Online Schools with Electrical Power Transmission Programs: How to Choose

Electrical power transmission refers to the transfer of electricity between power plants, substations, relays and ultimately to customers. Power transmission usually takes place through the familiar high-voltage power lines seen throughout the United States. Since high volumes of electricity can't be easily stored, there is a complex system used to balance supply and demand. Those interested in this complicated technical field can find a number of online degree programs.

How to Choose an Electrical Power Transmission School

Award Levels

Online programs for electrical power transmission studies are offered at the associate's, bachelor's and master's degree levels. Graduate certificates are also available for professionals in the power industry who are interested in career advancement opportunities. Though many power transmission positions rely on on-the-job training, some employers prefer to hire workers who have an associate's or bachelor's degree. Electrical engineers, however, must have a bachelor's degree and in some cases a master's degree to qualify for employment.

Career Outlook

There are many different career choices for those with an education in electrical power transmission. For example, electrical engineers develop systems to create and transmit electric power. In May 2008, they earned a median annual salary of $82,160 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Workers in the private sector may have the best opportunities (www.bls.gov).
Relay technicians, also called electrical repairers, maintain equipment at power stations and substations. According to the BLS, these workers earned a median hourly wage of $29.66 in May 2008. From 2008 to 2018, overall employment of electrical repair professionals is expected to grow by 12% (www.bls.gov).
Electrical dispatchers and distributors work for companies, including utilities, to monitor electrical grids. Power plant operators work with dispatchers and distributors to regulate electricity flow. In May 2008, median annual wages for power plant operators were $58,470, while dispatchers and distributors earned $65,890, according to the BLS.. Employment opportunities are expected to be excellent since new electrical plants are slated for construction and many current workers are reaching retirement age. (www.bls.gov)

Program Format

Some electrical power studies are available fully online for the convenience of working professionals. Others may require on-campus labs, or provide the option of blending online and on-campus classes. Online classes are presented through lectures and discussions, sometimes through in a learning management environment, such as DEN or Screenwatch. Students will need a computer with high-speed access to the Internet and e-mail.

Lists of Electrical Power Transmission Programs

Graduate Certificate in Power Systems Engineering

A certificate program is for professionals who already have a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Students complete advanced classes that include examination of theoretical problems in communication systems, electromagnetic theory and signal processing. Certificate holders will have the tools they need to advance their engineering careers or apply to graduate school.

Associate of Applied Science in Electric Transmission Systems

Focusing on the North American power system, associate's programs were developed in response to an industry need for power plant operators. Students in these programs study the fundamentals of electricity and how to manage and transmit it reliably and safely. Classes include an historic overview of the power industry and in-depth studies of direct and alternating current theories and applications. Basic power system components, including relays, transformers and substations, are analyzed separately and in combination. Graduates of an associate's degree program will be ready to enter the field at an apprentice level.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineers are typically involved in the design and creation of devices that help transmit or generate electricity. Programs in electrical engineering emphasize a range of electrical concepts, such as electromagnetic energy, digital and analog electronics, and AC/DC power circuitry. Students do experiments and design projects, and learn to use computers to help in these endeavors. Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering degree have an abundance of career choices, including working for power companies and utilities in research or management.

Master of Science in Electric Power Engineering

Electrical power technology is changing rapidly, including the ongoing development of a 'smart' power grid. A master's degree program offers students the chance to learn the latest innovations and become leaders in their workplace.
Topics covered may be similar to those in bachelor's and certificate programs, but are taught at a more advanced level and in the context of technological change. Risk management and power economics are emphasized, along with organizational dynamics. The shift toward environmentally sustainable energy is also an important topic in most graduate-level degree programs.