Electronics Dept FAQ

North Seattle College offers six Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree programs with a strong focus on electronics fundamentals. Electronics support staff are available to help you create a personalized plan for any of these programs.

Degrees:

• Electronics Technology AAS
• Electronics Engineering Technology AAS-T (a “limited” transfer degree)
• Biomedical Equipment Technology AAS
• Industrial Power & Control AAS
• Mechatronics AAS
• IT-Controlled Electronics Systems AAS

“Stackable” certificates are embedded in most of the AAS degree programs.  Students complete these certificates on their way to completing a degree.  

Certificates:

• Aviation Electronics I: Wire Assembly Certificate
• Aviation Electronics II: Electronics Technician Certificate
• Electronics Technology Certificate
• Industrial Automation & Electronic Controls Certificate
• Industrial Power & Control Certificate
• IT-Controlled Electronics Systems Certificate

A stackable certificate is a college credential designed to let students build their education step by step. You can start with a certificate and then “stack” additional courses to earn a more advanced certificate or even a degree.
For example, you might begin with the Aviation Electronics I: Wire Assembly Certificate. From there, you can take more classes to earn the Aviation Electronics II: Electronics Technician Certificate. If you choose to continue, you can build on those certificates to complete the Electronics Technology AAS degree.

We specialize in applied technician training programs, with a strong focus on hands-on learning. Our electronics courses blend classroom instruction with extensive lab work, ensuring students understand both theoretical concepts and practical skills. Students spend a significant portion of their class time in well-equipped electronics labs on campus. These labs are central to our programs, which are designed to prepare graduates for real-world careers in the electronics field.

No, we do not offer virtual or fully online programs. Our focus is on applied technician training, which requires hands-on learning in electronics labs. As a result, electronics courses must be taken in person.

The only exception is EET 105: Introduction to Technology, a fully online, 2-credit course offered during the fall quarter. This course helps students explore different areas within the electronics field and identify the program pathway that best fits their career goals. It is a required course for most of our degrees and certificates.

Students who already have a clearly defined program path or relevant prior experience may request a course substitution, allowing them to take an approved technical course in place of EET 105.

Most students begin their electronics training by taking two foundational courses that are prerequisites (requirements) for more advanced classes:

• EET 109: Math for Circuit Analysis (5 credits)
  This course builds the math skills needed for success in electronics programs.

• EET 161: DC Principles of Electronics (5 credits)
  Designed for beginners, this course introduces the fundamentals of electronics through a combination of lectures and hands-on lab work. Students build circuits and gain practical experience while exploring their interest in the field.

  If you are new to electronics and want to start with just one hands-on course to assess your interest in learning electronics, EET 161 is a smart choice. 
  
  In addition, most students take:

• EET 105: Introduction to Technology (2 credits offered in fall quarter)
  This fully online course helps students explore different areas within electronics and identify the program pathway at North that best fits their career goals. This is the only electronics course students complete online. It is required for most AAS degrees and certificates. However, students with a clearly defined path or relevant experience may request to substitute this course with an approved technical alternative. Please reach out to electronics outreach staff to build a plan that suits your interests.

Most electronics students aim to complete a degree, though some may choose to pursue a certificate depending on their individual goals. To make the most efficient progress, students are encouraged to meet with electronics outreach staff or an academic advisor to create a personalized academic plan.
For those seeking shorter-term training, starting with a stackable certificate is a flexible option. These certificates can later be built upon to earn a more advanced certificate or an AAS degree.
If a degree is your ultimate education goal, it is best to plan early and include all required courses from the start. This is especially important because:

• Many courses must be taken in a specific sequence.
• Course availability varies - some are offered only once a year, while others may be available two or three times a year. EET 131: IT Essentials I A+ Certification is the only electronics course offered every quarter.
  
  Because of these scheduling factors, working with electronics support staff or an advisor is strongly recommended to stay on track and avoid delays.

Yes, you may attend full-time or part-time:

• Full-time: 12–20 credits per quarter
• Part-time: Fewer than 12 credits per quarter
• Full-time students typically complete programs more quickly than part-time students.
• To create a sustainable plan that fits your schedule and goals, it is best to meet with electronics support staff or an academic advisor.

Frequency

• Most electronics classes meet twice a week, on Monday and Wednesday or on Tuesday and Thursday.
• Some courses are offered in a hybrid format, meeting once a week in person. Students in hybrid courses must complete additional work independently instead of a second weekly meeting.
• Only one course, EET 106: Introduction to Soldering (1 credit), meets on Fridays. It runs during the first four weeks of the quarter (winter and summer) and ends early.
• Most electronics courses are worth 5 credits.
• Course availability varies - some are offered once a year, while others may be available two or three times a year. EET 131: IT Essentials I A+ Certification is the only electronics course offered every quarter.
• The annual course schedule may be adjusted to reflect enrollment trends.

Hours

• Electronics classes typically begin in the late morning (11:00 AM), mid-afternoon (2:30 PM), or evening (6:00 PM).
• Common class meeting times include:
  • 11:00 AM – 2:20 PM
  • 6:00 – 9:20 PM
• These times include both lecture and lab meeting hours combined.
• For courses offered in multiple quarters, class times may change from one quarter to the next. For example, a course might be scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM in the fall, but at 11:00 AM or 6:00 PM in the spring.
• You can visit the Class schedule webpage link to view the meeting days and times for electronics classes offered in the current and upcoming quarter.

Lecture + Lab Format

Nearly all Electronics Department courses follow a hands-on, applied learning model that combines lecture and lab time. This approach is a core feature of our programs.

• For example, EET 161: DC Principles of Electronics, the first in a series of lecture-lab courses, meets in a lecture classroom for the first 1 hour and 20 minutes. After a short break, the class continues in an electronics lab for 1 hour and 50 minutes of hands-on work.
• Some courses are held entirely in a lab setting for the full class duration.

Lecture classrooms and lab spaces are in the same building, making transitions between sessions quick and convenient.

We offer rolling admissions, which means you can start an electronics program in any quarter. However, beginning in the fall is recommended for the most efficient scheduling of required courses for your degree or certificate. Our suggested course sequence is designed around a fall start, but we welcome new electronics students every quarter.

Once you meet the math and English placement requirements, most students begin with two foundational courses. These courses, offered in fall, winter, and spring, are prerequisites for many advanced electronics classes:

• EET 109: Math for Circuit Analysis (5 credits)
• EET 161: DC Principles of Electronics (5 credits)

To determine your current math and English placement levels, you can use the college’s free online Directed Self-Placement (DSP) tools. These tools are available through the Placement webpage.

To ensure a smooth academic journey, students should meet with electronics support staff to develop a personalized academic plan. This plan will consider your start quarter, availability, course sequencing, and how often each course is offered. Sign up for a virtual information session or an in-person electronics lab tour to learn more by using the Electronics page RSVP form.

Program Duration and Flexibility

An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree typically takes 8 quarters of full-time enrollment to complete. Certificates usually require 3 to 5 quarters. If you need to take foundational courses in math or English, your program may take longer. Students attending part-time will progress more slowly.

Electronics programs offer flexible start times—you can begin in any quarter and move at your own pace. Your completion timeline will depend on your availability, the specific program, and course offerings. Our suggested course sequence is designed around a fall start, but you are welcome whenever it suits you.  

To stay on track, it is strongly recommended that you meet with electronics outreach staff or an academic advisor. Be sure to register early—well before the start of each quarter—to secure a spot in the classes you need.

When to Apply

You can apply to North Seattle College at any time. Unlike some programs that follow a cohort model—where students start together in a specific quarter—electronics programs offer flexible entry. Students can begin in any quarter.

How to Apply

• Submit your application through the Online Admissions Application Portal. 
• After you are admitted, you will receive a 9-digit ctcLink ID, which serves as your student ID number. Next, complete the following steps:
  • Activate your ctcLink ID and set up your MySeattleColleges account
  • Use the Directed Self-Placement (DSP) tools page to assess your math and English levels.
  • Secure funding (e.g., financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans)
  • Register for classes

For personalized support, contact the electronics outreach staff. They can help you create an academic plan and guide you through each step of the process.

Placement Requirements for Electronics Courses

Before enrolling in electronics courses, we need to verify that you have met the required English and math placement levels. These requirements help ensure you are prepared and set up for success. Use the college’s free online Directed Self-Placement (DSP) tools available through the Placement webpage.

English Placement

• You must place into ENGL 98 (Integrated Reading and Writing II) or higher.
• We recommend completing ENGL 98 before enrolling in electronics courses.

Math Placement

• You must place into MATH 84 (Algebra I) or higher.
• This means achieving Level 2 or above on North’s Math Directed Self-Placement (DSP) tool.
• If you need foundational math, you can take MATH 81 (Basic Math). After completing it, you will be eligible to begin electronics courses in the following quarter.

ESL (English as a Second Language)

• ESL placement systems vary by college. If you are transferring from another ESL program or are in need of ESL courses, you will work with North’s ESL team to determine your placement level.
• You must place into ESL Level 5A to enroll in electronics classes.

Computer Skills

• Basic computer skills are required. You should be comfortable:
• Using an internet browser
• Creating documents with a word processor
• If you need help with building these skills, consider taking BUS 169: Using Computers in Business.

Need Help?

Contact the electronics support staff to verify your placement. If you have previously attended college, unofficial transcripts may be enough to confirm your placement levels.

Most of our degrees are designed to prepare students for the workforce and are not transfer degrees. 

The Electronics Engineering Technology AAS-T is a “limited” transfer degree designed specifically for transfer to the Electronics Engineering Technology Bachelor of Science (BS) program at Central Washington University (CWU) in Ellensburg, WA.  North’s EET AAS-T degree combines practical applied electronics courses with multiple calculus-based math and engineering physics courses preparing students for employment or to apply to CWU’s BS program.

Several of the courses required for the EET AAS-T are transferrable to other colleges and universities as well. Students who want to join the workforce quickly with a higher number of transferable courses may select this degree over other electronics program options. Students interested in potentially pursuing an engineering bachelor’s degree should talk with the Electronics Navigator about the EET AAS-T degree pathway and should investigate the Associate of Science (AS) Track 2, a DTA (Direct Transfer Agreement) pathway.

Possibly. To begin the process, send your unofficial transcript to electronics outreach staff for an initial review. While an official transcript evaluation by North’s Credentials Office is required to transfer general education courses, we can give you a preliminary idea of what may be transferred and discuss how your previous electronics coursework might align with our program requirements.

Possibly. Students wanting to complete an associate degree to transfer directly into an engineering bachelor’s program have options. 

• The Electronics Engineering Technology AAS-T is a limited transfer degree designed to prepare students for transfer to Central Washington University’s Electronics Engineering Technology BS. Talk with the Electronics Navigator to learn more. 
• The Associate of Science (AS) Track 2 degree is designed for transfer to most Washington four-year colleges. The AS Track 2 program is not housed in the Electronics Department and does not require electronics courses. Contact Advising at North for assistance planning for the AS Track 2 degree.

Students who are unsure which program is best aligned with their interests are encouraged to contact the Electronics Navigator to discuss the differences.

Possibly. There are two main ways to receive credit for prior experience:

1. Credit Through Previous Coursework (No Cost)

The preferred method is to match completed courses—as shown on a college or military transcript—to specific courses in your intended electronics program. 

• This option has no cost to the student.
• To get started, send your unofficial transcripts to electronics outreach staff.
• If needed, we will connect you with faculty to review your prior experience and knowledge.
• If a match is found, course substitutions may be approved and credit awarded on a course-by-course basis. You may be asked to complete a course equivalency exam to verify your skills. 

2. Credit for Prior Learning (With Cost)

If you have extensive industry experience but no related coursework listed on a college transcript, you may still be eligible for credit through a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).

• This process involves a fee of $100–$300 per class.
• To begin:
  • Contact electronics outreach staff to request course descriptions.
  • Identify courses that align with your on-the-job knowledge.
  • If a match is found, you may be asked to complete a course equivalency exam to verify your skills.

For help determining which option is right for you, reach out to electronics outreach staff. They will guide you through the process and help you make the most of your prior experience.

Other Expenses to Keep in Mind

Note: This estimate does not include costs for housing, food, or other basic living expenses.
Course materials vary:

• Some classes require you to purchase or rent textbooks and/or software.
• Others may use free online resources or provide materials that can be borrowed for the quarter.

Costs will vary by program, residency status, and financial aid eligibility. See the tuition rates table for the cost per credit. Additional costs include student fees, books, or other materials. Full-time electronics students can add $475 per quarter to their tuition cost when estimating the total program cost. 

Please note that this way of estimating does not include housing, food, or other basic needs expenses. Some classes require students to purchase or rent textbooks. Additional equipment, supplies, or software may be needed for some electronics courses, while others will require no additional materials cost.

Yes, you may be eligible for financial assistance. To find out, you will need to work with funding experts at North Seattle College who can help determine your eligibility for various programs.

We recommend starting with these two common funding sources:

1. Workforce Education Grants

• To find out if you qualify for funding, take the Start Next Quarter survey This pre-screening tool helps determine if you qualify for Workforce Education grant funding.
• If eligible, follow the instructions to complete the full application.
• Funding may be renewable in future quarters.

2. Financial Aid (FAFSA or WASFA)

• Complete either the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid).
• Visit the Financial Aid page to learn which form is right for you.
• If you qualify for Workforce Education funding, you will also complete the FAFSA or WASFA before your second quarter to determine eligibility for additional state or federal grants.
• Need help? Schedule an appointment with the Financial Aid Office for assistance.

Need Help with Funding? We are Here for You!

You are always welcome to reach out to electronics outreach staff for a friendly overview of the most common funding options available at North.

We understand that figuring out how to pay for college can feel overwhelming—but you are not alone. We are happy to help you navigate your options and connect you with the right resources to get your funding in place.

Yes! Students are encouraged to apply each year for a Seattle Colleges Foundation Scholarship. With just one application, you will be considered for hundreds of scholarships for the upcoming academic year.

• The application opens each January and remains open for about two months. For example, when the application opens in January of 2026, it will be for scholarships awarded for the 2026–2027 academic year which starts in Fall of 2026. 
• It is a good opportunity to access funding that can help cover tuition, books, and more.

In addition to the Seattle Colleges Foundation Scholarship, students are welcome to explore and apply for other external scholarships.

Electronics Career Preparation at North Seattle College

Electronics programs at North Seattle College provide students with a solid foundation in electronics theory and hands-on skills applicable across a wide range of industries. Graduates are prepared for technician-level roles in fields such as aerospace, power and control, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Electronics technicians work with complex systems that support machinery, automation, and modern manufacturing processes. Because electronics is essential in most industries, career opportunities are broad and diverse.

To learn more about employers who have hired our students and graduates, please contact Electronics Department outreach staff.

Industry Job Titles

Electronics Technician
Installs, maintains, and repairs electronic systems and equipment in industries such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.

Electronics Engineering Technician
Works alongside engineers to design, test, and improve electronic devices and systems, often using specialized tools and software.

Field Service Technician
Travels to customer sites to install, troubleshoot, and repair electronic equipment, often in sectors like medical devices, automation, or communications.

Avionics Technician
Specializes in the electronic systems used in aircraft, including navigation, communication, and flight control systems.

Biomedical Equipment Technician
Maintains and repairs medical devices such as imaging machines, patient monitors, and diagnostic equipment in hospitals and clinics.

Calibration Technician
Ensures that instruments and equipment are accurate and meet industry standards by performing routine testing and calibration.

Control Systems Technician
Installs and maintains automated systems used in manufacturing and industrial settings, including PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers).

Electro-Mechanical Technician
Works with both electrical and mechanical systems, often in robotics, automation, or manufacturing environments.

Industrial Maintenance Technician
Maintains and repairs machinery and control systems in factories and industrial plants to ensure smooth operations.

Mechatronics Technician
Combines knowledge of electronics, mechanics, and computing to build and maintain smart machines and automated systems used in advanced manufacturing and robotics.

Robotics Technician
Builds, tests, and maintains robotic systems used in manufacturing, healthcare, and other high-tech industries.

Electronics students and graduates are employed in many workplace sectors including aerospace, power and control, healthcare, and manufacturing fields. Electronics technicians work with complex electronic systems that control machinery, automation, and modern manufacturing processes. 

Most workforce sectors and employment fields involve electronics. To learn more about which employers have hired electronics program students and graduates, contact the Electronics Department Navigator.

It depends on the program you’re enrolled in:

• Biomedical Equipment Technology AAS
  Yes, an internship is required for this degree. Students must complete a clinical engineering internship—typically during their final quarter—at a hospital, medical facility, or with a medical equipment manufacturer.
• Mechatronics AAS
  An internship is optional. Students can either complete an internship or take two additional approved electronics courses instead.
• Programs Requiring Technical Elective Credits
  If your degree requires technical elective credits, you may choose to complete an internship to fulfill that requirement.

Additional Information:

• Students are responsible for applying for and securing their own internships, but support is available.
• To receive academic credit, students must enroll in an electronics internship course that provides structure and guidance.
• The term “internship” may refer to both internships and externships.
• Internships require 220 hours of work at the job site over the course of a quarter. Fall, winter, and spring quarters are 11-weeks long. Summer quarter is condensed to 8 weeks.

We do not offer direct job placement, but we provide strong support to help students prepare for employment.

• Career Exploration Starts Early
  Electronics students are encouraged to attend guest employer presentations and explore job and internship opportunities related to their training—beginning in entry-level courses. We share employment and internship opportunities with students enrolled in electronics classes.
• Resume and Interview Support
  The Electronics Department offers help with resume writing and interview preparation.
• Additional Career Services
  For more comprehensive employment support, students are encouraged to use WorkSource employment services, located on campus in the Opportunity Center.

Yes! To schedule a virtual information session or tour electronics labs and discuss programs in person, please sign up at the RSVP link on the Electronics webpage.

Electronics Department outreach staff can help answer your questions and assist you in creating an academic plan. For detailed curriculum questions, we’ll connect you with a faculty member.

We also recommend reviewing these helpful resources for your program:

• Program Planning Guides
  Guides list all required courses for each degree or certificate. You’ll find them linked at the bottom of each program page. If program requirements change after you enroll, you can choose to follow the original or updated requirements.
• Pathway Maps
  Maps outline the recommended course sequence and key steps to take throughout your program. They are linked on each program page. Keep in mind that the sample plan on a pathway map may not match your start quarter. 
  While these tools are useful, we strongly encourage you to meet with electronics outreach staff or an advisor to build a personalized plan based on your start quarter, attendance status, and goals.