Degree Overview: Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree in Electronics Technology
Majors Overview December 8, 2013Obtain information about Associate of Science (A.S.) degree program in electronics technology and its coursework, career choices and continuing education choices.
A.S. Programs in Electronics Technology
Students enrolled in an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Electronics Technology degree program can become adept in the installation, setting up and operation of various electronic and networking devices. Students enrolled in some electronics technology programs are awarded with an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. Individuals who are interested in working with technology-related equipment such as computers and electronics would benefit by enrolling in these programs.
Students enrolled in these programs can expect to gain the knowledge and skills they would need in dealing with the software and hardware of any electrical device. They are often taught various technical fundamentals including about voltage, multiprocessors, and circuit design. Those who successfully complete the program may seek entry-level jobs in the fields of telecommunications, engineering and consumer electronics. Career training institutions, technical schools and community colleges are among those who offer these two-year programs. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
Coursework in electronics technology programs is often a combination of theoretical and practical instruction. Apart from classes, students participate in lots of lab training, involving test and diagnostic work. They are also trained to work with trigonometric and logarithmic functions. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Circuits
•Instrumentation and control
•Technical mathematics
•Digital electronics
•Electrical principles
•Basic and advanced electronics
Career Choices
Those who graduates from A.S. programs in electronics technology can seek jobs requiring them to work with engineers, test electronics products, provide maintenance and troubleshoot solutions. They can choose from several career options such as:
•Service or sales representatives
•Laboratory instrument technician
•Electronics technician
•Electronics engineering technician
•Engineering assistant
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates from the program may seek to join the workforce immediately on completion of the program; alternatively they may enroll in four-year bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as electronics engineering technology which will prepare them for careers as electronics or electrical engineering technicians. Some pre-engineering programs allow transfer of credits to a four-year engineering program.