How Long Does It Take To Study Electrical Engineering In A TVET College?

How Long Does It Take To Study Electrical Engineering In A TVET College?

Duration of Electrical Engineering Studies at TVET Colleges Explained

Studying Electrical Engineering at a TVET college typically takes three years to complete, depending on the qualification path you choose. For those pursuing the National N Diploma in Electrical Engineering, the journey includes both theoretical learning and practical training. Students first complete the N4, N5, and N6 certificates, each taking around three months, followed by two years of in-service training in a relevant workplace. This combination of study and real-world experience helps build the skills needed for a successful career in the electrical field.

TVET colleges in South Africa are known for offering practical, skills-based education aimed at preparing students for the job market. In addition to the N Diploma route, students may also choose the NC(V) Electrical Infrastructure Construction stream, which runs from Level 2 to Level 4 over a period of three years. This option is often available to students who have completed Grade 9.

Both study options teach students important skills like how electricity works, how to build circuits, how to stay safe, and how to do electrical installations. They also include practical training. After finishing the course, students can work as electricians or electrical technicians, or they can choose to study further at a university or a university of technology. Choosing a TVET college for electrical engineering is a smart step if you want a solid mix of theory and practice. With clear study timelines and real industry exposure, it is an effective way to launch a career in a high-demand field.

READ: What Is N6 Electrical Qualification?

Electrical Engineering Duration At TVET Colleges

The duration of studying electrical engineering at TVET Colleges varies depending on the level of qualification and choice of specialization you are studying, however, studying this program takes 3 years full-time (1 year per level), Typically, Certificate programs are often the shortest in duration, lasting one to two years, whereas Diploma programs take two to three years. National N Diploma (N4-N6) can be obtained after completing a diploma program and usually takes an additional year.

NB: Electrical engineering specializations, such as power systems, electronics, or telecommunications, can require additional coursework, extending the program’s length.

Electrical Engineering Curriculum At TVET Colleges(N1-N6)

The following subjects are offered under N1-N6;

N1:

Electrical Trade Theory
Industrial Electronics
Engineering Science
Mathematics

N2:

Electrical Trade Theory
Industrial Electronics
Engineering Science
Mathematics

N3:

Electrical Trade Theory
Industrial Electronics
Engineering Science
Mathematics

N4:

Electrotechnics
Industrial Electronics
Mathematics
Engineering Science
Fault Finding & Protective Devices

N5:

Electrotechnics
Industrial Electronics
Mathematics
Power Machines
Fault Finding & Protective Devices

N6:

Electrotechnics
Industrial Electronics
Mathematics
Power Machines
Fault Finding & Pr.

READ: What Is Electrical Infrastructure Construction?

TVET Colleges That Offer Electrical Engineering Courses

Here are some of the colleges offering Electrical Engineering Courses:

Tshwane South TVET College
Ekurhuleni East TVET College
Westcol TVET College
Coastal KZN TVET College
Thekwini TVET College
False Bay TVET College
Northlink TVET College
Central Johannesburg TVET College
Ehlanzeni TVET College
Vuselela TVET College

Electrical Engineering Career Opportunities

Graduates of the NATED National Certificate in Electrical Engineering can explore various roles across the electrical and engineering industries, including:

Electrical Engineering Technician
Power Systems Technician
Automation Technician
Electrical System Designer
Electrical Maintenance Technician
Electrical Inspector
Instrumentation Technician
Electrical Contractor

Admission Requirements For Electrical Engineering Courses

To study engineering courses at TVET College, you must meet the following requirements;

To enter N4: You need an N3 Certificate or an equivalent qualification.
To enter N5: You must have completed the N4 Certificate or an equivalent qualification.
To enter N6: You must have an N5 Certificate or an equivalent qualification.

Subjects You Need:

Mathematics
Science
Electrical Technology or Electrician’s Work
English

How to Apply for Electrical Engineering in a TVET College

If you want to study Electrical Engineering at a TVET college, here is a simple guide to help you apply:

Choose a college:

Select a TVET college that offers the Electrical Engineering program (NATED or NC(V) stream).

Check the entry requirements:

Make sure you meet the requirements for the level you are applying to. Most programs require subjects like Mathematics, Science, English, and Electrical Technology.

Prepare your documents:

Have certified copies of your ID, latest school results, and proof of residence ready.

Complete the application form:

Fill out the form online or collect it from the campus, depending on the college’s process.

Submit your application:

Send in your form and documents before the closing date.

Wait for a response:

The college will contact you by SMS, email, or through their student portal. If accepted, follow the registration steps provided.

The duration of studying electrical engineering in a TVET college can vary from one to three years, depending on the level of qualification you choose and your specialization, therefore, visit the official website of the college you wish to study at. Hope the provided information is helpful to you. Kindly leave a comment below in the comment section. Read more.

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