Electrical Systems Technology

The Electrical Systems Technology program is a sequence of courses that prepare and introduce you to electrical careers. The opportunities include residential, commercial, and industrial applications that can be new installations or service of existing equipment. Completion of the AAS qualifies for one year of service that can be applied to the NC Electrical Contractors license.

Every home and business depends upon an electrical supply providing plenty of work for skilled technicians. You have the option of pursuing either a degree, diploma, or certificate in Electrical Systems Technology. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in the Electrical Systems Technology field. GTCC’s Electrical Systems Technology program is well respected in the industry.

Credentialing Options

Electrical Systems Technology, AAS - CIP Code: 46.0302

A 35 13 0

Contact: (336) 334-4822, ext. 53023

The Electrical System Technology AAS degree prepares students for employment in intermediate level jobs within the electrical industry. The curriculum covers both theory and key principles of commercial and industrial electrical wiring and systems. The program also develops technical skills through practical applications that employ current and emerging standards and technologies. Students will learn advanced installation, diagnostic and repair practices for commercial and industrial wiring, motors, and electrical systems.  Additionally, students will be exposed to commercial and industrial equipment maintenance, electrical system planning, instrumentation, electrical estimating, and hydraulic and pneumatics systems. Lastly, throughout the two-year degree, students will hone their skills in writing, mathematics, communication, customer service, critical thinking, and problem solving. 

Successful graduates can qualify for employment in a variety of jobs such as commercial electrical technician, industrial electrical technician, security/fire alarm system installer, residential, commercial, industrial electrical project manager, and residential, commercial, industrial electrical business owner.

NOTE: The AAS degree program may fulfill 1500 of the 3000 hours needed to meet one of the qualifications for the North Carolina Limited or Unlimited Electrical Contractor's License exam.

Program Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this program, the Electrical Systems Technology degree, a graduate should be able to:

  • Interpret electrical prints, schematics, and diagrams.
  • Wire a residential, commercial, and industrial structure.
  • Maintain electric motors, PLCs, and control systems.
  • Implement safe and professional procedures in the workplace according to the National Electrical Code.

Fall Semester I

Total Credits: 15

Spring Semester I

Total Credits: 16

Summer Semester I

Total Credits: 9

Fall Semester II

Total Credits: 13-15

Spring Semester II

Total Credits: 14

Total credit hours required for degree: 67-69

Electives

1. Communications Electives

2. Social/Behavioral Science Electives

3. Humanities/Fine Arts Electives

4. Technical Elective

Choose one course from:

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Electrical Systems Technology Diploma

D 35 13 0 D1

Contact: (336) 334-4822, ext. 53023

The Electrical System Technology Diploma prepares students for entry-level jobs in the residential and light commercial electrical industry. The one-year diploma option covers theory and key principles of the installation and operation of residential and light commercial electrical wiring and systems. The program develops basic technical skills through practical applications that employ current and emerging standards and technologies. Students will learn basic installation, diagnostic and repair practices for residential/light commercial wiring, motor controllers, and advanced residential wiring applications. Throughout the one-year diploma, students will have opportunities to hone their skills in writing and mathematics.

Successful graduates can qualify for employment in a variety of jobs such as electrical helper, residential installer, smart home installer, residential/light commercial electrical service, electrical apprentice, and electrical preventive maintenance technician.

Program Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Electrical System Technology diploma graduate should be able to:

  • Interpret electrical prints, schematics, and diagrams.
  • Wire a residential and commercial structure.
  • Implement safe and professional procedures in the workplace according to the National Electrical Code. 

Fall Semester I

Total Credits: 15

Spring Semester I

Total Credits: 17

Summer Semester I

Total Credits: 6

Total credit hours required for diploma: 38

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Frequently Asked Questions

You will need to follow the general enrollment process for GTCC.  During the advising process you will have the opportunity to indicate your desire to study within this curriculum. Your advisor will help you sign up for the specific courses you need. It is recommended that you contact an Electrical Systems Technology faculty member for specific registration information.

Donald (Britt) Sowell
336-334-4822 Ext. 53094
dbsowell@gtcc.edu

Financial aid is available if you qualify. Please contact the college's Financial Aid Office for more details or visit our Financial Aid web page. 

Yes, a tool list will be provided for you by program faculty.

Electricians helper, electrical technician, and service technician.

The Electrical Systems Technology program will give you the knowledge to prepare you for a license; however, there are many more requirements needed to get a North Carolina Electrical Contractor's license.  Completing the AAS degree in Electrical Systems will provide one year of the required experience to take the contractor’s test.  You can obtain more information on licensing from an Electrical Systems Technology instructor or at www.ncbeec.org

At GTCC, we value our students’ success. We offer scholarships from our generous donors who want to see our students succeed. There are industry scholarship opportunities available online. Scholarship opportunities can be accessed from the How To Pay For College page.

Many students work part- or full-time while in school. You may need to take a smaller course load each semester which may extend the time it takes to complete.