Major: Electrical Engineering Technology
Have you ever wondered how a DVD player works? Have you ever thought about the insides of a microwave while you were waiting for your popcorn to pop?
You can indulge your curiosity by studying electrical engineering technology. You’ll learn the engineering basics you need to understand how electricity and electronics work. And you’ll get to try your hand at designing gadgets and solving technical problems.
Students of electrical engineering technology learn the design, drafting, and technical skills they need to assist engineers and put engineering ideas into action. Classes cover such topics as electrical circuitry, systems analysis and testing, and instrument preparation.
“I love figuring out why something isn’t working, making it work, and making it work better.”
Thomas M. Hall, Jr., Professor and Head, Department of Engineering Technology, Northwestern State University
Are You Ready To...?
- Solve math problems
- Master the difficult theories of electricity, electronics, and communications
- Spend a lot of time working on projects in the lab
- Tinker with complicated instruments
- Work as part of a team
- Combine school work with a co-op job
It Helps to Be...
A math and science fan who likes to take things apart and see how they work. And you’ll need to tell others how to build and fix things, so work on your communication skills now.
College Checklist
- Is the program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology?
- Will the program prepare you for transfer to a four-year electrical engineering major?
- Does the program have a specific focus, such as electrical machinery, telecommunications, or digital systems?
- Does the department have a co-op program where students can get real job experience?
- Are the labs up-to-date? Is there enough space for everyone to do their work?
Did You Know?
- The ancient Greeks found out about static electricity when they realized that by rubbing a piece of amber, they could make feathers stick to it. What’s the Greek word for amber? Elektron!
Course Spotlight
You’ll most likely begin your studies with an introduction to electricity and electronics. You’ll grow to understand the all-important basics, including current, charge, voltage, power, and DC circuitry. You’ll practice solving problems with Ohm’s Law, which deals with the relationship between current and voltage.
You’ll also get hands-on experience in the lab, where you’ll learn the correct ways to draw diagrams, take measurements, and write reports.
