FAQs
What is the difference between the Electrical Technician and Electrical Technology program?
The Electrical Engineering Technician program is a 2 year program. The Electrical Engineering Technology program is the continuation of the Technician program (one additional year). To qualify, you need to complete the Electrical Engineering Technician program with an overall GPA of C (2.0). You also need to complete the MAT8102 – Integral Calculus course and have a minimum grade of C – in the level 04 Robotics and Controls, Industrial Telecommunications and Technical Communications courses.
What is the difference in salary between a Technician vs. Technologist?
Technologists often find themselves in leadership roles, working with teams of technicians to achieve their goals.
A technologist also usually works on more stages of the research, development, and installation processes.
The national average salary of a technician is $51,329 per year or $27.97 per hour. For more info: https://ca.indeed.com/career/technician/salaries
The national average salary of a technologist is $67,590 per year or $33.72 per hour. For more info: https://ca.indeed.com/career/technologist/salaries
What is the difference between the co-op program and the standard program?
The Co-op program allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience through a paid 14-week work term. Students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op course, readiness activities and workshops.
Will I be an electrician when I complete this program?
No, but this program is an excellent introduction to the electrical trade. Most utilities prefer their apprentices to have a technician diploma.
How difficult is the program?
There are 20 to 23 hours of classes per week. You need to attend these faithfully. If you do and spend 10 to 20 hours a week on school work outside of classes, you will be successful.
Do I need a computer?
As a mobile learning environment engaging our students in collaborative e-learning, students become skilled with technology used in the workplace. Students will need a computing device that meets the specifications outlined in our program. Please visit the BYOD page for computer specifications for our program.
Can I use the credits for university?
Algonquin College has agreements with several universities, among them Carleton University and University of Ottawa. For example, students who complete the technology program can take a summer bridge program and go into year three of engineering at Lakehead University.
Once I have completed my studies, are there additional programs I may take to continue my education?
Yes, there are available pathways from this program to other programs including the third year into the Electrical Engineering Technology program. Other pathways exist, like into the Bachelor of Engineering (Automation and Robotics) program. For more information on pathways, please use the Pathway Finder Tool on our website.