Electrical Transmission Systems Technology | Bismarck State College

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Electrical Transmission Systems Technology

Overview

type:
Energy / Certificates / 2-Year Degree Options
Format:
Online

Overview

Degrees Offered: AAS, Program Certificate
Program Begins: Fall, Spring, Summer
Delivery Method: Online
Phone: 701-224-5651 • 800-852-5685
Email: bsc.energy@bismarckstate.edu
 

Providing Continuing Education and Training for Dispatchers

The Electric Transmission Systems Technology program teaches students about the electrical power system in North America, including basic electricity, generation, distribution and transmission, with a strong emphasis on system operations and dispatching.  This online program was created in response to industry demand for qualified system operators. 

System operations is the aspect of the energy industry that deals with the management, delivery, safety and reliability of the wholesale electrical power market.  System operators ensure the reliability of the transmission of electricity over the electrical grid and to consumers and the economical use of resources. System operators follow established procedures and monitor operational conditions.  System operators also prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system. In the event of an electric system disturbance or failure, system operators quickly restore service in a safe and orderly manner through switching and radio directions given to field crews.

System operators are responsible for complying with the NERC reliability standards.  Courses in this program are approved for North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) continuing education hours (CEHs) combined with college credit.  Courses can be taken for certification requirements or for those who intend to pursue a college degree.
 

Get the education you need

The AAS can be completed in four semesters and consists of 51 credit hours of specialized courses and 15 credit hours of general education courses.

Students seeking the certificate complete 51 credit hours of specialized courses in four semesters, with four credit hours of general education.

Courses may also be taken individually for CEH purposes. 

Additional CEH-only courses are also available that do not apply toward a college degree.

Courses are delivered online in an asynchronous manner, making participation flexible for shift workers already in the industry.

Courses begin every 3-5 weeks throughout the year. 

Prospective students should be aware that most workers in this occupation must become NERC Certified, be willing to work a rotating shift, pay close attention and have confinement to duty during the shift period. Those employed in this industry must be able to handle stress, possess excellent communication skills, have above-average computer skills, and be able to handle multiple tasks. When applying for jobs, applicants may also be required to pass a drug screen and an eye exam, including the ability to distinguish between colors accurately.
 

Additional Information:

Electrical Transmission LogoBismarck State College (BSC_001) is recognized by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) as a continuing education provider that adheres to NERC CE Program criteria.

NERC Flyer
 

Additional Program Costs

Please see the Tuition & Fees page for information on credit hour tuition and mandatory fees.

ETST textbook costs are estimated at $350 per semester. There are 4 semesters in this program.



For more information contact:
bsc.energy@bismarckstate.edu 
701-224-5651 • 800-852-5685
 

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, Electric Transmission System Technology students will be able to:
  • Demonstrate the procedural relationships of the generation, transmission and distribution of DC and AC electricity, the components used and power flow fundamentals.
  • Interpret industry’s reliability policies and procedures, safety and emergency issues and the impacts operators’ actions have on the bulk electric system.
  • Describe the role of Systems Operator pertaining to operations, switching, electrical diagram interpretation, communication systems and control strategies.