Umair Gaines
Electrical engineering technology is a dynamic field that blends engineering principles with hands-on technical skills. Electrical engineering technologists and technicians typically need an associate’s degree, although a bachelor's degree is preferred for most electrical engineering technology positions. Electrical technology degree programs teach students about electrical wiring, parts, tools, and system repairs, and develop technical skills such as installing and upgrading electrical equipment. Electrical engineering degree programs, on the other hand, focus on the planning, designing, and development of electrical systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Degree type | Bachelor's, Associate's, Master's |
| Study topics | Math, physics, electrical theory, circuits, motors, hydraulics, generators, programmable controllers, power systems, electronics, computers, communications hardware |
| Career options | Electrician, service technician, electrical technician, electrical tester, electrical engineer, electrical engineering technologist, technician |
| Skills | Communication, attention to detail, mathematics, programming, installation, repair, maintenance, design, implementation |
| Job outlook | 3% growth from 2023-2033 for electrical engineering technologists and technicians; 9% growth from 2023-2033 for electrical and electronics engineers |
| Median annual wage | $77,180 for electrical engineering technologists and technicians; $111,910 for electrical engineers; $127,590 for electronics engineers |
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What You'll Learn
Electrical theory and circuits
Electrical engineering technology is a versatile degree that can lead to various career paths. Electrical theory and circuits are fundamental aspects of this field, and a solid understanding of these concepts is crucial for designing, manufacturing, and maintaining electronic devices and systems.
At its core, electricity is the movement of charge, typically from positive to negative. This movement occurs through a pathway called an electric circuit. Circuits are made up of conductive materials, such as wires, that form a continuous loop. This loop allows charge carriers, usually electrons, to flow through the circuit and power electronic devices.
In series circuits, where components are connected in-line with the power source, the current remains constant, but the voltage may vary. On the other hand, in parallel circuits, the voltage remains constant, while the current varies. Voltage sources can be AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current), with AC sources producing voltages that periodically change direction.
Ohm's law is a fundamental principle in electrical theory, relating voltage, current, and resistance. It states that the current between any two points in a circuit is directly proportional to the potential difference (voltage) between them. Mathematically, this is represented as I = V/R, where I is the current, V is the voltage, and R is the resistance. Resistance is the measure of the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit, and it is responsible for the production of heat and light in devices like light bulbs.
Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) is another important concept in electrical theory. It states that the net current entering a node (the connection between two loops) is equal to the current leaving the node. This principle is particularly useful in more advanced circuitry.
In addition to theory, a degree in electrical technology will often involve hands-on learning and laboratory work. Students will have the opportunity to troubleshoot circuitry, work with industrial electronics and electrical machinery, and use advanced equipment to test and analyse motors, transformers, and sensors.
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Motors, hydraulics, and generators
Electrical engineering technology is a dynamic field that blends engineering principles with hands-on technical skills. Electrical technology degree programs teach students how to work with electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings. Students learn about the basics of electricity, wiring, circuits, and how to safely install and repair electrical equipment.
An electrical engineering technology degree program will typically include courses in math and physics, covering topics such as electrical theory, circuits, motors, hydraulics, generators, and programmable controllers. For example, the Power and Controls program prepares students for maintenance and electrical technician positions by providing hands-on training on AC/DC motors and generators, basic hydraulic systems, and industrial wiring practices.
Students will learn about the design and analysis of electric motors, generators, and associated power electronic drive systems. They will explore the fundamentals of electromagnetism and how it relates to the internals of electric machinery. This includes understanding the role of modern embedded controllers and their impact on electric machines and motion control applications.
The application of electric motors and generators is diverse, ranging from industrial uses to land, sea, and air transportation, resource extraction, chemicals, manufacturing, and energy. Electric motors are becoming better and cheaper, opening up new applications across industries. Electrical engineering technologists and technicians may work in these industries to assemble, test, and repair electrical systems and equipment, ensuring they function as designed.
Overall, a degree in electrical engineering technology provides a strong foundation in the principles and applications of electrical systems, with a focus on motors, hydraulics, and generators, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in this ever-evolving field.
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$232.99 $256
Programmable controllers
Electrical engineering technology is a dynamic field that blends engineering principles with hands-on technical skills. Electrical engineering technologists and technicians typically need an associate's degree, although some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree.
An electrical engineering technology degree program will usually include courses in math and physics, as well as topics in electrical theory, circuits, motors, hydraulics, generators, and programmable controllers. Programmable controllers are an essential component of automation and control systems, which are widely used in various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and energy.
The use of programmable controllers offers several advantages over traditional relay logic or hard-wired control systems. They provide flexibility and ease of modification, allowing users to quickly adjust the control logic or parameters without needing to rewire the system physically. Programmable controllers also offer advanced functionality, such as data logging, communication with other devices or systems, and complex logic and mathematical operations, enabling sophisticated control algorithms.
In an electrical engineering technology degree program, students learn about the fundamentals of programmable controllers, including their architecture, programming languages, and applications. They may also gain hands-on experience through laboratory exercises or projects, where they program and configure PLCs to control simulated or actual industrial processes. This practical experience equips graduates with the skills needed to work with programmable controllers in various industries, ensuring efficient and reliable automation and control of electrical and electronic systems.
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Power systems and electronics
Electrical engineering technology is a diverse field that encompasses various aspects of power systems and electronics. Power systems refer to the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, while electronics deals with the design, development, and application of devices and systems that use electrical energy.
A degree in electrical engineering technology will provide a strong foundation in power systems and electronics. Students will learn about electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution, including the use of transformers, motors, generators, and protection equipment. They will also gain an understanding of power system protection, power electronics, and power quality issues. Additionally, the curriculum covers electrical and poly-phase circuits, digital circuits, microprocessor architecture, and programmable logic controllers.
The study of electronics in this degree programme is extensive. Students will explore industrial electronics, analog and digital electronics, and the application of computers for control. They will learn about the design, development, and testing of electronic devices and systems, as well as the assembly, maintenance, and repair of such systems. Courses in nanoelectronics provide an insight into the design and creation of ultra-small and highly efficient electronic systems, contributing to advancements in areas like quantum computing and next-generation sensors.
Graduates with a degree in electrical engineering technology can find employment in a range of industries. They may work in power utilities, transmission system operations, or companies specialising in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology. Their roles can include maintaining, inspecting, and repairing power systems and electronic equipment. Additionally, they can pursue careers in electrical equipment sales, manufacturing, and testing, as well as in petrochemical companies, food manufacturing, and steel processing industries.
The degree also prepares students for specific roles within the field. These include electrical testers, who inspect and examine electrical systems and wiring to ensure proper operation. Electrical engineers design, develop, and manufacture electrical systems, while project developers plan and manage project development processes. Circuit engineers focus on the development and maintenance of electrical circuits, ensuring the efficient provision of energy to appliances.
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Mathematics and physics
Mathematics is a core part of any engineering discipline, and electrical engineering is no exception. The mathematical models used in electrical engineering allow engineers to predict how electrical systems will perform under different conditions, enabling the design of efficient and reliable technologies. For example, engineers use mathematics to analyse electric circuits by applying methods such as Kirchhoff's laws and mesh analysis. This helps them to understand the distribution of voltages, currents and wattage within a circuit, which is essential for designing and troubleshooting circuits. Calculus, differential equations, and algebra are also commonly required areas of mathematics in electrical engineering.
Physics is equally important in electrical engineering, as it deals with the study of matter, energy, and their interactions with the universe. Electrical engineers apply the principles of physics to design, develop, test, and supervise the deployment of electrical systems and electronic devices. For instance, the physicist Lord Kelvin played a significant role in the engineering of the first transatlantic telegraph cable. Understanding physics allows electrical engineers to obtain both a qualitative and quantitative description of how electrical systems will work.
Electrical technology degree programs typically include courses in mathematics and physics, covering topics such as electrical theory, circuits, motors, generators, and hydraulics. These programs may lead to careers such as instrumentation engineer or computer hardware engineer, where a strong foundation in mathematics and physics is essential for designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
Electrical engineering technology is a dynamic field that blends engineering principles with hands-on technical skills. It involves the study of machines, equipment, technology, and systems that conduct electrical charges and produce electricity.
Electrical engineering technologists and technicians typically work in product evaluation and testing, using measuring and diagnostic devices to test, adjust, and repair equipment. They may also work in roles such as electrician, service technician, electrical technician, and electrical tester.
Electrical engineering technology programs typically include courses in math and physics, as well as topics such as electrical theory, circuits, motors, hydraulics, generators, and programmable controllers. You may also choose a concentration in power systems or electronics to further focus your education.
