I'm a graduate of the Harcourt Learning Correspondence class myself... nice diploma, and decent background info, so I'm a supporter of that school, and correspondence schools in general.
HOWEVER - NOTHING is a replacement for hands-on work, as others here have said, and as any of us in the business can vouch for. Try to hook up with an established contractor... the IBEW is good, but anybody that knows their stuff should provide a good resource.
Depending how much wiring background you have, you can start right away, or take part of the class to get some background, and then get a place somewhere.
Good luck if you make the jump!
