North Dakota Trade Schools

North Dakota’s booming energy sector, expanding agricultural technology, and growing healthcare industry create exceptional opportunities for skilled professionals. From Fargo’s emerging tech corridor to the oil fields of Williston and Bismarck’s energy hub, North Dakota’s trade schools provide specialized training that directly connects with the state’s rapid economic growth and workforce demands.

Table of Contents

Best Schools by Specialty

Healthcare Programs

Rasmussen University (Bismarck, Fargo) – Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Healthcare Administration with flexible Empowered Learning curriculum

North Dakota State College of Science (Wahpeton, Fargo) – Comprehensive healthcare programs including Dental Hygiene, Nursing, and Pharmacy Technician with multiple accreditations

Lake Region State College (Devils Lake) – Associate Degree Nursing and Fitness Trainer Technician programs with clinical experiences

Valley City State University (Valley City) – Health Science and Allied Health programs with comprehensive university resources

Skilled Trades and Energy Sector

Lynnes Welding Training (Fargo, Bismarck) – Intensive welding programs with small class sizes (max 12 students) and hands-on training from day one

Dakotas Electrical Apprenticeship (7 locations: Fargo, Grand Forks, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Bismarck, Minot, Williston) – IBEW apprenticeships with industry partnerships

North Dakota State College of Science – Diesel Technology, Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, and Wind Energy Technology programs

TJP Electrical Training (Hazen) – Specialized preparation for ND and MN Journeyman/Master Electrician exams

Technology and Business

Rasmussen University – Cybersecurity, IT Support, and Project Management with project-based learning

Valley City State University – Computer Information Systems, Cybersecurity, and Business Administration programs

North Dakota State College of Science – Computer Technology and Information Communications Technology programs

Beauty and Personal Services

The Salon Professional Academy (Fargo) – Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, and Salon Management with industry partnerships

Comprehensive Career Training

North Valley Career and Technical Center (Grafton) – Automotive Technology, Health Sciences, Welding Technology, and Construction Technology

Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Technology Center (Valley City) – Serving 250+ high school students annually with Automotive Technology, Agriculture Education, and Health Sciences

Cost Analysis

The price range for a major trade program is between $15,000 to $20,000.

Most Affordable Programs

  • Dakotas Electrical Apprenticeship – Likely minimal costs with earn-while-you-learn model (specific tuition not disclosed)
  • TJP Electrical Training – $490 for complete electrical training program
  • Sheyenne Valley Area CTC – Free for in-district high school students, minimal fees for adults

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Valley City State University – $6,619 annually for North Dakota residents
  • Lake Region State College – $177.06 per credit hour for residents, with online options at competitive rates
  • Lynnes Welding Training – $1,575-$2,200 for 1-week programs, up to $4,300 for 3-week intensive courses

Mid-Range Investment

  • Rasmussen University – $11,241 average annual undergraduate tuition ($16,884-$17,091 for nursing programs)
  • North Dakota State College of Science – $196.86 per credit (Wahpeton) to $228.08 per credit for non-residents
  • The Salon Professional Academy – $14,552 to $20,000 annually for beauty programs

Comprehensive Programs

  • Lynnes Welding Training – $15,100 (12-week program) to $17,900 (16-week program) for intensive combination welder training
  • Valley City State University – $11,583 annually for non-resident students plus room and board

Search By Cities

List of Top Trade Schools in North Dakota

Dakotas Electrical Apprenticeship

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Dakotas Electrical Apprenticeship provides hands-on training for individuals pursuing careers as journeyperson electricians. With locations across North and South Dakota, the program combines classroom instruction with on-the-job experience, supported by NECA and IBEW. While tuition details are not publicly available, the NEC Correspondence Course costs $75.

  • 2901 1st Ave N Fargo, ND 58102
  • Skilled Trades

Lake Region State College

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Lake Region State College in Devils Lake, North Dakota, provides accessible and affordable education with around 1,700 students each semester. The college offers associate degrees and certifications in fields like business, nursing, and information technology, with flexible class schedules, including online and hybrid options. Tuition starts at $177.06 per credit for residents, with higher rates for non-residents and specialized programs.

  • 1801 College Drive N. Devils Lake, ND 58301
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology

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.

  • 2717 3rd Ave North, Fargo, ND 58102
  • 4329 Centurion Dr. Unit 9 Bismarck, ND 58504
  • Skilled Trades

North Dakota State College of Science

Rating: 4.1 of 5

North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) offers career-focused technical training with small class sizes and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Students can earn associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in fields like healthcare, automotive technology, and diesel technology. Tuition varies by campus and residency, starting at $183.09 per credit for North Dakota residents at the Fargo location.

  • 800 6th Street North Wahpeton, ND 58076
  • 1305 19th Avenue N. Fargo, ND 58102
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

North Valley CTC

Rating: 5.0 of 5

North Valley Career and Technical Center provides vocational training in fields like Automotive Technology, Welding, and Health Sciences, preparing students for industry careers. The center offers flexible learning options, including internships, shadow programs, and distance learning via NRRITV. Tuition costs vary by program, and students should contact the center for specific pricing details.

  • 1540 School Road Grafton, ND 58237
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades

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.

  • 1701 E Century Ave. Bismarck, ND 58503
  • 4012 19th Ave. S Fargo, ND 58103
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing

Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Technology Center

Rating: 5.0 of 5

Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Technology Center has been training high school students for careers in skilled trades since 1976. Offering programs like Automotive Technology, Welding, and Health Sciences, students gain hands-on experience with no tuition costs for those in the district. The center provides both in-person and remote learning options, with a Work Placement program that connects students to local businesses for real-world training.

  • 801 Valley Ave SE Valley City, ND 58072
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades

The Salon Professional Academy

Rating: 4.5 of 5

The Salon Professional Academy, founded in 2006, offers programs in cosmetology, esthetics, massage therapy, and nail technology, emphasizing both technical skills and business acumen. Accredited by the ACCSC and endorsed by Redken, tuition ranges from $14,552 to $20,000 annually, with flexible class schedules that blend online and in-person learning.

  • 4377 15th Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103
  • Professional Services

TJP Electrical Training

Rating: 3.0 of 5

TJP Electrical Training, founded by Tim Pull, prepares students for the ND and MN Journeyman or Master Electrician license exams. Classes are held in person on Fridays and Saturdays, with no online options available. The program costs $490, and students should contact the school for additional fee details or payment options.

  • 6280 173rd Ave SE, Colfax, ND 58018
  • Skilled Trades

Valley City State University

Rating: 4.1 of 5

Valley City State University (VCSU) in North Dakota offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in education, business, technology, and health sciences. With flexible class schedules, including day, evening, and online options, students can balance their studies with other commitments. Tuition is $6,619 per year for North Dakota residents and $11,583 for non-residents, with financial aid available.

  • 101 College Street SW Valley City, ND 58072
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

Ultra-Fast Programs (Under 6 Months)

  • Lynnes Welding Training – 1-week (40 hours) to 5-week (200 hours) specialized welding courses
  • TJP Electrical Training – Weekend electrical certification program (Fridays and Saturdays)
  • Various Schools – Short-term certificate programs in healthcare and technical fields

6-12 Month Programs

  • Lynnes Welding Training – 12-week (480 hours) and 16-week (640 hours) Combination Welder programs
  • The Salon Professional Academy – Cosmetology and beauty programs with flexible scheduling
  • North Dakota State College of Science – Certificate programs in various technical fields

1-2 Year Programs

  • North Dakota State College of Science – Associate of Applied Science degrees in high-demand technical fields
  • Lake Region State College – Associate degrees with evening, weekend, and online options
  • Rasmussen University – Accelerated degree programs with competency-based learning

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Evening and Weekend Classes

  • Lake Region State College – Day, evening, and weekend classes with hybrid options
  • Valley City State University – Evening and online classes to accommodate work schedules
  • TJP Electrical Training – Friday and Saturday classes (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

Online and Hybrid Learning

  • Rasmussen University – 24/7 online programs with technical support and career advising
  • North Dakota State College of Science – Online and hybrid learning options across programs
  • North Valley CTC – Distance learning through North Valley Regional Interactive Television (NRRITV)

Competency-Based and Self-Paced Learning

  • Rasmussen University – Empowered Learning curriculum with 14-day attendance windows and project-based structure
  • Valley City State University – Flexible scheduling combining in-person and virtual learning
  • Lake Region State College – Hybrid programs accommodating different student needs

Industry Partnerships and Work-Based Learning

  • Sheyenne Valley Area CTC – Work Placement program connecting students with local businesses
  • Dakotas Electrical Apprenticeship – NECA and IBEW partnerships providing on-the-job training
  • North Valley CTC – Shadow programs and internships with real-world problem-solving

Based on North Dakota’s economic drivers and program availability:

  1. Welding Technology – High demand driven by energy sector and infrastructure needs
  2. Electrical Technology – Essential for energy industry and construction projects
  3. Healthcare Programs – Nursing, Medical Assistant, and allied health serving rural communities
  4. Automotive/Diesel Technology – Supporting agricultural and industrial equipment needs
  5. Wind Energy Technology – Aligning with North Dakota’s renewable energy expansion
  6. Business Administration – Supporting economic diversification and entrepreneurship
  7. Information Technology – Growing with Fargo’s emerging tech sector

Regional Specializations

Eastern North Dakota (Fargo Area)

  • Technology Hub – Rasmussen University and Valley City State University supporting growing tech corridor
  • Healthcare Education – Multiple institutions serving regional medical centers
  • Skilled Trades – Lynnes Welding Training and comprehensive trade programs

Central North Dakota (Bismarck/Williston Area)

  • Energy Sector Focus – Programs aligned with oil and gas industry needs
  • Government Services – Training for state capital employment opportunities
  • Agricultural Technology – Supporting modern farming and ranching operations

Western North Dakota (Oil Fields)

  • Energy Industry Training – Specialized programs for Bakken oil field employment
  • Heavy Equipment – Diesel technology and equipment maintenance programs
  • Safety Training – Industrial safety and environmental compliance programs

Statewide Rural Service

  • Distance Learning – Interactive TV and online programs reaching remote communities
  • Agricultural Support – Programs supporting farming, ranching, and agribusiness
  • Healthcare Access – Training programs addressing rural healthcare workforce needs

Financial Aid and Support Services

Comprehensive Financial Aid

North Dakota schools offer extensive financial aid including:

  • Federal Pell Grants and SEOG grants
  • Stafford Loans and federal work-study programs
  • North Dakota state aid programs
  • Military benefits and VA funding

Unique North Dakota Advantages

  • Rasmussen University – 10% military discount and flexible payment options
  • Valley City State University – Competitive in-state tuition rates
  • Lake Region State College – Special rates for military personnel
  • High School Programs – Free career training for in-district students

Energy Industry Benefits

  • High Starting Wages – Energy sector employment offering premium compensation
  • Employer Partnerships – Companies providing tuition reimbursement and direct hiring
  • Economic Growth – State economic expansion creating increased job opportunities

Military-Friendly Institutions

North Dakota’s military-friendly environment creates excellent veteran support:

  • Rasmussen University – Approved for VA benefits across multiple states including North Dakota
  • Valley City State University – Comprehensive veteran services and military-friendly policies
  • North Dakota State College of Science – Veteran support services and military benefit acceptance
  • Lake Region State College – Special tuition rates for military personnel

Career Services and Job Placement

Top Schools for Employment Assistance

  • Lynnes Welding Training – Active employer connections for regional and national opportunities
  • Dakotas Electrical Apprenticeship – Direct placement into IBEW positions with guaranteed employment pathways
  • North Dakota State College of Science – Strong industry partnerships with 12:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Rasmussen University – 24/7 career advising and comprehensive job placement support

Industry Connections

  • Energy Sector – Direct connections to oil and gas companies, wind energy projects
  • Healthcare Network – Partnerships with rural hospitals and regional medical centers
  • Agricultural Industry – Connections to farming, ranching, and agribusiness employers
  • Technology Companies – Growing partnerships with Fargo’s expanding tech sector

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

North Dakota trade schools maintain accreditation from recognized bodies including:

Industry-Specific Bodies for automotive, electrical, and specialized trades

Higher Learning Commission for universities and colleges

ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges)

ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)

CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs)

Online Programs

For many North Dakotans, online training can be a faster and more convenient way to gain career skills without the need for long commutes. Instead of driving hours to the nearest trade school, students in remote areas can complete coursework at their own pace, often with access to virtual labs, hands-on simulations, and interactive learning tools.

Online programs also provide the added benefit of self-paced learning, which can be ideal for working adults looking to change careers or gain new certifications while continuing to work full-time.

Below is a list of popular online programs for North Dakotans:

While hands-on trades like welding and electrical work still require in-person training, many schools offer hybrid options, where students complete theory-based coursework online and attend in-person training for lab sessions or apprenticeships. This combination of online learning and practical experience ensures that even those in North Dakota’s most rural areas can access career-focused education without having to relocate or spend excessive time commuting.

Final Thoughts

Trade schools in North Dakota provide cost-effective, career-focused education and training in high-demand fields such as electrical, welding, healthcare, and business. With flexible class schedules, financial aid options, and hands-on training, these technical and vocational programs are designed to help adults enter the workforce quickly. Veterans, high school graduates, and career changers can find valuable opportunities at North Dakota’s vo-tech schools, ensuring long-term job stability and professional growth.