What Is It Known For?
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has a rich history. This non-profit institution began in 1905 as a trade school for orphans. This was made possible by a gift from Thaddeus Stevens, a famous statesman and philanthropist.
Today, the college, which is not part of any larger network of colleges, has grown significantly. It now offers 24 two-year associate degree programs. Over 1,400 students attend classes at five locations in and around Lancaster City, Pennsylvania.
The college is also popular among applicants. It receives about 1,167 applications each year. What’s most impressive is its 97% placement rate for graduates. This shows that students are well-prepared for their careers after graduation.
Degrees & Certifications
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology offers 24 associate degrees, 4 certificate programs, and various short-term training options ranging from 6 weeks to 6 months. These programs primarily focus on three key areas:
- Trades
- Technology
- Business
Class Schedules
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology offers morning and daytime classes. General education courses are available in-person, online (synchronous or asynchronous), or in hybrid formats. The college doesn’t mention evening classes, externships, or clinical experiences. However, they do provide job placement assistance for full-time employment after graduation.
Is It Legit?
Yes. Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is a legitimate institution. The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Acceptance Rate
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has a high acceptance rate of 91%. However, admission is primarily restricted to Pennsylvania residents. The only exceptions are veterans and active-duty military personnel, who may be admitted regardless of their state of residence.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is approximately $4,500 per semester. However, the total cost of attendance may be higher when factoring in additional expenses such as housing and meal plans. Fortunately, financial aid is widely available, with more than 90 percent of students receiving some form of assistance.
To get a more accurate estimate of your potential expenses, consider using the school’s Net Price Calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Business Admin
Design
- Graphic Design
Skilled Trades
- Automotive
- Architecture
- Cabinetmaking
- Carpentry
- Civil Engineering Construction
- Collision Repair
- Construction
- CNC
- Diesel
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- Welding
Technology
- CAD
- Computer & Network Systems
- Software Engineer
Campus Locations
Lancaster 750 E King St Lancaster, PA 17602
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (TSCT) is widely considered an excellent technical education investment with a strong focus on career outcomes, though it struggles with some administrative and campus life issues.
Overall Score: 4.6/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Career and Financial Value: Graduates consistently state that attending was the “best investment in my life” and a “fraction of the cost of any big school.” They report graduating with “little debt and landing a great job” and mention the school does “whatever they can to help you land a job.” Official data supports this, showing a very high (often over 95%) job placement or continuing education rate.
Strong, Practical Education: The core trade programs are described as “solid” and challenging, with instructors taking the education “very serious.” The learning environment is intense and practical, treating students “like an employee in a workstation”—a style that prepares them well for the workforce.
Life-Changing Opportunity: Several reviewers speak highly of the school’s mission, noting that attending “changed my life for good” and gave them the means to “never again work a dead end job,” highlighting the positive transformation and social inclusion many students experience.
Caring and Dedicated Teachers: Many reviewers praise the teachers for being laid back, yet caring, and note that the staff and students create a friendly and “prospering community.”
Common Criticisms
Poor Communication and Administrative Inefficiency: Prospective and current students have reported significant difficulty getting a response from admissions, with one applicant noting a “3 week wait for a response minimum.” This issue points to a general problem with responsiveness and communication.
Subpar Food Quality: The quality of the dining hall food is a notable complaint, with some reviewers stating it is “Terrible” and not worth eating, sometimes leading to concerns about food preparation.
Limited Campus Life and Facility Issues: A very recent review pointed out that campus facilities, specifically the game room, are often closed despite posted hours. Other reviewers noted that some areas of the campus look “run down” or that there is “no help whats so ever for anything on any assignments.”
Momentum
Reviews remain highly positive overall, especially regarding the educational value and career outcomes. However, the most recent comments highlight persistent or recurring issues with campus facility access and a lack of support for assignments. The college owner has been responsive to communication complaints in the past, suggesting they are aware of the issue.