Minnesota Trade Schools

Minnesota’s trade school system combines the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities network with specialized private institutions to serve the state’s diverse economy. The state’s strong manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and agriculture sectors create consistent demand for skilled workers across multiple industries.

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Best Schools by Specialty

Community and Technical College Excellence

Alexandria Technical & Community College serves 4,200+ students annually with nearly 50 programs spanning Business, Health, Nursing, Design, and Police Training, maintaining HLC accreditation with tuition at $182.61 per credit hour.

Hennepin Technical College operates two Twin Cities campuses serving 3,891 students with 40+ programs across Architecture/HVAC, Healthcare, Transportation, and Cybersecurity, offering courses from $200-$230 per credit hour.

Anoka Technical College provides 70+ career and technical programs to 2,146 students, specializing in Healthcare, Skilled Trades, and Technology with tuition at $209.16 per credit hour.

Northwest Technical College serves northern Minnesota with 38 programs across six career paths, enrolling 1,100+ students annually with tuition ranging $196.55-$213.30 per credit hour.

Specialized Technical Training

Dunwoody College of Technology operates as a premier private technical college in Minneapolis with 1,510 students in small classes averaging 11 students, offering 40+ programs with annual tuition of $25,214.

Lynnes Welding Training provides intensive welding training in New Hope with ACCSC accreditation, offering programs from 40 hours ($1,575) to 640 hours ($17,900) with maximum 12 students per class.

Summit Academy serves 511 students annually through the OIC network, providing certificate programs in Construction, Healthcare, IT, and Financial Services at $274 per credit hour including books and materials.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Metro Testing offers specialized plumbing continuing education under Master Plumber Gary Ford’s instruction, providing evening classes with courses ranging $130-$795.

My Plumbing Training provides continuing education for licensed plumbers founded by Scott Thompson, offering both online ($60-$350) and in-person training ($60-$160).

Midway Vo Tech operates construction trade education through internship programs covering Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, and HVAC with full-day scheduling.

Beauty and Wellness Programs

Aveda Institutes Minneapolis campus provides comprehensive beauty education with Cosmetology ($16,716), Esthetics ($9,966), and Massage Therapy ($10,961) programs with NACCAS accreditation.

Empire Beauty Schools operates two Minnesota locations offering Cosmetology and Skin Care programs averaging $16,200 tuition with 100% acceptance rates.

Online and Flexible Learning

Rasmussen University operates nine Minnesota campuses with innovative Empowered Learning curriculum, offering programs in Business, Healthcare, and Technology with average undergraduate tuition of $11,241 annually.

Walden University provides fully online education from Minneapolis headquarters with “Tempo Learning” allowing degree completion in accelerated timeframes, serving 140,000+ graduates globally.

Specialized Healthcare Training

Pathways Careers Training Center offers intensive four-week healthcare programs including Phlebotomy Technician ($1,800) and Nursing Assistant ($1,000) with small class sizes and personal attention.

Automotive and Transportation

Newgate School provides completely tuition-free automotive training for underserved young adults, offering Auto Body Repair and Auto Mechanics certifications through nonprofit operation since the 1970s.

Cost Analysis and Program Investment

Tuition Range Overview

Minnesota trade schools demonstrate structured pricing within the state system while offering specialized private options:

Most Affordable Options:

  • Community/Technical colleges: $182.61-$213.30 per credit hour (state system)
  • Specialized training: $1,000-$1,800 for four-week programs
  • Free programs: $0 tuition (Newgate School)

Mid-Range Investment:

  • Private technical colleges: $25,214 annually (Dunwoody)
  • Beauty programs: $9,966-$16,716 for complete programs
  • Continuing education: $60-$795 per course

Specialized Programs:

  • Welding training: $1,575-$17,900 based on program length
  • Online university: $10,000-$13,000 annually (Walden University)
  • Certificate programs: $274 per credit hour including materials (Summit Academy)

Average Cost Estimate

Based on comprehensive data, Minnesota trade schools average $8,000-$15,000 for complete certification programs through the state system, with private institutions ranging $20,000-$30,000 annually.

List of Top Trade Schools in Minnesota

Alexandria Technical & Community College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Alexandria Technical & Community College is a Minnesota State system school founded in 1961 that serves over 4,200 students annually through nearly 50 programs in business, health, nursing, design, IT, and police training. The college offers associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas that can be completed in one semester to two years, with flexible scheduling including hybrid, online, and evening classes. Tuition is $182.61 per credit for on-campus courses and $211.55 per credit for online courses, with the same rates for both in-state and out-of-state students.

  • 1601 Jefferson Street, Alexandria, MN 56308
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Anoka Technical College

Rating: 4.4 of 5

Anoka Technical College, established in 1967, has grown from five original programs to over 70 career and technical programs serving approximately 2,146 students in the North Metro area. The college offers certificates, diplomas, and Associate in Applied Science degrees across diverse fields like paramedic, mechanical CAD drafting, medical coding, pipe welding, and software development, with flexible scheduling through online, hybrid, and traditional classroom formats. Tuition costs $209.16 per credit hour for regular students and $20 per credit for senior citizens, with the school maintaining a 100% acceptance rate through open admission policies.

  • 1355 West Highway 10 Anoka, MN 55303
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology

Aveda Institutes

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Aveda Institutes, established in 1982, operates 63 accredited schools nationwide, offering programs in cosmetology, esthiology, and massage therapy. Known for hands-on training and externships that lead to job placements, the institute provides flexible class schedules and tuition ranging from $9,966 to $16,716 depending on the program.

  • 400 Central Avenue SE Minneapolis, MN 55414
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services

Dunwoody College of Technology

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Dunwoody College of Technology, founded in 1914 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a hands-on technical education institution serving approximately 1,510 students annually in small classes averaging 11 people. The college offers over 40 programs across five main areas including Advanced Manufacturing & Welding, Business, Computer Technology, Construction Sciences, and Health Sciences, with associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and certificates available. With tuition averaging $25,214 for 2024-25 and acceptance rates between 89-98%, Dunwoody focuses on preparing students for employer-demanded technical careers through practical training and real-world experience.

  • 818 Dunwoody Boulevard Minneapolis, MN 55403
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Empire Beauty Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Empire Beauty Schools offers hands-on experience in cosmetology, skincare, and cosmetology education at all of their locations. Attendees receive training for in-demand beauty jobs. Full and part-time programs are available to fit each student’s lifestyle. High-quality career tracks include cosmetology and hair styling.

  • 9749 Lyndale Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55420
  • 8205 University Ave. NE Spring Lake Park, MN 55432
  • Cosmetology and Barbering

Hennepin Technical College

Rating: 4.1 of 5

Hennepin Technical College, established in 1972 through a collaboration of thirteen Twin Cities school districts, serves approximately 3,891 students with over 40 career training programs across fields like HVAC, healthcare, IT, and transportation. The college offers flexible scheduling through online, blended, and evening formats to accommodate working professionals, with many programs including hands-on externships for real-world experience. Tuition ranges from $200-$230 per credit hour for most students, with special pricing of $20 per credit for students 62 and older, and the school maintains a 100% acceptance rate with open admission policies.

  • 9000 Brooklyn Boulevard Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
  • 13100 College View Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55437
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Lynnes Welding Training

Rating: 4.8 of 5

Lynnes Welding Training, founded in 2006, specializes in hands-on welding instruction with small class sizes and no general education courses. Students can complete training in as little as 12 to 16 weeks, with tuition ranging from $1,575 for short-term courses to $17,900 for the full program. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and has an open admissions policy.

  • 4000 Winnetka Ave N New Hope, MN 55427
  • Skilled Trades

Metro Testing

Rating: 5.0 of 5

Metro Testing, led by Master Plumber Gary Ford (licensed since 1978), provides continuing education certificates for licensed plumbers through evening classes designed for working professionals. The school offers specialized courses including New Backflow Tester, New Backflow Rebuilder, and 3-Year Recertification programs with costs ranging from $130 to $795 per course. All instruction is delivered in-person without online options, focusing on classroom-based learning to help professionals meet state licensing requirements.

  • 2101 105th Ave NE Blaine, MN 55449
  • Skilled Trades

Midway Vo Tech

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Midway Vocational Technical Training LLC, established in 2014 in Oakdale, Minnesota, specializes in continuing education and code tutoring for construction trades including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC. The school offers internship and TACT programs with full-day schedules from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, featuring paid three-month internships with no educational prerequisites. Tuition averages $5,701 annually for in-state students and $6,336 for out-of-state students, with open admission policies for all qualified applicants.

  • 1355 Geneva Ave N #102, Oakdale, MN 55128
  • Skilled Trades

My Plumbing Training

Rating: 5.0 of 5

My Plumbing Training, founded in 2013 by Scott Thompson, provides continuing education courses for licensed plumbers in Minnesota. The school offers both in-person and online classes, with tuition starting at $60 for short sessions and $350 for the Journeyman/Master Prep Class. Approved by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, the training ensures professionals meet state licensing requirements.

  • 17694 28th Ave N Glyndon, MN 56547
  • Skilled Trades

Newgate School

Rating: 4.4 of 5

Newgate School is a nonprofit technical school founded in the early 1970s that provides completely free automotive training to underserved young adults in Minneapolis. The school offers certifications in Auto Body Repair and Auto Mechanics through hands-on training with donated cars, with programs completed in 12-18 months. Classes run Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM plus Saturday mornings, serving up to 30 students at a time with personalized instruction.

  • 2900 East Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55413
  • Skilled Trades

Northwest Technical College

Rating: 3.8 of 5

Northwest Technical College is a Minnesota-based vocational school founded in 1965 that serves over 1,100 students annually across 38 fields of study. The college offers certificates, diplomas, and degree programs in high-demand career areas including automotive, healthcare, business, and industrial technology. With open admissions and tuition ranging from $196.55 to $213.30 per credit hour, the school focuses on preparing students for immediate employment in their chosen fields.

  • 905 Grant Avenue SE Bemidji, MN 56601
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services

Pathways Careers Training Center

Rating: 4.9 of 5

Pathways Careers Training Center is a Minnesota-based healthcare training school that offers intensive four-week certification programs in Phlebotomy Technician and Nurse Assistant fields. With small class sizes and hands-on instruction, students can quickly enter healthcare careers through programs that combine classroom learning with real-world clinical experience. Tuition ranges from $1,000 for the CNA program to $1,800 for the Phlebotomy program.

  • 2336 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55418
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Rasmussen University

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Rasmussen College offers accelerated degrees in over 50 fields. Programs include Business, Design, Education, Health Sciences, Justice Studies, Nursing, and Technology. The school supports a credit policy that allows attendees to transfer past experience. There are locations in Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. In addition to 22 traditional campuses, online classes are an option.

  • 3629 95th Ave. NE Blaine, MN 55014
  • 4400 W 78th St. 6 Bloomington, MN 55435
  • 8301 93rd Ave. N Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
  • 3500 Federal Dr. Eagan, MN 55122
  • 8565 Eagle Point Cir. Lake Elmo, MN 55042
  • 130 Saint Andrews Dr. Mankato, MN 56001
  • 1250 29th Ave. S Moorhead, MN 56560
  • 226 Park Ave. S St. Cloud, MN 56301
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing

Summit Academy

Rating: 4.4 of 5

Summit Academy OIC, established in 1967 as part of the national Opportunities Industrialization Centers network founded during the civil rights era, serves approximately 511 students annually with certificate programs in carpentry, electrician, financial services, IT, dental assistant, and medical administrative assistant fields. The school operates primarily during daytime hours (8:30 AM to 2:50-3:00 PM) with some evening options, including electrician training from 5:00-9:00 PM Monday through Thursday, and maintains a 100% acceptance rate with open admission policies. Tuition costs $274 per credit hour, which includes books, activities, and lab expenses, with the school holding accreditation from the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE).

  • 935 Olson Memorial Hwy Minneapolis, MN 55405
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology

Walden University

Headquartered in Columbia, MD, Walden University offers convenient online classes for students pursuing various undergraduate and graduate-level degrees. Programs at this school include business management, criminal justice, early childhood studies, health sciences, education, nursing, information technology, social work and human services, psychology, and more. The school seeks to inspire graduates to work towards solutions for issues around the world.

  • 100 Washington Avenue South Suite 900 Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Social Services

Washington Technical Institute

Washington Technical Institute, founded in 1999 as the National Paralegal Institute of America, is a fully online institution offering career-focused certificate and diploma programs. Acquired by Excel Education Systems in 2019, WTI provides flexible distance education in fields including criminal justice, programming, healthcare administration, paralegal studies, and business. The school holds regional accreditation through the Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools.

  • 601 Carlson Parkway, Suite 1250 Minnetonka, MN 55305
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

How to Become a Travel Agent in Minnesota

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

Ultra-Fast Certifications

Healthcare Quick Start: Pathways Careers Training Center offers four-week intensive programs in Phlebotomy and Nursing Assistant with immediate job placement focus.

Welding Fast Track: Lynnes Welding Training provides programs from one week (40 hours) to comprehensive 16-week training with hands-on instruction from day one.

Continuing Education: Multiple institutions offer evening and weekend programs for licensed professionals needing certification updates.

Accelerated Technical Training

Dunwoody College offers flexible scheduling with online, hybrid, and evening classes, while maintaining small class sizes for personalized instruction.

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Multiple Delivery Formats

Minnesota institutions excel at accommodating working professionals:

  • Evening Programs: Available at most institutions including community colleges and specialized schools
  • Online Options: Comprehensive online programs through Rasmussen and Walden universities
  • Hybrid Learning: Blended formats combining online coursework with hands-on training
  • Weekend Classes: Available through continuing education and specialized programs

State System Integration

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system provides consistent pricing and transfer opportunities across all public institutions statewide.

Financial Accessibility and Support

Open Admission Policies

Most Minnesota trade schools maintain highly accessible admission policies:

  • Community/Technical colleges: 100% acceptance rates with open-door policies
  • Private institutions: Generally 89-100% acceptance rates
  • Specialized programs: Merit-based but accessible to qualified applicants

Comprehensive Financial Support

  • Federal financial aid: Widely accepted at accredited institutions
  • State programs: Minnesota-specific grants and scholarships
  • Military benefits: Extensive veteran support across most institutions
  • Unique opportunities: Free tuition programs for underserved populations (Newgate School)
  • Payment flexibility: Consistent state system pricing with financial aid integration

Based on institutional offerings and regional demand:

  1. Healthcare Programs – Nursing, Medical Assisting, Allied Health dominating enrollment statewide
  2. Advanced Manufacturing – Welding, CNC, Electronics supporting Minnesota’s manufacturing economy
  3. Information Technology – Cybersecurity, Software Development, Network Administration
  4. Construction Trades – HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing serving construction and infrastructure needs
  5. Business Programs – Accounting, Management, Marketing serving diverse economy

Accreditation and Quality Standards

Minnesota trade schools maintain strong accreditation through recognized bodies:

  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Community colleges and university programs statewide
  • ACCSC: Career-focused institutions and specialized programs
  • NACCAS: Beauty and cosmetology schools
  • COE: Occupational education and specialized technical programs
  • Industry-Specific: Professional certifications and continuing education programs

Regional Industry Connections

Minnesota trade schools benefit from the state’s diverse and stable economy:

  • Manufacturing Sector: Programs supporting 3M, General Mills, Medtronic, and major manufacturers
  • Healthcare Networks: Partnerships with Mayo Clinic system and Twin Cities medical centers
  • Technology Industry: Programs supporting Minneapolis-St. Paul tech corridor
  • Agriculture and Food Processing: Specialized programs serving rural Minnesota economy
  • Transportation and Logistics: Programs supporting Mississippi River commerce and transportation networks

Career Services and Employment Support

Minnesota institutions emphasize job placement through:

  • Strong industry partnerships across diverse economic sectors
  • Alumni networks concentrated in Twin Cities metropolitan area
  • Regional economic development collaborations
  • Union apprenticeship connections in skilled trades
  • Specialized placement services for manufacturing and healthcare sectors

Unique Minnesota Advantages

Minnesota’s trade school system offers distinctive benefits:

  • State System Integration: Seamless transfer and consistent pricing across public institutions
  • Economic Stability: Diverse economy providing career flexibility and stability
  • Quality of Life: High-ranking quality of life attracting and retaining skilled workers
  • Innovation Focus: Strong emphasis on advanced manufacturing and technology
  • Social Mission: Programs specifically serving underserved populations and social equity

Regional Specializations

Twin Cities Metropolitan Area

Concentration of advanced technical training, healthcare programs, and technology education with extensive industry partnerships.

Northern Minnesota

Focus on natural resources, healthcare, and skilled trades serving rural and industrial communities.

Southern Minnesota

Agricultural technology, manufacturing, and healthcare programs supporting farming and industrial communities.

Minnesota combines a well-integrated public education system with innovative private institutions and specialized training programs. The state’s economic diversity, commitment to education, and high quality of life create exceptional opportunities for skilled workers. The combination of affordable public education, specialized private training, and strong industry connections makes Minnesota an outstanding choice for trade school education across virtually every career sector.