What to expect from a career as an Electronics Engineering Technician or Technologist
Electronics engineering is a challenging industry that integrates leading-edge technology and techniques into the creation of electronic systems. It requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as a solid understanding of math and computers in relation to electrical and electronic devices. Through exposure to the same technology that’s used by industry leaders, electronics programs at Ontario colleges give students the knowledge and skills needed to find a career in this field.
If you thrive on problem-solving and have an interest in electronics engineering, here’s what you need to know.
Electronics Courses
In all Ontario college electronics programs, students gain strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience through a combination of theory and practical courses. Programs typically fall into one of two categories:
- Electronics Engineering Technician. Offered as two-year diploma programs, course subjects include electrical circuits, electronic devices, instrumentation, microcontrollers, analog and digital conversions and more. In many programs, students can choose to extend their education with a final semester of co-op.
- Electronics Engineering Technology. In these three-year programs, students take similar courses to the technician programs, but gain a more in-depth knowledge from the extra year of schooling. Some programs may also have third-year courses that focus on a specific type of electronics. In addition, many of these programs include co-ops or have a co-op option.
Note: Some electronics engineering technician and technology programs have areas of specialization, such as electromechanics, industrial controls, computer programming or broadband cable. Check program details carefully to find what’s right for you.
General Electronics Program Requirements
Electronics programs require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit and a grade 11 or 12 math credit. Depending on the institution, specific math, physics or technology credits may be recommended or required.
For programs offered at the graduate certificate level, applicants must possess a diploma or degree in electronics or an electrical-related field, or have significant relevant work experience.
Electronics Jobs and Salaries
Technology has a significant impact on how we live and work, which means graduates will find numerous electronics job opportunities across diverse industries. Jobs include repair, maintenance and creation of electrical and electronics systems in a variety of fields, including (but not limited to):
- Quality control
- Fibre optics
- Telecommunications
- Manufacturing
- Computing
Depending on area of interest and specialization, graduates may choose to pursue an electronics-related apprenticeship through the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
Electronics engineering technicians make an average starting salary of $32,000 per year, while the technologist average is around $37,000. Positions requiring experience have average salaries of close to $50,000 and could go as high as the $70,000 range.
Ontario Colleges Offering Electronics Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of electronics programs at Ontario colleges.
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