Electrical Trade Programs

A certificate program or degree program in basic electronics will lay the groundwork for many technical career options. This type of schooling can result in the type of knowledge that is in high demand by a number of varied industries. Obtaining a certificate or degree is a wise investment of your time and money since this is the type of skill that is always in demand.

Colleges and universities utilize a wide range of experiences in order to properly prepare people to have a successful career in basic electronics. By making use of innovative and cutting edge technologies in the classroom as well as hands on experiences using real circuit boards, resistors, transmitters, and the like, the student graduates with a well rounded learning experience with plenty of real world experience as well.

Graduation from a certificate program in basic electronics will enable the student to work immediately as an apprentice in the electronics field. There are a number of options available within that field. These include an apprentice electrician, a computer repair apprentice, an apprentice computer builder, and many other options. The skills and knowledge that a student learns in the course of obtaining a certificate in electronics also paves the way to take the electrician's test for licensing. A certificate in basic electronics typically takes between one and two years.

A degree program, on the other hand, also lays the foundation for the graduate to work in the field of electronics. However, because a degree typically takes longer, and explores the topics in basic electronics in much greater depth, a student can enter the workforce at a mid level position. In addition, a degree program offers the student classes in effective communication both verbally and in written form. Higher level mathematics courses are available as well, and can lead to more opportunities, both in the workforce and when seeking to obtain further education.

Most courses in basic electronics assume that the students have little or no prior knowledge of the field. Typically, the first section of the course covers basic wiring and currents, and it delves into the more frequently seen wiring systems and the currents that are standard in the field. A terms and definitions aspect of the course explains in minute detail what each of the industry specific words mean and its application.

Building on those basic courses are classes in transistors, resistors, integrated circuits, amplifiers, and how these parts work together on the circuit board to enable electronics to function properly. Although basic mathematic skills and skills in English are necessary, those students that have higher level mathematics courses as well as advanced English and science courses will find more opportunities open to them.

Graduates of a degree program in basic electronics will have the knowledge and skills to take the licensing test in the industry. In addition, with each degree level obtained, the student's marketability climbs as does their value to their present employer. Specialized classes in extended topics in basic electronics can open up avenues for advancement as well.