Dorsey College

Electrical Technician

Dearborn
Diploma · Hybrid
Electrical Technician
Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
Hybrid format — on-campus instruction combined with online coursework.
$21,840
48 weeks (~11.1 months)
No application fee is charged.
Federal Title IV aid (Pell, SEOG, Stafford loans, Work-Study), Michigan scholarships & grants, VA benefits, institutional scholarships, loans and job-training programs.

Electrical Technician is a Diploma program (Hybrid) offered by Dorsey College in Detroit, MI. The program takes 48 weeks (~12 months) to complete, with a total tuition of $21,840.

Program Overview

The hybrid electrical technician certificate program is designed to prepare students to work in industrial, residential, construction, commercial, municipal or the utilities industry to install, repair, replace or maintain a variety of electrical wiring, fixtures, and system equipment. Employers today cite a shortage of qualified skilled trade workers; students in this program have the opportunity to learn technical electrical skills to meet this employer demand. This program includes the application of technical skills through hands-on training and development of work habits required for obtaining an entry-level position in the electrical field. Students acquire knowledge and skills in the fundamentals of electricity and its practical applications including blueprint reading, electrical grounding/circuitry, electrical safety and theory, branch circuit distribution, advanced control systems and exposure to the National Electrical Code, which provide a necessary foundation to work in this skilled trade.

Available at the Madison Heights, Dearborn and Roseville Campuses.

Admission Requirements & Process

Admissions inquiries may be directed to a Dorsey College campus convenient to you, or you can call 888-422-1188 to arrange a convenient appointment with an admissions representative. A career planning session will be scheduled to review Dorsey College’s career programs and the applicant’s attitude, motivation, and commitment to training. Successful applicants will be provided with a copy of their fully executed enrollment agreement.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED
    High school diploma or its equivalent (for example, a General Education Development “GED” High School Equivalency Certificate), as evidenced by an attestation signed by the…
  • Career Planning Session
    A career planning session with a Dorsey College admissions representative, to review Dorsey College’s career programs and the applicant’s attitude, motivation, and commitment to…
  • Desire to Succeed
    The desire, interest, and motivation to succeed.
  • Government-Issued Photo ID
    Current government issued photo identification or passport is required when completing the enrollment agreement.
  • Foreign Diploma Evaluation
    Students enrolling with a foreign diploma or transcript must have it evaluated by an authorized and approved evaluator prior to enrollment, to prove it is equivalent to a United…
  • Reliable Internet Access
    Students enrolled in programs utilizing distance education or hybrid delivery are responsible to ensure reliable internet access is consistently available during designated…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact Admissions
    Admissions inquiries may be directed to a Dorsey College campus convenient to you. Contact Dorsey College at 888-422-1188 to arrange a convenient appointment with an admissions representative.
  2. 2
    Career Planning Session
    A career planning session will be scheduled to review Dorsey College’s career programs and the applicant’s attitude, motivation, and commitment to training.
  3. 3
    Submit Required Documentation
    Documentation of high school diploma or its equivalent must be submitted to the campus, along with any additional documents your program requires.
  4. 4
    Apply for Financial Aid (FAFSA)
    For your customized financial aid offer, complete your FAFSA and include your preferred Dorsey College campus institution code.
    FAFSA Code for Dearborn: E02190
    Fill Out the FAFSA
  5. 5
    Sign Your Enrollment Agreement
    Successful applicants will be provided with a copy of their fully executed enrollment agreement. Current government issued photo identification or passport is required when completing the enrollment agreement.
  6. 6
    Attend Orientation
    Dorsey College offers orientation to new students to acclimate them to the institution, including an informal introduction of key personnel, campus policies and procedures, and an opportunity to interact with peers.

Program Schedule

The electrical technician program length is 11.1 months (48 weeks) of contact time, which is scheduled over approximately 12 months.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 16th, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • February 22nd, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 17th, 2027
  • June 28th, 2027
  • August 16th, 2027
  • October 04th, 2027
  • November 15th, 2027

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $21,840
Total Program Cost
≈ $24,240
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Tuition includes course e-textbooks and textbooks (except non-consumable textbooks, which remain the property of Dorsey College). One complimentary uniform shirt, an electronic device, and a basic tool kit containing items commonly required in the trade are provided to all students enrolled in the electrical technician program.

Types of Financial Aid

After completing the FAFSA and establishing eligibility, students at Dorsey College receive a financial aid offer that may include one or more types of assistance.

Scholarships — Typically awarded on the basis of academic achievement or other qualifying criteria. Scholarships do not need to be repaid. Examples include the Fostering Futures Scholarship, Michigan Achievement Scholarship, Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS), Mi Gear Up Scholarship, Dorsey Great Start Scholarships, and several memorial scholarships.

Grants — Need-based awards that may be funded by the federal government, the State of Michigan, Dorsey College, or private organizations. Grants do not require repayment. Examples include the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Children of Veterans Tuition Grant (CVTG), Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG), Ruth Dorsey Grant, Pat Fischer Culinary Arts Grant, and Dorsey Veterans Grant.

Loans — Low-interest student loans are available and must be repaid when a student graduates, withdraws, or drops below half-time enrollment. Options include the Federal Stafford Loan Program, Direct PLUS Loan (for parents), Dorsey Institutional Loan, and private educational loans.

Federal Work-Study — Provides part-time employment opportunities, enabling students to earn wages that can be applied toward educational expenses.

Other Benefits and Job Training Opportunities — Students may also qualify for state-sponsored programs, veterans’ benefits, or other workforce development and job training initiatives, including the Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) Phase I, EMS Career Programs Advance Payment Incentive, Tuition Reimbursement, Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), Michigan Merit Award, Veterans Education Benefits, Workforce Investment Act (WIA), and UAW Tuition Assistance Plan.

The Dorsey College financial aid department provides students with both entrance and exit loan counseling.

Total program tuition is $21,840 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).

Curriculum

Course — quarter credits:

An asterisk (*) next to the course name indicates that all or part of the course content is delivered online utilizing distance education delivery.

The required courses below are from Dorsey College's published catalog.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
EL100Electrical Fundamentals and Safety3
EL105Electrical Theory3
EL110Introduction to Construction Drawings3
EL115Electrical Mathematics I3
EL120National Electrical Code3
EL125Applications of Raceways3
EL135Electrical Test Equipment3
EL140Electrical Mathematics II3
EL145Wiring Methods3
EL150Lighting and Grounding Circuits3
EL155Basic Control Systems3
EL160Distribution Systems3
EL165Advanced Control Systems3
EL170Motor Circuit Applications3
EL175Programmable Logic Controllers3
C107Navigating Computers, Job Search and Math for the Trades3
Totals48

Career Outcomes

Career Services

Career services coordinators assist program completers in establishing and accomplishing personal employment goals, polishing resumes, and providing job search and interview techniques, in support of Dorsey College’s objective to “assist students to secure training-related employment.” The Dorsey College career services coordinators can be reached at each campus or online at www.dorsey.edu.

Dorsey College maintains an impressive graduate employment (“placement”) rate, serving as its hallmark. Dorsey College calculates its placement rate according to the requirements of its institutional accreditor. Thousands of graduates from Dorsey College have launched new, exciting, and rewarding careers with many of Michigan’s leading employers. These graduates fulfill Dorsey College’s objective to educate students who are well prepared to enter the workplace, and assume the tasks and challenges associated with their new careers and satisfy the performance requirements of employers. Licensure must be obtained from the State of Michigan to work as a practical nurse, registered nurse, massage therapist, emergency medical technician, paramedic, cosmetologist, manicurist, esthetician, EMT instructor/coordinator or as a pharmacy technician.

Dorsey College does not guarantee job placement or starting salary. Dorsey College has developed and continues to develop long-term relationships with employers to enhance employment opportunities for completers.

What to Expect as a Student at Dorsey College

A Message From the President

At Dorsey College we take great pride in providing our students with a positive learning environment that includes smaller classes taught by credentialed instructors with real-world experience. Training at Dorsey College is hands-on and performance based, using simulated work environments to ensure you are equipped with the practical skills needed to meet the demands of your chosen career field. Most of our programs are taught in a hybrid learning model that includes online and on-ground courses to provide flexibility and convenience. Classroom and laboratory training is combined with clinical training or an externship in most programs, where students go on-site to an employer in their field to gain real life industry experience.

Established in downtown Detroit in 1934, Dorsey College continues the heritage of its founder, Ruth Dorsey, as a trusted name for comprehensive, quality career training. Now in operation for over ninety years, Dorsey College has continued to be a mark of educational distinction with tens of thousands of graduates enjoying successful careers throughout the country. Institutional facilities consist of seven campus locations with well-equipped classrooms and laboratories, including medical labs, dental labs, HVAC and electrical labs, culinary kitchens, cosmetology clinics and massage therapy clinics furnished with program-appropriate equipment to simulate the work environment for which the student is training.

Location

Dearborn
18660 Ford Road
Detroit, MI 48228

Accreditation & Approvals

Institutional Accreditation — Council on Occupational Education

Dorsey College is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education. The Commission of the Council on Occupational Education granted accreditation to Dorsey College effective February 19, 2018. The formal action of the Commission included the main campus, located in Madison Heights, as well as its affiliate campus locations in Roseville, Woodhaven, Wayne, Dearborn, Saginaw and Grand Rapids. Contact: Council on Occupational Education, 7840 Roswell Road, Building 300, Suite 325, Atlanta, GA 30350, Telephone: 770-396-3898 / FAX: 770-396-3790, www.council.org.

Dorsey College Holdings d/b/a Dorsey College is a Michigan entity recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and is currently approved by the U.S. Department of Education as a private non-profit institution of higher education.

Programmatic Accreditation

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN): The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program at the campuses located in Madison Heights, Saginaw, and Wayne, and the Practical Nurse program at the campuses located in Madison Heights, Roseville, Wayne, Woodhaven and Saginaw, are accredited by ACEN, 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30326, (404) 975-5000. The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for these programs is initial accreditation.

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT): The Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182, (312) 704-5300, mail@jrcert.org.

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP): The Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program is accredited by CAAHEP upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA). The paramedic program is accredited by CAAHEP upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).

Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation (ACFEF): The culinary arts program offered at the Dorsey College Roseville campus is programmatically accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, 180 Center Place Way, St. Augustine, FL 32095, (800) 624-9458.

Licenses and Approvals

Dorsey College is approved in the State of Michigan by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity – Workforce Development. It is approved to offer EMS training programs by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, Bureau of EMS, Trauma, & Preparedness. The Registered Nurse and Practical Nurse programs are approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing, and the Massage Therapy program is an approved education program by the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy. Dorsey College is approved for the training of veterans and other eligible persons for VA Educational Programs at the Madison Heights, Roseville, Dearborn, Grand Rapids, Wayne, Woodhaven and Saginaw campuses, and is approved to participate in State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of work does an Electrical Technician do?
Electrical Technicians perform a variety of duties including (but not limited to) installing, troubleshooting, repairing, replacing, and maintaining a variety of electrical wiring, fixtures, and system equipment. Positions in this field may be found with independent electrical contractors, engineering firms, home builders, physical plant maintenance crews, and other organizations with independently maintained electrical systems.
Where do Electrical Technicians work?
Electrical Technicians are traditionally employed in the industrial, residential, construction, or commercial industries.
Will I be able to find a job?
It’s important to note that no school can guarantee employment. Here at Dorsey College, we offer career services assistance to all program completers of the Electrical Technician program. You can learn more about the assistance our Career Services team offers by visiting our Career Services for Students and Graduates page
How might I determine if this is a good career choice for me?
In choosing any career, it’s important that someone look at a variety of factors, some of which include: • Can I see myself doing the work that this position/occupation performs and am I going to be happy performing those tasks in that type of work setting? • Do I have the skills/traits/characteristics that one may need to be successful in a position like this? • How is the employment outlook/trends for this position?
Can I really do this?
You can! Many Electrical Technicians have little to no formal Skilled Trades experience prior to beginning their training. That’s why it’s very important for someone interested in becoming an Electrical Technician to evaluate their school and training options closely.
What type of training is needed?
Electrical Technicians typically attend a post-secondary school or institution to obtain training. Many of these programs lead to a certificate or a diploma and typically take one year to complete. It’s also important to note that since Electrical Technicians work very closely with this equipment in the actual occupational setting, it can be advantageous to a student to choose a program that has a strong hands-on component so they can “learn by doing.” Some Electrical Technicians may also learn on the job by way of an apprenticeship.
How long do I have to go to school?
Many Electrical Technician programs can be completed in a year. In choosing a program, it’s important for someone to evaluate the training that is included so they can ensure they are receiving the training they need (and want) prior to entering the Skilled Trades field as an Electrical Technician.
What are important characteristics for Electrical Technicians to have?
While this isn’t a full list of important characteristics, Electrical Technicians should have good communication skills, technical skills, troubleshooting skills, and have color vision. If you’re lacking in one or more of these areas, it doesn’t necessarily mean you wouldn’t be a good Electrical Technician, and it may be an area you wish to focus on as part of your training.
Is Certification/Licensure required to obtain employment as an Electrical Technician?
It’s always important to check if the state and/or locality in which you want to work has specific requirements for Electrical Technicians to obtain employment.
How much can I expect to make as an Electrical Technician?
Here are some helpful websites that will allow you to view information on Wages & Employment trends: • Michigan Occupational Wage Information (The SOC for Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment (positions that can be filled by Electrical Technicians) is 49-2093) O*NET Online (Scroll down to Wages & Employment Trends to view helpful info on National/State trends) Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
Are there other career opportunities for Electrical Technicians?
Some may choose to use a career as an Electrical Technician as an entryway into the Skilled Trades field. It would not be uncommon for an Electrical Technician to work in the field to gain experience and/or later go back to school to further their education and/or strengthen their credentials.
What will be covered in the program?
The Dorsey College Electrical Technician program offers instruction in both a classroom setting as well as a hands-on environment by way of the labs at Dorsey College. Students enrolled in the Electrical Technician program will be exposed to a variety of topics including (but not limited to): • Electrical Fundamentals and Safety • Electrical Theory • Introduction to Construction Drawings and Blueprinting • National Electrical Code • Applications of Raceways • Electrical Test Equipment • Wiring Methods • Lighting and Grounding Circuits • Basic and Advanced Control Systems • Distribution Systems • Motor Circuit Applications • Programmable Logic Controllers • And more…!
Is your program hands-on?
Yes! Students will have opportunities to practice the skills they are learning in the labs on campus at Dorsey College.
How long is the program?
The Dorsey College Electrical Technician program is designed to be completed in one year.
Who are the instructors?
Our instructors are caring individuals that possess experience and expertise in their respective field. Our instructors meet or exceed State of Michigan and accreditation criteria, guidelines, and qualifications. It’s not uncommon for students of Dorsey College to see their instructors as their coach and mentor throughout their studies.
Why should I choose Dorsey over another school?
Students choose Dorsey College over other Career Training Schools for a variety of reasons. You can learn more by visiting The Dorsey Difference page.
Which Dorsey campuses offer the Electrical Technician program?
The Electrical Technician program is offered at the following Dorsey College campus locations: Dearborn, MI, Roseville, MI, and Sagainw, MI (all affiliate campuses of Madison Heights) and Madison Heights, MI (Main Campus).
How do I enroll?
If you’re interested in enrolling in the Electrical Technician program at Dorsey College, the first step you should take is meeting with one of our Admissions Representatives. You can read more about our Admissions process on our Admissions information page.
Does your program include national or professional certification?
Graduates of the Dorsey College Electrical Technician program will be awarded an academic certificate upon successful completion of the program. Professional certification is a separate credential awarded by an independent national certification agency after a candidate successfully meets that agency’s eligibility requirements and examination standards. Dorsey College makes no promise or a guarantee of a graduate’s successful outcome on a certification examination, or ability to gain certification or recognition by any professional registry. It is the responsibility of the graduate to ensure they meet the necessary requirements set forth by the independent certification agency.
Is your school accredited?
Yes! You can read more by visiting our Accreditation page.
What is the tuition for the program?
The current tuition for the Dorsey College Electrical Technician program can be accessed by clicking here.
What is included in my tuition?
In addition to the program instruction, tuition includes books, an electronic device, and a basic toolkit.
Is Financial Aid available?
Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. For additional information on Financial Aid and Tuition Assistance, we would encourage you to visit our Financial Aid Information page.
Can you help me find a job after graduation?
Dorsey College offers employment assistance to all program completers, however, job placement is not guaranteed. You can learn more about the assistance our Career Services team offers by visiting our Career Services for Students and Graduates page.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Electrical Technician at Dearborn.
Electrical Technician