Zane State College partnered with AEP to design this BSET degree in response to this critical need for an electric utility workforce. Watch this video to learn more!
The Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology department at Zane State offers two degree tracks to its students. First, students earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology, typically in two years. Upon graduation, AAS holders may enter the workforce, or elect to continue into our Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology (BSET) program. The Bachelor’s degree is typically completed in two additional years of schooling. For more information regarding the AAS degree, click here. Read below for more information regarding the BSET degree.
Zane State College’s first-of-its-kind bachelor’s degree allows qualified students to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in as little as two years. This program is for those who have an ABET-accredited Associate Degree, including our EEET Program.
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology (BSET) was designed in response to the critical need for an electric utility workforce. The electric utility industry is an essential service that underpins operations of all businesses, industries, and homes who rely on an uninterrupted, on-demand electrical infrastructure facing a wave of retirements and rapidly changing technology. Smartgrid technologies and advancing protection and control systems are forcing companies to demand a better educated workforce.
Students completing the Bachelor of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology (BSET) specialize in the design, analysis, installation, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of protection and control systems used across our nation’s high voltage power grid. Graduates of this program will have the skills and knowledge to excel in a variety of entry-level engineering roles related to protection and control of power industry equipment. Major employers may include power generation facilities, power transmission design and construction service companies, substation equipment vendors, and large manufacturing facilities.
For more information, please read the FAQ or email your question to powerup@zanestate.edu.
Learn about the multiple ways to pursue a degree in Engineering Technology here.
Major: Electrical Engineering Technology in Protection and Control
Degree: Bachelor of Applied Science
Location: On Campus
Duration: 2 Years
Type: Engineering
Course of Study: BSET_COS_22_23
The curriculum was developed by faculty from Zane State College’s ABET accredited EEET program, public utility partners, the manufacturing sector, and high school educators. The collaboration spanned across the region, with each entity adding supporting documentation with a focus on industry recognized credentials that align with in-demand occupations.
What is the Bachelor of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology (BSET)?
BSET is a Bachelor’s Completion program, meaning it is a bachelor’s degree for individuals already holding a qualified associate degree. The BSET Program will add an additional 60 credits resulting in a bachelor’s degree.
Who can apply for BSET?
Graduates of an ABET-accredited associate degree, with a C grade or better in both Physics I and Pre-Calculus, can apply to the Zane State College’s BSET Program. This includes graduates of Zane State College’s EEET.
I have an ABET accredited degree but do not have a C or better in Physics I and Pre-Calculus. Can I still apply?
These classes can be taken during spring and summer semesters before core program classes start in the fall semester. Contact hello@zanestate.edu for assistance.
How do I know if my program is ABET accredited?
Find out with the ABET-Accredited Program Search.
When is the best time to apply to the BSET Program?
Applications are being accepted for classes that start in August. Potential students are encouraged to apply as early as possible before seats are filled. Space is limited — apply today.
Is there an application fee?
No. All applications to Zane State College are free.
How many are accepted into the BSET Program each year?
A total of 25 students each year are accepted.
How will I know if I am accepted to the BSET Program?
You will receive a letter of acceptance once we have received and processed your application including your college transcripts.
I am at another institution/have graduated from another institution. Can I transfer into the BSET program?
Yes! The requirements for admission are to have graduated from an ABET-accredited associate degree, with a C grade or better in both Physics I and Pre-Calculus.
I’m a CCP student and want to complete my bachelor’s degree at Zane State College. Which path should I take?
Students who are interested in pursuing the bachelor’s degree at Zane State College should complete the associate of applied science degree in the Electrical/Electronics Technology program first and then apply for admission into the bachelor’s degree.
Do credits for the BSET Program cost the same as associate credits at Zane State College?
Yes, tuition is the same.
How much does the BSET degree cost?
If you already have an ABET-accredited associate degree, then the cost is only $10,740 for tuition plus $2,000 estimated for books. Please note, tuition rates are subject to change.
EEET graduates of Zane State College have the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree through the BSET program or through Miami University. How does Zane State College’s BSET degree differ?
The Zane State College BSET curriculum has a more narrow focus, applicable to careers in the electric utility field. These careers would include both hands-on positions as well as engineering substation design jobs. BSET credits are the same price as associate credits, enabling students to earn a bachelor’s degree at an affordable price.
How long does the BSET Program take to complete?
If full-time, a student can complete this in two years. Part-time students will need to develop an additional plan to determine the best way to complete. The bachelor’s degree is 60 additional credit hours.
Which career(s) will I be eligible for with this degree?
Read information on careers and program outcome here.
The curriculum for the Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology Protection and Control at Zane State College is designed to prepare graduates to obtain entry-level employment with companies in the electric utility sector as a:
Graduates may also find employment nationally or locally in many manufacturing facilities working with a plant electrical engineer in the design and implementation of electrical control and protection circuitry.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2019 Winter Salary Survey provided an entry-level estimate of $69,000/yr median salary for all electrical engineer bachelor’s degree holders. Other sources offer salary estimates based on career averages, meaning that both entry-level and senior level salaries are aggregated. US Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests a May 2018 career average of $99,070/yr for electrical and electronics engineering workers. Visit www.zanestate.edu/BSET for more detailed information on occupations and salaries.
The need for a skilled workforce with an Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical/Engineering Technology in Protection and Control is strong. Companies like American Electric Power (AEP) Ohio, Aerotek, EASi, and Ohio’s Electrical Cooperatives are planning for significant workforce shortages over the next several years — with 140 annual openings expected in the Southeast and Central Ohio regions alone.*
*JobsOhio Predicted Occupational Growth 2014 – 2024 and Ohio Means Jobs