Program Overview
Great Basin College's Electrical Systems Technology Certificate of Achievement is designed for students who want employment in electrical work. The program uses hybrid instruction: students attend lectures online and meet in person for hands-on lab work at the Winnemucca Center, 5490 Kluncy Canyon Road, Winnemucca. Electrical courses follow a nontraditional schedule, and the college's career and technical programs run from August through May. The catalog presents a two-semester suggested sequence of 29 and 27–29 credits. Because the certificate is intensive, students finish close to the Associate of Applied Science and are encouraged to continue. This listing focuses on the certificate.
Curriculum Highlights
The certificate covers DC and AC theory, low-voltage systems, circuit design, solid state, generators, motors, alternators, motor maintenance, transformers, and industrial lighting. Additional topics include digital concepts, AC controls, programmable logic controllers, blueprint reading, raceways, and wiring techniques. Code coursework includes the National Electrical Code and a course on Article 430. Students also choose English or communications, mathematics, and human-relations courses with an advisor. Stated outcomes include interpreting diagrams, operating motor and control systems, applying the code, using tools safely, and designing and troubleshooting commercial and industrial systems.
Admission Requirements
Formal admission to the program is required. The program page lists two steps: the CTE/MTC scholarship application, with a March 15 deadline, and the general college application, which provides a student ID. The scholarship page instead lists the general application first, followed by a CTE program application. Follow the current instructions and confirm the order with a CTE student advisor; the Winnemucca advisor is listed at 775-327-5883. Program questions can also go to the School of Industrial Technology and Workplace Development at 775-327-2167.
Cost & Financial Aid
For the 2026–27 academic year, the catalog fee schedule lists lower-division registration at $133.50 per credit, plus a $7.50 per-credit technology fee and any lab fees. Nonresidents pay additional tuition, and the catalog's cost examples exclude application fees, lab fees, books, and program-specific costs. The Maintenance Training Cooperative scholarship says students can receive $6,100 toward an AAS or Certificate of Achievement in Electrical Systems. Scholarship selection is separate from admission, so check eligibility and deadlines.
Career Outcomes
The program says it prepares students for work in mining, manufacturing, power plants and distribution, construction, sales, machine control, water resources, gaming, and renewable energy.