vcc.ca
ELCO 1120: Principles of Magnetism
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Construction Elec Foundation
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course, students will learn about the concepts of magnetism and electromagnetism and how they relate to generating electricity. Students will solve problems using the principles of magnetism and build an electromagnet.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the characteristics of magnetic lines of force.
- Describe the effects of current-carrying conductors and coils.
- Describe the terminology and units of measure for magnetic circuits.
- Solve magnetic circuit problems.
- Describe common applications of electromagnetic devices.
- Construct an electromagnet and evaluate its strength.
- Explain how alternating voltage is generated.
- Describe the basic principles of electromagnetic induction.
- Apply Lenz's law.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 25
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 25
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 60
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 25
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 60
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
20 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
|
Lab Work |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Characteristics of magnetic lines of force
- Current-carrying conductors and coils
- Magnetic circuit terminology and units of measure
- Magnetic circuit problem-solving
- Electromagnetic devices and applications
- Electromagnet construction and testing
- Alternating voltage generation
- Principles of electromagnetic induction
- Lenz's law and applications
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.