What Is It Known For?
James Rumsey Technical Institute (JRTI), located in Martinsburg, West Virginia, is known for providing high-quality technical education to high school students and adults. Established in 1969, JRTI offers career-focused programs that prepare students for success in high-demand industries.
Approximately 100 students enroll each year, with the school focusing on providing an education that directly aligns with local and regional workforce needs. Although JRTI operates independently, it is a vital part of the technical education landscape in the region.
Degrees & Certifications
JRTI offers a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of both career starters and those looking to further their skills. The available educational credentials include:
- Diplomas in specialized fields like Automotive Technology, Welding, and Industrial Maintenance.
- Certificates in fields such as HVAC, Health Occupations, and IT.
- Associate Degrees in selected technical disciplines, allowing students to pursue further education or enter the workforce with a well-rounded skill set
Class Schedules
JRTI offers flexible scheduling to meet students’ needs, with most programs available during daytime hours and select options offered in the evening. This setup allows students to choose times that best fit their commitments. Programs are primarily in-person, with hands-on learning supported by externships or clinical experiences in certain fields.
Is It Legit?
Yes. James Rumsey Technical Institute is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE), ensuring that its programs meet high educational standards. The accreditation ensures the credibility of the programs and prepares students to enter recognized careers in technical fields.
Acceptance Rate
According to the U.S. Department of Education, JRTI follows an open admissions policy, meaning that the school has a 100% acceptance rate.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
The estimated net price for attending JRTI is around $10,000 per year. This cost may vary depending on the program, materials, and additional fees.
Financial aid options are available to assist eligible students, and prospective students are encouraged to explore JRTI’s net price calculator for a more personalized estimate.
Programs & Courses
Criminal Justice & Law
- Law & Public Safety
Healthcare
- Therapeutic Services
- Phlebotomy Technician
Professional Services
- Restaurant Management
- Graphic Design
Skilled Trades
- Automotive Technician
- Commercial Driving
- Electrical Technician
- HVAC Technician
- Carpentry
- Diesel Technology
- Electrical Technician
- Masonry
- Welding
- Firefighting
Technology
- Advanced IT (Informatics)
- Coding, App & Game Design
- Cybersecurity
- Multimedia Publishing
Campus Locations
Martinsburg 3274 Hedgesville Rd, Martinsburg, WV 25403
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, James Rumsey Technical Institute has a very high overall rating, with strong praise for specific programs and instructors. However, some recent and significant negative reviews contradict this positive feedback, raising concerns about funding, administration, and job placement.
Overall Score: 4.4/5 Stars
Common Praises
Excellent CDL Program: The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program is consistently singled out for praise. Multiple reviewers call it the “Best CDL school in West Virginia,” crediting the knowledgeable instructors for helping them pass their tests on the first try and find career success.
Supportive and Effective Instructors: Many reviewers, spanning several years, highlight the teachers and staff for being “great,” “very helpful,” and creating a positive and educational environment.
Good for Adult Learners: The institute’s adult programs, including GED and HVAC, are frequently praised as “spectacular” and a good option for those seeking a career change or new skills.
Valuable Education: The school is seen as a valuable place for students to “jump start a career,” with many alumni reporting success years after graduating.
Common Criticisms
Poor Administration and Job Placement: A recent review claims the front office staff is “extremely unprofessional” and that the job placement service is an “absolute joke.”
Outdated Facilities and Lack of Funding: A very recent review argues that the school is one of the “worst in the region” due to a lack of funding for the building and equipment. Other reviews echo this sentiment by mentioning “horrible conditions” that the administration allegedly failed to address.
Certification and Communication Issues: One reviewer from five years ago claims the school was unable to provide them with duplicate copies of their certifications, making their two-year course “pointless.”
Momentum
The reviews show a distinct split between glowing praise for specific programs, like the CDL program, and more recent, severe criticisms of the school’s administration and facilities. While the overall score is high, it may not reflect the latest student experiences. The school is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, and its website reports high job placement rates. However, the median salary for graduates one year after graduation is about $37,962, and a significant percentage of students who take out loans have median debt of over $28,000.