What Is Williamson College of the Trades Known For?
Williamson College of the Trades is not part of a larger network of state community colleges. It’s a private, non-profit institution founded on December 1, 1888. The college admits approximately 124 students each year, focusing on vocational education for young men.
While open to all qualifying applicants, Williamson gives special consideration to those from families with financial need.
Degrees & Certifications
Williamson College of the Trades offers associate programs in six mechanical trades over three years. These programs combine classroom learning of trade and technical theory with practical, hands-on work experience.
The six trade programs offered are:
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- Landscaping
- Machine
- Masonry
- Power Plant
Class Schedules
Williamson College of the Trades offers morning and afternoon classes, ending at 4:20 pm. An optional study hall runs from 7-10 pm. Classes are in-person, with no online options mentioned. While externships aren’t specified, the school reports a 98% job placement rate, with the other 2% of graduates pursuing further education.
Is Williamson College of the Trades Legit?
Yes. Williamson College of the Trades is a legitimate institution. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Acceptance Rate at Williamson College of the Trades
Williamson College of the Trades maintains a selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate ranging from 25% to 39%.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
For the 2024-25 academic year, Williamson College of the Trades’ total costs are as follows:
- Tuition: $31,471
- Room & Board: $5,000
- Student Fees: $140
However, every student receives the Williamson Scholarship of $36,471, which covers tuition and room & board. As a result, students typically only pay the $140 student fee, plus the cost of books and supplies, which vary by program and year.
For a personalized estimate of attendance costs and potential financial aid, use Williamson’s Net Price Calculator.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- Machinist
- Masonry
- Power Plant
Campus Locations
Media 106 S. New Middletown Rd. Media, PA 19063
Reviews
Based on Google reviews provided, Williamson College of the Trades is exceptionally unique, known for providing a tuition-free education focused on career readiness and moral development, but this comes with a highly disciplined, structured, and challenging lifestyle that is not for everyone.
Overall Score: 4.6/5 Stars
Common Praises
Tuition-Free and Exceptional Value: The college is unique in providing a full scholarship that covers tuition, room, and board for all students, significantly addressing the financial needs of deserving young men.
Intense Character and Discipline Development: The school is highly praised for actively “building the man” through its core values (Faith, Integrity, Diligence, Excellence, Service). Students confirm the structure is beneficial, teaching them to be “punctual, held accountable, and responsible.”
Superior Career Outcomes: The college boasts an official 98% job placement rate for graduates and facilitates this with multiple career fairs each year, where companies recruit for jobs and summer internships.
Supportive Faculty and Practical Learning: Instructors are described as “kind and encouraging” and “very helpful and knowledgeable,” with all faculty being readily available for support. Students learn a lot in their trades and gain hands-on experience through summer work.
Well-Rounded Experience: The structured schedule is seen as beneficial, and the athletic programs are praised for promoting health and physicality.
Common Criticisms
Highly Structured and Demanding Environment: The school is often described as having an “almost military-like environment” with strict rules, a coat-and-tie dress code, and a residential requirement for all three years. This challenging and rigid lifestyle is considered a negative by some.
Bullying and Hazing Allegations: Despite the college’s stated zero-tolerance policy, a small number of intense negative reviews mention a “bully atmosphere” and hazing that can make the experience difficult or force students to leave.
Sub-Par Freshman Housing: Some reviews point out that the freshman living conditions can be poor, with one past review mentioning “missing floor boards” and other disrepair in the houses assigned to first-year students.
Momentum
The momentum for Williamson College of the Trades is extremely strong and purpose-driven. The college has remained true to its founding mission for over 135 years, successfully combining a tuition-free education with high-demand trade skills and moral development. Its consistently high job placement rate and the fact that its graduates are sought after by employers who value their integrity and work ethic secure its success. The challenge for the college remains ensuring the intense structure is consistently a positive developmental environment and not a source of intimidation or hazing.