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Electrical Engineering 101

Electrical engineers talking in a lab in front of solar panels
Get familiar with the fundamentals of electricity

This seminar series introduces the fundamental concepts of electrical engineering to those without an engineering background looking to break into or advance their career in the energy sector. 

Electrical Engineering 101 covers the basic properties of electricity, such as power, energy, charge, current and voltage. Concepts such as DC and AC circuit analysis, transformers and electrical machines, interconnected power systems, protection and control, power electronic devices and converters, and renewable energy will also be covered.

The series was updated and revamped in 2021 – based on input from our industry partners and feedback from previous participants – to ensure that those who complete the series are equipped with the very latest foundational tools they need to speak confidently and contribute effectively in energy-related roles.

Next session will be held in 2025

Key features

 Industry-approved topics taught by expert instructor

 12-week evening program  

 Part-time (3 hours per week)

 Location is Centre for Urban Innovation, 44 Gerrard Street East

 Receive an official record of completion for your resume

The workshop series teaches various basic concepts* of electrical engineering. Successful candidates of this series will be able to:

  • Understand the basic properties of electricity, such as power, energy, charge, current and voltage.
  • Explain the operation of DC and AC circuits.
  • Compute voltage, current, and power in different parts of simple circuits.
  • Explain the theory of operation of transformers and alternators.
  • Identify power electronic devices for different applications.
  • Explain the theory of operation of power electronic converters.
  • Identify power system components, connectivity and functionality.
  • Explain the role of protection and control in power system operation.
  • Identify different renewable energy sources and explain their roles in modern power systems.

* All concepts are also prererequisites for the Professional Master's Diploma Program in Energy and Innovation (PMDip) for which this series can be used as preparation. Please note, however, that completion of this series does not guarantee your admission into the PMDip program. 

  • Week 1: Basic concepts
  • Week 2: DC circuits
  • Week 3: Electrical power and energy: DC
  • Week 4: AC circuits
  • Week 5: Electrical power and energy: AC
  • Power systems structure, substations and control
  • Week 6: Generation and motors: DC
  • Week 7: Generation and motors: AC
  • Week 8: Transformers
  • Week 9: Power systems structure, substations and control
  • Week 10: Interconnected power systems
  • Week 11: Power system connection
  • Week 12: Introduction to renewable energy
  • Week 13: Review and conclusions

A demonstration in the Schneider Electric Smart Grid Laboratory, Canada’s first university-based smart grid lab, may be used to elucidate some of the key power system concepts learned in this course.

A copy of all learning materials will be provided to all participants.

  • The cost of the series is $1,408.29 per person + tax (HST 13%). This is equivalent to approximately $108 per session.
  • If you need to cancel your registration for any reason, please notify us at least 7 days prior to the first seminar to obtain a full refund.

Please contact us (opens in new window)  if you are an employer interested in sending your employees to take this series as part of ongoing professional development and HR training initiatives. A discount is available for group registrations of six or more. 

TBC

Sessions will take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. ET. The series will run for 12 weeks.

Please note:

  • This schedule is subject to change. 
  • There will be no midterm break.
  • A minimum of six registrants are required to conduct the seminar series. This will be confirmed one week prior to the start date. A full refend or an alternative start date will be provided if the series does not run as scheduled. 

The series will be taught in person at the Centre for Urban Innovation, 44 Gerrard St East, Toronto.

 

Toronto Metropolitan is committed to providing an accessible learning environment. Please contact us if we need to make any accessibility accommodations to ensure your inclusion in this program.

Does Electrical Engineering 101 qualify for a tuition credit for tax purposes?
No, currently, it does not, since Electrical Engineering 101 is delivered as a seminar series and not as part of any postgraduate, undergraduate or master's program. However, a full tax receipt will be provided to all participants for their records.

Are participants required to take any exams or assessments to complete the program?
No, they are not. In order to receive a record of completion, participants are simply required to attend the in-person sessions, complete any background reading and review any learning materials as directed by the program instructor. There is no formal assessment. 

I already have an engineering degree. Can I still take Electrical Engineering 101?
Absolutely. Even though the series covers the basics of electrical engineering, some previous participants have signed up to refresh or update their existing knowledge, especially if it has been a long time since they worked in this field or they specialize in a different area. However, before registering, we would recommend exploring all of our professional development options and/or contacting us to decide which program is the right fit for you. 

Is the series open to Toronto Metropolitan students?
Yes, it is. The series provides an excellent way for current Toronto Metropolitan undergraduate and graduate students to complement their degree, especially if they hope to work in the energy sector. To assist Toronto Metropolitan students in their career development, we reserve a limited number of spaces for them throughout the year at no cost (one per term on a first-come, first-served basis). Please contact us to learn more or be added to our waitlist. 

Bala Venkatesh

If you have any questions about this program, please contact:

Bala Venkatesh
Academic Director
Centre for Urban Energy at Toronto Metropolitan University
Email: bala@torontomu.ca
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 552974