What Is It Known For?
St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC) has been a vital part of Central Minnesota since its founding in 1948. Originally established as the state’s second technical college, it has undergone significant evolution over the decades. In 2010, it expanded its mission to become a comprehensive community and technical college, adding liberal arts programs to its strong vocational roots.
Today, the college serves nearly 5,000 students annually in credit-based classes. It is known for its strong connection to the local workforce, contributing an impressive $184 million to the regional economy. This focus on employability is reflected in the outcomes: in 2024, 98% of graduates available for work successfully secured jobs in their field.
Degrees & Certifications
Students can choose from more than 75 different degree options tailored to match high-demand careers in the area. The college awards Certificates, Diplomas, and Associate degrees in programs like:
- Dental assistant
- Nursing
- Environmental Science
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- And Much More!
Class Schedules
SCTCC offers flexible scheduling to fit a variety of lifestyles. Students may take classes face-to-face, online synchronously or asynchronously, hybrid, or HyFlex. Some programs are available fully online, while others offer evening and weekend classes. Many programs include internships, clinical experiences, or externships. Please contact the school for more information.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. St. Cloud Technical & Community College is one of 37 members of Minnesota State and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Acceptance Rate
SCTCC has a 100% acceptance rate for students who meet minimum admission requirements.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition and fees are structured on a per-credit basis. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the cost is approximately $212.01 per credit for in-person classes and $218.51 per credit for online courses. These rates apply to both resident and non-resident students. Certain specialized programs, such as healthcare, may have slightly higher fees. To get a personalized estimate of your total costs, we recommend using the school’s net price calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Business
- Finance
- Marketing
Healthcare
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygienist
- EMT
- Medical Coding
- LPN to ADN
- Paramedicine
- Practical Nursing
- Sonography
- Surgical Technology
Professional Services
- Culinary Arts
Skilled Trades
- Carpentry
- Electrical Construction Technology
- Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
- Land Surveying
- Plumbing
- CNC and Advance Machining
- Welding/Fabrication
- Auto Body Collision and Technology
- Automotive Service Technician
Technology
- Computer Programming
- Information Technology
Campus Locations
Cloud 1540 Northway Drive St. Cloud, MN 56303
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, St. Cloud Technical & Community College (SCTCC) is recognized as a high-value workforce engine for Central Minnesota. It is particularly celebrated for its high job placement rates and “Best for Vets” status, though recent feedback highlights concerns regarding accessibility services for students with disabilities.
Overall Score: 4.2/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Job Placement: In 2025, SCTCC reported that 98% of its graduates found employment in their fields within one year, with many technical programs—such as Medium/Heavy Truck and Practical Nursing—boasting 100% placement rates.
Affordability and Financial Support: The college is a leader in cost-effectiveness, offering frozen tuition rates through the 2024–2025 academic year. It also participates in the North Star Promise, providing free tuition for Minnesota students with a family income under $80,000.
Highly Specialized Technical Labs: The recent opening of the Advanced Manufacturing Center and the development of the Aircraft Maintenance Technician program (slated for 2026) are cited as major draws for students looking for cutting-edge, hands-on training.
Supportive Community Atmosphere: Reviewers frequently praise the “friendly and helpful” staff and the campus “Cyclones Cupboard,” which provides free food and hygiene supplies to students.
Veteran-Friendly Environment: Recently named a 2025 Best for Vets College by Military Times, the institution is highly regarded for its support systems tailored to military-affiliated students.
Common Criticisms
Accessibility & Disability Support Issues: A recent and serious critique involves students feeling unsupported by the Accessibility Resource Center. Some report being “dropped” from classes due to medical emergencies (like seizures) without being given adequate guidance on how to secure formal accommodations.
Lack of Study Spaces: Students have noted that while the campus is well-maintained, there are very few “comfortable” places to sit and work, with some reporting that functional desks in common areas are extremely limited.
Communication Gaps for Minorities: While the college’s diversity has grown significantly (up 19% over the last five years), some immigrant students have reported feeling ignored when expressing concerns or opinions to the administration.
Momentum
The momentum for St. Cloud Technical & Community College is surging as a regional technical powerhouse in 2025. Enrollment has increased by over 6% this year, driven by high demand for healthcare and manufacturing trades. In late 2025, the college successfully launched its “Get Ready Week” to improve student retention and hired a new Vice President of Community, Culture, and Institutional Climate to address feedback regarding inclusivity. With its 98% employment rate and the continued expansion of industry partnerships (such as SkillsUSA and regional manufacturing hubs), SCTCC remains a top choice for students prioritizing a direct, affordable path to a stable career.