What Is It Known For?
Since 1967, Anoka Technical College has been the North Metro’s primary source for career-focused education and professional training. The institution began with just five degree programs but has grown significantly over five decades.
Today, the college offers more than 70 different career and technical programs to meet industry demands. With approximately 2,146 students enrolled in recent years, Anoka Technical College continues to serve as a major educational resource for students pursuing hands-on career preparation.
Degrees & Certifications
Anoka Technical College provides three main types of credentials: certificates, diplomas, and Associate in Applied Science degrees. Program lengths vary depending on the credential type, with certificates often completed in months and associate degrees typically taking two years.
Students can select from a wide range of programs, including:
- Paramedic
- Mechanical CAD Drafter
- Medical Coding Specialist
- Pipe Welder
- Machine Technology
- Practical Nursing
- Software Development
- And Many More!
Class Schedules
Anoka Technical College accommodates different learning preferences through flexible scheduling options. Students can access online degree programs, free class series, and courses through the Ed2Go partnership. The college also provides hybrid classes that blend traditional classroom instruction with digital coursework.
Additionally, hands-on learning extends beyond the classroom through externship opportunities, particularly beneficial for Medical Assistant students seeking real-world training.
Is It a Good School?
Yes, Anoka Technical College is a quality institution. The college holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, with many programs receiving additional specialized accreditation from industry organizations.
Acceptance Rate
Anoka Technical College operates under an open admission policy, accepting all applicants who meet basic requirements. Their acceptance rate is 100%.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition rates at Anoka Technical College vary depending on the program and student status. Regular students pay $209.16 per credit hour, while senior citizens receive significant discounts at just $20 per credit. Online courses and specialized programs like Practical Nursing carry slightly higher rates.
For the most accurate estimate of your actual costs, the college recommends using their net price calculator, which factors in financial aid and your specific situation to show what you’ll pay.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Administrative Office Specialist
Healthcare
- Medical Office Specialist
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Health Information Technology
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Coding Specialist
- Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Paramedic
- Practical Nursing
- Surgical Technology
Skilled Trades
- Automotive Technician
- CNC Design & Manufacturing Technology
- Electronic Technology
- Machine Technology
- Construction Electrician
- Pipe Welder
- Software Development
- Welding
Technology
- Information Technology Management
- Network Management & Security
- Web Design & Development
Campus Locations
Anoka 1355 West Highway 10 Anoka, MN 55303
Reviews
Based on Google reviews, Anoka Technical College has a generally positive reputation, though it is marked by significant and recurring criticisms. While the school’s overall score is a respectable 4.4 out of 5 stars, the reviews present a deeply divided student experience.
Overall Score: 4.4/5 Stars (from 64 reviews)
Common Praises
Affordable and Valuable Education: Many reviewers praise the school for its affordability, citing that it provides an education and a career path without the burden of crippling debt. The price is seen as an excellent value compared to other trade schools.
Knowledgeable and Hands-On Instructors: A frequent positive theme is the quality of instructors, particularly in programs like Automotive and Electronics. Students appreciate that the faculty has real-world experience and are “down-to-earth” in their teaching approach. They are credited with preparing students well for their careers.
Supportive Staff: The college staff, including those in the records department, are described as helpful, friendly, and professional. One reviewer notes that everyone seems to enjoy their job and is willing to get students to the right person to answer their questions.
Common Criticisms
Inconsistent Instruction and Disorganization: In direct contradiction to the praise for instructors, some reviews, particularly from the CNA program, describe instructors as “horrible” and “incredibly rude.” This inconsistency is coupled with complaints that the school is “disorganized” and “unprofessional,” with different staff members providing conflicting information.
Social and Interpersonal Issues: One very serious review from a former student alleges experiencing “racism from classmates, gender discrimination from my reading instructor, and bullying in class” during their first semester. This isolated but severe complaint is a significant point of concern.
Allegations of Unethical Practices: One reviewer, a non-student, publicly questioned the authenticity of several reviews, claiming they were written by employees of the school.
Momentum
The reviews show a deep and sustained polarization, with no clear positive or negative momentum. The most recent reviews are mixed, with one student praising their experience from a month ago while another from three months ago details a very poor experience with instructors. The lack of public responses from the school to any of the reviews, including the most severe criticisms, is a notable point. A student’s experience at the college appears to be highly dependent on their specific program and individual interactions, with no clear trend of improvement or decline over time.