Trade Schools in Rapid City, SD

Rapid City, SD has 4 schools with trade and career programs in this directory: 1 public and 3 private. Together they graduated 292 students from these programs in the latest federal count.

Published program tuition runs from $3,325 to $15,885, with a median of $8,229 across the 8 programs that report a program price.

Graduates earned a median of $37,625 one year after finishing, where the Department of Education reports earnings for the program.

The largest programs by graduates are at Western Dakota Technical College, Paul Mitchell the School-Rapid City and The Salon Professional Academy.

4
Schools
292
Graduates last year
$8,229
Median program tuition
$37,625
Median earnings, 1 yr after

All 4 schools in Rapid City, SD

Sorted by size. Tap a name for details.

Western Dakota Technical College

Rapid City, SD

Programs
Auto Mechanic, Dental Assistant, Diesel Mechanic and Electrician and 10 more
Average net price
$11,390
Completion rate
58%
Type
Public

Paul Mitchell the School-Rapid City

Rapid City, SD

Programs
Cosmetology, Esthetician, Massage Therapy and Nail Technician
Average net price
$25,024
Completion rate
69%
Type
Private for-profit

The Salon Professional Academy

Rapid City, SD

Programs
Cosmetology, Esthetician, Massage Therapy and Nail Technician
Average net price
$11,375
Completion rate
77%
Type
Private for-profit

Common questions

How much does trade school training cost in Rapid City, SD?

The median published tuition is $8,229 (range $3,325 to $15,885, 8 programs reporting). The lowest listed prices are at Paul Mitchell the School-Rapid City ($3,325) and The Salon Professional Academy ($4,190). Public community and technical colleges often charge less but report tuition per year rather than per program, so check each school's net price calculator.

How long does trade school school take?

Programs that report a length take a median of 7 months to finish (4 to 12 months). Certificates are shorter; associate degrees usually take about two years.

How much do trade school graduates earn?

Across 16 programs with reported outcomes, the median graduate earned $37,625 one year after finishing (U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard). Earnings vary by program and local labor market.

Are there public trade school programs in Rapid City, SD?

Yes. 1 public school offer it, including Western Dakota Technical College.

Data: U.S. Department of Education: IPEDS 2024-25 and College Scorecard (October 2026 release). Listings change; confirm details with the school before you go. How this directory is built.