Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology - Electrical

This two-year Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology - Electrical is for people who want to work in the electrical trades and engineering support side of the industry. It is a practical qualification that sits between a trade certificate and a full engineering degree. You learn how electrical systems are designed, installed, tested, maintained and fault-found, and you spend a lot of time in workshops and labs rather than only in lectures.

The course is delivered over two years, usually across four semesters or six trimesters depending on how the institute timetables it. You will study units of study (subjects) that each carry credit points, and you need to pass the required number of units to graduate. Typical content includes electrical principles, wiring and installation, electrical drawing and drafting, motors and control systems, instrumentation, testing and commissioning, and workplace safety and compliance. Some providers include a capstone project where you design or build an electrical system, and many build in a work placement or industry project so you get real site experience before you finish.

You will pick up skills that employers actually ask for: reading and interpreting electrical diagrams, using test instruments, wiring and terminating, fault-finding, following Australian Standards and WHS rules, and documenting your work. You also learn to work in a team, communicate with clients and supervisors, and solve problems on the job. Assessment is a mix of practical tasks, written assignments, and exams.

This course suits school leavers who want a hands-on career without committing to a full engineering degree, as well as tradespeople and technicians already working in the field who want to formalise their skills or move into engineering support, estimating, or supervisory roles. It is also a pathway into further study, such as a bachelor degree in electrical engineering, with credit for some units. English proficiency is required for international students, and the exact IELTS or equivalent score is set by the institute. While you study in Australia on a Student visa you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after you finish you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Always check the official CRICOS page and the institute's website for current entry requirements, fees and course structure.

• Electrical engineering technician
• Electrical draftsperson
• Electrical estimator
• Instrumentation and control technician
• Electrical maintenance technician
• Project support officer (electrical)
• Test and commissioning assistant
• Electrical supervisor (with experience)

These roles are found in construction, manufacturing, mining, utilities, renewable energy, building services, and defence industries across Australia. Many graduates work for electrical contractors, engineering consultancies, asset owners, and government agencies. The qualification can also lead into further study, such as a bachelor degree in electrical engineering.