Best Schools for a Plumbing Degree in 2018 – Programs & Top Picks

Thinking about a stable, high-demand career that pays well and doesn’t require a four-year college degree? You’re not alone. Many Americans are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—and for good reason. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbing jobs were projected to grow 5% from 2016 to 2026, faster than average. But with so many options, how do you find the best schools for a plumbing degree in 2018? Whether you’re a high school grad, career changer, or veteran, this guide cuts through the noise to spotlight top-rated, accredited programs that deliver real-world results.

Why Pursue a Plumbing Degree in 2018? (And Why It Still Matters Today)

In 2018, the skilled labor shortage was already intensifying—especially in construction and maintenance trades. Plumbing, in particular, offered strong job security, low student debt, and the chance to become self-employed.

• Median annual wage for plumbers in 2018: $53,910
• Top 10% earned more than $90,000
• 94% of plumbing programs reported job placement within 6 months of graduation

Choosing the best schools for a plumbing degree in 2018 wasn’t just about learning to fix pipes—it was about investing in a recession-resistant career with upward mobility.

What Makes a Plumbing Program “Best”? Key Evaluation Criteria

Not all plumbing schools are created equal. Based on Schools.com’s 2018 data and industry standards, top programs shared these traits:

✅ Accreditation – Preferably by ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges) or regional bodies
✅ Hands-on labs – Real-world training with copper, PVC, drain systems, and gas lines
✅ Apprenticeship partnerships – Direct ties to local unions or contractors
✅ Licensing exam prep – Prep for state certification (required in all 50 states)
✅ Job placement support – Resume help, interview coaching, and employer networks

💡 Expert Insight: “The best plumbing schools blend theory with 60%+ hands-on time,” says Maria Lopez, former director of vocational education at the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER). “Students should graduate ready to pass their journeyman exam—not just operate a wrench.”

Top 5 Plumbing Schools Featured on Schools.com in 2018

Based on graduation rates, employer feedback, and curriculum quality, these schools stood out:

🔗 For more on vocational education standards, see Vocational education on Wikipedia.

How to Choose the Right Plumbing Program for You

Follow this step-by-step checklist to avoid costly mistakes:

1. Verify Accreditation
   Go to the school’s website and look for ACCSC, ABET, or regional accreditation logos. If it’s missing, walk away.
2. Ask About Hands-On Hours
   The ideal program offers 400+ lab hours. Ask: “How many hours will I spend in the workshop vs. classroom?”
3. Check Apprenticeship Access
   Top schools partner with local plumbers’ unions (like UA Local 1) or contractors. Request a list of employer partners.
4. Review Licensing Pass Rates
   In 2018, the national average pass rate for plumbing exams was 78%. Choose schools above 85%.
5. Calculate True Cost
   Include tools ($300–$600), uniforms, textbooks, and exam fees. Some schools (like Ridgewater) covered these—others didn’t.
6. Visit Campus or Attend a Demo Class
   Nothing beats seeing students solder pipes or troubleshoot drain vents in real time.

Online vs. In-Person Plumbing Training: What’s Better?

While some Schools.com-listed programs offered hybrid options, fully online plumbing degrees don’t exist—and for good reason.

⚠️ Reality Check: Plumbing is a hands-on trade. You can’t learn to thread pipe or pressure-test a system via Zoom.

However, online components can help:

• Theory (codes, blueprint reading, math)
• OSHA safety modules
• Business management (for future entrepreneurs)

Look for blended programs—like those at Ivy Tech—that combine online lectures with weekly lab intensives.

Career Outlook After Graduating from a Top Plumbing School

Graduates from the best schools for a plumbing degree in 2018 entered a booming market:

• 76% started as apprentices earning $15–$20/hour
• 60% became journeymen within 2 years ($25–$35/hour)
• Self-employed plumbers averaged $70,000+ by year 5

Many also specialized in:

• Green plumbing (water efficiency, tankless heaters)
• Medical gas installation (higher pay, certification required)
• Commercial plumbing (high-rise, restaurants, hospitals)

FAQ Section

Q1: Do I need a “degree” to become a plumber?
A: Not necessarily. Most states require a certificate or diploma from an accredited trade school + apprenticeship. An associate degree (like at Penn College) adds business or engineering knowledge—great if you plan to own a company.

Q2: How long does plumbing school take in 2018 programs?
A: Certificate programs: 6–12 months. Associate degrees: 18–24 months. Apprenticeships typically last 4–5 years but pay while you learn.

Q3: Are Schools.com plumbing program rankings reliable?
A: In 2018, Schools.com used verified data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), school-reported outcomes, and student reviews. Always cross-check with state licensing boards.

Q4: Can veterans use GI Bill benefits for plumbing school?
A: Yes! Most accredited trade schools (including all listed above) accept GI Bill® benefits. Contact the school’s VA certifying official early.

Q5: What’s the #1 mistake students make when choosing a plumbing school?
A: Choosing based on lowest price alone. A $2,000 program with no lab access won’t prepare you for real work. Invest in quality training—it pays off in your first job.

Q6: Is plumbing still a good career choice in 2025?
A: Absolutely. The U.S. faces a shortage of 280,000 plumbers by 2030 (per PHCC). Demand is rising due to aging infrastructure, new construction, and green retrofits.

Conclusion

Finding the best schools for a plumbing degree in 2018 wasn’t just about prestige—it was about practicality, affordability, and future-proofing your income. The top programs delivered licensed, job-ready graduates in under two years, often with zero student debt and immediate employment.

Whether you’re exploring trade careers today or reflecting on 2018’s options, one truth remains: plumbing is a smart, dignified, and lucrative path.

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Your future in skilled trades starts with one smart decision—choose wisely, train well, and build a career that lasts.