Electricians must have an understanding of higher mathematics. This is especially true for those who want to become electrical engineers. Aspiring electricians will need to take calculus courses, and some schools require courses in statistics and probability.
Electricians should have a solid foundation in physics. Students at MIT, for example, are required to take two physics courses as a part of the core curriculum. Physics teaches students about the nature of electricity and force, as well as fields and waves. At Stanford University, students must take courses in electricity and magnetism, as well as physics and electrical engineering.
Electric engineering majors begin with the basic electrical theory courses. They will learn about circuits, voltage, power system engineering, electromagnetism and statistics. In the latter years of their academic training, prospective electricians will begin to apply the theories they have learned in lab and in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, most electricians act as apprentices for three to five years before beginning their career. This hands-on experience is perhaps one of the most important aspects of electrician training.