What Is It Known For?
Moore Tech started training students in mechanical arts and sciences back in 1939, thanks to William Robert Moore’s vision and generosity. He left most of his fortune to create a place where young people could learn practical skills like electrical work and machine operation.
Today, this independent non-profit college welcomes about 378 students each year, carrying on its original mission of hands-on technical education. As one of the oldest vocational schools in America, Moore Tech has spent over 80 years turning students into skilled professionals.
Degrees & Certifications
Moore Tech provides a variety of educational opportunities, offering certificate, diploma, and associate degree programs. Students can choose from over six different fields of study.
Some of the programs available include:
- Associate Degree of Applied Technology
- Machining Technology
- Property Maintenance
- Plumbing
- Automotive Service Technology (AAT)
- And Much More!
Class Schedules
The school offers classes in the morning, afternoon, and evening, with some sessions ending as late as 9:30 PM. Evening availability may vary, so it’s best to confirm your specific course schedule. Certain programs might include online options, depending on the subject.
While we haven’t found information about externships, reaching out to the admissions office will give you the full picture of hands-on learning opportunities.
Is It Legit?
Yes, the school is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, ensuring it meets recognized standards for occupational training and education.
Acceptance Rate
The school follows an open admissions policy, allowing all eligible applicants the opportunity to enroll.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition for the 2024–2025 academic year varies based on the program and enrollment status.
- Full-Time Associate Degree Program: $250 per credit hour, approximately $3,000 per trimester.
- Half-Time Diploma Programs (e.g., Auto, ACRH, IE & Plant Maintenance, Plumbing, Property Maintenance, Machining, Welding): $250 per credit hour, around $1,500 per trimester (excluding fees).
- Certificate Programs: $250 per credit hour, totaling about $750 per trimester (excluding fees).
Keep in mind these figures don’t include additional fees. For the most accurate cost estimate for your specific program, try the school’s net price calculator.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- HVAC
- Automotive Service Technology
- Industrial Electricity
- Machining Technology
- Plumbing
- Property Maintenance
- Welding
Campus Locations
Memphis 1200 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38104
Memphis 2785 S. Mendenhall Memphis, TN 38115
Memphis 475 N. Bellevue Blvd Memphis, Tennessee 38105
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Moore Tech (Memphis, TN) is viewed as a significant institution providing necessary vocational training with some standout programs, but it suffers from serious, recurring administrative issues and highly negative reports regarding certain departments and staff behavior.
Overall Score: 4.1/5 Stars
Common Praises
Program Quality (Machining/Welding): Students in the Machining and Welding programs are highly satisfied. They praise the programs for having dedicated, knowledgeable instructors who provide hands-on experience in addition to lectures. One reviewer stated they felt fortunate to be at Moore Tech after having a poor experience at a similar, unnamed college.
Job Placement: The school has a long-standing reputation for providing vocational training for “hands-on jobs with quality companies” since 1939. Reviewers confirm that faculty can often secure good jobs for students in their field, often before graduation.
Supportive Faculty (Select Departments): Many reviewers generalize the instructors as being of “A1 quality,” working with students’ limits, and being highly supportive of their future goals.
Importance of Skilled Trades: The school is praised for offering a great program for young people and for promoting skilled trades as the future.
Common Criticisms
Poor Administration and Intimidation: The most serious, recent complaint is that the staff and administration are “Horrible,” using intimidation and empty threats to scare people. There are allegations that the administration constantly threatens to kick people out of school, even based on “hearsay,” with one reviewer claiming the school is “more corrupt than the MPD.”
Instructor Behavior and Departmental Issues (Industrial Electricity): One detailed review describes the Industrial Electricity department as a “mess” with junk everywhere. The instructor in that department was reported to engage in disruptive behavior, including going on rants, insulting students, and refusing to teach on most occasions.
Perceived Racism and Discrimination: A former student reported experiencing racism from an instructor and other classmates. They claimed the instructor spent little time with them compared to other students and that they were unfairly kicked out by the director.
Program Not Delivering on Promises (Auto Mechanics): One parent reported that their son was promised he would be “fully trained” and ASE certified in Auto Mechanics but, after three years of working post-graduation, he was still not certified and felt he did not know everything about the trade.
Strict and Unsafe Practices: The attendance policy is criticized as being overly strict, forcing students to fail if they miss more than six days per trimester, even for COVID-19. Another review claims that the equipment is in constant need of repair and that the school teaches “unsafe work practices.”
Momentum
The reviews are split between specific departmental successes (e.g., Machining) and broad administrative failures. The most severe complaints—allegations of administrative corruption, intimidation, and poor instructor conduct—have appeared across the last 1 to 8 years. While the school continues to draw praise for its foundational role in job placement, the recurring and serious nature of the negative administrative and conduct complaints is a major red flag for prospective students.