Telecommunications Education and Training Key Terms

Learn about the types of telecommunications education and training available

By Terri Deno

Telecommunications is a fast growing field that includes all types of electronic communications, from telephones to the Internet. There is a variety of specialties available through telecommunications training programs. People can train to repair and install physical hardware, learn how to manage telecommunications systems, and even begin research and development of new technologies. Education and training opportunities are also available for professionals after graduation. These can be found through continuing education opportunities and professional industry organizations.

Certificate program

A certificate program is a basic set of courses designed to provide quick and efficient training for a particular skill. Those that hold a certificate in telecommunications are trained for installation and repair of hardware systems.
Try: The University of Massachusetts outlines its telecommunications certificate program.

Associate's degree in telecommunications

An associate's degree program is usually a two-year program that trains a student for an entry level job in telecommunications. This training includes basic and advanced knowledge of systems and current industry trends.
Try: Springfield Technical Community College provides information on its associates program in telecommunications.

Bachelor's degree in telecommunications

A bachelor's degree in telecommunications is a four-year program that trains students to work in a variety of positions in the industry. A bachelor's degree offers advanced topics on the engineering of telecommunications systems.
Try: Pace University provides prerequisites and learning objectives for its bachelor's degree in telecommunications.

Masters degree in telecommunications

A masters degree in telecommunications offers students a chance to learn more about managing a telecommunications company. A masters degree moves past the technical aspects of the field and teaches management and business skills.
Try: Learn about the master's degree program in telecommunications from the University of Maryland.

Continuing education

Continuing education is a program that offers additional training for telecommunications professionals. Some telecommunications jobs require employees to earn a specific number of continuing education credits per year.
Try: The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee of Boston provides continuing education courses for those in telecommunications to keep their skills marketable.

Telecommunications Industry Association

The Telecommunications Industry Association is one of many professional organizations for those that work in the telecommunications industry. This organization offers education, government standards and networking opportunities for members.
Try: The Telecommunications Industry Association provides certification training in convergence for all telecommunications employees.