Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology
Majors Overview December 8, 2013Discover information about Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree in electrical engineering technology and its coursework, career choices, certification, and continuing education choices.
A.A. Programs in Electrical Engineering Technology
Students enrolled in an associate’s degree program in Electrical Engineering Technology are trained to pursue entry-level occupations in electrical engineering technician positions. Engineers seek the assistance of electrical engineering technicians, in developing or performing issues of electronic devices and electrical systems.
Students are likely to benefit by enrolling in electrical engineering technology programs that carry the approval of ABET, Inc., previously known as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, that are often preferred by employers or professional certification boards.
Concentration areas, such as automation or power generation are offered by some programs. Typically, admission criteria require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma; basic science and math requirements are included in some programs.
Coursework
In addition to the principles used to design, maintain and install electrical systems and devices, practical applications of science and math are taught to students enrolled in these programs. Students can also expect to become expert in using tools they would need to perform professional work in the industry. Coursework may include subject areas such as:
•Circuits
•Computer programming
•Computer-aided drafting or design
•Electronics
•Digital logic
Career Choices
Electrical engineering technicians can seek entry-level occupation in power generation, manufacturing and engineering services, among other industries. While general technician positions are popular among these professionals, some choose specializations in specific areas. After they gain experience, these professionals can seek leadership positions. Their career choices may include positions such as:
•Electrical technician
•Relay tester
•Instrument and controls technician
•Test technician
Certification and Continuing Education Choices
Students enrolled in some programs may be allowed to transfer credits earned in an associate degree program to a four-year bachelor’s degree program in electrical engineering technology that may be demanded by some employers. Schools also offer Bachelor’s degree programs in electrical engineering whereby enrolled students can seek to become engineers instead of mere engineering technicians. An engineering technician could pursue voluntary certification offered by an organization such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, whereby they can showcase their skills and knowledge to potential employers.