firm foundation of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The emphasis on hands-on training helps them anticipate scenarios they might encounter in the field.

Lincoln Tech

Lincoln Tech makes quality electrician education accessible through its multiple campuses nationwide. The school drives home the importance of safety and efficiency. As such, students enter the job market with the latest tools and techniques so they can start their careers more confidently.

Texas State Technical College

TSTC’s programs have earned high marks from graduates because of its job placement success. The college aligns with local businesses to facilitate internships and job placement services. These partnerships help students thrive, whether in the classroom or on the job.

Penn Foster College

Penn Foster’s online format means students can learn on their own terms while still getting a quality and relevant education. This set-up is ideal for those balancing work and family. They can pursue their education without having to rearrange their lives to achieve their educational goals.

Florida Technical College

As the name suggests, Florida Technical College offers training that speaks to the needs of both students and the industry. Sought-after instructors and modern facilities provide the perfect backdrop for students to learn about technologies and practices in the electrical field.

Invest in Your Career Future

Becoming an electrician opens many doors. The path will vary in terms of education and specialization. Students today can choose from certificate programs, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees. Each one will set them up for success in the job market.

Plus, the timing is right to pursue this occupational pathway. The demand for skilled electricians only continues to grow. Today’s electrician students can expect a burgeoning career with avenues for growth, specialization, and even entrepreneurship if that’s where their journey takes them.

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Invest in a proven tool like Podium and watch your electrical business take off. Watch a demo and check out Podium’s lead management and communication tools in action.