Course overview
Electrical Advanced Diploma Level 3 Evening Course City of Bristol CollegeThis part-time programme is delivered at Advanced Engineering Centre and runs for 6 hours per week, with classes on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6pm to 9:15pm. The course will commence on 12 January 2026 and run for 35 weeks. It is designed for adults aged 19 and over who are looking to progress towards a career as an electrician. Alongside your taught sessions, you should expect to complete around 3 hours of self-study per week.
The course will equip you with the industry-standard knowledge and practical skills that employers expect from new electricians. This Level 3 advanced qualification is designed to develop your confidence, technical understanding and hands-on ability.
If you’re aged 19+ and this will be your first Level 3 course, it may be free under the government’s National Skills Fund (NSF). Get in touch to find out more.
Additional information
Who is this course for?
This course is for adult students who already have some experience in electrical installations and already have their Level 2 Electrical Diploma.
What you'll learn
The course is comprised of a mixture of both practical and theory-based learning and assessments.
Course entry requirements
To join this course, you must have achieved a High Merit (75% and above) in the Level 2 Electrical Diploma, and hold GCSE Grade 4 (C) or above in Maths, English and Science. You should also be able to demonstrate a high level of enthusiasm, commitment to succeed, and readiness to prepare effectively for employment.
You will be invited to a course information meeting where you will receive information, advice and guidance about the programme. This event will give you the opportunity to learn more about the course and ask any questions you may have.
Applicants below 90% attendance on Level 2 programme will have been deemed not to have met our entry criteria. You will also need to provide a reference from an employer or relevant professional, including confirmation of attendance. This helps us ensure that you can be fully supported to achieve well on the course.
All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence-based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference/school report.
We are committed to helping you find the right course so you can flourish. If you have any concerns about the application process, please talk to us — we are here to support you every step of the way
How is the course delivered and assessed?
You will be assessed in a number of different ways and receive regular feedback in reviews to guide your progress.
Some of the ways in which your success will be measured are: professional discussions, assignments, exams and practical assessments.
This course will follow the format of 6 hours per week spent learning in college and 3 hours per week of self-study.
Future career and study opportunities
On successful completion of the course, you may be able to apply for an apprenticeship in the electrical industry or obtain employment and complete the NVQ Level 3. If you complete the NVQ, you will be recognised as a fully qualified electrician.
The AM2 final test is part of the NVQ Level 3.
Additional costs
As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, you may likely need to pay for travel and stationery.
You will need your own protective footwear for practical sessions. You may also need a high-visibility vest, protective goggles and gloves for some tasks. We offer some equipment which is free for you to use in college.
If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.

























