Can You Be an Electrician Without a College Degree?
The short answer is no—you do not need a college degree to become an electrician. Unlike many high-paying careers that require a four-year degree and significant student debt, electricians can enter the workforce through apprenticeships, trade schools, and on-the-job training.
In fact, many successful electricians, including journeymen, master electricians, and electrical contractors, have never attended college. Instead, they gained hands-on experience, passed licensing exams, and built rewarding careers in a high-demand industry.
If you’re considering the electrical trade but worried about not having a degree, this guide will walk you through how to become an electrician without college and the best paths to success.
The Path to Becoming an Electrician Without a Degree
Without a college degree, the best way to become an electrician is through an apprenticeship program or a trade school that provides structured learning and hands-on experience.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
✔ Be at least 18 years old (some programs may accept younger students)
✔ Have a high school diploma or GED (preferred but not always required)
✔ Have a valid driver’s license (important for traveling to job sites)
✔ Pass a basic math and reading test (some apprenticeships require this)
Step 2: Consider Trade School (Optional but Helpful)
While not required, a trade school can provide foundational knowledge in electrical work before starting an apprenticeship. Many programs last 6-12 months and cover topics like:
Electrical theory
National Electrical Code (NEC)
Wiring methods
Safety procedures
Trade school graduates may be able to start at a higher pay rate or shorten their apprenticeship time because of their prior education.
Step 3: Enroll in an Electrical Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is the most direct and effective path to becoming a licensed electrician. Apprentices work under the supervision of a journeyman or master electrician, learning through real-world experience.
Most apprenticeships last 4-5 years and include:
✔ 8,000 hours of hands-on electrical work
✔ 144 hours per year of classroom instruction
✔ A paid position (earn while you learn!)
Common places to find apprenticeships include:
Electrical trade unions (IBEW - International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers)
Non-union programs through NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) or IEC (Independent Electrical Contractors)
Private electrical contractors or companies
Step 4: Pass the Journeyman Exam and Get Licensed
Once you complete your apprenticeship, you can take the state licensing exam to become a journeyman electrician.
In Oklahoma, for example, the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB) oversees electrician licensing. Requirements include:
✔ Completing 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
✔ Passing the journeyman electrician exam
After working as a journeyman for a few years, you can take the Master Electrician exam or apply for an electrical contractor license to start your own business.
The Benefits of Becoming an Electrician Without a College Degree
1. Earn While You Learn
Unlike college, where you pay tuition for four years, electricians earn money while training through paid apprenticeships.
2. Avoid Student Loan Debt
A typical college degree costs tens of thousands of dollars, often leading to years of debt. The electrical trade allows you to start earning immediately without taking on student loans.
3. High Demand and Job Security
Electricians are in high demand nationwide, especially in fields like:
Residential and commercial wiring
Industrial and oilfield electrical work
Automation and controls
Renewable energy systems
With retiring electricians leaving the workforce, there’s a growing need for skilled tradespeople.
4. Career Growth and Specialization
Starting as an apprentice, you can work your way up to:
✔ Journeyman Electrician (fully licensed)
✔ Master Electrician (supervisory roles)
✔ Electrical Contractor (run your own business)
✔ Automation Technician or SCADA Engineer (high-tech electrical fields)
Many electricians also specialize in high-paying industries like oilfield automation, industrial power systems, and renewable energy.
Final Thoughts: Is an Electrical Career Right for You?
If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and job security, an electrical career is a great alternative to a four-year degree. Through apprenticeships and trade certifications, you can build a successful career without the financial burden of college.
📍 Looking for an apprenticeship or career opportunities?
Houston Electric is hiring in Garber, OK and the surrounding areas.
📞 Call us: (580) 863-2863
📧 Email: contact@houstonelectricinc.net
