What Is It Known For?
Hennepin Technical College emerged in 1972 when thirteen public school districts across the Twin Cities area collaborated to establish an independent post-secondary institution. The college continues to grow and adapt, recently introducing a Pre-Social Work Transfer Pathway Degree in 2024.
That same year, the school expanded its Plumbing Program to the Brooklyn Park campus, increasing access to hands-on training in this high-demand field. With approximately 3,891 students enrolled in 2023, Hennepin Technical College maintains steady enrollment numbers year after year.
Degrees & Certifications
Hennepin Technical College provides comprehensive career training through more than 40 program options across multiple credential levels.
Some of the programs offered include:
- Architecture, HVAC & Construction
- Education
- Horticulture & Landscaping
- Healthcare
- Transportation
- Information Technology & Cyber Defense
- And Much More!
Class Schedules
Hennepin Technical College accommodates different learning preferences through flexible scheduling and delivery methods. Students can access courses through online, blended, and web-enhanced formats, while traditional evening classes serve working professionals.
This variety allows students to balance education with existing commitments. Many programs integrate real-world training through externships, such as the HVAC2170 HVAC/R course, which provides hands-on field experience. These practical components help students apply classroom knowledge in professional settings before graduation.
Is It a Good School?
Yes, Hennepin Technical College maintains strong educational standards through multiple accreditations and affiliations. The college holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Acceptance Rate
Hennepin Technical College operates with an open admission policy, maintaining a 100% acceptance rate for qualified applicants.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
You’ll find that course fees fluctuate based on what you’re studying. Most classes fall between $200 and $230. If you’re 62 or older, you get a fantastic deal at only $20 per credit hour. Minnesota residents and out-of-state students pay identical amounts, which simplifies the process considerably.
The school offers a net price calculator that shows your real costs after financial aid kicks in. This tool considers your family’s financial situation, so you see what you’ll actually pay rather than just the sticker price.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
- Management
- Marketing & Sales
- Project Management
Criminal Justice & Law
- Law Enforcement, Peace Officer & Public Safety
Healthcare
- Dental Assistant
- Emergency Medical Services
- Health Science
- Medical Assistant
- Nursing Assistant
- Practical Nursing
Professional Services
- Baking & Pastry
- Culinary Arts
- Graphic Design
Skilled Trades
- Auto Body Collision Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Carpentry
- Fire Protection
- Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
- Landscape Design & Construction
- Manufacturing Engineering Technology
- Plumbing Pre-Apprenticeship
- Welding & Metal Fabrication
Technology
- Cyber Security
- Database Development
- IT Support
- Network Administration
- Software Development
Campus Locations
Brooklyn Park 9000 Brooklyn Boulevard Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
Prairie 13100 College View Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55437
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Hennepin Technical College has a mixed reputation, with students praising the quality of many instructors and the affordability of the school, but criticizing some of the administrative functions and the transferability of certain degrees.
Overall Score: 4.1/5 Stars
Common Praises
Knowledgeable and Helpful Instructors: Many reviews, including some from as recently as a few months ago, highlight the quality of the teachers. Students in programs like culinary arts and HVAC praise instructors for being understanding, helpful, and “skilled professionals.”
Affordability and Convenience: The college is seen as a cheaper option for education. The convenient location and flexible class schedules are also frequently mentioned as a positive.
Pleasant Environment: Reviewers consistently describe a welcoming atmosphere with friendly and helpful staff. Students appreciate the quiet library and the availability of resources like computers and free printing.
Common Criticisms
Credit Transfer Issues: A major criticism from older reviews is that an associate’s degree from the college did not transfer to a four-year university, making the degree feel “useless.” The school’s official policy states that while courses will be considered, a student’s prior coursework must match at least 75% of the content of the course they want to transfer into.
Lack of Program Value: A few reviews express regret over their program choice, claiming that the degree did not prepare them for a career. For example, a student in the public works program claims the career promises were not true and the classes had very few students. The school’s website, however, highlights this program as a way to gain essential skills for a rewarding career.
Administrative and Customer Service Problems: Reviews from several years ago describe staff in the bookstore and front office as being “rude” and giving students “the run around.” Students have also complained about long wait times to meet with advisors.
Momentum
The reviews show a mix of long-standing positive sentiments about the staff and affordability, alongside serious, recurring criticisms about a few specific programs and administrative issues. The most recent reviews are largely positive and focus on specific programs like HVAC and culinary, suggesting that the quality may vary greatly between departments. This polarization is a consistent theme, with a few very negative and detailed reviews mixed in with many brief, positive ones.