Search | Menu Somebody has to get a grip on these things before they take over. We’ll give you the tools. Just use your powers for good.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’d like to learn more about the Electronics program, we’d love to talk with you.
We’re here to answer any questions and guide you through our application process step-by-step.
Send us your contact information, and we’ll help you get started right away!
Electronics
Program Number: 106051
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 66 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Architecture and Engineering
Estimated Program Cost: $12,271.59
View Tuition and Fees
Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your tuition costs.
Financial Aid Available Learn About Financial Aid and Scholarships
-
Program Overview
Electronics are everywhere--from the gadgets you use every day to the equipment used to manufacture them. An associate degree in Electronics from Madison College will give you a firm grounding in the world of electronic circuits and the devices they make function, and open the door to an enormous range of careers in many different industries.
As an Electronics student, you will:- Analyze and solve complex problems in manufacturing, research, development, medicine and communications.
- Learn electronics terminology, schematic symbols and electronic standards.
- Assemble circuits from schematics, wiring diagrams and specifications.
- Use math skills to define requirements of Alternating Current (AC) signals.
- Create simplified equivalent circuits for basic AC signals.
- Define differential transistor and operational amplifiers.
- Connect digital systems to analog field devices.
- Build clocked logic circuits to drive encoders, decoders and multiplexer systems.
- Program serial and parallel communications between computers and devices.
- Troubleshoot and repair devices, such as amplifiers, phones and power supplies.
Program Details
Students in the Electronics program can attend full or part time.
Electronics classes may be offered at these Madison College campuses:
- Madison - Truax
Careers
Madison Area Technical College Electronics program graduates are prepared for a career as:
- Computer Technician
- Network Technician
- Electronic Development Technician
- Electronic Maintenance Technician
- Electronic Test Technician
- Electronics Technician
- Field Service Technician
-
Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-605-107Certified IPC Application Specialist (CIS) A-610
Certified IPC Application Specialist (CIS) training focuses on what line workers, operators, inspectors and buyers need to know to inspect or make acceptance/rejection decisions. IPC-A-610, Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies is the most widely used standard published by the IPC. Certification in this industry-traceable program demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement of product quality and reliability. The CIS program provides individuals with a portable credential that represents their understanding of IPC-A-610.1 credit10-605-108Certified IPC Application Specialist (CIS) J-STD-001
Certification in this industry-developed and approved hands-on solder training and certification program helps enhance employee skills and performance. The CIS program provides individuals with a portable credential that recognizes their soldering skills and understanding of this internationally recognized standard.1 credit10-605-112AC/DC Electronics 1
Covers basic concepts of electric circuits including: Ohm’s Law; Kirchhoff’s Voltage, and Current Laws; power calculations; and components such as resistors, switches, fuses, conductors, insulators, capacitors, inductors, relays, and other basic electronic components. Also covers use of test equipment.3 credits10-605-113Analog 1
This introductory electronics course covers devices, circuits and applications. This course uses analog electronics devices — diodes, field effect and bipolar transistors and operational amplifiers to learn basic theory and use of test equipment in testing and troubleshooting. Lab procedures emphasize the use of documentation (schematics, layout diagrams, parts lists, data sheets) and troubleshooting procedures.3 credits10-605-118Electronic Assembly and Soldering Techniques
This introductory electronics course covers schematics, component identification, and soldering techniques for through hole and surface mount components. IPC-A-610* Standard for Acceptance Criteria for Electronic Assemblies is followed for inspection of assemblies. Following the RoHS directive, lead free solder and assemblies are used in this course. *IPC certification is not automatic upon course completion. IPC certification is awarded separately from the academic credits.3 credits10-605-123Electronics for Robotics and Medicine
Embedded Concepts focuses on embedded programming with a hardware emphasis. Arduino development boards are used heavily in this course to explore programming and troubleshooting. Variables, conditionals, mathematical operations, functions, loops, interrupts, libraries, event sequencing, flow charts, visual programming and general Embedded C programming are covered throughout this course. Students will engage with Arduino development boards to understand compilation, downloading, and troubleshooting of embedded code in a target microprocessor.3 credits10-605-172Applied Electronic Math 2
Continues to develop the mathematics skills needed by technicians to be successful in their field and is closely tied to the other second-semester electronics courses. Laboratory sessions continue to integrate math with electronic applications. Course is only offered in the last 8 weeks of each semester.2 creditsSecond Semester10-605-114AC/DC Electronics 2
This course covers RL, RC, RLC circuits; transformers; filters; series and parallel resonance; bridge circuits; Superposition, Thevenin's Theorem, Norton's Theorem; power factor; reactive and apparent power. Lab sessions require in-depth technical lab reports.3 credits10-605-115Analog 2
This course continues to develop the concepts learned in Analog Circuit Techniques (10-605-113). The theory and application of field effect and bipolar transistor amplifiers, operational amplifiers and oscillators are covered with an emphasis on circuits including gain, impedance and frequency response. Lab procedures emphasize increased proficiency with electronic test equipment.3 credits10-605-119Digital Circuits
Covers digital logic circuits including basic gates, flip-flops, decoders, counters, shift registers, multiplexing circuits, comparators and other similar devices. It also covers Boolean algebra and minimization techniques as well as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA). Lab work includes individual project design, including layout, construction, testing and documentation.3 credits10-605-153Intro to PCB Layout
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to printed circuit board (PCB) physical design allowing students to independently and confidently design simple real-world PCBs. Participants will gain practical hands-on experience building component libraries, placing components, and routing, functional, reliable, and manufacturable PCBs. The course covers essential front-end physical design processes including core electrical and mechanical engineering concepts, schematic capture, footprint creation, component placement, routing techniques, and design rule checks. Students learn how to generate documentation and fabrication-ready files for their own PCB physical design to be fabricated.3 credits10-605-154Introduction to Printed Circuit Board Assembly
This hands-on course introduces students to the fundamentals of Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA). Students will explore key processes including Surface Mount Technology (SMT), through-hole assembly, reflow and wave soldering, inspection, rework, and quality control. Emphasis is placed on industry standards (e.g., IPC-A-610, J-STD-001), safety procedures, and practical skills through labs and projects. By the end of the course, students will assemble functional PCBs, troubleshoot defects, and understand career opportunities in electronics manufacturing. The course combines theoretical instruction with laboratory exercises to prepare students for entry-level roles in PCBA.2 credits10-605-164Electro-optics, Lasers, and Photonics Fundamentals
This course is a comprehensive study of photonics designed as a one-semester course. It provides the foundation required to prepare technicians in the areas of optics, electro-optics, lasers, and photonics. The content includes: Nature and properties of light, optical handling and positioning, light sources and laser safety, basic geometrical optics, basic physical optics, and principles of lasers. The labs provide the hands-on learning opportunities to build technical skills in working with lasers, optical components and interfacing these components with electronics.3 creditsThird Semester10-605-101Electronics Internship Level 1
This course provides the opportunity for students to apply classroom theory and skills in a business environment. Activities may include PCB assembly, embedded programming, troubleshooting, and repair. Students learn useful skills based on field experience.3 credits10-605-143Motors and Control Circuits
This advanced course covers AC and DC motors, stepping motors, feedback systems, servo controllers, sensors, relays, SCRs, Triacs, MOSFETs, programmable logic controllers, industrial controllers, and applied systems and online microcomputer controls.3 credits10-605-152Digital Systems Analysis
This is a project based advanced course focusing on digital circuits, embedded controllers and interfacing. The course emphasizes hands-on skills, assembly, testing and troubleshooting, documentation, working in groups and presentations.3 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 credits10-809-166Introduction to Ethics: Theory and Application
This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social and/or professional standards of behavior, and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.3 credits10-809-199Psychology of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 creditsFourth Semester10-605-116Engineering Project Principles
This is a project based course centering on analog circuit applications. This course emphasizes hands-on skills, assembly, testing and troubleshooting, documentation, group work and presentations.3 credits10-605-151Instrumentation and Troubleshooting
This advanced course covers the approach, methodology and techniques in trouble shooting electronic circuits and systems as well as the calibration, uses and limitations of common electronic test equipment.3 credits10-605-178Networks, Interfacing and Programming
This advance course focuses on networking fundamentals and implementation with an emphasis on Linux. Explores Network layers and Protocols, LabView and FPGA Programming, wireless standards, and Hardware Configuration and programming of various Ethernet connected devices (computers, microcontrollers, remote sensors, control equipment and other hardware).3 credits10-801-197Technical Reporting
Prepare and present written, oral, and visual communication products, including instructions, proposals, informal and formal reports. Produce clear, usable communication by incorporating information design principles, arranging content to satisfy diverse audience needs, and presenting visuals for various contexts. Designed as an advanced course to develop collaborative communication practices, information literacy skills, and ethically responsible professional communication strategies.3 credits10-806-139Survey of Physics
Survey of Physics emphasizes the understanding of basic physics concepts through laboratory investigation and applications. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, work, energy, power, temperature, heat, waves, electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic waves, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics.3 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
- Program capacity: 15-18 spots each Fall and Spring. It shares this capacity with other programs that have a similar curriculum.
- Estimated Wait Time: No estimated wait time
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this program has a limited capacity:
- Non-district state residents
- May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
- *Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
- Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are offered a place in the program after district and state residents, if there are still spots available. Acceptance into the program is on hold until a month before the semester begins to determine if there is space in the program. Out-of-state residents are not eligible for admission to a program that has a waiting list.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Electronics career.
-
After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
- Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
- Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
- You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
-
Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higherWisconsin Private Schools
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
MATC Electronics program graduates are prepared to:
- Apply electronic theory to practice.
- Operate test equipment.
- Build electronic circuits and systems.
- Evaluate the operation of electronic circuits or systems.
- Communicate technical information.
-
Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 5 10 7 Number of Surveys Sent 5 10 7 Number of Surveys Returned 4 2 6 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 3 2 5 Percent Available for Employment 75.0% 100.0% 83.3% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 25.0% 0.0% 16.7% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 3 2 5 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 3 2 5 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0 0 0 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 0 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.5 3.5 3.3 Number of Satisfaction Responses 4 2 6 Very Satisfied (4) 2 1 2 Percent Very Satisfied 50.0% 50.0% 33.3% Satisfied (3) 2 1 4 Percent Satisfied 50.0% 50.0% 66.7% Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 4 2 6 Preparation for Getting a Job 3 1 2 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 75.0% 50.0% 33.3% Career Change 0 1 1 Percent Career Change 0.0% 50.0% 16.7% Improvement of Existing Skills 0 0 0 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Preparation for Further Education 0 0 2 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% Personal Interest 1 0 1 Percent Personal Interest 25.0% 0.0% 16.7% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 3 2 5 Before Enrollment 0 0 1 Percent Before Enrollment 0.0% 0.0% 20.0% While Attending the College 2 2 2 Percent While Attending the College 66.7% 100.0% 40.0% After Training at the College 1 0 2 Percent After Training at the College 33.3% 0.0% 40.0% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 3 2 5 In College District 3 2 4 Percent In College District 100.0% 100.0% 80.0% In Wisconsin, Not in District 0 0 1 Percent of In Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% 20.0% Outside of Wisconsin 0 0 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 0 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 3 2 5 Average Monthly Wage $4,357 $4,631 $3,751 Average Hourly Wage $25.33 $26.92 $21.81 Average Work Hours per Week 43.3 40.0 40.0 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions DRS Daylight Solutions Manufacturing Technician Extreme Engineering Solutions Manufacturing Technician Hi-Techniques Inc Production Technician Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Medical Device Assembler Pro-Active Engineering Soldering Technician Sun Prairie * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
