Vocational Trade Schools in North Dakota
Why Choose Trade School?
According to the United States Department of Labor, enrollment in trade apprenticeship programs has grown by 56% since 2013. Trade school differs from a traditional four-year college, but the basic goal remains the same: to prepare students to enter the workforce.
Trade schools offer certificates and associate degrees. Vocational programs focus more on technical skills for one specific job, while programs at traditional four-year colleges cover theories and multiple subjects. An associate degree from a vocational school takes about two years to complete, while a bachelor’s from a university takes four years to complete.
Students who want to enter the workforce sooner and specialize in a trade can benefit from attending tech school. Trade schools offer programs in fields like physical therapy, welding, respiratory care, and plumbing.
Trade schools generally require a high school or GED diploma. However, some vocational schools offer programs that allow students to earn credits while completing high school.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 74% of graduates with vocational credits work in a job in a field related to their degree. With multiple trade schools in North Dakota to choose from, finding the right one takes research. Read on to learn more about the top trade schools in this state, salary potential, job growth, common vocational programs, and financial aid.
Vocational Trade Schools in North Dakota
Bismarck State College
Bismarck, ND- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Bismarck State College enrolls students in 42 associate programs and 51 certificate programs. From its North Dakota campus, the public institution lets learners choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. These flexible options help students work while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
Professionals with a certificate can enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Bismarck State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 16
Total Online Certificate Programs: 23
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,320
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,980
- In-State$3,320
- Out-of-state$4,980
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,739
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
North Dakota State College of Science
- Wahpeton, ND
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
North Dakota State College of Science lets learners choose from 36 associate programs and 32 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Wahpeton, offers online and on-campus enrollment options, which appeal to a variety of learners. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills and train learners for a particular role. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
North Dakota State College of Science at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,528
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,433
- In-State$4,528
- Out-of-state$5,433
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,977
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Lake Region State College
- Devils Lake, ND
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students choose from 16 associate programs and 12 certificate programs at Lake Region State College. Based in Devils Lake, North Dakota, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation. The general education courses in associate programs build transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and writing. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. Associate degree graduates can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Lake Region State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 6
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,778
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,778
- In-State$3,778
- Out-of-state$3,778
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,982
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Sitting Bull College
- Fort Yates, ND
- 4 year
- Campus
Sitting Bull College offers vocational and academic programs, with 17 associate programs and nine certificate programs. Located in Fort Yates, North Dakota, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Sitting Bull College at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,600
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,600
- In-State$3,600
- Out-of-state$3,600
- In-State$6,300
- Out-of-state$6,300
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled285
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Turtle Mountain Community College
- Belcourt, ND
- 4 year
- Campus
Students choose from 14 associate programs and 18 certificate programs at Turtle Mountain Community College. The private institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Belcourt, North Dakota campus. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills and prepare graduates for the job market. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Instead of general education classes, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their area of study.
With a certificate, graduates pursue entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Turtle Mountain Community College at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,776
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $1,776
- In-State$1,776
- Out-of-state$1,776
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled531
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Dakota College at Bottineau
- Bottineau, ND
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Dakota College at Bottineau, learners can study in 23 associate programs and 19 certificate programs. The public institution, located in North Dakota, offers online and on-campus enrollment options, which appeal to a variety of learners. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
The school's career-focused programs train learners for specialized career paths. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
Professionals with a certificate can enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. After an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Dakota College at Bottineau at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 12
Total Online Certificate Programs: 12
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,066
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,100
- In-State$4,066
- Out-of-state$6,100
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate43%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,006
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
United Tribes Technical College
- Bismarck, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students choose from 15 associate programs and five certificate programs at United Tribes Technical College. From its main campus in Bismarck, North Dakota, the private institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
The school's career-focused programs provide cutting-edge training in specific career paths. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. With an associate degree, graduates either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
United Tribes Technical College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,220
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,220
- In-State$3,220
- Out-of-state$3,220
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled434
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Dickinson State University
- Dickinson, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At Dickinson State University, learners choose from four associate programs and four certificate programs. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in North Dakota. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates pursue entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
Dickinson State University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 100%
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,522
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,782
- In-State$6,522
- Out-of-state$9,782
- In-State$5,826
- Out-of-state$5,826
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate100%
- Students Enrolled1,350
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Cankdeska Cikana Community College
- Fort Totten, ND
- 2 year
- Campus
At Cankdeska Cikana Community College, students advance their education in 15 associate programs and four certificate programs. From its Fort Totten, North Dakota, location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. An associate degree qualifies graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Cankdeska Cikana Community College at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,000
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,000
- In-State$3,000
- Out-of-state$3,000
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate25%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled160
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment1%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At the University of North Dakota, learners can strengthen their skills in 13 certificate programs. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Grand Forks. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train learners for a particular role. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills such as writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
A certificate helps graduates advance their career or move into a new role. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
University of North Dakota at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Certificate Programs: 6
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,212
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,371
- In-State$8,212
- Out-of-state$14,371
- In-State$10,534
- Out-of-state$18,434
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled13,581
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
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Explore our rankings methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.
FAQ on Vocational Trade Schools in North Dakota
What is trade school?
Trade schools teach learners the technical skills required for vocational jobs. Most trade schools offer associate degrees and certificates.
Are scholarships available for vocational students?
Most accredited trade schools offer scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. Private companies and nonprofit foundations also offer scholarships to vocational students.
Can trade school credits transfer?
Many four-year colleges and universities accept transfer credits from accredited trade schools. Some schools allow graduates with associate degrees to earn a bachelor’s degree with two additional years of study.
When can I apply to trade school?
Prospective students can apply to trade school during their senior year of high school. High school graduates can also apply during any open enrollment period.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Before selecting a trade school program, research its accreditation status. Colleges can earn regional, national, and programmatic accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation oversee third-party accrediting agencies.
The accreditation process benefits students by ensuring they receive a quality education. When a school earns accreditation, it means an accrediting agency regularly reviews its programs to ensure certain standards. Students can check a school’s accreditation status using the ED’s searchable database.
Trade schools commonly earn national accreditation. The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges is one of the top accrediting agencies for vocational schools. Schools that offer online programs can earn national accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
Some tech schools in North Dakota earn regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Certain scholarships only award students attending a regionally accredited college or university, and some employers may prefer degrees from regionally accredited schools.
Degrees can also earn programmatic accreditation. For example, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education oversees accreditation for physical therapy programs, and the American Council for Construction Education accredits construction management programs.
Vocational schools in North Dakota must maintain a license. A state agency typically offers licensure to these schools, but private trade schools may earn a license from the ED. Prospective students can check with a school’s admissions office concerning questions about licensing and accreditation status.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Many trade school graduates enter fields with rewarding pay and a positive job outlook. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for all technical and trade school jobs is $55,270. However, the exact pay a trade school graduate earns depends on factors like industry and experience.
Geographical location can also impact pay. For example, employers in rural towns in North Dakota may pay less than a city like Fargo due to the difference in the cost of living. However, some rural employers may offer incentives like higher pay for professionals who work in a high-need field.
According to the BLS, electricians earned a median annual salary of $61,590 in 2023 and benefit from a projected job growth of 11% between 2023 and 2033. Construction managers earned an annual median salary of $104,900 in 2023. The BLS projects the need for this job to rise by 9% between 2023 and 2033. Graduates can quickly begin working in one of these roles after finishing trade school.
Furthermore, plumbers earned a median annual salary of $61,550 in 2023 and benefit from a projected job growth of 6% between 2023 and 2033, which compares as much faster than average to other professions.
Read on to learn more about job outlook and salary for specific trade school programs.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Trade schools in North Dakota prepare individuals to become veterinarians, physical therapists, dental hygienists, occupational therapists, and radiologists. These vocational programs place emphasis on technical skills rather than theories. Some include an apprenticeship or internship component so students can gain supervised hands-on experience.
See below for five common vocational programs, including potential job growth and salary information.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
While vocational school tends to cost less than a traditional four-year college or university, students can still earn financial aid to lower the cost. Some accredited trade schools in North Dakota accept FAFSA funds.
The FAFSA takes about 55 minutes for first-time applicants to complete. Students who want to continue receiving funds must reapply each year, which takes about 45 minutes. Dependents must use their guardian’s tax information from two years prior to the current year. All other applicants must enter their own tax information.
The government uses this data to determine need-based awards like subsidized loans and grants. The FAFSA also qualifies students to receive unsubsidized loans. Unlike subsidized loans, these funds do not require the recipient to demonstrate financial need, but they begin accruing interest immediately.
Graduates must repay federal loans, but not federal grants. Most federal loans allow a six-month grace period after graduation and follow a 10-year payment schedule. Some individuals may qualify for loan forgiveness or an alternate payment plan.
Individuals check whether their prospective school accepts FAFSA funds.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Trade school students can avoid large student loan payments by applying for scholarships. Most scholarships require an essay component and recommendation letters, so students should plan accordingly before the deadlines.
Below, we highlight five scholarships reserved specifically for students attending trade school in North Dakota.
