If you want to become an electrician, it’s important to understand the costs involved, which can include tuition and licensing fees, plus equipment costs.
Once you are a working electrician, you can expect that your duties should include knowledge of how to:
- Read blueprints
- Install and maintain wiring
- Inspect electrical components
- Identify electrical problems using testing devices
- Repair and replace wiring, equipment, and fixtures
- Provide training for other workers
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of electricians is expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032. Electricians are trade professionals and some will complete trade school prior to launching their careers. Compared to the time and cost of a four-year degree, trade schools offer lower costs and shorter programs.
How Much Does it Cost to Complete Electrician Trade School?
The cost will depend on which program and school you ultimately choose.
Vocational School
Delta Technical College (Delta Tech) offers a 30-week Industrial, Commercial & Residential (I/C/R) Electrician Program. In this program, students are given the opportunity to acquire skills and training required to begin an entry-level position in the electrical industry. These skills are taught through hands-on experience for students and classroom instruction. In addition to this coursework, students will enjoy the many activities offered at Delta Tech.
Throughout their instruction, students can learn about electrical theory, grounding, meters, lighting, blueprints, motors and electrical controls, mathematics, conduit bending, load calculations, field and shop safety, and other areas specific to becoming an electrician.
The I/C/R Electrician Program is offered at the Horn Lake, MS and Ridgeland, MS campus, where daytime and evening classes are available.
For more information on financial assistance, contact the Admissions Team
*For those who qualify, financial aid and scholarships may be available. Contact the Admissions Team to learn more.
Community College
A public community college is another option when seeking the necessary training to become an electrician. Different degree and diploma programs are available depending on the college. An associate degree takes approximately two years to complete for full-time students, and is typically available at community colleges. Certificate programs can be completed in less than a year.
Trade School vs. College by Numbers
| National Average | Four-Year College | Two-Year College | Trade School |
| Average Cost | $9,410 (per year) | $3,440 (per year) | $5,000-$15,000 (total) |
| Time to Complete | 4 years | 2 years | 3-18 months |
| Other Expenses | Books, housing, misc. | Books, housing, misc. | Books |
| Award | Bachelor’s degree | Associate’s degree | Diploma or certificate of completion |
How Much Does an Electrician’s License Cost?
In many states, the final step to beginning a career as an electrician is acquiring an electrician’s license, which will require an exam. Not all states, including Mississippi, require licenses, although local municipalities may. The states that do require licenses will likely have different fees for taking the exam and maintaining state licensure. If no licensing is required, you may be able to begin work soon after completing your education.
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What Are the Additional Costs After Becoming an Electrician?
The additional costs associated with working as an electrician are similar to those at many jobs. For communicating with customers, a mobile phone, computer, and working email address may be required. For getting to and from jobs you may need a trustworthy car or means of commuting. Car insurance and gas money may also be needed. You may need to purchase your own tools, which could include:
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Wire strippers
- Fishing tools
- Measuring devices
- Labeling machines
- Power drills
- Power saws
Is Becoming an Electrician a Good Investment?
The costs of becoming an electrician will vary depending on the school you choose to attend, licensing and exam costs, and how much equipment, tools and insurance you choose to purchase when you first begin your career. The job and salary outlook for electricians is strong, with a median salary of $60,240 per year, as of 2022, and the potential to grow within the profession is available in many different ways.
If you think becoming an electrician is right for you, and you’re ready to invest in your future, take the first step today by contacting the Delta Tech Admissions Team to learn how you can enroll in the I/C/R Electrician Program.
[1] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm#tab-2
[2] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm#tab-6
[3] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm#tab-1
[4] https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/college-costs/college-costs-faqs
[5] https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/articles/2016-04-12/the-financial-case-for-trade-school-over-college
[6] https://www.thesimpledollar.com/why-you-should-consider-trade-school-instead-of-college/
[7] https://www.midwesttech.edu/resources/careers/trade-school-vs-college-a-guide-to-weighing-your-options/
[8] https://www.nccer.org/workforce-development-programs/reciprocity-map
