Best Electrician Schools in North Dakota

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become an electrician in North Dakota, the first step is finding a good training program. A quality program gives you the skills, safety training, and technical knowledge you need to get licensed. In North Dakota, employers expect you to have both classroom instruction and hands-on experience before they'll hire you.

How Electrician Licensing Works in North Dakota

Electricians are licensed by the North Dakota State Electrical Board. You must follow the state's requirements before you can work on electrical systems.

Licensing Rule: In North Dakota, you must complete an approved apprenticeship and pass the state electrical exam to become a licensed journeyman electrician. 1

The usual path is:

  1. Complete High School or GED - A solid background in algebra, shop, and science helps.
  2. Enroll in an Electrical Training Program - Often through a trade school or community college.
  3. Start an Apprenticeship - This includes paid work plus structured coursework.
  4. Log Required Hours - North Dakota requires 8,000 hours of electrical work under a licensed journeyman or master.
  5. Pass the State Exam - Once you meet experience requirements, apply to take the journeyman exam.

Best Electrician Schools in North Dakota

Here are some of the state's top training options, based on program quality, certification preparation, and job placement support.

1. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) - Wahpeton, ND

  • Program: Electrical Technology (Diploma or AAS)
  • Length: 2 years (AAS) or shorter diploma option
  • Highlights: Strong focus on residential, commercial, and industrial wiring; hands-on labs; good placement rates.
  • Website: https://www.ndscs.edu

2. Bismarck State College - Bismarck, ND

  • Program: Electrical Technology (AAS or Diploma)
  • Length: 1-2 years
  • Highlights: Combination of technical training and safety instruction; pathway into apprenticeship; modern training facilities.
  • Website: https://bismarckstate.edu

3. Dakota College at Bottineau - Bottineau, ND

  • Program: Partnership programs with other ND colleges for electrical studies
  • Length: Varies
  • Highlights: Smaller class sizes, hands-on support, rural campus advantages.
  • Website: https://www.dakotacollege.edu

4. North Dakota Apprenticeship Programs

Many electricians in the state train through a registered apprenticeship rather than a traditional classroom-only route.

Training Program Comparison Table

School / Program Credential Options Program Length Apprenticeship Pathway
North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) Diploma, AAS 1-2 years Yes
Bismarck State College Diploma, AAS 1-2 years Yes
Dakota College at Bottineau (Partnership programs) Varies Varies Yes
Registered Apprenticeship (via ND Labor Dept.) N/A 4-5 years Yes

What to Look For in a Good Electrician School

When choosing a training provider, keep your focus on:

  • State-approved curriculum that aligns with licensing exam topics.
  • Hands-on training with modern tools and real equipment.
  • Safety certifications like OSHA 10 or OSHA 30.
  • Apprenticeship connections to employers in North Dakota.
  • Support services such as job placement and tutoring.

Steps to Get Your Electrician License in North Dakota

  1. Graduate from High School - or earn a GED.
  2. Select a School or Apprenticeship - Choose one that meets ND State Electrical Board requirements.
  3. Complete Classroom Hours - Usually part of your program or apprenticeship agreement.
  4. Log Work Hours - North Dakota requires 8,000 hours under supervision.
  5. Apply for the Journeyman Exam - Submit documents and pay fees to the State Electrical Board.
  6. Pass the Exam - Prepare through study and practice tests.
  7. Maintain Your License - Renew on schedule and keep up with continuing education.

Note: Always verify requirements with the North Dakota State Electrical Board before you enroll in a program or apply for an exam.

Why Hands-On Learning Matters

In electrical work, theory alone is not enough. You learn to read blueprints, run conduit, troubleshoot systems, and follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) by doing the work. A good program will blend classroom lessons with jobsite training.

OSHA safety standards require that workers be trained in hazard recognition and safe work practices. Schools with in-depth safety training make you more valuable to employers and reduce your risk on the job. 2

Continuing Education and Career Growth

After becoming a journeyman electrician, you can:

  • Upgrade your license to Master Electrician with additional experience.
  • Specialize in areas such as industrial controls, renewable energy systems, or fire alarm installation.
  • Become an electrical contractor and run your own business.

North Dakota's construction and energy sectors offer steady demand for skilled electricians, so career growth opportunities are strong for those who keep learning and adapting to new technologies.

Final Takeaway

If you want to become an electrician in North Dakota, start by picking a solid school or apprenticeship program that meets state licensing requirements. Focus on one that offers thorough hands-on training and a strong link to employers. Get the classroom knowledge, log your apprenticeship hours, and prep for your exam. With those steps, you'll be ready to build a long-term, high-skill career in the electrical trade.

  1. North Dakota State Electrical Board - Licensing Requirements: https://www.ndseb.com/licensing ↩

  2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration - Electrical Safety: https://www.osha.gov/electrical ↩

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