Plumbing Schools: Cost, Length, Curriculum

What are Plumber Trade Schools?

For those looking to break into the plumbing industry, attending a plumbing school is a great way to get your foot in the door.

There are plumbing schools all over the country with the classroom learning and hands-on training ready to propel students into an entry-level plumbing job.

It’s no question that learning a trade such as plumbing can be a great career choice.

When you’re getting started on your way to becoming a plumber, it is imperative to plan how you will learn your skills.

While some may take the route of becoming a plumbing apprentice, another option is attending a plumbing school.

These trade schools focus specifically on training you in the skills you’ll need to become an effective plumber.

How Long is Plumbing School?

Plumbing schools and trade school plumbing programs take about 2 years to complete. If you only go part-time, then it will take up to 5 years to complete plumber school.

Your average college curriculum will make you take four years taking many courses that won’t apply to your future career.

Even though some of these plumbing schools take place within a college or university, the programs focus your training on plumbing and related knowledge.

In most cases, you will not be expected to take ancillary coursework.

Can You Become a Plumber Without School?

You don’t need to go to plumbing school to become a plumber.

In fact, many people decide to become an apprentice plumber to avoid school

While you don’t need to go to plumbing school to become a plumber or pipefitter, there are benefits to attending.

You will learn the basics of plumbing, how the industry works, and gain valuable education in a competitive field. 

When preparing to take a plumbing license exam in your state, you’ll have a leg up amongst other test takers.

How Much Does Plumbing School Cost?

Plumbing school can cost between $1,000 – $7,500 depending on the program.

Plumbing certificate programs cost between $1,000 – $2,000, while an associate’s degree in plumbing from a community college will cost between $2,500 and $7,500.

The cost to of plumbing school can vary based on how much time you want to spend in school and whether or not you’ll need financial assistance.

Some trade schools and technical colleges offer affordable programs that can be completed in less than a year, while others can take up to two years to complete.

If you don’t have a lot of money to invest, you can also opt for online plumbing training.

Plumbing School Curriculum

Plumbing school curriculum includes classes for plumbing basics, tools used, plumbing businesses, and more.

Trade schools for plumbers also include hundreds of hours of hands-on practical training. 

When selecting a plumbing school, it is also important to understand what outcomes your school offers.

Some plumbing schools may prepare you for a specific licensing exam, while others may prepare you to start your own plumbing business.

Make sure to inquire with your trade school advisors about which potential outcomes are best for you.

Can You Attend Plumbing School Online?

Yes, you can take an online plumber program that provides hands-off training.

Not only are online plumbing schools cheaper than attending in person, they can be completed at your own pace too.

In fact, many schools even offer plumbing training programs to employers to train their workforce.

Best Online Plumbing Schools

Fortunately, with the growth of online learning, several top-quality online plumbing schools are available. Below are the best online plumbing schools that offer comprehensive programs to help you achieve your career goals.

Penn Foster Career School

Penn Foster Career School is a top-rated online plumbing school that offers a comprehensive program designed to train its students to become successful plumbers.

One of the most significant benefits of studying with the Penn Foster Career School is the flexibility it offers.

Students have 24/7 access to online classes and resources, enabling them to complete coursework at their own pace.

The courses are designed to provide hands-on learning through online simulations of plumbing scenarios.

Pros:

• Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
• Self-paced online courses with flexibility in scheduling
• Affordable tuition
• 24/7 access to online courses and resources

Cons:

• Limited interaction with instructors
• Limited face-to-face and on-site training

Ashworth College

Ashworth College is another top online plumbing school that offers high-quality courses for aspiring plumbers.

The online programs focus on developing knowledge and building skills in all aspects of the plumbing industry.

Students can learn at their own pace, and the courses are designed to be self-paced to suit every student.

Pros:

• Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
• Self-paced online courses with flexibility in scheduling
• Affordable tuition
• Comprehensive program

Cons:

• Limited interaction with instructors
• Limited face-to-face and on-site training

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute is an excellent online plumbing school that offers students self-paced online courses covering a range of plumbing topics such as pipefitting, installation, and repair.

Stratford’s Career Institute’s online program provides a flexible schedule, allowing students to study at their own pace.

They offer career advice and access to job postings to help students reach their career goals.

Pros:

• Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
• Self-paced online courses with flexibility in scheduling
• Affordable tuition
• Career advice and access to job postings

Cons:

• Limited interaction with instructors
• No on-site or face-to-face training

New York City College of Technology

For those who prefer a more traditional educational experience, the New York City College of Technology offers both online and on-campus courses.

They provide a wide range of degree programs in plumbing and HVAC.

The course is challenging but will prepare you for the workforce with a solid foundation in the field.

Pros:

• Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Comprehensive online and on-site programming
• Competitive tuition rates

Cons:

• Strict deadlines and a structured academic calendar can be challenging for some students
• Limited flexibility in scheduling

Plumbing Schools vs. Plumbing Apprenticeships

The main difference between attending a plumber trade school or becoming an apprentice plumber is the cost.

While going to a trade school will cost you money, a plumbing apprenticeship is free.

In fact, plumbing apprentices are paid well and work full-time on the job.

Whichever you decide to do should depend on your personal needs.

Some learn better on the job while others learn most in the classroom and training sessions. Plus, you can do both if you’d like!