Electronic Engineering Technology

Overview

Electronic devices have become part of everyday life. Microprocessors, robots, lasers, fibre optics, biomedical electronics, satellite communications and wireless networking all use microelectronic technology.

With a wide range of applications, there's growing demand for electronic technologists who bring a comprehensive understanding of the principles of electricity, microcomputers, communications and industrial electronics and how they can be used to create solutions.

Work experience

• Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside of the classroom.
  • Opportunities are typically unpaid and last approximately 5 weeks.
• This program is eligible for an optional cooperative education (co-op) credit course between year one and two.
  • Co-op provides an opportunity for paid, full-time employment in a field related to your program.
  • Co-op takes place in third term and must be a minimum of 12 weeks and 420 hours.
  • Our co-op program follows Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) guidelines.
• Transportation, accommodations and other costs related to work experience are your responsibility.
• For more information, visit work experience opportunities.

Choose NSCC

• Study the theoretical concepts in class and then put the theory into action within the lab and shop environment. When you graduate, you already have the exposure to real-life electronic systems settings.
• You benefit from our faculty, who bring years of experience to the classroom and strong industry connections.
• This program is accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB), a standing committee of the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT). CTAB accreditation means that this program has been evaluated against standards designed by industry leaders across Canada and is recognized internationally. Graduates may be eligible for membership with TechNova, the certifying organization for Engineering and Applied Science Technicians and Technologists in Nova Scotia.
• This program places a high importance on providing you with skills and knowledge to work safely in industry. To prepare for employment, you participate in safety awareness courses.

Other info

• Industrial safety standards require that you have adequate vision and colour perception to operate safely, in the shop and in the field, while performing tasks of this trade.
• Many employers in this industry require a current, official criminal record check as part of the hiring process. A conviction on your criminal record may impact your ability to secure employment.

Availability

Seats are available for domestic applicants only. International applicants will be waitlisted.

September 2024

Campus	Full time/part time	Delivery	Availability
Ivany Campus Dartmouth	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Waitlist

Admission requirements

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent, including Academic Grade 12 Math and Academic Grade 11 Physics.
  • International students – High school diploma equivalency and English language requirements vary by country. View document and language requirements by country
• If you do not have the required academic credits, NSCC offers a variety of credit courses through the Academic and Career Connections program.

Program requirements

• Portfolio development – As part of your studies at NSCC, you develop a portfolio of your work; the portfolio captures your achievements and profiles your skills to employers.

Tuition

Tuition amounts are for the 2023-24 academic year. Program costs and fees (textbooks, supplies, etc.) are additional.

Tuition, fees and program costs

In addition to annual tuition, there are program costs (books, tools, etc.) and student fees for College services, health and dental plans, your student association and parking.

View detailed program fees page(s). Please note that amounts on these pages are meant for planning purposes only. They don't represent final amounts owing.

• Electronic Engineering Technology - Year 1
• Electronic Engineering Technology - Year 2

Career options

• Graduates work in electronics: maintenance, design or sales. Job responsibilities usually involve operating/maintaining equipment and systems and instructing others on how to use the equipment and devices. In some cases, technologists are also involved in design, collaborating with other technologists and engineers to create and test new devices.
• Employment may be found in many industry sectors, including telecommunications, manufacturing, oil and gas, biomedical research, industrial instrumentation, consulting engineering, marine research, conservation and alternative energy.
• This program includes courses that can be applied towards a career in the Canadian Armed Forces as a weapons engineering technician or an aerospace telecommunications and information systems technician. Visit browse careers
• Learn more about labour market information. View career options

Future study options

• Continue your studies at university – This program includes courses that count towards a university degree. Learn more about having your diploma count towards a university degree

Courses may include

These are some of the courses offered in this program. It is not a complete list and courses are subject to change in advance of the academic year.

Recognizing prior learning / transfer credits
If you have previous learning (course, employment, etc...) that's relevant to your program, you may be able to apply to earn credit. Not all programs are eligible. Learn about our recognizing prior learning (RPL) process.

COMM 1245 - Technical Communications I
This course introduces students to the writing, oral presentation, critical thinking and interpersonal communications skills required of technical professionals in the workplace. The fundamentals of clear, concise writing and presenting will be reviewed and refined. Experience will be gained in organizing, writing and presenting technical information. In addition, career development skills and portfolio preparation will be discussed. There will be several opportunities, through assignments and lab work, to develop portfolio components. Students will learn how to collect appropriate work samples and documentation from other courses in the program as well as from other sources.

COMM 2245 - Technical Communications II
This course focuses on the interpersonal, written and oral technical communication skills necessary for working independently and as part of a team in a technical environment. Further skill development in written forms of technical documentation required for the workplace as well as report creation and oral presentation skills will continue to be emphasized. Team building principles, group dynamics and collaborative writing will be discussed. Students will participate in meetings and take responsibilities in a group project from its inception to completion and evaluation. Students will continue to enhance and apply their research skills and project management principles will also be introduced. Successful job interviews and the portfolio will be discussed.

EETG 1002 - DC Principles
The course will introduce the learner to the basic concepts of electricity necessary for Electrical / Electronic Engineering Technology. Topics include direct current, voltage, resistance, Ohm's Law, power, equivalent circuit theorems (Thevenin, Norton, Superposition), capacitors and waveshaping circuits and magnetic circuits.

EETG 1003 - Electronic Circuits I
This initial course in Electronic Circuits is designed to introduce the learner to the fundamental devices used in electronics. After completing this course, the learner will have a working knowledge of a basic semiconductor theory: PN junctions, forward bias, reverse bias, and junction breakdown. Circuits using the general-purpose diode, including various rectifier circuits, are introduced, analyzed, and tested. Special purpose devices, including Zener diodes, LEDs, and special applications diodes are introduced with circuits and applications. Fundamentals of the Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT) are presented, including specifications, curves, and analysis.

EETG 1004 - Engineering CAD
This course provides an introduction to computer-aided drafting (CAD) techniques used in the field of Electrical-Electronic Engineering Technology. This course is intended to develop CAD skills in the preparation of Engineering documents, diagrams, and drawings. This course will also introduce symbols, conventions, and types of drawings used in electrical-electronic engineering.

EETG 1008 - Computer Programming I
This course provides learners with training in the use of proper software design. The C++ programming language is taught and used in all programming assignments. Emphasis is given to the hands on approach to learning. Learners will complete programming assignments in the lab that will apply the concepts learned during class time. All learners must have a working knowledge of the Windows operating system.

EETG 1010 - AC Principles
Electrical Principles provides a solid foundation of the knowledge and the analytical skills necessary for the study of Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology. Topics include the concepts of impedance, RMS voltage, alternating current, real power, reactive power, and apparent power. Additional topics include inductance and inductive transients equivalent circuit theorems for alternating current circuit analysis, and inductive and capacitive reactance, resonance, series impedance and parallel impedance, and impedance networks. Three phase systems will also be covered.

EETG 1011 - Electronic Fabrication
This course provides an introduction to fabrication techniques used in the field of Electronic Engineering Technology. The course is intended to develop knowledge and skills in the process of developing a prototype electronic device. Topics will include soldering and PCB assembly techniques, wiring and interconnecting techniques, ESD practices, and mechanical fabrication skills. An introduction to surface mount devices, surface mount components, and high reliability soldering techniques is included.

EETG 1012 - Electronic Circuits II
This course in Electronic Circuits is designed to provide the learner with a working knowledge of the design and analysis of a wide variety of BJT, JFET and MOSFET circuits. Circuits discussed in this course range from the DC analysis of single-stage transistor biasing to the more complex AC analysis of loaded, swamped and multi-stage configurations. Learners construct, analyze, and measure as well as design circuits in this course.

EETG 1014 - Electronic Circuits III
The fundamentals of operational amplifiers are introduced and various linear circuits are analyzed. Specifications are defined and hands-on experience is provided in the lab for design, construction, and measurement of op amp circuits. This course is designed to build on the learner’s acquired knowledge of discrete electronic devices by analyzing their operation at low and high frequencies.

EETG 1015 - Communications Systems I
Communications Systems I begins the study of electronic communication systems. This course reviews the fundamentals of signal generation and introduces modulation as a technique in the transmission of information. Learners are introduced to data communications systems and some of the standard data communications protocols.

EETG 1019 - Data Acquisition Programming
This course provides learners introductory training in the LabVIEW data acquisition and programming environment. To accomplish this, we gain some practice working in the LabVIEW environment in order to apply it to simulate industrial instrumentation and perform data acquisition and data communication. First the concepts of virtual instruments are introduced. The learners will be introduced to the G programming language. Emphasis is given to the hands on approach to learning. Learners will complete programming assignments. Learners must have a working knowledge of the Windows operating system.

EETG 1030 - Digital Logic
The Logic Circuits course is intended to provide you with a sound knowledge of the standard building block devices found in digital circuits and systems. You will be able to analyze given combinational logic circuits to determine output conditions from specified input conditions and design new combinational circuits from logical requirements.

EETG 1100 - Work Experience
The work experience component provides the learner with an opportunity to apply new skills and concepts appropriate for entry-level positions within the occupation. Learners will assess their own performance and be evaluated by an industry partner. Learners will identify personal outcomes they wish to attain during the work experience and will keep a journal.

EETG 1118 - Electronic CAD
This course provides an introduction to CAD techniques used in the field of electronics. This course is intended to develop CAD skills in the preparation of engineering schematic drawings using an Electronic Design Automation (EDA) system. This course will introduce the Learner to schematic capture (OrCAD), circuit simulation (PSpice), and printed circuit board design.

EETG 1130 - Advanced Logic and PLDs
This course builds on Learners’ knowledge of digital systems by introducing sequential digital systems as well as programmable logic devices (PLDs). Standard devices such as flip-flops, counters, registers, and multiplexers are used to create digital systems for a variety of applications. Learners gain proficiency in the application of industry standard PLDs in digital system design.

EETG 3001 - Applied Research Project I
This course initiates the development and documentation of a major technical design project. Learners are responsible for choosing a senior technical project, monitoring their own progress, and reporting to their applied research instructor in oral and written form on a regular basis. Learners will have two options in this course. They may select a technical project in an area of interest and work on research on campus or they may choose to work with an industry mentor who will assign them a project in industry. In both cases, Learners will use problem solving techniques and formal design procedures to solve an engineering problem. Learners may consult with the electronics faculty for advice and support as required. Learners will continue to develop technical research and documentation skills. They will prepare and present a variety of technical documents including a proposal and progress reports. They will also participate in a Preliminary Design Review. Periodic project progress meetings will be held in class.

EETG 3002 - Industrial Electronics
This course is designed to enable learners to understand and apply the various aspects of specification, selection, construction, and operation of components and equipment for the measurement and control of electrical and non-electrical quantities related to temperature, pressure, flow, and level. Transducer specifications and selection is covered in detail, along with signal conditioning circuitry necessary to interface these devices to standard systems. Learners gain proficiency in the use of data acquisition hardware and software. The course includes an introduction to programmable logic devices (PLCs).

EETG 3004 - Communication Systems II
Communications link budgets are introduced and used to investigate the feasibility of a variety of analog and digital communications systems. The theory of electromagnetic wave propagation and the use of antennas and transmission lines are also investigated. This course provides a foundation for analysis of all electronic communications systems.

EETG 3006 - Applied Research Project II
Learners will continue working on their senior technical project, developing their design, project management, technical documentation and presentation skills. They will submit progress reports, participate in progress meetings and design reviews, and maintain a journal and written plans of their technical project. They will use project management tools such as flow charts and Gantt charts. They will also be reporting to their technical advisors in oral and written form. Job search strategies, job interviews, and portfolio preparation will be discussed.

EETG 3009 - Feedback Control Systems
Electronic power converter design and application is studied including DC to DC converters (choppers), AC to AC converters (phase controlled AC) and AC to DC converters (phase controlled rectifiers). Process control and feedback control system theory and practice will be introduced. Theory of controllers will be explored with application to classic feedback control problems both real and simulated. Industrial style process control applications will also be explored and control loop tuning methods will be introduced. A feedback control system will be designed, built and demonstrated as a course project.

EETG 3011 - Embedded Controllers
This course provides you with training in the architecture and programming of micro-controllers. You will complete projects and exercises in the lab that will apply the concepts learned during class time. All programming will be using assembly language and C. The micro-controller family currently used to complete our development work is the AT family PIC controllers from ATMEL.

EETG 3024 - Advanced Embedded Systems
This course will build on the learning from the Embedded Controllers. Learners will design, analyze, prototype and produce embedded systems.

ENGI 1020 - Engineering Technology Skills
This course provides learners requisite understanding in statistics, business skills and their ethical responsibilities as technologists in matters pertaining to sustainable practices.

MATH 1055 - Calculus l
The course introduces learners to the study of differential and integral calculus. Differentiation topics include limits, slope of the tangent to a curve, differentiation by the delta process, derivatives of polynomials, applications involving derivatives, finding extrema and curve sketching. Integration topics include the concept of integrating polynomial functions and numerically approximating the area under a curve.

MATH 1070 - Applied Math for Engineering Technology
This course provides students with a basic understanding of applied mathematical principles for use by technicians and technology programs. Applied Math l is designed to cover basic algebra, geometry, functional notation, linear equations, quadratic equations, trigonometric functions, exponents, logarithms, complex numbers, analytic geometry and systems of equations. The use of computer software as a mathematical tool will be explored. Students will be encouraged to maintain a math journal that may become part of their personal College portfolio.

MATH 2055 - Calculus II
In this course, learners will use integration to determine volume, centroids, mean and root-mean-square (RMS) values, moments of mass and moments of inertia. Integral calculus will be applied to solve acceleration, velocity, displacement, exponential growth and decay and other rate of change problems. Differential calculus will be used to solve applied engineering problems using transcendental functions.

MATH 3055 - Calculus III
Building on what learners have accomplished in Calculus l and ll, Calculus lll will cover various advanced applications for infinite series expansions to evaluate transcendental functions. Learners will also use first and second order homogenous and non-homogenous ordinary differential equations to solve applied-engineering problems.

SAFE 1000 - Introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems)
This course offers learners basic overview of WHMIS principles and establishes a solid foundation to support workplace-specific training on the safe storage and handling of controlled/hazardous products. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive basic WHMIS certification.

SAFE 1001 - Introduction to NS OH&S Act
This course offers students an introduction to the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Act of Nova Scotia, which is required by any person employed in a Nova Scotia workplace. This is a generic, introductory course that provides basic knowledge of the Act for students and is considered to be the basis from which more specific training can be given.

SAFE 1021 - Safety Basics – Hazard Identification
The learners are introduced to the types of hazards encountered in workplaces and the approach that should be followed when recommending and implementing appropriate controls. Two key elements of Hazard Identification are addressed: Hazard Assessment and Inspection. The Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act is discussed. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.

SAFE 1023 - Safety Basics – Lock-out Tag Out
Lock-out Tag Out introduces students to the hazards related to energized systems and procedures to ensure worker safety. Related legislation and risk management is discussed and the student is exposed to the various types of lock-out devices. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.

SAFE 1024 - Safety Basics – Respiratory Protection
This course introduces students to the potential of atmospheric hazards in the workplace and the available personal protection and control methods to maintain a safe work environment. Discussion topics include identification and testing for atmospheric hazards and workplace respiratory programs. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.

Electronic Engineering Technology Elective. Students must take one of the following courses: EETG 3013, EETG 3022, ENGI 1012, EETD 5106