Online Certificate Programs in Electronics Repair

With today's increasingly complex electronics systems, those qualified to repair and maintain these electronics are in high demand. Using diagnostic tools and software programs to determine the cause of a malfunction, these professionals quickly get to the root of the problem and devise ways to fix it. While repairing and replacing defective parts, electronics repair technicians sometimes even have to completely disassemble a device before they can fix it. Knowing how to do this properly requires education, and many choose to learn these valuable skills in an online electronics repair certificate program.

The typical certificate program in electronics repair can be completed in less than one year. As with most certificate programs, students in electronics repair will spend nearly all of their time taking courses in the major field. After obtaining the certificate, electronics repair specialists typically find work with power companies, large and small industrial operations, and electronics companies and retailers. According to data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), electronics repair specialists earned a median salary of $53,900 in 2014.

Vocational Certificate

Most choose to earn a certificate in electronics repair because they know that this exciting field is always changing. As each new navigation and mobile communication technology is unveiled, electronics repair professionals must install and modify systems to meet consumer demand. At the same time, old but still useful devices and systems must be maintained and adjusted to accommodate the changing environment. In order to understand how to repair and maintain both old and new technology, many electronics repair professionals seek online certificates. Most share common admission requirements, including a high school diploma or GED and an accumulative high school GPA or 2.0 or higher.

Because they are so highly specialized and tailored to the trade, most electronics repair certificate programs often take less than one year. Students will take courses in both analog and digital circuits; specialized instruction in circuit analysis and design is also included. Techniques, such as soldering and fabrication, are taught in the best schools. Many programs require at least one advanced mathematics course.

What's Next for Electronics Repair Certificate Holders?

Electronics repair certificate holders have a wide variety of employment options. Some install electronics on vehicles, such as GPS and sound systems in cars. Many find work repairing industrial and commercial equipment in large factories. Others obtain positions in power stations and their relays; this last group earned a median salary of $53,900 in 2014, according to the BLS.