Electrical Technology AAS
What is Electrical Technology?
Learn how to become an electrician with Northern’s Electrical Technology program! Electrical Technology focuses on the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of wiring systems used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. As one of today’s essential industries, this field offers strong career opportunities and high demand for skilled electricians.
At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing you to enter the workforce with the skills and certifications needed for success.
Why Choose the Electrical Technology Program?
MSU-Northern is home to Montana’s only Electrical Technology program that offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree integrated with the State of Montana Apprenticeship program. This unique pathway allows you to gain up to 3,000 hours of academic and practical coursework toward the state-required apprenticeship hours, giving you a head start in your career.
With a blend of classroom learning, hands-on training, and industry certifications, you’ll develop the technical expertise necessary to excel in the electrical field. Courses cover essential topics like the National Electric Code, electrical materials, safe installation practices, skid-steer operation, and more, ensuring that you meet industry standards.
Here are some of the things you'll learn:
- Applying core electrical principles to installations and troubleshooting
- Following National Electric Code standards for safe wiring
- Performing conduit bending, wiring, and electrical system maintenance
- Gaining practical knowledge for fulfilling Montana’s apprenticeship requirements
MSU-Northern’s program provides a direct pathway to an apprenticeship, allowing you to count your coursework toward up to 3,000 hours of required apprenticeship experience. You’ll learn alongside industry professionals from MSU-Northern’s Electrical Advisory Board, which includes experts from:
- Montana Department of Labor and Industry
- Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)
- International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)
Additionally, you can earn certifications through NC3, including forklift, skid-steer, and manlift operation, further enhancing your employability.
MSU-Northern’s one-of-a-kind program is the only AAS Electrical Technology program in Montana that integrates directly with the Montana Apprenticeship program. This gives you a huge advantage by providing:
- Hands-on labs and real-world training with state-of-the-art equipment
- Industry connections that help you secure apprenticeships
- Faculty mentorship from experienced electricians
Graduates leave prepared to work under a journeyman electrician or pursue a variety of roles within the electrical field.
Graduates of the Agriculture Technology program are well-prepared for entry-level roles in agricultural production, management, and marketing.
| Career | Description | Median Salary* |
|---|---|---|
|
Residential Electrician |
Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in residential settings, ensuring safe and code-compliant operations. | $66,560 |
| Commercial Electrician | Handles electrical installations and maintenance in commercial buildings, such as offices and retail spaces. | $83,200 |
| Industrial Electrician | Specializes in electrical systems within industrial settings, including factories and manufacturing plants. | $74,880 |
| Electrical Estimator | Calculates costs and resources needed for electrical projects, providing detailed project bids and proposals. | $97,269 |
| Sales Representative for Electrical Distributor | Sells electrical products and solutions to clients, maintaining relationships and meeting sales targets. | $76,681 |
| Power Company Employee | Operates and maintains electrical power systems, ensuring consistent and safe energy distribution. | $105,460 |
| Telephone Company Employee | Installs and maintains telecommunication systems, ensuring reliable voice and data transmission services. | $60,000 |
| Electrical Business Owner | Manages and operates an independent electrical contracting business, overseeing projects and client relations. | Varies widely based on business size, location, and market demand. |
*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.
“I feel fortunate to have been a part of the Electrical Technology program here at Montana State University Northern (MSUN); coming here has offered me many opportunities that I wouldn’t have received otherwise. We covered a wide range of electrical knowledge, that provides a solid foundation to build on, whether it be in residential, commercial, or industrial sectors. Even though our class size was large and labs were often crowded, my professors were able to give instruction on a personal basis and made time for students and accommodated the students’ ability to come in for additional help if need be. We got hands-on experience using many different tools and equipment that we’ll need to use in the field, like the hydraulic and mechanical conduit benders, wire/cable tugger, rigid pipe threader, rotary hole-making and knockout sets, and more. The program also provided good knowledge into the mathematics involved in doing electrical calculations, we learned about AC theory, how to calculate conduit fill, and how to do a load calculation for a single or multi-family dwelling. I think the program here at MSUN does a good job at preparing students for what it will be like to work as an electrician and provides some good contacts so they can go forward and enter the electrical field.”
- Jason Rice
The Academic Maps provide a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of courses required to complete the program:
Electrical Technology (Fall Start)
Electrical Technology (Spring Start)
Example Courses:
- Electrical Code Study
- Basic Wiring
- Blueprint Reading
- Electrical Design and Lighting
Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities. Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.
For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
Additional Program Costs
Some tools are needed for classes and are available through the MSU-Northern Bookstore.
James Kirkpatrick
Office: Brockmann Center 104 L
Phone: (406) 265-4164