Dunwoody College of Technology
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Minnesota / Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology – Minneapolis, MN
Program Information
Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis is known for delivering deeply hands-on training in the skilled trades, with electrician and plumbing programs structured around real-world building systems rather than abstract coursework. Both programs are designed for students who want strong technical foundations, repeated lab exposure, and a clear transition into apprenticeship or entry-level trade roles.
Instruction blends classroom learning with extensive lab time, allowing students to move quickly from theory into application. Rather than treating electrical and plumbing concepts in isolation, the curriculum emphasizes how systems are installed, coordinated, tested, and maintained in actual residential, commercial, and light industrial environments.
Electrician program training commonly focuses on:
- Electrical theory tied directly to wiring methods and system behavior
- Residential and commercial circuit installation
- Conduit bending, panel work, and device installation
- National and state electrical code interpretation
- Troubleshooting techniques using meters and diagnostic tools
Plumbing program instruction emphasizes:
- Water supply and distribution systems
- Drain, waste, and vent (DWV) system layout
- Pipefitting methods using modern materials
- Fixture installation, testing, and repair
- Code compliance and system inspection readiness
Across both programs, blueprint reading and system layout are core skills. Students learn how to interpret drawings, plan installations, and understand how their trade fits into the larger construction sequence. Safety standards are reinforced daily, reflecting the expectations students will face on real job sites.
Program Length
- Typical program length: approximately two years (full-time)
- Credentials offered: associate degree or certificate, depending on the program track
The two-year structure allows for deeper technical coverage and repeated lab practice, which is especially valuable for students planning to enter registered apprenticeships after graduation.
Hands-On Training Environment
Dunwoody’s training model is lab-intensive. Students regularly work in controlled shop environments designed to mirror real installation scenarios. Hands-on learning commonly includes:
- Full system mock-ups for wiring and piping
- Step-by-step installation and teardown exercises
- Testing, inspection, and troubleshooting scenarios
- Tool use aligned with current industry standards
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic math skills used for measurements and calculations
- Interest in technical, hands-on learning environments
Certifications & Career Preparation
Graduates are typically prepared to enter electrician or plumbing apprenticeship pathways or pursue entry-level roles with contractors and facilities teams. The programs emphasize jobsite readiness, code awareness, and technical discipline—skills that support long-term advancement and state licensing requirements.
Location
Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dunwoody College of Technology operates in a region with steady demand for skilled trades professionals. The college’s strong ties to local employers and apprenticeship programs help students connect classroom training to real employment opportunities.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Dunwoody College of Technology (Minneapolis, MN) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Dunwoody College of Technology. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.