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Electrical Technology, Specialized Diploma

Overview

Narrative

There has never been a more rewarding time to consider entering the electrical trades. With a large number of electricians approaching retirement age and the increasing technical complexity of new equipment, skilled electrical technicians are consistently in demand now and into the future. If you enjoy hands-on physical activities combined with complex problem solving opportunities, the electrical trade offers you a rewarding career path.

Northampton’s electrical technology program offers a range of stackable degrees; starting with a specialized diploma that can be completed in one-year, a certificate requiring a minimum of 39 credits, and an AAS degree requiring a minimum of 64 credits. 

All of our electrical programs are designed to be completed on either a full time or a part time basis, with most courses available in the evenings as well as during the day.

Features

The specialized diploma in electrical technology offers students an entry-level credential for those interested in starting a career in the electrical trades.  Students completing this program will gain a broad understanding of fundamental electrical principles, as well as valuable skills in residential wiring, basic electrical troubleshooting, and construction print reading.  In addition, you will have the opportunity to learn about the basic industrial wiring of motors, sensors and controls; key electrical skills that are necessary in a wide variety of industries.

Graduates will have entry level employment opportunities as apprenticeship electricians in both the construction and manufacturing sectors. 

Our program is designed to be completed either on a full time or part time basis, with most courses available in the evenings as well as during the day on NCC’s main campus.

All course work in this program may be directly applied toward Northampton’s more comprehensive electrical technology certificate or our Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in electrical technology.



Outcomes

Students who complete the Electrical Technology Specialized Diploma will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Demonstrate skills in collecting, analyzing and applying technical information.
  • Explain basic electrical theories, including Ohm’s, Kirchhoff’s, and Watt’s laws.
  • Properly employ test equipment to troubleshoot basic electrical circuits.
  • Interpret technical information in the form of architectural drawings, schematics and electrical specifications.
  • Describe the function and application of common electrical equipment as used in residential and light industrial environments.
  • Explain basic electrical safety procedures.


Courses

First Semester

COLS101College Success

1 credits
CISC101Introduction to Information Technology

3 credits
ELTC101Electrical Fundamentals

3 credits
EMEC114Mechanical Skills for the Trades

2 credits
MATH103Technical Mathematics

3 credits
 
OSAH101Construction Industry Outreach Safety Education**

1 credit
OR
OSAH102General Industry Outreach Safety Education

1 credit
Total Credit Hours:13

Second Semester

CMGT104Construction Print Reading

3 credits
ELTC107Electrical Wiring I

3 credits
ELTC135Electrical Motors and Controls

4 credits
EMEC140Sensors, Wiring and Troubleshooting

1 credits
Technical Elective +

3/4 credits
Total Credit Hours:14-15

Total Credit Hours: 27-28

** OSAH 101 is the recommended selection.

+Eligible technical electives: any ELTC, HVAC, CADM, ELEC, EMEC, ENGG, CHEM, CISC, or WELD. Ineligible electives: CADM100, CADM117, EMEC115, ENGG100, or ENGG117.