A BRIGHT FUTURE

Photo what? Photovoltaic (PV) devices directly convert the sun’s light into electricity.

Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Solar Photovoltaic Certificate program teaches you to install, maintain, and repair solar photovoltaic systems. You will gain substantial knowledge of solar technologies and electrical installations equivalent to a master electrician.

The median annual wage for solar photovoltaic installers was $44,390, according to 2021 reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

TCL’s 21-credit-hour Solar Photovoltaic Certificate program can be completed in as little as two semesters. Evening classes are offered. Hands-on courses include AC/DC circuits, electrical installations and code,  basic solar energy technology, and solar photovoltaic systems, design and installation.

Click here to see the curriculum

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    • Quick Facts

    IN-DEMAND

    Solar experts are in increasing demand locally and nationally

    HANDS-ON

    Learn by actually practicing the skills you’ll need on the job.

    A GREAT CAREER

    The S.C. annual mean wage for solar PV installers is $44,390.

    ACCREDITATION

    Technical College of the Lowcountry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Technical College of the Lowcountry may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org). 

    PROGRAM COST

    Tuition: 21 credits x $214 per credit = $4,494.

    Remember, this is before S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other financial aid, which could drop your costs by more than half. In fact, after financial aid, many students attend for free. See more about paying for TCL.

    *Based on Fall 2022 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Does not include fees, books and other costs. Qualifications vary.

    WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

    “At TCL, our focus green building benefits the students and the entire community.”

    Tim Newsome

    Building Instructor

    FAQS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    The Career & Education Opportunities

    Employment of solar photovoltaic (PV) installers is projected to grow 24 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. The continued expansion and adoption of solar panel installations will result in excellent job opportunities for qualified individuals, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

    Certify Your Skills

    Students will have substantial knowledge of solar technologies and electrical installations equivalent to a master electrician. Students will qualify for and succeed on the NABCEP Entry Level Exam (North American Board of Certified Energy Providers). Students will perform at the Installer Certification level.

    Is this program for you?

    The program is a great fit for those who:

    • Have strong math skills and are detail oriented.
    • Like hands-on projects.
    • Have physical stamina and strength.

    Program Dean

    Karen Smith

    Dean, Business & Industrial Technologies

    843-525-8323

    Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 14, Rm. 118

    Instructors

    Timothy Newsome

    Building Construction Instructor

    843-525-8290

    Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 16, Rm. 121