Best Electrician Schools in North Dakota

If you want to become an electrician in North Dakota, the first step is proper training. The state requires you to work under a licensed electrician and complete approved education before you can test for your license. Choosing the right school matters because it shapes your skills and helps you meet the state’s requirements.

Here’s what you need to know about the best electrician schools in North Dakota and how to get started.

Electrician License Requirements in North Dakota

The North Dakota State Electrical Board (NDSEB) handles licensing. To work as a licensed electrician in the state, you must meet education, work experience, and exam requirements.

Licensing Rule: According to NDSEB, you must complete a combination of classroom training and on-the-job experience under a licensed electrician before testing for a Journeyman license.

General steps to get licensed in North Dakota:

1. Enroll in an approved electrical training program or apprenticeship.
2. Work under a licensed electrician for the required hours.
3. Pass the state electrician exam.
4. Apply for your license with NDSEB.

You can review the exact requirements on the North Dakota State Electrical Board website.

Top Electrician Schools in North Dakota

These schools offer electrical programs that can prepare you for state licensing or help you enter an apprenticeship.

1. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) – Wahpeton

Program: Electrical Technology
Length: 2 years (Associate in Applied Science) or 1 year (Diploma)
This program covers residential, commercial, and industrial wiring. Students can choose the diploma track for faster entry into the field or the associate degree for a broader foundation.

Highlights:

• Hands-on lab training
• Industry-experienced instructors
• Prepares graduates for entry-level apprentice positions

Website: NDSCS Electrical Technology

2. Bismarck State College – Bismarck

Program: Electrical Transmission Systems Technology, Instrumentation & Control
Length: 2 years (Associate in Applied Science)
BSC’s program focuses on power systems and controls, providing skills for both utility and industrial work.

Highlights:

• Courses in electrical theory and safety
• Strong partnerships with energy sector employers
• Flexible schedules for working students

Website: Bismarck State College Programs

3. North Dakota State College of Science – Fargo Campus

Program: Electrical Technology (Fargo site)
This is essentially the Wahpeton program offered at a satellite location, giving students in the Fargo area more convenient access.

Highlights:

• Same curriculum as Wahpeton
• Smaller class sizes
• Convenient location for eastern ND residents

4. United Tribes Technical College – Bismarck

Program: Electrical Technology Certificate
Length: 1 year
UTTC’s program offers basic electrical skills for entry-level work and apprenticeship placement.

Highlights:

• Focus on residential wiring
• Support for Native students and underserved populations
• Career services for graduates

Website: United Tribes Technical College

Quick Comparison of North Dakota Electrician Schools

Choosing the Right Electrician School

When deciding where to train, consider:

• Program length – Decide between a faster diploma or a 2-year associate degree, depending on your goals.
• Location – Pick a school close enough for daily travel or that offers housing.
• Licensing preparation – Confirm that the program meets NDSEB education requirements.
• Hands-on training – Look for lab work and real job site experience.
• Industry connections – Schools with apprenticeship placement can help you start working sooner.

Electrical Apprenticeships in North Dakota

Completing a formal apprenticeship is another path to licensing. Many apprenticeships partner with trade unions, contractors, or vocational schools. In North Dakota, you can register your apprenticeship through NDSEB.

Benefits of an apprenticeship:

• Paid work while you train
• Real-world experience
• Meets NDSEB work hour requirements

Industry associations like the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) also offer programs that combine work and study.

Safety and Continuing Education

Even after you get licensed, you’ll need to keep learning. North Dakota requires continuing education for license renewal. Topics often include electrical code updates and safety training.

Safety Reminder: Always follow OSHA electrical safety standards to protect yourself and others on the job. Review the requirements at OSHA Electrical Safety.

Next Steps to Start Training

Here’s what to do now:

1. Contact the schools listed above.
2. Ask for details on costs, schedules, and enrollment requirements.
3. Choose the program that fits your budget, timeline, and career goals.
4. Apply and prepare for classes.
5. Complete your program and register for an apprenticeship to start gaining work experience.

Starting as an electrician in North Dakota takes planning, but picking the right school makes it much easier. Review your options, get your training, and you’ll be ready for the next step toward licensing.

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Would you like me to also create a North Dakota Electrician Licensing Requirements guide in the same Grav format, so that we can internally link to it from this article? That would make the silo more complete.

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