Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) has been empowering students with career-focused training for over 25 years. With campuses spread across the Midwest, MTI offers a wide range of programs designed specifically for today’s dynamic job market.
What is Midwest Technical Institute Known For?
Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) shines in the world of trade schools. As a for-profit school, MTI is all about teaching students real-world skills that can get them hired. It is more than a school; it’s a community connector – often seen coordinating events and raising funds for good causes.
But what really sets MTI apart is its goal to offer quality education while nurturing community-minded citizens, proving it’s a major player in both career development and community building.
Is Midwest Technical Institute Legit?
Absolutely! Indeed, Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) is a highly reliable institution. Its credibility extends from general accreditation to program-specific recognition. MTI’s numerous accreditations demonstrate the institute’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards:
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges (ACCSC)
- It is also approved by the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Financial Aid Program, providing financial aid to those who qualify
Notably, there is also specialized recognition for specific programs:
- Certain campuses’ Medical Assisting Program has earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- HVAC Excellence, a distinguished entity in the HVAC sector, accredits the HVAC/R Program at the Springfield, IL campus.
How Much Does It Cost?
MTI’s tuition depends on the course, but it tends to fall within the common range for state and community colleges, which is about $6,000 to $15,000 annually. MTI’s a good deal since you can skip the general courses and focus on your trade.
For the most accurate information regarding tuition fees, consider using the Midwest Technical Institute Net Price Calculator.
Why Do People Think Midwest Technical Institute Is Closing?
Confusion around Midwest Technical Institute’s (MTI) operational status stems from online misinformation. Particularly, a specific webpage mentions that a campus in Brownsburg, IN, closed its doors in 2017.
However, this doesn’t imply that all MTI locations are closed. The institution maintains several active campuses where students can continue to pursue their higher education goals.
Programs & Courses
Allied Health
- Dental Assistant
- Massage Therapy
- Medical Assisting
- Medical Coding Specialist
- Phlebotomy
- Basic Nursing Assistant
- Phlebotomist
Mechanical Trades
- HVAC/R
- Welding
- Welding & Pipefitting
Cosmetology
- Cosmetology
Trucking & Transportation
- CDL
Campus Locations
Springfield, IL 2731 Farmers Market Rd., Springfield, IL 62707
East Peoria, IL 280 High Point Ln., East Peoria, IL 61611
Moline, IL 3620 Avenue of the Cities, Moline, IL 61265
Springfield, MO 3600 S. Glenstone Outer Rd., Springfield, MO 65804
Financial Aid Services
Many MTI applicants receive financial assistance. Federal grants and loans are available through the FAFSA, though the results differ for each enrollee. Since it is a non-traditional school, Midwest Technical Institute does not enforce a deadline to apply for aid. To determine eligibility, the first step is to speak to an advisor.
Student Services
Attendees take on externships that offer hands-on training with employers in the field. In addition to providing experience, these programs allow pupils to network with professionals. Those connections can lead to job placement. An MTI Student Portal is available for undergraduates to track their progress and connect with faculty.
Admission to Midwest Technical Institute includes access to the Learning Resource Center. There, students engage in tutoring, resume building, and other activities that help with academic success. There is information about housing, transportation, and childcare assistance as well.
Veteran and Military Services
MTI knows that many skills from the armed forces can apply to the civilian workplace. Due to this, it has been designated a Military Friendly School and encourages active duty and veteran service members to attend. They are also eligible for financial aid through the GI Bill.
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews for the Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) – Springfield Campus, the college is praised for specific vocational programs, the dedication of many instructors, and hands-on training. However, these positive elements are heavily counterbalanced by serious, consistent criticisms regarding administrative and financial issues, student safety, and misleading information about program details.
Overall Score: 3.9/5 Stars
Common Praises
Knowledgeable and Dedicated Instructors: Many faculty members, particularly in the HVAC and CDL-A programs, are praised as being “very knowledgeable,” patient, and “willing to work with you.” Reviewers note that instructors have extensive experience and provide all the necessary tools and resources for success.
Effective Vocational Programs: Specific programs, like HVAC and the month-long CDL-A course, are highlighted as being “awesome” and providing practical, hands-on training that prepares students for the real world.
Supportive Environment (for some): Some reviewers describe the school as having a “very positive atmosphere” and believe the faculty/staff “truly cares about their students” and “goes above and beyond.”
Common Criticisms
Student Safety and Instructor Misconduct: A highly serious accusation was made by a female graduate of the HVAC program who reported experiencing sexual harassment from one of the instructors. The review emphasizes the need for a safe environment for all students.
Unfair Dismissals and Due Process: At least one reviewer was “removed from the program” just a week before externship over accusations that the student claims they were not allowed to dispute or provide any defense against.
Inconsistent Instructor Quality: While many instructors are praised, some reviewers cite poor instructor quality, including faculty who were new to teaching and neglected students in the lab by sitting at their desk and listening to music.
Career and Advising Concerns: One student felt pushed into the CMA program over the CNA program only to later find out they needed the CNA certification first, leading them to drop out. Other graduates claim they got little from the school besides a certificate and debt, suggesting poor post-graduation outcomes.
Momentum
The recent reviews (within the last few months) show the polarization is ongoing. New reviews include strong praise for the knowledgeable instructors in the CDL-A and HVAC programs, but they are directly juxtaposed with serious complaints about sexual harassment, misleading information, and difficulties with the administrative departments. The owner’s responses acknowledge the negative feedback and suggest they are addressing concerns, but the persistent nature of the problems suggests students should approach with caution, prioritizing the quality of the vocational instruction over the reliability of the administrative support.