Electronics
The Electronics program at Bakersfield College offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in the field of electronics. The program provides a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, with a focus on practical skills and industry-standard technologies.
Students learn to design, install, troubleshoot, and repair a wide range of electronic systems and devices, including those used in the areas of telecommunications, robotics, automation, and digital and analog circuits. The program also emphasizes teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving, helping students to develop the skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of electronics. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue entry-level positions in the electronics industry or to transfer to four-year institutions, including BC, to continue their education in the field.
What is Electronics?
Electronics is a branch of science and technology that deals with the study, design, and application of devices, systems, and circuits that use the flow of electrons to perform various functions. Electronic devices can be found in a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics such as smartphones and computers to complex systems used in medical devices, aerospace, and defense. The field of electronics encompasses a wide range of sub-disciplines, including digital and analog circuits, telecommunications, robotics, automation, power systems, and microprocessors, among others. Electronics plays a critical role in modern society, enabling innovation, and advancing technologies in fields ranging from medicine to energy to communication.
Is Electronics right for Me?
People who have a strong interest in technology, mathematics, physics, and problem-solving are likely to be good at studying electronics. Additionally, individuals who have a knack for understanding how things work, a natural curiosity about how electronic devices are designed and built, and a willingness to experiment and learn through trial and error are also well-suited for studying electronics.
Some specific traits that would be helpful for studying electronics include:
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Good mathematical skills
- Attention to detail
- Curiosity and a desire to learn
- Patience and persistence
Overall, anyone who has an interest in technology and a passion for learning can excel in the field of electronics with the right mindset and dedication.
Electronics Degrees and Certificates
Degrees
he Industrial Technology Degree, Electronics Option, teaches essential skills that can be put to use as an industrial technician, electronics technician, field service representative, salesperson or computer technician.
The Process Technology Program is designed to provide students with skills necessary to succeed in the chemical and refining industries.
Certificates
The Bakersfield College Electronics Certificate program will show the world that you have gained the necessary knowledge and skills to perform better on the job. This program of study is widely recognized and modeled after local industry competency standards.
The Electrical and Electronic Systems Certificate signifies that the student has developed skills in the diagnosis and repair of various types of electrical and electronic systems found in automotive, agriculture and industrial applications.
This certificate provides students foundational instruction in electrical safety including an introduction to the National Fire Protection Association's standard NFPA 70E, Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
The Process Technology Program is designed to provide students with skills necessary to succeed in the chemical and refining industries. "Process technicians" are skilled plant operators who safely run the refineries and chemical plants on a 24 hours per day / 365 days per year basis.
You CAN Afford BC
Careers
Graduates with an Associate of Science (AS) degree or certificate of achievement in electronics can pursue a range of careers in different industries. Here are some common career paths:
- Electronics Technician: Electronics technicians work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, telecommunications, and healthcare. They are responsible for testing, repairing, and maintaining electronic equipment.
- Electronic Engineering Technician: Electronic engineering technicians work with electronic engineers to design, develop, test, and troubleshoot electronic equipment and systems.
- Field Service Technician: Field service technicians travel to customers' locations to install, maintain, and repair electronic equipment.
- Quality Control Inspector: Quality control inspectors ensure that electronic products meet quality and safety standards by conducting tests and inspections.
- Technical Support Specialist: Technical support specialists assist customers with technical issues related to electronic products, such as computers, software, and networking devices.
- Sales Representative: Sales representatives sell electronic products and services to businesses and consumers.
- Research and Development Technician: Research and development technicians work in laboratories and assist engineers with testing and developing new electronic products and systems.
- Manufacturing Technician: Manufacturing technicians work in electronics manufacturing plants and are responsible for assembling, testing, and troubleshooting electronic products.
Overall, graduates with an AS degree or certificate of achievement in electronics have a broad range of career options in various industries that rely on electronic equipment and systems.
Transfer Pathways
Graduates with an Electronics Associate of Science from Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, options, and opportunities.
Academic Department: Applied Science and Technology
Career & Learning Pathway: Industrial Technology & Transportation
Courses: Electronics Technology (ELET)
Not sure where to start? Let us help.
Meet with a CTE Advisor
Take the right classes to meet your education and career goals. Create your Comprehensive
Student Education Plan (CSEP) with your Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisor.
Call (661) 395-4402 for an appointment.
Not sure about your career path?
Take the career quiz to discover the perfect career based on your personality type and interests.