Program Overview

Electrical Technology student

In our Electrical Technology with Renewable Energy Systems program, you will develop the manual skills to wire and install electrical systems, plus the practical knowledge to support, explain, and troubleshoot a wide variety of electrical projects. An additional study term in renewable energy covers topics to prepare you to become a “green” electrician or technician, able to pursue careers in fields such as solar energy and wind generation.

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Full Description

The Electrical Technology program with an emphasis on Renewable Energy Systems trains students for entry-level careers in the electrical industry. Some of the diverse careers open to graduates are construction electrician, maintenance electrician, photovoltaic installation technician, power system technician, electrical relay technician, electrical research technician, electrical distribution sales, electro-mechanical technician, electrical technical support, and entry level controls engineer are some of the diverse careers open to graduates.

The curriculum integrates electrical theory and practical application to give students not only the manual skills to wire and install electrical systems and apparatus but also the mathematical and practical knowledge to support, explain and troubleshoot each application. Computer programs are integrated into the coursework to allow for practice of circuit calculations, to create working models that simulate real circuit conditions and to support classroom lectures and demonstrations. Of current interest, topics explored include renewable energy sources and energy conservation practices. Of equal importance is the thorough study of the safety rules, protocols, and procedures laid out in the National, Massachusetts and Rhode Island Electrical Codes as well as the OSHA standards for the construction and general industries. All current codes and standards as mandated by individual state legislature are followed. Through continuous connections being shown between the electrical codes and class/lab work, students become proficient and more willing to research electrical industry standards to support their work.

Laboratory projects, ranging from elementary breadboard experiments to advanced PLC ladder logic control circuits, provide hands-on experience to develop wiring techniques and to simulate actual job conditions in residential, commercial and industrial environments.

Upon completion of the Associate in Science Degree in Electrical Technology, the graduate is qualified to seek employment in entry-level careers in the electrical industry and are qualified to work as an apprentice electrician or technician. Associate degree graduates can also continue in the NEIT Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or Business Management programs.

For those interested in careers in the sustainable renewable energy fields such as solar photovoltaic arrays, wind generation (turbine), tidal generation and fuel cell technologies, an additional term specifically addresses these careers as well as the unique techniques and standards students must learn to become competent as “green” electricians or technicians.  Upon successful completion, ELY students may earn an additional Associate in Science degree in Electrical Technology with a concentration in Renewable Energy Systems. Additionally, as the “Green Term” is certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), students, upon passage of the program, would be eligible to sit for the NABCEP Associate certification.

The “Green Term” is available not only for current Electrical Technology students, but also for Electrical Technology graduates as well as for non-NEIT students provided certain requirements are met (i.e., electrical licensing, electrical contractor, and electrical engineer).

Mission, Goals, and Outcomes

Program Mission

The mission of the Electrical Technology Program (ELY) is to provide a specialized associate degree program to prepare students for entry-level technical careers in diverse electrical, electro-mechanical, technical support, and electrical controls fields. ELY students will develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and appropriate use of construction tools through practical experience in the wiring and troubleshooting of a wide variety of electrical projects. Students will study and learn a background of electrical science, mastery of fundamental mathematical principles, and the knowledge of safety rules and procedures laid out in the National Electrical Code, enabling them to perform the duties of an apprentice electrician or entry-level technician. Graduates will attain a basic foundation of knowledge and skills that an employer can build upon with continuing education.

Program Goals

  1. The ELY program will provide appropriate learning opportunities for students to acquire the theoretical knowledge, applicable skills and attitude necessary to function as an entry-level electrical technician or electrical apprentice.
  2. ELY students who are entering a State-run electrical apprenticeship program: a) Will acquire the necessary skills for transfer into a State program and b)May meet, contingent on applicable law and regulation, some of the requirements (which vary from state to state) necessary to qualify for state electrical journey electrician licensing exams. Continuing education is a component of most electrical apprentice programs.
  3. The ELY program will instill in the student a sense of commitment to the electrical industry’s core values and ethics.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  1. Identify, define, and analyze fundamental principles of electrical circuitry and processes.
  2. Identify, define, and analyze electrical industry materials, tools and equipment
  3. Research, interpret, and apply electrical industry standards for installation criteria and safety considerations.
  4. Function independently and/or interdependently as a team member to accomplish the following: install, maintain and troubleshoot residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
  5. Demonstrate effective oral and written communications using correct technical terminology with supervisors, co-workers, clients, and suppliers.
  6. Perform tasks and duties in a “safe and workmanlike manner” with regards to legal obligations applicable to the electrical industry.
  7. Demonstrate attitudes, values, and behaviors congruent with electrical industry standards and ethics.
  8. Identify, define, and analyze fundamental principles of renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaic and wind generating systems.
  9. Apply renewable energy system concepts to prepare for the NABCEP entry-level certification exam.

Courses Offered

For the latest listing of courses offered, please review our University Catalog here.