Electrician at Michigan State University - Electrician Program
at Michigan State University - Electrician Program in East Lansing, MI
About This Program
Michigan State University's Electrician Program in East Lansing, MI offers a non-union, time-based registered apprenticeship for individuals looking to build a career in the electrical trade. Sponsored directly by MSU, this program combines hands-on work experience with structured classroom instruction, and apprentices are paid throughout their training.
The program runs five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in electrical theory, wiring methods, conduit installation, circuit analysis, National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance, and safe work practices — all within the context of a large institutional facilities environment.
Upon completing the program, graduates are prepared to work as journey-level electricians. The institutional setting at MSU provides exposure to large-scale commercial and facilities electrical work, giving completers a strong foundation for long-term careers in the electrical trade.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$30
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
5 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
How to Apply
Electrician Career Outlook
National Median
$29.61/hr
~$61,588.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$15/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Electrician employment is projected to grow significantly, driven by construction activity, renewable energy expansion, and EV infrastructure buildout. The increasing electrification of buildings and transportation systems creates strong long-term demand. Licensed electricians with experience in solar, battery storage, or industrial controls are especially sought after.
What to Expect as an Electrician Apprentice
Duration
5 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~32 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~115 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Electrician
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Michigan
Electricians in Michigan are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes.
View full Michiganlicensing requirements →Reviews
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