What is Plumbing Technology?

Do you want a career in a high-demand skilled trade? Plumbing Technology focuses on installing, repairing, and maintaining essential plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Plumbers ensure safe water and waste management systems, playing a critical role in construction and urban development. 

At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain hands-on training and technical knowledge to start your career as an apprentice plumber. You’ll work with modern plumbing materials and technologies, learning state plumbing codes and essential trade skills that set you up for success in one of the largest and most in-demand construction trades. 

Why Choose the Plumbing Technology Program?

MSU-Northern’s Plumbing Technology program is Montana’s only program of its kind, with strong support from industry partners across the state. The curriculum is designed to give you: 

  • Technical skills through hands-on lab experience
  • In-depth knowledge of Montana’s state plumbing codes
  • Up to 1,500 hours of classroom training that count toward required apprenticeship hours
  • Mentorship from experienced faculty with real-world plumbing expertise

With extensive lab work and practical training, you’ll graduate job-ready, making you a valuable asset in the plumbing industry. 

Here are some of the things you'll learn:

  • Install, repair, and maintain residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems
  • Apply Montana’s state plumbing code to real-world projects
  • Work with modern plumbing materials, tools, and technologies
  • Perform joint making, pipe fitting, and essential plumbing techniques
  • Follow safety protocols and industry standards

At MSU-Northern, you’ll receive extensive hands-on training in state-of-the-art labs that mimic real-world job environments. The Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s Apprenticeship program allows you to apply up to 1,500 hours of classroom experience toward your required apprenticeship hours, helping you advance faster in the field.

Our faculty, who bring years of industry experience, provide mentorship and technical guidance, ensuring you develop the skills and confidence to excel in your career.  

MSU-Northern’s Plumbing Technology program is Montana’s only program dedicated to plumbing training, offering exclusive access to industry connections and apprenticeship pathways. Graduates leave with a comprehensive skill set, including both technical expertise and safety practices, making them highly sought after in the plumbing industry. 

This program also provides a strong foundation for career advancement, preparing students for Journeyman or Master Plumber certification. With a curriculum designed to meet industry needs, graduates are ready to step directly into high-paying apprentice roles. 

A degree in Plumbing Technology opens doors to stable, well-paying careers in the plumbing industry. With in-demand skills, graduates can start as apprentice plumbers and advance to specialized or supervisory roles. 

Potential Careers
Career Description Median Salary*

Residential Apprentice Plumber 

 Assists experienced plumbers in installing and repairing plumbing systems in residential settings, learning the trade through hands-on experience.  $41,861  
Commercial Plumber  Installs, maintains, and repairs plumbing systems in commercial buildings, ensuring compliance with codes and regulations.  $61,550 
Industrial Plumbing Technician  Specializes in installing and maintaining plumbing systems in industrial settings, such as factories and manufacturing plants.  $63,650 
Job Estimator  Evaluates project requirements, calculates costs for labor and materials, and prepares detailed estimates for plumbing projects.  $61,550
Facility Maintenance Technician  Maintains and repairs plumbing systems within commercial or industrial facilities, ensuring all systems operate efficiently.  $64,140 to $83,183

*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.

The Academic Map provides a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of courses required to complete the program.

Example Courses:

  • Intro to the Plumbing Trades 
  • Pipe Fitting Tools and Motorized Equipment 
  • Energy Management
  •  Intro to Control Circuit Trouble Shooting

Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities.  Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.

For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
 

Additional Program Costs

All hand tools and power tools are provided in all plumbing courses.

Plumbing course fees total $1,650.

Thomas Kline
  Office: Brockmann Center 104 M
  Phone: (406) 265-3567