How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You can do a foundation degree or degree in electrical or electronic engineering. You may also be able to get into this career with a degree in:
- electromechanical engineering
- building services engineering
- applied physics
- aeronautical engineering
- mechatronics
Look out for courses that offer work experience opportunities during your studies, such as:
- internships
- sandwich course placements
- Easter and summer vacation schemes
These can give you an advantage when applying for jobs or graduate training schemes. Your university careers service can help you to find opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
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College
You could do a higher national certificate or diploma in electrical and electronic engineering at college before looking for a trainee engineer position with a company.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course
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Apprenticeship
You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship, for example:
- Electrical or Electronic Technical Support Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Electro-Mechanical Engineer Level 6 Apprenticeship, which can lead to professional certification
These apprenticeships take up to 5 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as an electrical engineering technician and do training on the job to become an engineer.
Direct Application
You can apply for jobs if you've got qualifications and several years' experience in a related area of engineering, for example electronics or power generation.
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Career tips
Many courses and apprenticeships aimed at specific industries, such as aerospace, energy and defence, include electrical engineering as part of their training. It's worth looking into these as another route to becoming a qualified electrical engineer.
Further information
You can find more details about careers in the electrical industry from The Institution of Engineering and Technology and Electrical Careers.