Electrical Apprenticeship Program (EXT)
About the Electrical Apprenticeship Program
The Electrical Apprenticeship Program (EAP) at RWU Extension School (EXT) provides a structured pathway for individuals to become skilled electricians through classroom instruction for students who are concurrently participating in a registered apprenticeship with an approved employer through the RI Department of Labor and Training for RI Journeyman B Licensure*. This program is designed to provide the theoretical knowledge and develop the technical skills and safety awareness necessary for a successful career in the electrical trade.
QUICK LINKS
Electrical Apprenticeship Program Facts
Format
In-person
Schedule
September 9, 2026 to March 29, 2027
Mondays & Wednesdays from 6-9 PM
Time Commitment
150 hours (over 27 weeks) per year.
This program runs for 4 years total (or 600 hours)
Cost
Cost: $2,000 per year
Ways to Save
Parking is provided.
Apply By
August 1, 2026
Upcoming Events
Trade Programs info virtual meeting:
Click this calendar link to schedule a 15-minute one-on-one meeting with us to learn more about this program.
Electrical Apprenticeship Program Overview
The Electrical Apprenticeship Program at Roger Williams University- Extension School is a RIDLT-approved training program designed to help individuals meet the requirements for the Rhode Island Journeyperson “B” Electrician License.
In Rhode Island, becoming a licensed electrician requires concurrent on-the-job training through a registered apprenticeship (RI General Law 5-6-24) and classroom-based Related Training Instruction (RTI). This program provides the RTI component, delivering the structured education required by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT).
Students complete a comprehensive four-year sequence of coursework while working as registered apprentices (RI General Law 5-6-24). The State of Rhode Island requires 144 hours of RTI per year (576 total); our program exceeds this requirement by providing 150 hours per year, totaling 600 hours of instruction. This additional training reinforces key concepts and supports student success on the journeyperson licensing exam.
Through a curriculum grounded in electrical theory, code, and safety, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the electrical trade. The program is designed to be completed concurrently with an apprenticeship, allowing students to gain hands-on experience during the day while attending classes in the evening.
Our program is approved by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT), and we are the only higher education institution in the state with full NCCER accreditation—the national standard for construction training. Students complete regular chapter testing and maintain a minimum 70% average, reinforcing knowledge and preparing for the journeyperson exam.
Courses are taught by industry professionals holding Rhode Island (A or B) or Massachusetts (A or E) electrical licenses. Small class sizes ensure personalized instruction, allowing students to receive direct support, ask questions, and engage more deeply with course material.
Our NCCER-based curriculum reflects current electrical practices, safety standards, and code requirements. Students also complete embedded modules focused on financial literacy, job readiness, communication, and time management. Graduates may also be eligible to receive up to 42 college credits through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), creating opportunities for continued education.
What to Expect in the Program
This program is designed to be rigorous, emphasizing consistent attendance, active participation, and steady academic progress.
Students are expected to actively engage with the Brightspace Learning Management System (LMS), where they will find supplemental learning materials, practice quizzes, and course resources. To be successful in the program, students should plan to dedicate additional time outside of class for studying, completing readings, and reinforcing key concepts.
Program requirements include completing chapter assessments and maintaining a minimum yearly average of 70%. Small class sizes support personalized instruction, giving students the opportunity to ask questions, receive direct support, and engage more deeply with the material.
Students will receive a letter of completion at the end of each academic year. Those who successfully complete all four years of the program will be awarded a Certificate of Completion at the graduation ceremony.
All required textbooks and materials are aligned with industry standards to support student success and prepare graduates for licensure.
Program at a Glance
- Schedule: September – March
- Class Days: Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:00pm-9:00pm
- Location: 1 Empire Street, Providence, RI
- Format: In-person classroom instruction + concurrent apprenticeship
- Time Commitment: 150 hours of classroom instruction per year
- Duration: 4 years (600 total RTI hours)
- Parking: Free parking validation available at the Civic Center Parking Garage
Program Outcomes
- Fulfill the state requirements to qualify for the RI Journeyperson Electrician (B) License test.
- Receive up to 42 RWU Extension School general elective credits (pending review by Director of PLA).
- Gain experience connecting classroom instruction with real-world apprenticeship training, reinforcing skills learned on the job through your apprenticeship.
- Build a foundation forlong-term career advancement, including opportunities for higher earnings, specialization, or business ownership.
Apprenticeship Mandate
According to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (RIDLT) regulations, students must complete both classroom instruction and on-the-job apprenticeship hours concurrently in order to qualify for the journeyperson electrician examination. Our program provides the classroom instruction portion, while students are responsible for securing and maintaining employment as an apprentice with a licensed electrician. To become licensed in the State of Rhode Island, students must concurrently participate in a registered apprenticeship with an approved employer (Rhode Island General Law 5-6-24).
Please note that The RIDLT may not accept your education hours without a timely concurrent registered apprenticeship. Roger Williams University does not make decisions about apprenticeship approval or work hours — all such decisions rest with the RIDLT.
Although we cannot place students directly on apprenticeships, for those enrolled in our program, we can share resources such as contractor listing and, tips and best practices info to support you in finding employment.
Understanding Apprenticeship vs. Related Training Instruction (RTI):
The Apprenticeship is a paid on-the-job training that requires hands-on-learning under a licensed journeyperson or contractor, required for licensure (8,000 hours). You are required to find a suitable apprenticeship experience in order to accumulate the 8,000 hours required to qualify for the state exam.
The Related Training Instruction (RTI)or Related Education provides the theoretical learning or classroom education portion of the apprenticeship education requirement. Roger Williams University will provided the 150 hours of related training instruction, per year, required to qualify for the state exam.
Click the link below to make an appointment
Application & Enrollment Process
- New students - Application
- New Students - Enrollment
- Advanced Entry & Transfer Options
- For International Applicants
- Returning Students -Enrollment process
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older by the program start date.
- A high school diploma or GED is not required for admissions; however, it may be required by employers to be hired as their apprentice.
- Applicants seeking advanced entry based on prior training (RTI credit) from a Technical/Vocational/CTE or trade school must provide a copy of their high school diploma or transcript. Eligible students may be able to waive one or two years of the program, pending RIDLT approval.
- Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.
- Applicants must have a strong command of the English language.
- Complete the online application form.
- Attend a virtual meeting (info session) with the program advisor.
- Once accepted, submit payment of tuition to confirm enrollment.
Applications are accepted year-round; however, acceptance letters will be issued starting March 1.
You may be eligible to begin your studies at an advanced level (Year 2, Year 3, or Year 4) based on prior education or training. RWU recognizes both transfer students and individuals with relevant CTE or trade school experience. All advanced entry admissions is subject to review and approval by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (RIDLT).
Applicants seeking advanced entry or transfer must submit documentation (transcript, certificate, or signed letter) from their previous school or training provider with their application.
Transfer from Another Apprenticeship Program
- Students who have begun an electrical apprenticeship program at another approved provider may be eligible to transfer into RWU.
- Applicants must submit documentation of completed coursework (transcript, certificate, or official letter).
You may Receive Credit for Prior Training (CTE or Trade School Graduates)
If you completed a CTE, vocational, or trade program, you may be eligible to receive Related Training Instruction (RTI) credit and begin at an advanced level pending review and approval by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (RIDLT).
- Vocational/Technical (CTE) Graduates (e.g., Davies Career & Technical HS, PCTA, Chariho High School, etc.) may receive up to 144 hours of RTI and be eligible to start at Year 2, pending RIDLT approval.
- Trade School Graduates (e.g., MTTI, New England Tech, etc.)
May receive up to 288 hours of RTI and be eligible to start at Year 3, pending RIDLT approval
This program is not structured to offer visas to foreign nationals. You’ll need to be already in the U.S. with work authorization, such as: U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card holders), individuals with asylee/refugee status, DACA recipients (if the sponsor accepts them). Please reach out to us for more information.
Returning students must use this payment links below to enroll in the program.
*To become licensed in the State of Rhode Island, students must concurrently participate in a registered apprenticeship with an approved employer (Rhode Island General Law 5-6-24).
Financial Information: Scholarships & Refund Policy
A small number of one-time partial scholarships will be made available to incoming Year 1 students who provide valid proof of a registered apprenticeship (such as an apprenticeship card). Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible students who submit the necessary documentation by the date stipulated on the acceptance letter.
Although not affiliated with Roger Williams University, the Bring Back the Trades organization awards scholarships to students attending post-secondary education in the trades. The David L. Taton Family Vocational/Technical Scholarship Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation might be of interest to you. The RI Chapter of The Associated General Contractors of America might also have scholarship funding.
Also please note that some employers (apprenticeship site) might cover tuition expenses (in full or in part).
Career Opportunities in the Skilled Trades
Trade occupations offer sustainable and reliable employment, providing practical and valuable skills, lower student loan debt, and the opportunity to earn as you learn. The high wage-earning potential of this trade, combined with the low financial investment upfront, creates a strong pathway for economic development and self-sufficiency for program graduates.
Learn more about careers in the electrical trade:
Request Information
If you have general questions about this program, fill out the request info form, and a member of our enrollment team will contact you: Request Info
