What Is It Known For?
The Institute for Business & Technology (IBT) is a private for-profit school in Santa Clara, California. Located in Silicon Valley, IBT has been offering vocational training since 1965, when it started as the California Academy of Drafting. Today, IBT serves over 600 students, focusing on healthcare and technical training.
The school uses a continuous academic year and has become a respected name in local vocational education. IBT also works with various government agencies to train their staff, which showcases its strong connections in the area.
Degrees & Certifications
The Institute for Business & Technology offers a mix of associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. As a licensed institution by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, IBT provides training in these fields:
- Commercial Refrigeration Heating and Air Conditioning
- Electrician
- Lab Assistant, EKG Technician/Phlebotomist
- Medical Assistants
- Cardiovascular Sonography
- Cloud Computing & Cybersecurity
- Automotive Technology
Class Schedules
At the Institute for Business & Technology, you can attend day or evening courses, which is great for those who are working or have other commitments.
The school also provides online and hybrid classes, giving you more options to fit your learning into your lifestyle.
Some programs also include clinical practicum/ externship opportunities, which help you gain hands-on experience in your field of study.
Is It Legit?
Yes, the Institute for Business & Technology is a legitimate educational institution recognized by two respected accrediting bodies.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET) both oversee IBT’s operations. These organizations are acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education as nationally recognized accrediting agencies.
IBT’s performance is regularly evaluated based on student success, including graduation and career placement rates.
Acceptance Rate
No mention of the school’s acceptance rate. However, to join the Institute for Business & Technology, you’ll need to take the school’s entrance exam. Each program has its own minimum score requirement. Contact the school for more information.
How Much Does It Cost (Tuition)
These are the tuition fees for each program at the Institute for Business & Technology. However, the figures don’t include additional fees.
- Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning: $17,640
- Electrician 720-840 Clock Hours: $18,000 to $18,480
- Lab Assistant, EKG Technician/Phlebotomist: $15,120
- Medical Assistant: $14,040
- Cardiovascular Sonography: $58,050
- Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity Associate: $31,450
To get a more accurate picture of your total costs, you can use IBT’s net price calculator or contact the school directly. They can also provide information about financial aid options that might help make your education more affordable.
Programs & Courses
Healthcare
- Medical Assistant
- EKG Technician
- Phlebotomy
- Cardiovascular Sonography
Skilled Trades
- Automotive Technology
- HVAC
- Electrician
Technology
- Cybersecurity
Campus Locations
San Jose 91 East Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the Institute for Business & Technology (IBT) has a highly polarized reputation. Students’ experiences range from overwhelmingly positive, highlighting effective hands-on training, to severe negative critiques concerning administrative practices and program quality.
Overall Score: 3.3/5 Stars
Common Praises
Hands-on Experience: Many students praise the practical, hands-on component of the programs, especially for trades like HVAC and Electrical. They feel this experience is crucial for preparing them for the field.
Supportive Community: Numerous reviewers describe a positive and welcoming environment where they made friends and felt supported by their instructors and classmates.
Effective Career Launchpad: Some students feel the school gave them the confidence and the necessary tools to get a job in their chosen field, and were happy to be working in their desired careers.
Flexible Learning: The availability of online and Zoom classes is appreciated for accommodating busy schedules and long commutes.
Common Criticisms
Questionable Financial and Administrative Practices: Several reviews accuse the school of having “very questionable tactics.” Students report issues with money “disappearing” and reappearing months later, and a general feeling that the school is focused on collecting financial aid rather than supporting students.
Aggressive Enrollment Tactics: A few reviewers complained about an “horrible department” that engages in overly aggressive phone calls after an initial inquiry.
Inconsistent Program Quality: The quality of education appears to vary by program. While some reviews praise the HVAC and Electrical courses, a former student in the Sonography program explicitly advises against it, calling it a “double edge sword.” Another student reported receiving “so little” HVAC training that they struggled to find an entry-level job.
Lack of Responsiveness: An alumnus from 2008 reported being unable to get a copy of their transcripts for a month, which they needed for a background check.
Momentum
The reviews show a consistent divide, with strong positive feedback often focusing on specific experiences like hands-on learning, while the serious negative feedback from the past year focuses on administrative and financial issues. External information provides additional context. IBT is licensed by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and is accredited by two U.S. Department of Education-recognized agencies: the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET).