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Program Information
The Plumbing Technology Diploma prepares students for careers in both residential and commercial plumbing industries through a combination of classroom instruction and extensive hands-on laboratory experiences. Students develop the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair plumbing systems while gaining experience with industry-standard tools, materials, and equipment.
Coursework emphasizes safety practices, plumbing codes, pipefitting, blueprint and print reading, pipe joining methods, troubleshooting techniques, and trade calculations. Through residential and commercial laboratory experiences, students apply classroom concepts in real-world scenarios designed to prepare them for employment in the plumbing industry.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level employment opportunities and apprenticeship pathways while building a strong foundation for long-term career advancement in the plumbing profession. Students who complete this diploma will have earned a Plumbing Technology Certificate by completion. Graduates of this program are awarded a diploma.
Program Highlights
Extensive Hands-On Training: Gain practical experience through residential and commercial plumbing laboratory experiences.
Residential and Commercial Focus: Develop skills applicable to both residential and commercial plumbing environments.
Industry-Focused Curriculum: Learn the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the plumbing industry.
Plumbing Code Instruction: Develop a strong understanding of residential and commercial plumbing codes and regulations.
Pipefitting Experience: Gain experience working with piping systems, installation methods, and maintenance applications.
Blueprint and Print Reading Skills: Learn to interpret plumbing plans, blueprints, and technical drawings.
Troubleshooting and Repair Training: Develop problem-solving skills related to diagnosing and repairing plumbing systems.
Industry-Standard Equipment: Train using the tools, materials, and equipment commonly found in professional plumbing environments.
Experienced Industry Faculty: Learn from instructors with real-world plumbing experience and industry expertise.
High-Demand Career Preparation: Prepare for careers in a skilled trade experiencing strong workforce demand and long-term employment opportunities.
Job Outlook
2,731 Jobs (2025)
+3.2% Change from 2024-2025
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
What will you do
Graduates may:
- Install, maintain, and repair residential and commercial plumbing systems.
- Read and interpret plumbing plans, blueprints, and technical drawings.
- Install and repair water supply, drainage, vent, and gas piping systems.
- Utilize hand and power tools commonly used in the plumbing profession.
- Apply residential and commercial plumbing codes and industry standards.
- Troubleshoot and diagnose plumbing system issues.
- Install plumbing fixtures, piping systems, and associated equipment.
- Perform preventative maintenance and service procedures.
- Assist with pipefitting projects and specialized piping systems.
- Follow industry safety standards and professional work practices.
- Communicate effectively with customers, contractors, and team members.
- Prepare for apprenticeship opportunities and long-term career advancement in the plumbing industry.
Wages
Entry: $24.96
Average: $35.01
Experienced: $45.83
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
First Semester | ||||
| MAT 743 - Technical Math 1 | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 148 - Plan and Print Reading for Plumbing | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 108 - Plumbing Code | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 178 - Residential Plumbing Lab | 6.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 190 - Plumbing Troubleshooting | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 16.0 Credits | ||||
Second Semester | ||||
| PLU 101 - Pipefitting for Maintenance Trades | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 188 - Commercial Plumbing Lab | 6.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 198 - Applied Plumbing Practices | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PLU 181 - Commercial Code | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 13.0 Credits | ||||
Total Semester Hours Required: 29.0 | ||||
Notes:1May substitute with MAT 102 or higher | ||||
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Program Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of the program students will:
- Describe materials and tools used for standard residential and commercial plumbing projects.
- Adhere to safety rules and regulations relevant to the industry.
- Interpret plumbing blueprint reading.
- Summarize codes and how they apply to plumbing systems.
- Explain the components and assembly techniques required for standard pipe and water supply systems.
- Diagnose plumbing systems.
- Troubleshoot plumbing systems.
Program Disclaimers
- Salary information from EMSI Analyst Database