What Is It Known For?
Tidewater Tech, founded in 1969, is recognized for its hands-on, career-focused training in skilled trades. Located in Norfolk, Virginia, the school offers adult learners the opportunity to gain practical, real-world experience in fields such as automotive repair, HVAC, welding, and construction.
With a focus on fast-track programs, Tidewater Tech helps students quickly acquire the skills they need to launch new careers. Enrollment is around 400 students, creating a close-knit, supportive learning environment where personalized instruction is emphasized.
Degrees & Certifications
Tidewater Tech offers diploma and certificate programs, focusing on career-ready skills rather than traditional associate or bachelor’s degrees. Programs typically last between 8 to 16 months, allowing students to gain the expertise needed to enter the workforce quickly. Some of the programs offered include:
- Automotive Technician
- Building & Construction Trades
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
- Combination Welding
- Combination Maritime Welding
Class Schedules
Tidewater Tech offers full-time, day classes with both in-person and online options. Many programs include externships or practical training components, ensuring students gain real-world experience. This flexibility allows students to choose a schedule that fits their needs while acquiring hands-on skills needed for their careers.
Is It Legit?
Tidewater Tech is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), which ensures that the institution meets high standards for quality education in career-focused fields.
The school is also licensed by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and has programmatic accreditation for several of its trades. These credentials affirm the quality and recognition of the programs offered.
Acceptance Rate
Tidewater Tech has an open admission policy. This means that the acceptance rate is at 100%.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at Tidewater Tech varies by program. The cost per credit hour typically ranges from $675 to $725, with total tuition fees for programs ranging from $16,200 to $26,100, depending on the program. In addition to tuition, there is a $25 application fee, and students may incur extra costs for books, tool kits, exams, and additional services like transcript requests and re-enrollment.
For more accurate cost estimates, students can use the school’s Net Price Calculator to help assess total expenses.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Auto Technician
- Building & Construction Trades
- Welding
- Heating Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Campus Locations
Norfolk 4535 E. Princess Anne Rd Norfolk, VA 23502
Norfolk 2331 E. Little Creek Rd Norfolk, VA 23518
Reviews
Based on the very limited local Google reviews provided for Tidewater Tech – Little Creek, combined with broader online information about the school, the campus has a mixed and polarized snapshot, with the main issues relating to administration and policy.
Overall Score: 3.0/5 Stars
Common Criticisms
Unclear Administrative Policies: A recent reviewer (8 months ago) specifically states that the Administration changed the attendance policy without properly notifying students, leading to frustration. The reviewer suggests this campus is “not worth it” due to administrators being hostile when questioned about changes.
Concerns over Program Value: One very brief review (a week ago) simply states, “Not it.” A separate, older public online discussion also warns that the cost of Tidewater Tech’s trade programs can be significantly higher (e.g., $10,000 more) than comparable programs offered by Tidewater Community College (TCC) for the same certificate.
Post-Graduation Certification Issues: Older, public commentary from a graduate of the Norfolk campus details a dispute over a failed welding test result that appeared after graduation, despite an inspector initially confirming a passing grade. This highlights potential issues with record-keeping and certification delivery.
Lack of Job Placement Assistance: A graduate mentioned that the school “never helped find a job like they said” they would, which contradicts the school’s general marketing that touts career placement opportunities.
Common Praises
Strong Career Path Education: A very recent review (a month ago) simply praises the school as an “Awesome education choice for this career path!” indicating high satisfaction with the vocational training itself.
Positive Learning Environment (General): The school’s promotional materials and external reviews generally highlight a focus on hands-on training, supportive instructors, and a positive atmosphere where students feel welcome and are given the skills to succeed quickly in essential trades like Welding, HVAC, and Automotive Technology.
Momentum
The limited recent reviews show negative momentum regarding administration, with a student eight months ago and another a week ago expressing significant dissatisfaction over policy changes and overall experience. However, a positive review just one month ago suggests that the quality of the technical education itself may still be strong for some students. The primary risk highlighted by the reviews and external commentary revolves around administrative clarity, cost efficiency compared to community colleges, and post-graduation certification support.