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Electronics and Computer Hardware Technology

El Camino’s electronics and computer hardware technology degree and certificate programs set you on track to begin an entry-level job immediately after graduation or to continue your education at another college or university. They’re accessible, affordable paths to a rewarding, in-demand career.

$2,208
Approximate cost for an El Camino College electronics and computer hardware technology degree
$71K
Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $22,000 to $179,000 with an average salary of $71,000
$79K
Careers in high growth areas such as electrical and electronics installers and repairers can earn from $52,000 to $101,000 per year with an average salary of $79,000

Our Electronics and Computer Hardware Technology Associate in Science (AS) degree typically takes two years. You can also earn a variety of certificates in less than a year and be ready for an entry-level job. 

Electronics and computer hardware technology education at El Camino will challenge you to be your best. We’ll be here to help.

Choose a Degree Designed for Computer Technology Careers

Many El Camino electronics and computer hardware technology students want to start their careers as soon as possible. Others are looking to advance their existing career or explore career opportunities. We offer options to meet your goals.

Degree & Certificates

This degree prepares you to pursue a career in computer hardware technology. It’s a great option if you want to enter the industry at the entry level and begin working right away.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics, computer hardware, and systems applications.
  • Practice your skills on modern electronic test equipment, circuit simulation software, and experimentation structured in an industrial lab setting.
  • Explore electronics and computer hardware technology systems from basic system configuration to large-scale computer integration and analysis.
  • Pursue industrial certifications after completing as few as three courses.

This certificate prepares you to pursue a career in computer hardware technology. You can complete this program In less than a year and join the industry at entry level.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics and computer hardware and systems applications.
  • Practice digital logic circuit theory used in contemporary computer, control, instrumentation, and security systems.
  • Explore electronics and computer hardware technology systems from basic system configuration to large-scale computer integration and analysis.
  • Pursue industrial certifications after completing as few as three courses.

This certificate can be completed in less than six months and prepares you to pursue a career in computer hardware technology.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics and computer hardware and systems applications.
  • Practice your skills on modern electronic test equipment, circuit simulation software, and experimentation structured in an industrial lab setting.
  • Take classes such as basic electronic fabrication introduction to direct and alternating current circuits and computer systems and hardware technologies.

This certificate sets you on a path to pursue a career as a computer service technician. In less than six months you will be ready to pursue a career in computer hardware technology.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics and computer hardware technology.
  • Develop skills and knowledge required for passing the CompTIA Security+ Certification exam.
  • Explore topics such as information security, system threats and risks, protecting systems, network vulnerabilities, network defenses, wireless network security, security audits and policies, cryptographic methods, and the basics of computer forensics.

This certificate sets you on a path to pursue a career as a computer service technician. In less than six months you will be ready to pursue a career in computer hardware technology.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics and computer hardware and systems applications.
  • Develop skills and knowledge required for passing the CompTIA Security+ Certification exam.
  • Explore topics such as microprocessor-based computer systems, binary and hexadecimal numbering systems, computer system hardware components and peripherals, operating systems, basic hardware failures, and test and verification of proper computer systems operation.

This certificate sets you on a path to pursue a career as a computer service technician. In less than six months you will be ready to pursue a career in computer hardware technology.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics and computer hardware and systems applications.
  • Develop skills and knowledge required for passing the CompTIA Security+ Certification exam.
  • Explore topics such as safety, basics of electricity and electronics, microcomputer hardware and components, complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) settings, operating systems, printers, portable systems, smartphones and networking hardware.

This certificate sets you on a path to pursue a career as a computer service technician. In less than six months you will be prepared for a career in computer hardware technology.

  • Learn the foundations of electronics and computer hardware technology.
  • Explore topics such as component identification, schematic diagrams, assembly pictorials, soldering (both printed wire boards and terminals), inspection, sheet metal fabrication, hand-tool use, cabling, wire wrapping, printed circuit board construction and repair, continuous improvement techniques (CIT), and electrostatic discharge (ESD) awareness.
  • Practice skills in designing, assembling, testing, and documenting a basic electronic fabrication project. 

Pursue an Entry-Level Computer Technology Job or Further Education

As an El Camino electronics and computer hardware technology graduate, you’ll be ready to start work immediately or pursue additional education. We’re here to help you find career options and decide on the best step after graduation.

  • Work in a broad range of job positions like electrical repair, electrical engineering technician, hardware engineering technician, robotics engineer, and wireless hardware engineer.
  • Pursue opportunities for advancement in areas such as electronics engineering, cybersecurity, and computer science.
  • Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $22,000 to $179,000 with an average salary of $71,000.

Participate in Academic and Career Opportunities

Take your education outside of the classroom. El Camino has apprenticeship opportunities and connections with industries that translate into valuable real-world experience.

  • Access opportunities such as our aerospace apprenticeship to specialize in a particular area or broaden your knowledge.
  • Take advantage of an internship or paraprofessional opportunity.
  • Expand your networking and attend conferences and exhibitions.
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Academic Details

Learn about course requirements and more for the Electronics and Computer Hardware Technology AS degree and certificates in El Camino’s online catalog.

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Program Map

Find semester-by-semester plans that chart your path to an Electronics and Computer Hardware Technology AS degree and certificates on El Camino’s Guided Pathways site.

Contact Info

El Camino College

Electronics and Computer Hardware Technology Department