Electrical Systems Technology A.A.S.

The Electrical/Electronics Technology curriculum is designed to provide training for persons interested in the installation and maintenance of electrical/electronic systems found in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

Training, most of which is hands-on, includes such topics as AC/DC theory, basic wiring practices, digital electronics, programmable logic controllers, industrial motor controls, the National Electric Code, and other subjects as local needs require.

Graduates should qualify for a variety of jobs in the electrical/electronics field as an on-the-job trainee or apprentice, assisting in the layout, installation, and maintenance of electrical/electronic systems.

Specific Requirements

Courses requiring a grade of “C” or better: ALT, ATR, EGR, ELC, ELN, ISC, SST, and WBL

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
EGR-110		2
This course introduces general topics relevant to engineering technology. Skills developed include goal setting and career assessment, professional ethics, critical thinking and problem solving, using college resources for study and research, and using tools for engineering computations. Upon completion, students should be able to choose a career option in engineering technology and utilize college resources to meet their educational goals. View course details for Introduction to Engineering Tech ‌‌
ELC-111		3
This course introduces the fundamental concepts of electricity and test equipment to nonelectrical/electronic majors. Topics include basic DC and AC principles (voltage, resistance, current, impedance); components (resistors, inductors, and capacitors); power; and operation of test equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to construct and analyze simple DC and AC circuits using electrical test equipment. View course details for Introduction to Electricity ‌‌
ELC-113		4
This course introduces the care/usage of tools and materials used in residential electrical installations and the requirements of the National Electrical Code. Topics include NEC, electrical safety, and electrical print reading; planning, layout; and installation of electrical distribution equipment; lighting; overcurrent protection; conductors; branch circuits; and conduits. Upon completion, students should be able to properly install conduits, wiring, and electrical distribution equipment associated with residential electrical installations. View course details for Residential Wiring ‌‌
ENG-110		3
This course is designed to develop informative and business writing skills. Emphasis is placed on the logical organization of writing, including effective introductions and conclusions, precise use of grammar, and appropriate selection and use of sources. Upon completion, students should be able to produce clear, concise, well-organized short papers. View course details for Freshman Composition ‌‌
MAT-121		3
This course provides an integrated approach to technology and the skills required to manipulate, display, and interpret mathematical functions and formulas used in problem-solving. Topics include basic geometric and proportion applications; simplification, evaluation, and solving of algebraic and radical functions; complex numbers; right triangle trigonometry; and systems of equations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to use mathematics and technology for problem-solving, analyzing and communicating results. View course details for Algebra/Trigonometry I ‌‌
WBL-111		1
This course provides a work-based learning experience with a college-approved employer in an area related to the student's program of study. Emphasis is placed on integrating classroom learning with related work experience. Upon completion, students should be able to evaluate career selection, demonstrate employability skills, and satisfactorily perform work-related competencies. View course details for Work-Based Learning I ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
ELC-115		4
This course covers layout, planning, and installation of wiring systems in industrial facilities. Emphasis is placed on industrial wiring methods and materials. Upon completion, students should be able to install industrial systems and equipment. View course details for Industrial Wiring ‌‌
ELC-131		4
This course introduces DC and AC electricity with an emphasis on circuit analysis, measurements, and operation of test equipment. Topics include DC and AC principles, circuit analysis laws and theorems, components, test equipment operation, circuit simulation, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret circuit schematics; design, construct, verify, and analyze DC/AC circuits; and properly use test equipment. View course details for Circuit Analysis I ‌‌
ELN-152		2
This course covers the fabrication methods required to create a prototype product from the initial circuit design. Topics include CAD, layout, sheet metal working, component selection, wire wrapping, PC board layout and construction, reverse engineering, soldering, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to design and construct an electronic product with all its associated documentation. View course details for Fabrication Techniques ‌‌
ISC-121		3
This course covers workplace environmental health and safety concepts. Emphasis is placed on managing the implementation and enforcement of environmental health and safety regulations and on preventing accidents, injuries, and illnesses. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic concepts of environmental health and safety. View course details for Environmental Health and Safety ‌‌
MAT-122		3
This course extends the concepts covered in MAT-121 to include additional topics in algebra, function analysis, and trigonometry. Topics include exponential and logarithmic functions, transformations of functions, Law of Sines, Law of Cosines, vectors, and statistics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to use mathematics and technology for problem-solving, analyzing and communicating results. View course details for Algebra/Trigonometry II ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
ELC-117		4
This course introduces the fundamental concepts of motors and motor controls. Topics include ladder diagrams, pilot devices, contactors, motor starters, motors, and other control devices. Upon completion, students should be able to properly select, connect, and troubleshoot motors and control circuits. View course details for Motors and Controls ‌‌
ELC-127		2
This course introduces computer software which can be used to solve electrical/electronics problems. Topics include electrical/electronics calculations and applications. Upon completion, students should be able to utilize a personal computer for electrical/electronics- related applications View course details for Software for Technicians ‌‌
ELC-131A		1
This course provides laboratory assignments as applied to fundamental principles of DC/AC electricity. Emphasis is placed on measurements and evaluation of electrical components, devices and circuits. Upon completion, the students will gain hands-on experience by measuring voltage, current, and opposition to current flow utilizing various meters and test equipment. View course details for Circuit Analysis I Lab ‌‌
HUM-110		3
This course considers technological change from historical, artistic, and philosophical perspectives and its effect on human needs and concerns. Emphasis is placed on the causes and consequences of technological change. Upon completion, students should be able to critically evaluate the implications of technology. This course has been approved for transfer under the CAA as a general education course in Humanities/Fine Arts. View course details for Technology and Society ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
ELC-128		3
This course introduces the programmable logic controller (PLC) and its associated applications. Topics include ladder logic diagrams, input/output modules, power supplies, surge protection, selection/installation of controllers, and interfacing of controllers with equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to install PLCs and create simple programs. View course details for Introduction to PLC ‌‌
ELN-133		4
This course covers combinational and sequential logic circuits. Topics include number systems, Boolean algebra, logic families, MSI and LSI circuits, AC/DC converters, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to construct, analyze, verify, and troubleshoot digital circuits using appropriate techniques and test equipment. View course details for Digital Electronics ‌‌
ELN-131		4
This course introduces the characteristics and applications of semiconductor devices and circuits. Emphasis is placed on analysis, selection, biasing, and applications. Upon completion, students should be able to construct, analyze, verify, and troubleshoot analog circuits using appropriate techniques and test equipment. View course details for Analog Electronics I ‌‌
ISC-135		4
This course covers the managerial principles and practices required for organizations to succeed in modern industry, including quality and productivity improvement. Topics include the functions and roles of all levels of the management, organization design, planning and control of the manufacturing operation, managing conflict, group dynamics, and problem-solving skills. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of management principles and integrate these principles into job situations. View course details for Principles of Industrial Mgmt ‌‌

Course Code

Course

Credit Hours

ATR-112

This course introduces the basic principles of automated systems and describes the tasks that technicians perform on the job. Topics include the history, development, and current applications of robots and automated systems including their configuration, operation, components, and controls.

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COM-231

This course provides instruction and experience in preparation and delivery of speeches within a public setting and group discussion. Emphasis is placed on research, preparation, delivery, and evaluation of informative, persuasive, and special occasion public speaking. Upon completion, students should be able to prepare and deliver well-organized speeches and participate in a group discussion with appropriate audiovisual support. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Communication.

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ELC-118

This course covers the use of the current National Electrical Code. Topics include the NEC history, wiring methods, overcurrent protection, materials, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to effectively use the NEC.

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ELC-213

This course covers the fundamentals of instrumentation used in the industry. Emphasis is placed on electric, electronic, and pneumatic instruments. Upon completion, students should be able to design, install, maintain, and calibrate instrumentation.

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ELC-228

This course covers programming and applications of programmable logic controllers. Emphasis is placed on programming techniques, networking, specialty I/O modules, and system troubleshooting. Upon completion, students should be able to specify, implement, and maintain complex PLC controlled systems.

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PSY-150

This course provides an overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics include history, methodology, biopsychology, sensation, perception, learning, motivation, cognition, abnormal behavior, personality theory, social psychology, and other relevant topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of the science of psychology. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Social/Behavioral Sciences.

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Total Credit Hours Required:

See advisor for General Education substitutes.

Curriculum is based on the 2023-24 catalog.

Why General Education?

You may be asking yourself, “Why do I have to take (course name) when it is not directly related to my major?”

General Education courses will help you develop skills necessary to be successful in your major and in life. General Education can teach you how to talk to your employer, write a paper in a major course, understand interest rates on your car, and much more. General Education can also give you the skills to be a better member of society and a more informed citizen. Critical thinking, global understanding, and appreciation for the human experience are hallmarks of a well-rounded education.

How many hours of General Education do I have to take?

If you are enrolled in an Associate of Applied Science Degree program, a minimum of 15 general education hours are required in the following categories:

Six hours from Communication
Three hours from Humanities & Fine Arts
Three hours from Social & Behavioral Science
Three hours from Natural Science & Mathematics

General Education courses have been pre-selected for you by your faculty from the following list:

Communication	Humanities & Fine Arts	Social & Behavioral Science	Natural Science & Mathematics
COM-110	ART-111	ECO-251	BIO-161
COM-120	ART-114	ECO-252	BIO-163
COM-231	ART-115	HIS-111	BIO-168
ENG-110	HUM-110	HIS-112	MAT-110
ENG-111	HUM-115	HIS-131	MAT-121
ENG-112	MUS-110	HIS-132	MAT-143
ENG-114	MUS-112	POL-120	MAT-152
	PHI-215	PSY-150	MAT-171
	PHI-240	SOC-210	PHY-110/110A
		SOC-225	PHY-121

Degrees designed to transfer to universities require more general education hours. If you are enrolled in the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science, you are required to take 45 hours of General Education from the following categories:

Six hours in English Composition
Six to nine hours in Communication / Humanities & Fine Arts
Six to nine hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
Three to eight hours in Mathematics
Four to eight hours in Natural Sciences
11 to 14 additional General Education hours

If you are enrolled in the Associate in Engineering, you are required to take 42 general education hours from the following:

Six hours in English Composition
Six hours in Communication / Humanities & Fine Arts
Six work hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
12 hours in Mathematics
12 hours in Natural Sciences

If you are enrolled in the Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts, you are required to take 25 general education hours from the following:

Six hours in English Composition
Six hours in Communication / Humanities & Fine Arts
Six hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
Three to four hours in Mathematics
Four hours in Natural Sciences

Additional information about General Education for transfer degrees, including courses that satisfy each category, may be found in the current College Catalog.

What will I learn in General Education?

At A-B Tech, our faculty have designed a general education core so that A-B Tech graduates will
learn the following:

Students will critically evaluate information:

Students will demonstrate information literacy.
Students will critique works of human expression.
Students will analyze scientific literature.

Students will solve problems:

Students will identify processes.
Students will analyze problems.
Students will interpret the results.
Students will recommend appropriate strategies or solutions.

Students will effectively communicate.

Students will communicate appropriately about the subject.
Students will communicate appropriately with the audience.
Students will communicate appropriately for the medium.

Ever wonder how A-B Tech awards credit for a certain course?

A-B Tech complies with the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges Code, so your courses are assigned the course level and receive the same amount of credit as courses at all 58 North Carolina Community Colleges.

If you want to read more about this, see the A-B Tech Policy and Procedure for the Assignment of Course Level Credit.