Welcome to our list of the best trade schools in the Bismarck region.
By focusing only on the skills that are relevant to the job market, vocational training typically can be completed in less than two years.
To help you decide if this is the path you want to pursue, on this page, we have compiled information about the best trade schools in your region and the programs they offer.
If you want to combine classroom with on-the-job training, our list also includes apprenticeships that allow you to earn a wage while preparing for a new career.
The programs included in our list are designed to get you job-ready in a wide range of fields, including:
- Automotive
- Paralegal
- Hair Styling
- Manufacturing
- Welding
- And more
We encourage you to use this information as a starting point in your research and choose the school and program that best meets your needs.
1Bismarck State College
About the School
Bismarck State College is a Polytechnic Institution in North Dakota.
The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at the college:
- Accounting
- Applied College Studies
- Applied Design Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Civil Engineering Technology
- Electronics/Telecommunications Technology
- Engineering Technology
- Exercise Science
- Financial Technologies
- Paramedic Technology
- Power Generation Technology
- Water & Wastewater Technology
- And more
Program duration and curriculum vary depending on the pathway and the credentials it leads to.
The two-year degree in Electronics/Telecommunications Technology provides students with a good basic electronics background, as well as specialization in analog and digital telecommunications, copper and fiber optic media, radio communications, and digital electronics.
Contact Information
- Address: 1500 Edwards Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58506
- Phone: 701.224.5400 or 1.800.445.5073
- Website: https://bismarckstate.edu
2United Tribes Technical College
United Tribes Technical College provides an outstanding education to the Native American people of the region and around the country.
The college has maintained continuous accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission since 1982.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at United Tribes Technical College:
- Automotive Technology
- Business Administration
- Commercial Vehicle Operations
- Computer Information Technology
- Fisheries and Wildlife Biology
- Paralegal
- Pre-Engineering
- Social Work
- Welding Technology
- And more
Per-credit tuition for 100-200 Level courses is $115.
Tuition for 300-400 Level courses is $200 per credit.
Apprenticeships that combine on-the-job training with classroom learning are also available.
Contact Information
- Address: 3315 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504
- Phone: 701.255.3285
- Website: https://uttc.edu
3Lynees Welding Training
About the School
Lynees Welding Training offers a combination of hands-on welding experience and classroom theory.
Students develop a working knowledge of welding techniques, equipment setup, and operations.
The school offers various classes in welding for gas metal arc welding, flux cored arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and shielded metal arc welding processes.
The school has a 12 to 1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
Students receive post-graduation job search assistance.
Programs can be completed in 12 to 16 weeks, depending on the course chosen.
Students learn multiple-process welding to become a combination welder.
Applicants must be at least 17 years or older to enroll in classes and they need to turn 18 by the last day of class.
They must also pass an eye examination, with or without corrective lenses.
A high school diploma/GED is preferred but not necessary for individual skills training courses.
Contact Information
- Phone: 701-751-4256
- Website: https://learntoweld.com
4IVES Training Group
About the School
IVES Training Group offers trainer and operator training programs for those who want to work with equipment such as forklifts, mobile elevating work platforms, loaders, and excavators across Canada and the USA.
Trainer Certification Programs are available at the school’s location or on-site.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at IVES Training Group:
- Forklift Trainer Certification Programs
- Mobile Elevating Work Platform Certification Programs
- Loader Trainer Certification Programs
Forklift Trainer Certification Programs are available at the school’s locations in California, Nevada, Utah, Texas, North Dakota, Virginia, Hawaii, British Columbia, and Ontario.
Trainees learn the knowledge, skills, tools, and support they need to be effective trainers.
The following Forklift Trainer Certification Programs are available:
- Express Standard Forklift Trainer
- Premium Combo Trainer Certification
- Premium Forklift Trainer Certification
- Rough Terrain Telehandler Trainer Upgrade
Contact Information
- Address: 8420 Portal Way, Ste H3, Blaine. WA 98230-9482 (Shipping Address)
- Phone: 1-800-643-1144
- Website: https://www.ivestraining.com
5The Hair Academy
About the School
The Hair Academy offers a versatile curriculum of engaging content in haircutting and styling, manicuring, esthetics, chemical services, and more.
The school’s 1800-hour program surpasses the North Dakota requirement of 1500 hours.
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent.
No prior experience in hairstyling is required.
Financial aid options are available for eligible students: a 10-month payment plan or federal financial aid.
The school offers a comprehensive program designed to provide a solid foundation in both classic and contemporary techniques.
Program duration varies, but most programs may be completed within 12 months.
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training from the start.
Students participate in a student salon environment where they gain real-world experience under the guidance of experienced instructors.
The Hair Academy is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission.
Contact Information
- Address: 2101 E Broadway Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58501
- Phone: (701) 255-3547
- Website: https://www.thehairacademy.com
6Bismarck Aero Center
About the School
Bismarck Aero Center is a one-stop destination for all your aviation training needs.
The center is home to the region’s largest aircraft maintenance and avionics facility, as well as professional aircraft fueling service.
The school has more than 40 skilled aviation professionals ready to serve any of the student’s specific needs.
Flight instruction is available for the following ratings: Private Pilot, Instrument, Commercial, and a Cirrus Embark Program.
You may become a pilot after completing the following requirements:
- A total of at least 40 hours of logged flight time
- At least 20 hours of flight instruction
- At least 10 hours of logged solo time
- Complete a written exam
- Take a medical physical for aviation
- Be proficient in the area of operations as specified in FAR 61
- Complete a practical flight exam
Contact Information
- Address: 2301 University Dr. Bldg. 22, Bismarck, ND 58504
- Phone: 701-223-4754
- Website: https://bismarckaero.com
7North Valley CTC
About the School
North Valley CTC offers its students the opportunity to earn real-world experience through adult education, job shadow opportunities, internship opportunities, ITV classes, extended school projects, and Wash-Pembina county projects.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at the North Valley CTC:
- Agricultural Education
- Auto Technology
- Business Education
- Construction Technology
- Health Science Education
- Marketing Education
- Welding Technology
Program curriculum and duration vary depending on the pathway.
The Auto Technology program consists of two curricula: Automotive Electrical and Intro to Engine Performance Engine Repair, Brakes, and Suspension and Steering.
The North Valley Career and Technology Center Auto Technology Program is accredited by the ASE Accredited Training Program.
Construction Technology students learn about building materials, use and care of tools, and foundation, floor, wall, and roof construction while working on construction projects.
Agricultural education students have the option to take classes at North Valley, Minto, Park River Area, online, and potentially through ITV
Contact Information
- Address: 1540 School Road, Grafton, ND 58237
- Phone: 701-352-3705
- Website: https://northvalleyctc.org
8North Dakota State College of Science
North Dakota State College of Science offers academic programs that prepare students for careers in a variety of industries.
Courses Offered
The college offers the following program pathways.
- Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
- Education & Training
- Transportation
- Architecture & Construction
- Information Technology
- Manufacturing
- Hospitality & Tourism
- And more
The Manufacturing pathway includes the following programs:
- Industrial Electrical
- Journeyworker Track
- Technical Studies
- Welding Technology
- And more
The Transportation program includes courses that prepare you for:
- Auto Body Repair and Refinishing Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Automotive and Diesel Master Technician- Auto Tech
- Automotive and Diesel Master Technician- Diesel Tech
- Powersports Technology
- And more
Tuition in Wahpeton is $156.11 per credit for North Dakota residents.
Additional fees bring the total per-credit cost to $181.85 if you’re a resident of North Dakota.
Contact Information
- Address: 800 6th Street N, Wahpeton, ND 58076
- Phone: 800-342-4325 or 701-671-2401
- Website: https://www.ndscs.edu
9Lake Area Career and Technology Center
About the School
Lake Area Career and Technology Center aims to nurture students by supporting their individual growth.
Students may enroll at one of Devils Lake Public Schools by contacting the appropriate school directly.
Courses Offered
The following CTE program areas are available at the center:
- Construction Technology
- Marketing
- Health Sciences
- Business Education
- Culinary Art
- Welding Technology
- Child & Family Services
The Construction Technology program includes the following courses:
- Basic Worksite Safety
- Hand & Power Tools
- Intro to Blueprints
- Framing Procedures
- Basic Construction
- Insulation
- Doors and Windows
- Hands-on Learning
The Automotive Technology program covers topics related to Safety Skills, Vehicle Maintenance, Light Repair, Tooling, Engine Performance, Transmission, Steering, and Brakes.
Contact Information
- Address: 205 16th St NW, Devils Lake, ND 58301
- Phone: (701) 662-7650
- Website: https://www.lactc.dlschools.org
10Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Technology Center
About the School
Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Technology Center offers a variety of career education programs.
The center also offers an adult education program for anyone 16 years or older who is not currently enrolled in another academic institution.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at the center:
- Agriculture
- Automotive
- Construction Technology
- Health Sciences
- Information Technology
- Welding Technologies
- And more
The Health Science pathway teaches the following courses:
- Medical Terminology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Monitoring Body Functions
- Disease Prevention
- CPR & First Aid
The Welding Technologies program covers:
- Oxyacetylene Fuel Welding and Cutting
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- Wire Welding
- TIG Welding
- Blue Print Reading
- Acquire Fabrication Skills
- Plasma Cutting
Students in the Building Trades program learn about:
- Construction Management procedures
- Rough Framing, Dry Wall Installation and Finishing
- Enclosure of Structure
- Installation of Siding and Roofing
- Construction Electrical
- Plumbing Principles
Contact Information
- Address: 801 Valley Ave SE Valley City, ND 58072
- Phone: 701-845-0256
- Website: https://www.sheyennevalleyareactc.education
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an adult or a high school student who wants to earn double credit, Bismark is home to several trade schools and community colleges that offer programs designed for your needs.
Now that you have read our selection, it’s time to continue the research and apply for the program that best meets your learning style and career aspirations.