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Electrical

Overview

This comprehensive Electrical curriculum prepares learners for a career as skilled professionals in the electrical field. It places strong emphasis on safework practices, while covering applied electrical theory and residential, commercial, and industrial electrical knowledge and skills. Coverage of the National Electrical Code ® is integrated throughout to ensure learners are prepared as competent journeyman electricians. The four-level Electrical curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs. It also provides the first two levels of training for learners seeking a career as Electronic Systems Technicians.

Now Available - Electrical 11th Edition (2023 Update)

Developed in conjunction with highly engaged electrical industry experts, the newest edition of NCCER's Electrical program meets the increased demand of today's market while preparing learners to become electricians in the future. Contact your Pearson Executive Director to learn more.

Craft Snapshot

Journey Level
Assessment Available
Translation
Available
PUBLISHED
2023, 11th Edition
NCCERconnect Deliver instruction using our pre-loaded content and course management tools, streamline training, and track results through the online gradebook. Students learn using the interactive eTextbook and Media Library with Active Figures that bring the material to life, anytime and anywhere they choose.
Available
LANGUAGES
English, Spanish

Curriculum Details

 

Total Recommended Hours
Competencies & Objectives Lists
11th Edition:

  • Levels 1-4: 672.5, includes Core hours
Occupational Overview: The Electrical Industry
2.5 Hours

Module ID 26101-23: Provides an overview of the electrical craft and discusses the career paths available to electricians, including apprenticeship requirements.

Safety For Electricians
10 Hours

Module ID 26102-23: Discusses hazards and describes the various types of personal protective equipment (PPE) used to reduce injuries. Covers the standards related to electrical safety and the OSHA-mandated lockout/tagout rule.

Introduction to Electrical Circuits
7.5 Hours

Module ID 26103-23: Discusses basic atomic and electrical theory and electrical units of measurement. Explains how Ohm’s law and the power equation can be used to determine unknown values, and introduces electrical schematic diagrams.

Electrical Theory
7.5 Hours

Module ID 26104-23: Introduces basic circuits, as well as the methods for calculating the electrical energy within them. Covers resistive circuits, Kirchhoff’s voltage and current laws, and circuit analysis.

Introduction to the National Electrical Code
7.5 Hours

Module ID 26105-23: Introduces the NEC® and explains how to use it to find the installation requirements. Provides an overview of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association and Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories.

Outlet, Device, Pull, and Junction Boxes
10 Hours

Module ID 26106-23: Describes the various types of boxes and explains how to calculate the NEC® fill requirements for outlet adjunction boxes under 100 cubic inches (1,650 cubic centimeters).

Hand Bending
10 Hours

Module ID 26107-23: Covers methods for hand bending conduit, including 90-degree bends, back-to-back bends, offsets, and saddle bends. Describes how to cut, ream, and thread conduit.

Wireways, Raceways, and Fittings
20 Hours

Module ID 26108-23: Introduces various types of raceway systems, along with their installation and NEC® requirements. Describes the use of various conduit bodies.

Conductors and Cables
10 Hours

Module ID 26109-23: Discusses conductor types, cable markings, color codes, and ampacity derating. Describes how to install conductors using fish tape and power conduit fishing systems.

Basic Electrical Construction Documents
7.5 Hours

Module ID 26110-23: Describes how to interpret electrical drawings, including the use of architect’s and engineer’s scales.

Residential Wiring
15 Hours

Module ID 26111-23: Covers basic load calculations and NEC® requirements for residential electrical systems. Describes how to lay out branch circuits, install wiring, size outlet boxes, and install wiring devices.

Electrical Test Equipment
5 Hours

Module ID 26112-23: Covers the applications of various types of electrical test equipment. Describes meter safety precautions and category ratings.

Alternating Current
17.5 Hours

Module ID 26201-23: Describes AC circuits and explains how to apply Ohm’s law to solve for unknown circuit values.

Motors: Theory and Application
20 Hours

Module ID 26202-23: Covers AC and DC motors, including the main components, circuits, and connections.

Electric Lighting
15 Hours

Module ID 26203-23: Introduces the principles of human vision and the characteristics of light. Covers different types of light sources and the operating characteristics and installation requirements of various lighting fixtures.

Conduit Bending
15 Hours

Module ID 26204-23: Describes how to make conduit bends using mechanical, hydraulic, and electric benders.

Pull and Junction Boxes
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26205-23: Explains how to size and install pull and junction boxes. Identifies various specialty enclosures, including conduit bodies, FS and FD boxes, and handholes.

Conductor Installations
10 Hours

Module ID 26206-23: Describes how to prepare conduit for conductors. Explains how to set up and complete a cable-pulling operation.

Cable Tray
7.5 Hours

Module ID 26207-23: Discusses various types of cable tray, supports, and associated fittings. Explains how to determine the loads on a cable tray and calculate fill per NEC® requirements.

Conductor Terminations and Splices
7.5 Hours

Module ID 26208-23: Explains how to prepare cable ends for terminations and splices. Describes how to train cable at termination points and describes crimping techniques.

Grounding and Bonding
15 Hours

Module ID 26209-23: Explains the grounding and bonding requirements of NEC Article 250. Covers how to size the main and system bonding jumpers and the grounding electrode conductor for various AC systems.

Circuit Breakers and Fuses
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26210-23: Describes the operating principles of circuit breakers and fuses, and explains how to select and install overcurrent devices.

Control Systems and Fundamental Concepts
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26211-23: Describes the operating principles of contactors and relays, including both mechanical and solid-state devices. Explains how to select and install relays and troubleshoot control circuits.

Load Calculations — Branch and Feeder Circuits
17.5 Hours

Module ID 26301-23: Explains how to calculate branch circuit and feeder loads for residential and commercial applications. Covers various derating factors.

Conductor Selection and Calculations
15 Hours

Module ID 26302-23: Explains how to make conductor calculations. Covers other factors involved in conductor selection, including insulation types, current-carrying capacity, temperature ratings, and voltage drop.

Practical Applications of Lighting
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26303-23: Describes various luminaires and the types of luminaires suited for various applications. Covers dimming, lighting controls, and energy management systems.

Hazardous Locations
15 Hours

Module ID 26304-23: Presents the NEC® requirements for equipment installed in hazardous locations.

Overcurrent Protection
25 Hours

Module ID 26305-23: Explains how to size and select circuit breakers and fuses for various applications. Covers short circuit calculations and troubleshooting.

Distribution Equipment
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26306-23: Discusses switchboards and switchgear, including installation, grounding, and maintenance requirements. Covers ground fault relay testing.

Transformers
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26307-23: Describes the construction, operation, and applications of various transformers. Covers transformer connections and grounding requirements.

Commercial Electrical Services
10 Hours

Module ID 26308-23: Covers the components, installation considerations, and NEC® requirements for commercial services.

Motor Calculations
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26309-23: Covers the calculations required to size the conductors and overcurrent protection required for motor applications.

Voice, Data, & Video
10 Hours

Module ID 26310-23: Covers the installation, termination, and testing of these systems.

Motor Controls
12.5 Hours

Module ID 26311-23: Provides information on selecting, sizing, and installing motor controllers, as well as control circuit pilot devices and basic relay logic.

Load Calculations — Feeders & Services
20 Hours

Module ID 26401-23: Covers basic calculations for commercial and residential applications, including raceway fill, conductor derating, and voltage drop.

Health Care Facilities
10 Hours

Module ID 26402-23: Covers the installation, alarm system, and backup system requirements of electrical systems in health care facilities, including the requirements for life safety and critical circuits.

Standby and Emergency Systems
10 Hours

Module ID 26403-23: Explains the NEC® installation requirements for electric generators and storage batteries used during such emergency situations.

Basic Electronic Theory
10 Hours

Module ID 26404-23: Explains the function and operation of basic electronic devices, including semiconductors, diodes, rectifiers, and transistors.

Fire Alarm Systems
15 Hours

Module ID 26405-23: Explores the technologies, codes, and wiring approaches used to assemble a fire alarm system. Examines installation and troubleshooting techniques.

Specialty Transformers
10 Hours

Module ID 26406-23: Covers various types of transformers, and provides information on selecting, sizing, and installing them.

Advanced Controls
20 Hours

Module ID 26407-23: Discusses applications and operating principles of various control system components, such as solid-state relays, reduced-voltage starters, and adjustable-frequency drives. Covers basic troubleshooting procedures.

HVAC Controls
15 Hours

Module ID 26408-23: Provides a basic overview of HVAC systems and their controls. Also covers electrical troubleshooting and NEC® requirements.

Heat Tracing and Freeze Protection
10 Hours

Module ID 26409-23: Presents heat-tracing and freeze-protection systems along with various applications and installation requirements.

Motor Operation and Maintenance
10 Hours

Module ID 26410-23: Covers motor care procedures, including cleaning, testing, and preventive maintenance. Describes basic troubleshooting procedures.

Medium-Voltage Terminations/Splices
10 Hours

Module ID 26411-23: Identifies types of medium-voltage cable and describes how to make various splices and terminations. Covers hi-pot testing.

Special Locations
20 Hours

Module ID 26412-23: Describes the NEC® requirements for selecting and installing equipment, enclosures, and devices for special locations that require unique attention. Locations include places of public assembly, theaters, carnivals, agricultural and livestock facilities, marinas, swimming pools, and temporary facilities.

Introduction to Leadership
22.5 Hours

Module ID 46100: Introduces leadership skills and different leadership styles, as well as communication and problem solving techniques. Jobsite safety and safety leadership are also discussed. Introduces business topics that are important to understand for construction projects.

Cable Selection

Module 33208-10: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Wire and Cable Terminations

Module 33209-10: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

CCTV Systems

Module 33410-12: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Access Control Systems

Module 33411-12: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Buses and Networks

Module 33301-11: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Fiber Optics

Module 33302-11: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Programmable Logic Controllers

Module 12406-03: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Broadband Systems

Module 33403-12: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Distributed Control Systems

Module 12407-03: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Intrusion Detection Systems

Module 33407-12: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Audio Systems

Module 33401-12: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Overview of Nurse Call and Signaling Systems

Module 33409-12: Much of the technology in emerging fields—such as wireless, integrated, and voice and data systems—has evolved greatly since the publication of Advanced Electrical Topics Volumes One and Two. Because of this, NCCER and Pearson suggest that those teaching a five-year electrical apprenticeship program use the following compilation of modules drawn from EST and Instrumentation.

Contributing Subject Matter Experts

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are a vital part of NCCER’s Curriculum development process. SMEs are construction and maintenance professionals who have journey-level experience and have experience teaching their trades to others.

View Subject Matter Experts
Contributing Subject Matter Experts
Below is a list of subject matter experts for this craft:
A

Alicia D. Simon, Bishop State Community College

B

Brent Miller, The College of Southern Maryland

Billy McKenzie, Bechtel

C

Chuck Ackland, Trident Technical College

D

Dan Lamphear, Lamphear Electric

David Lewis, Putnam Career and Technical Center

E

Ed Cockrell, Vector Electric & Controls, Inc.

G

Gregory Schuman, Bluegrass Educational Technologies

J

Joshua Simpson, ABC Southern California

John Mueller, Pro Circuit, Inc.

John Dettenhaim II, Turner Industries

Jim Mitchem, JEM Electrical Consulting Services

Justin Johnson, Quality Electric

Jim Kash, ABC Northern California Chapter

John Lupacchino, Gaylor Electric, Inc.

L

L.J. LeBlanc, Specialized Services

M

Mike Powers, Tri-City Electrical Contractors

Marcel Veronneau, Industrial Management & Training Institute Incorporated

N

Nick Musmeci, ABC Bayou Chapter

R

Robert Kolb, Industrial Management and Training Institute

Ronnie Gulino, ISC Constructors, L.L.C. – Baton Rouge, LA

Raymond Saldivar Jr., Lee College

S

Scott Haldiman, Faith Technologies, Inc. – Menasha

Scott Mitchell, Cianbro Companies

Steve Newton, National Field Services

T

Tim Dean, Madison Comprehensive High School/Central OHIO ABC

Tim Ely, Beacon Electrical Contractors

Todd Moody, ABC Northern California Chapter

W

Wayne Stratton, ABC of Iowa

NCCERconnect

Optimize your classroom time, while accelerating knowledge for learners. NCCERconnect works to provide learners with always-available access to online training materials, including videos, interactives, a rich eText, practice quizzes and other engaging content.

  • Mobile access to the eText also allows for learning on-the-go.
  • Instructors can get started quickly with pre-built assignments, use the robust course tools for class management, and track student participation and results through the online gradebook.
  • Designed to help learner engagement in any classroom, whether a blended, virtual or traditional classroom environment.

Instructor Resources

Instructor Toolbox

NCCER’s Instructor Toolbox provides easy access to important instructional resources for your training program. You’ll find downloadable course planning tools, examples of classroom activities and projects, and instructor tips and best practices to help you enhance your program.

Academic Pre- and Post-Tests

Academic pre- and post-tests are created for secondary career and technical education. These tests are designed to be used as a diagnostic tool to gauge the trainee’s knowledge gained during the course of academic instruction.

Successful completion of these tests will not result in an NCCER credential.

Assessments & Craft Pro Resources

NCCER’s assessments evaluate the knowledge of an individual in a specific craft area and provide a prescription for upgrade training when needed. All assessments are based upon the NCCER Curriculum and have been developed in conjunction with subject matter experts from the industry.

Commercial Electrician