San Joaquin Valley College

Electrical Technology

Modesto (Salida)
Certificate · On Campus
Electrical Technology
Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Taught on campus in Bakersfield, CA.
Not published
40 weeks
No application fee is charged.
Participates in federal aid: Pell & FSEO grants; Federal Direct Stafford (subsidized/unsubsidized) & PLUS loans; institutional low-interest loan; scholarships; VA benefits.

Electrical Technology is a Certificate program offered by San Joaquin Valley College in Salida, CA. The program takes 40 weeks to complete, with a total cost, including fees, of $27,787.

Program Overview

The Electrical Technology program is 60 weeks in length and provides a framework of electrical knowledge and skills that can be adapted in the electrical trade industry. The program prepares students for employment in numerous electrical and related trades. Upon completion of the Electrical Technology program, the student should be able to install, maintain, and repair electrical equipment and systems in a safe, competent, and professional manner.

For California Residents: This program meets the standards set forth by the California Department of Industrial Relations towards the current California Electrician Certification Program. Upon completion of the program, the student is eligible to sit for the California General Electrician's Certification Exam.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the successful student should be able to:

  • Discuss theories of electrical circuitry and relate these concepts to practical applications.
  • Apply proper procedures for the installation, operation, maintenance and repair of residential, commercial, and light industrial wiring, electrical equipment and systems.
  • Demonstrate proper usage of the basic tools of the trade.
  • Demonstrate the basic use and application of the National Electrical Code and be prepared to successfully pass the California Electrician Certification Exam.
  • Create effective reports and documents, electronically and in writing.
  • Apply advanced electrical concepts and critical thinking skills to interpret and create blueprint drawings for residential, commercial and light industrial facilities.
  • Relate and apply concepts of communication, reasoning, critical analysis, ethical behavior and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in his or her career and personal life.
  • Demonstrate the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes and behavior that employers expect of all SJVC graduates.
  • Adhere to national, state, and local safety practices used by technicians working in the electrical industry.

What Sets This Program Apart

Graduates earn an Associate of Science in Electrical Technology, and have the opportunity to earn OSHA 10-Hour Construction and CPR certifications. For California Residents, the program meets the standards set forth by the California Department of Industrial Relations towards the current California Electrician Certification Program, and graduates are eligible to sit for the California General Electrician's Certification Exam.

Admission Requirements & Process

Making the decision to go back to school is one of the biggest steps on your journey to enrolling. At SJVC, our admissions process is straightforward, and our Admissions Department is dedicated to helping prospective students select the programs that best suit their needs and qualifications.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
    Applicants must possess a high school diploma or the equivalent. International diplomas and transcripts must be translated into English and academically evaluated for equivalency…
  • Minimum Age
    Applicants must meet the minimum age requirement as defined by the state where they plan to attend SJVC: 16 in Arizona and Idaho, 17 in California and Nevada, and 18 in New…
  • Admissions Interview
    Applicants must participate in an interview with an Enrollment Services Associate. During the interview, the Enrollment Services Associate will discuss available programs,…
  • Wonderlic SLE (Minimum 14)
    Applicants for all on-ground programs are required to take the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) prior to enrolling; the minimum score for this program is 14. Applicants who…
  • English Language Proficiency
    SJVC does not offer English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework; students are required to have proficiency in English as all instruction is presented in English. Proficiency may…
  • Valid Driver’s License
    Applicants must hold a valid state driver’s license.
  • Acceptance Interview
    Applicants must meet with either the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. In addition to this interview, applicants…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Request Information
    Fill out the Request Information form. Once you do, an Admissions Representative will reach out to schedule you for a visit to one of our campuses, or to help you understand how our Online Programs work.
  2. 2
    Meet with Your Admissions Representative
    Our Admissions team will give you a tour of the campus and help you select the program that aligns best with your interests. Every applicant participates in an interview with an Enrollment Services Associate.
  3. 3
    Take an Entrance Exam
    Complete the admissions assessment (Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam for on-ground programs) and achieve the minimum required score for your program.
  4. 4
    Acceptance Interview
    Meet with the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. You may also be required to meet with the Director of your selected program.
  5. 5
    Meet with Financial Aid and Complete the FAFSA
    Meet with the Financial Services Department to confirm arrangements to meet tuition obligations. Our Financial Aid team can help you plan out how you will pay for college and identify aid you may qualify for.
    FAFSA Code for Modesto (Salida): 014741
    Fill Out the FAFSA
  6. 6
    Sign Your Enrollment Agreement
    Sign an Enrollment Agreement, which sets forth specific information such as start and graduation dates, tuition information, and academic schedule, and complete all enrollment documentation. Then ring the admissions bell to celebrate getting accepted!
  7. 7
    Attend New Student Orientation
    All new students must complete New Student Orientation prior to their first class session. The specific date, time and location of orientation will be provided during the admissions process.
  8. 8
    Start Class
    All new students are required to be in attendance on their first day of class(es); absence on the first day will result in cancellation of the enrollment.

Program Schedule

60 weeks in length (Associate of Science). Offered to new students at the Phoenix, Sacramento, and San Leandro campuses. For the degree pathway for this area of study at the Bakersfield, Fresno Trades Education Center (TEC), Hesperia (Victor Valley), Modesto (Salida), Ontario, Rancho Mirage, Temecula, and Visalia locations, see the Trades Studies Associate of Science program.

Admission Requirements: Valid State Driver's License.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 09th, 2026
  • December 14th, 2026
  • January 25th, 2027
  • March 01st, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 14th, 2027
  • July 19th, 2027
  • August 23rd, 2027
  • September 27th, 2027
  • November 01st, 2027
  • December 06th, 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 Cost
≈ $27,787
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

SJVC participates in federal financial aid programs; students who wish to apply for financial aid assistance must establish financial aid eligibility each year. In order to determine financial aid eligibility, students must complete the application process, meet academic progress standards, and be enrolled at least part-time. Financial assistance awarded through SJVC may consist of a combination of grants, loans, and scholarships. SJVC participates with federal, state and private agencies in providing various aid programs.

Types of Financial Aid Available

  • Federal Pell Grant Program – an important source of aid for students who demonstrate a financial need; a grant does not have to be repaid.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants – a limited number of awards targeted to students who have the lowest calculated family income.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Subsidized) – for students requiring additional financial assistance; must be repaid, beginning six months after graduation or termination.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Unsubsidized) – independent students may borrow and begin interest payments while in school.
  • Federal Direct PLUS – parents of dependent students may borrow funds to meet educational expenses.
  • Institutional Loan – the College offers a low-interest loan program used only to pay tuition charges not covered by financial aid.
  • Student Scholarships – the College awards up to $40,000 annually in scholarships to high school seniors who meet certain requirements.

Total program tuition is $27,787 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
ELEC 111Electrical Conduit Bending & Raceway Systems5
ELEC 121Blueprint Reading & Safety for Electricians5
ELEC 130Technical Math and Electric Circuits10
ELEC 200Residential Wiring5
ELEC 211Commercial Wiring5
ELEC 212Industrial Wiring5
ELEC 220Programmable Logic Controllers/Industrial Electronics5

Career Outcomes

The Career Services Department offers a wide variety of career planning and employment-related services to current SJVC students and alumni. While SJVC does not guarantee employment, income, or wage rate, Career Services staff are available to assist students in developing job-readiness skills and pursuing employment in their chosen career fields. Some of the services offered include:

  • Résumé development
  • Job search assistance
  • Interview techniques
  • Career development courses
  • Career information panels
  • Employment-related workshops and programs

Career Academy

The Career Services Department partners students with the Career Academy to prepare students for the job search process. Utilizing an innovative, interactive hub, students will:

  • Engage in a variety of professional development games and activities.
  • Create high-quality professional résumés highlighting the skills acquired throughout their program.
  • Participate in mock interview sessions to develop effective interviewing skills.

A final exit interview will capstone the student's preparedness for interviewing with potential employers. Successful completion of each of these items is a graduation requirement.

What to Expect as a Student at San Joaquin Valley College

Housing

San Joaquin Valley College does not have dormitory facilities under its control, nor does it assist students in securing housing. However, limited guidance may be available through the Academic Dean to help students explore local housing options. According to the California Student Aid Commission's 2025–26 Student Expense Budget, students should budget approximately $1,691 per month for housing, which includes rent and utilities. These estimates are intended to help students plan their budgets and do not reflect actual housing offers or guarantees; students are solely responsible for evaluating and securing their own housing arrangements.

Additional Information and Student Services

Additional information related to the provision of student services and campus life in general may be found in the Student Handbook.

Location

Modesto (Salida)
5380 Pirrone Road
Salida, CA 95368

Accreditation & Approvals

Institutional Accreditation: San Joaquin Valley College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, (510) 748-9001. WSCUC.org. The WSCUC is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.

SJVC is a private institution and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Approval to operate means that SJVC has been found in compliance with the standards set forth in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (as amended) and Title 5, Division 7.5 – Private Postsecondary Education of the California Code of Regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the programs?
In most programs, students can earn a certificate of completion in as few as 9 months, or an associate of science degree in as few as 14 months. This is a short-term investment that gives our graduates a long-term career advantage.
How much does it cost?
Tuition varies by campus, program of study and program credential level. Education is the most important investment you can make in your future. There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. Visit SJVC’s Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid. Check out SJVC’s Consumer Information to learn about program costs by campus and credential level. You also can talk to an Admissions Representative to discuss the costs of your chosen program, and schedule an appointment with an experienced financial aid officer.
Will I fit in?
Our students are all unique, but most will agree that SJVC made them feel like they fit right in thanks to the family-like atmosphere you can find on all of our campuses.
What kinds of career training do you offer?
SJVC offers more than 20 highly specialized, short-term career education programs on 15 campuses located throughout California — in addition to an online division. You can earn your associate of science degree or certificate in a wide variety of medical, dental, business, industrial and trades programs. Our programs offer the right balance of hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare you for success in your chosen career.
When do classes start?
Start dates for specific programs vary by campus, but classes begin year-round. Contact your local campus or our online division to find out when your chosen program begins — the best time to start is now!
What is the class schedule like?
SJVC’s ground campuses offer morning, afternoon or evening classes for many programs. Students in online programs learn from and communicate with their instructors on a flexible schedule. When you meet with your Admissions Representative, they can give you specific information on the programs and campus you’re most interested in.
Can I take classes online?
Yes. SJVC offers several programs online, including: • Business Office Administration • Construction Management • Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science • Health Care Management Bachelor of Science • Human Resources Administration • Information Technology • Clinical Medical Assisting • Medical Billing and Coding • Respiratory Therapy Bachelor of Science In some programs, students at our ground campuses in California may also take certain classes online. This helps students improve their technology skills and allows for schedule flexibility. Learn more about our online programs.
Do you offer financial assistance?
There are a variety of financial aid programs available to SJVC students. Financing your education can be accomplished through several options, including: Grants, scholarships, student loans, private financing and payment plans. Contact an Admissions Representative to set up your financial aid consultation. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
What job opportunities will be waiting for me when I graduate?
SJVC works with local employers to find out what job skills are in high demand. Our hands-on training gives you the skills and experience you need to compete in today’s job market. The Career Services Department works with all graduates to help them find a job in their chosen career. Visit our Consumer Information page or the page of the program you’re interested in to learn about common jobs our students are placed in after graduation.
Can I do it?
We are here to see you succeed. SJVC believes in our students. Our faculty and staff will help you stay on the path to success from the moment you first speak with an Admissions Representative to graduation and into your career. SJVC is committed to the success of every student.
Is prior electrical experience required?
No prior electrical experience is typically required to enroll in the Electrical Technology program. Training is designed to introduce foundational concepts and skills, including electrical theory, wiring, and safety practices, while building toward more advanced applications. Students develop knowledge through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on learning, allowing them to gain experience with tools, equipment, and electrical systems used in the field.
Does this program include hands-on training?
Yes. SJVC’s Electrical Technology program includes hands-on training as a core part of the learning experience. Students practice working with tools, equipment, and electrical systems in lab-based settings designed to reflect real-world environments. Training includes applied activities such as wiring, conduit bending, and troubleshooting, helping students build practical skills alongside foundational electrical knowledge.
How long does it take to become an electrician?
The time it takes to become an electrician can vary based on training, certification requirements, and work experience. At SJVC, students can complete the Electrical Technology Certificate of Completion program in as few as 10 months. After training, individuals may choose to pursue certification or licensure, which can involve meeting state-specific requirements such as passing an exam or completing additional work experience. Completion of the program does not guarantee certification or licensure. See the Electrical Technology Career Guide for a closer look at the steps involved and what to expect in the field.
Do I need to become a certified electrician?
Requirements vary by state. In California, electricians working for a C-10 licensed contractor must generally be certified or registered as electrician trainees while gaining experience. In Arizona, licensure is generally not required for entry-level electrical work, though some advanced roles may require licensure.
Can this program prepare me for an electrician apprenticeship?
SJVC’s Electrical Technology program focuses on building the foundational skills used in apprenticeship pathways. Students gain hands-on experience with wiring, electrical systems, safety practices, and troubleshooting. These are skills commonly applied in entry-level roles under the supervision of experienced electricians. While requirements can vary by employer and program, completing training may support students as they pursue opportunities to gain supervised work experience in the electrical industry.
What are common admission requirements for a degree in electrical technology?
Admission requirements vary, but applicants are generally expected to meet SJVC’s institutional admissions criteria. At SJVC, this may include: • Providing a valid state-issued driver’s license • Participating in an admissions interview • Meeting minimum age requirements based on the state of attendance • Providing proof of high school graduation or equivalent • Completing an admissions assessment and achieving the required score Admission requirements vary and are based on SJVC’s institutional criteria outlined in the College Catalog. For full details and next steps, visit the Admissions page.
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Request information about Electrical Technology at Modesto (Salida).
Electrical Technology