RailEI Technical Education and Training Programmes
Electrification Engineering Diploma
Principles and theory
The aim of the programme is to give delegates an understanding of the principles of the theory and practice of Overhead Line Electrification engineering in the UK. The trainers are all very experienced electrification engineers who have spent their careers designing, constructing, operating and maintaining systems in the UK and abroad.
The Diploma is comprised of three consecutive modules involving over 100 hours of taught study all mapped to HE Level 6. Delegates will receive comprehensive course materials with worked examples to support their learning. Upon successful completion of all three modular assessments, candidates will be awarded the RailEI Diploma in Electrification Engineering.
DC 3rd – 4th Rail Electrification Course
In today’s UK railway, DC 3rd & 4th Rail Electrification Systems still have a strategic part to play in the future of rail transport and the journey towards its sustainable future. This course aims to give delegates an understanding of the electrification principles, their application and safe practices within the context of the integrated railway as a whole.
These courses are aimed at newly qualified and experienced engineers and will give delegates the knowledge and skills needed for professionals in electrification engineering.
Four modules
Each Module costs: £985 Accommodation cost: £425
Top-up qualification to IENG for HND / Foundation Degree Holders
OLE Module 1 Systems and maintenance
Gives a knowledge of OLE system types and the interfaces with the pantograph. Understanding the essential interfaces with other railway assets including earthworks, structures and clearances. Knowledge of Inspection, maintenance, servicing and repair processes. Gives an understanding of the concept of the wider UK railway system, operations, timetables, and legislation.
29 June – 02 July 2026 – In-person
OLE Module 2 Design
Focuses upon electrification design for projects and enhancements. Understand design categories and processes. Develops skills in design of electrical, mechanical and civil engineering aspects including construction design and bonding design. Includes design case studies and exercises.
21 – 24 September 2026 – In-person
OLE Module 3 Construction, commissioning and asset management
The study becomes more strategic and delivery oriented with advanced asset management techniques and applications. Gain a deep understanding of UK OLE construction and renewal processes including commissioning, OLE system testing and handback to service. Understanding of ethical and sustainability aspects of OLE work and future proofing for climate change.
07 – 10 December 2026 – In-person
3rd - 4th Rail electrification
This stand-alone course aims to give delegates an understanding of the electrification principles, their application and safe practices within the context of the integrated railway as a whole. Delegates will be able to put DC 3rd and 4th railway electrification systems into context; be able to describe the principal elements of the DC electrification system, from the supply of the bulk energy, its transmission and distribution along the rail route, to its conversion and feeding as usable power for train traction and other operational systems. The curriculum offers a deep understanding of legislation, standards, and codes while shedding light on the critical stakeholders and interfaces involved.
16 – 19 November 2026 – In-person
Delegate feedback
Top up to IEng
RailEI Electrification Diploma is a form of further learning and, together with a short Supplementary Report, fills the academic gap to IEng for those with relevant HND or Foundation degree qualifications.
Modules 1,2 and 3 must be completed successfully and the Supplementary Report will be subject to peer review.
Important things you should know
Questions and answers
We do recommend that the modules are completed in order, however we recognise that busy work schedules may prevent this. Modules 1 and 2 can be taken in any order, but delegates cannot start Module 3 until after they have completed Module 1.
3rd-4th Rail Electrification is a stand-alone course and can be completed at any time.
Approximately two weeks before the course, we will send you an email with the joining instructions confirming timings, the agenda, location and arrangements for the course.
Yes, approximately one week before the course commences, the presentations that will be given on the course will be made available to delegates.
Yes, you are able to book accommodation at the training venue in Derby. This includes a single room, breakfast and evening meal and if you require accommodation the night before the course begins, we can arrange that too.
Absolutely! We are very happy to liaise with your colleagues regarding your booking and can accept a purchase order and raise an invoice for payment. Please contact our education team education@railei.org
Please complete a course booking form for each delegate and email them to education@railei.org
A space will be reserved for each delegate, and we will send you an invoice ready for payment.
Module 4 is a supplementary course covering DC 3rd & 4th rail electrification systems. At this point it does not form part of the Electrification Engineering Diploma.
Our courses take place at the Derby Conference Centre. Its central location with good transport links, combined with its classroom sizes, onsite accommodation and proximity to local rail infrastructure make it an ideal venue for our training course.
Module 4 3rd-4th Rail Electrification will take place in London. Unfortunately, we are unable to arrange any accommodation for this module.
We can also offer this course to individual clients who are able to populate a full cohort of participants and can run the event at UK locations having suitable facilities. To discuss your requirements, please contact education@railei.org
Absolutely! Let us know any dietary requirements when you book, or simply drop us an email at education@railei.org and we will ensure the venue is notified.
We will aim to cater for every circumstance. Please let us know your individual requirements as soon as possible and we will liaise with you to ensure that, as far as possible, your needs are met.
There is no formal dress code, but smart, casual and comfortable is our recommendation; these events provide excellent networking opportunities with colleagues and peers. For some of our courses, you will be required to bring suitable footwear or full PPE. Where this is necessary, we will provide full details in the joining instructions.
You may cancel your course booking at any time up to six weeks before the course start date. Cancellations will be refunded, subject to an administration charge of £35 plus VAT. Cancellations received between 4-6 weeks prior to the course start date, will be refunded at RailEI’s sole discretion and will be subject to an administration charge of £100 plus VAT. If cancellation occurs within 28 days of the course start date, the course fee becomes payable in full.
Course bookings can be transferred subject to the following terms:
- More than 28 days’ notice – The delegate may transfer free of charge to any other date for the same course.
- Between 28-21 days’ notice – The delegate may transfer to any other date for the same course for £100 plus VAT per course.
- Between 20-14 days’ notice – The delegate may transfer to any other date for the same course for £225 plus VAT per course.
- Between 13 days and start time of course – Transfers are not permitted.
For full details, please see our Training Terms and Conditions.