Tidewater Tech-Trades ★ Hidden gem
Norfolk, Virginia · Private, for-profit · 367 undergraduates
All 4 programs with reported earnings leave graduates out-earning a typical Virginia high-school graduate (about $36,613/yr).
What families actually pay
| Family income | Net price per year |
|---|---|
| Under $30k | $26,248 |
| $30k to $48k | $26,749 |
| $48k to $75k | $31,796 |
| All families (average) | $26,366 |
Net price is the yearly cost after grants and scholarships, by family income (College Scorecard). Credit: TuitionTracker.
Program earnings vs a high-school graduate
| Program | Credential | Median earnings | vs HS grad | Verdict | Median debt | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Precision Metal Working | Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma | $46,800 | +$10,187 | clears the bar | $9,500 | 0.9 yrs |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) | Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma | $41,817 | +$5,204 | clears the bar | $14,750 | 2.8 yrs |
| Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection | Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma | $42,871 | +$6,258 | clears the bar | $9,500 | 1.5 yrs |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians | Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma | $41,911 | +$5,298 | clears the bar | $14,750 | 2.8 yrs |
Access and outcomes: 60% of students receive Pell grants · 71% complete their program.
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (release 2026-06-10). Earnings are median earnings of graduates measured up to four years after completing, compared to the state high-school-graduate earnings threshold. Figures describe past graduates and are never a promise. Method: methodology. Something look wrong? Report it.